LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Willimantic, CT

Photo of Jeanette Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Jeanette Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
I am committed to racial justice and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Sometimes in life we can get off track or even experience circumstances beyond our control that just throw us off our course. Finding direction and getting back on track can be difficult, just as difficult as finding a listening ear and someone we can trust and depend on. I'm here to say that it doesn't have to be, and I'm here to begin the journey with you wherever you are in that process.
I am committed to racial justice and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
Sometimes in life we can get off track or even experience circumstances beyond our control that just throw us off our course. Finding direction and getting back on track can be difficult, just as difficult as finding a listening ear and someone we can trust and depend on. I'm here to say that it doesn't have to be, and I'm here to begin the journey with you wherever you are in that process.
(860) 579-1479 View (860) 579-1479
Photo of Leah Wessels, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Leah Wessels
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
I work with clients that identify with the following: Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, grief, LGBTQ+, anger, school/work issues and sleep disturbances.
Are you feeling a lack of emotional control that’s leading to self-esteem, motivation, or relationship issues? Are negative thought patterns getting the best of you during difficult times? As the Founder of Swift Running Waters Counseling, I maintain hope that you can take charge of your well-being and build resilience. In our sessions together, I aim to create a trusting environment where you will learn the necessary tools and strategies to face your stress with confidence. I prioritize highlighting your strengths and celebrating your wins as you move through the change process toward your identified goals.
I work with clients that identify with the following: Anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress, life transitions, substance use, bipolar disorder, chronic pain, grief, LGBTQ+, anger, school/work issues and sleep disturbances.
Are you feeling a lack of emotional control that’s leading to self-esteem, motivation, or relationship issues? Are negative thought patterns getting the best of you during difficult times? As the Founder of Swift Running Waters Counseling, I maintain hope that you can take charge of your well-being and build resilience. In our sessions together, I aim to create a trusting environment where you will learn the necessary tools and strategies to face your stress with confidence. I prioritize highlighting your strengths and celebrating your wins as you move through the change process toward your identified goals.
(860) 845-0801 View (860) 845-0801
Photo of Jessica Parenteau, Licensed Professional Counselor in Willimantic, CT
Jessica Parenteau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
I am committed to racial and social justice, and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I’m Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in trauma, PTSD and grief. We all know that life can be hard, we can feel lost in it, or it can become chaotic. The journey to noticing that life has become unmanageable isn't easy, but having that understanding is important. I’m here to say congratulations on taking that first step in asking for help. I hope to aid you in your journey at a pace that is comfortable for you to meet your goals. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for therapy sessions. I also focus on using a person-centered approach.
I am committed to racial and social justice, and am LGBTQ+ affirming.
I’m Jessica, a Licensed Professional Counselor that specializes in trauma, PTSD and grief. We all know that life can be hard, we can feel lost in it, or it can become chaotic. The journey to noticing that life has become unmanageable isn't easy, but having that understanding is important. I’m here to say congratulations on taking that first step in asking for help. I hope to aid you in your journey at a pace that is comfortable for you to meet your goals. I believe in creating a safe and supportive environment for therapy sessions. I also focus on using a person-centered approach.
(860) 530-6159 View (860) 530-6159
Photo of Julianne Kivlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Julianne Kivlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
Accessing mental health support can empower you to regain control of your life and focus on the things that matter most. I offer virtual psychotherapy and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, trauma, life transition, divorce, parenting challenges and relationship/family conflict. I have experience conducting couples, family and group counseling, and have an affinity for the LGBTQIA+ community; I specifically have experience working with and supporting the trans community. I believe in the importance of inclusion and strive for my clients to feel safe, heard and validated during every session.
Accessing mental health support can empower you to regain control of your life and focus on the things that matter most. I offer virtual psychotherapy and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, substance use, eating disorders, trauma, life transition, divorce, parenting challenges and relationship/family conflict. I have experience conducting couples, family and group counseling, and have an affinity for the LGBTQIA+ community; I specifically have experience working with and supporting the trans community. I believe in the importance of inclusion and strive for my clients to feel safe, heard and validated during every session.
(959) 210-6800 View (959) 210-6800
Photo of Path Adult Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Path Adult Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-- CALL TODAY!!!*** At Perception Programs Behavioral Health Centers, it is our mission to provide you with compassionate, quality care in a supportive, safe, and open environment. We will help you to explore challenges, maximize strengths, and move towards the life you want. We offer holistic individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication consultation and management. Currently offering services at at our Adult PATH Counseling Center in Willimantic at our new state of the art building. Contact us today!
***ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS-- CALL TODAY!!!*** At Perception Programs Behavioral Health Centers, it is our mission to provide you with compassionate, quality care in a supportive, safe, and open environment. We will help you to explore challenges, maximize strengths, and move towards the life you want. We offer holistic individual, family, and group therapy, as well as medication consultation and management. Currently offering services at at our Adult PATH Counseling Center in Willimantic at our new state of the art building. Contact us today!
(860) 450-0151 View (860) 450-0151
Photo of Mandy Avery Risley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Willimantic, CT
Mandy Avery Risley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients at this time/ Hello! Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? I would be honored to share your journey and help you discover and develop strengths that will move you forward toward reaching your goals. Change is hard but is made easier with support and guidance. I offer you non-judgmental support in achieving the goals you wish to accomplish. I have experience working with a range of issues (anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationships, trauma, grief and loss) and have a flexible approach based on individual needs. I draw from a variety of counseling theories and techniques.
Not accepting new clients at this time/ Hello! Are you looking to make positive changes in your life? I would be honored to share your journey and help you discover and develop strengths that will move you forward toward reaching your goals. Change is hard but is made easier with support and guidance. I offer you non-judgmental support in achieving the goals you wish to accomplish. I have experience working with a range of issues (anxiety, depression, substance abuse, relationships, trauma, grief and loss) and have a flexible approach based on individual needs. I draw from a variety of counseling theories and techniques.
(860) 498-4031 View (860) 498-4031
Photo of Sarah Pennington, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Sarah Pennington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals impacted by anxiety, depression, and trauma. , I am passionate about working together to find creative solutions to help meet your personal goals.
I'm Sarah, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in working with individuals impacted by anxiety, depression, and trauma. , I am passionate about working together to find creative solutions to help meet your personal goals.
(860) 390-4805 View (860) 390-4805
Photo of NAFI Outpatient Clinic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
NAFI Outpatient Clinic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Waitlist for new clients
As of March 4, 2024 the NAFI Outpatient Clinic has a waitlist of about 8+ weeks. NAFI Outpatient Clinic provides both in-person and telehealth therapeutic services as well as psychiatric evaluations/medication management services. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy for ages 6 through the lifespan. Our clinic has experience in servicing clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral management, family interaction issues, and trauma. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we provide.
As of March 4, 2024 the NAFI Outpatient Clinic has a waitlist of about 8+ weeks. NAFI Outpatient Clinic provides both in-person and telehealth therapeutic services as well as psychiatric evaluations/medication management services. We offer individual, family, and couples therapy for ages 6 through the lifespan. Our clinic has experience in servicing clients with anxiety, depression, ADHD, behavioral management, family interaction issues, and trauma. Call or email us today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about the services we provide.
(860) 615-2145 View (860) 615-2145
Photo of Inlight Professional Counseling Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Inlight Professional Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Do you find yourself conflicted within your thoughts and feelings? Do you spend a lot of mental energy trying to cope with your inner angst and turmoil or sadness or anger? maybe even rage? or Fear? Do you find yourself wishing you knew how to feel better emotionally so you could just be more happy in life? Our Feelings are a wonderful gift that makes us HUMAN but when our feelings are not balanced, when we are carrying unresolved issues from past, when we are flooded by feelings and not able to see things clearly, they provide the biggest pain and heartache in life. Would you like someone to help you with your inner struggle?
Do you find yourself conflicted within your thoughts and feelings? Do you spend a lot of mental energy trying to cope with your inner angst and turmoil or sadness or anger? maybe even rage? or Fear? Do you find yourself wishing you knew how to feel better emotionally so you could just be more happy in life? Our Feelings are a wonderful gift that makes us HUMAN but when our feelings are not balanced, when we are carrying unresolved issues from past, when we are flooded by feelings and not able to see things clearly, they provide the biggest pain and heartache in life. Would you like someone to help you with your inner struggle?
(860) 786-7623 View (860) 786-7623
Photo of Hillary Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Hillary Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ADTR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
"Our sorrows and wounds are healed only when we touch them with compassion." -- Buddha. I utilize a gentle but direct approach to assist you in recovering from the pain and sorrow that can be a part of life. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Dance Movement Therapist. Using my creativity and diverse skill set I help my clients overcome depression, anxiety, eating disorders, traumas and loss. Working with the body, mind and spirit together, I will help you find the way to reconnect with your most authentic self and restore your relationships. My clients are adults, couples, children and adolecents.
(860) 606-4278 View (860) 606-4278
Photo of Chastity Joy Pimental, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Chastity Joy Pimental
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I am accepting Anthem BCBS, Husky and self-pay clients. I am bringing with me 22 years of experience dedicating the majority of my career to the treatment of children, adolescents and families in acute care facilities. I have had the pleasure to work with clients with a wide array of clinical presentations from substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, gender identity, behavioral, parenting and change of life phase issues.
I am accepting Anthem BCBS, Husky and self-pay clients. I am bringing with me 22 years of experience dedicating the majority of my career to the treatment of children, adolescents and families in acute care facilities. I have had the pleasure to work with clients with a wide array of clinical presentations from substance abuse, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, gender identity, behavioral, parenting and change of life phase issues.
(860) 607-0386 View (860) 607-0386
Photo of Susan M Cohen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Susan M Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
Working with college students, couples, gender issues, individuals, parenting. If you are a Veteran about to deploy/post deployment- I am a provider for the MilitaryOne program. I incorporate trauma work/yoga, mind-body connections ElderCare throughout the life span and working with caregivers is also provided for the sandwiched baby boomer. Addictions/family problems are difficult & an area of specialization. If you seek a therapeutic alliance to work out problems in a compassionate & empowering environment, call me: 860 450-6267. In-office, Telephone and video sessions are possible for all CT residents. Thank-you.
(860) 322-5084 View (860) 322-5084
Photo of Lynn Dove, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Lynn Dove
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I believe that change is possible. Realizing when things are not working, and that something needs to change, is an important point in creating the life you want to have. I am glad that you have chosen to see if therapy can help you. My goal is to create a safe place in which you can learn to understand yourself, heal your wounds, and to become the person you want to be. I work with adults and adolescents dealing with a variety of issues; from everyday struggles, anxiety, depression, psychological trauma and dissociation, eating disorders, relationship issues, spirituality, and aging.
I believe that change is possible. Realizing when things are not working, and that something needs to change, is an important point in creating the life you want to have. I am glad that you have chosen to see if therapy can help you. My goal is to create a safe place in which you can learn to understand yourself, heal your wounds, and to become the person you want to be. I work with adults and adolescents dealing with a variety of issues; from everyday struggles, anxiety, depression, psychological trauma and dissociation, eating disorders, relationship issues, spirituality, and aging.
(860) 254-7344 View (860) 254-7344
Photo of Michelle Allison, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Michelle Allison
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
It's not easy reaching out for professional help with relationship, family or emotional problems, but I hope you choose to take this important first step toward changing your life for the better. In my 30 years of practice, I have never felt a greater sense of hope and optimism about what talk therapy can realistically offer to reduce suffering and improve our personal and family lives. I can present you with a "user friendly" path into treatment that will ease your very understandable anxiety and skepticism. My goals for you as a client are learning, growth, empowerment and customer satisfaction.
(860) 451-9910 View (860) 451-9910
Photo of Robert Salcedo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Robert Salcedo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
I understand that we can benefit from help if we feel stuck, overwhelmed or not sure where to turn. Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that may have been helpful but have become limiting or even destructive. I believe therapy can provide deep healing which allows for greater flexibility, ease, self knowledge and enjoyment of life. With 20+ years of experience, I have been successful in helping my clients through depression, substance abuse, anxiety, panic and grief and loss or just gaining more satisfaction with their lives. It has been an honor for me to do this.
I understand that we can benefit from help if we feel stuck, overwhelmed or not sure where to turn. Sometimes people get stuck in patterns that may have been helpful but have become limiting or even destructive. I believe therapy can provide deep healing which allows for greater flexibility, ease, self knowledge and enjoyment of life. With 20+ years of experience, I have been successful in helping my clients through depression, substance abuse, anxiety, panic and grief and loss or just gaining more satisfaction with their lives. It has been an honor for me to do this.
(860) 546-4158 View (860) 546-4158
Photo of Joann Averill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Joann Averill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Crises or life stressors are often what initially bring people to therapy. Others come to work on old issues that continue to re-surface, causing problems for the individuals themselves or in their relationships with family, or at work. Many people find therapy to be a place where they can work on increasing personal insight and self-awareness in order to live more fulfilling lives, and work toward achieving their highest potential. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a place to help you restore balance in your life and live life to the fullest. In therapy, we work together to bring about lasting change.
Crises or life stressors are often what initially bring people to therapy. Others come to work on old issues that continue to re-surface, causing problems for the individuals themselves or in their relationships with family, or at work. Many people find therapy to be a place where they can work on increasing personal insight and self-awareness in order to live more fulfilling lives, and work toward achieving their highest potential. Whatever brings you here, therapy can be a place to help you restore balance in your life and live life to the fullest. In therapy, we work together to bring about lasting change.
(860) 926-0134 View (860) 926-0134
Photo of Renee Cummings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Renee Cummings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226  (Online Only)
CT and FL LCSW with immediate openings for telehealth therapy. I often hear "I just want to have someone to talk to." My role in working with you is to be that person that you feel safe, secure, and connected with so that we can talk through whatever it may be that brings you to therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship and our connection as we move forward in meeting your goals.
CT and FL LCSW with immediate openings for telehealth therapy. I often hear "I just want to have someone to talk to." My role in working with you is to be that person that you feel safe, secure, and connected with so that we can talk through whatever it may be that brings you to therapy. I value the therapeutic relationship and our connection as we move forward in meeting your goals.
(352) 280-3450 View (352) 280-3450
Photo of Annie Hodgins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Annie Hodgins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
Let's face it, therapy isn't always the easiest thing to begin. It requires being open and vulnerable with someone who you don't know yet, and can be doubly hard when you're thinking about opening up about your relationship. I make it my mission to create a safe, non-judgmental, and relaxed space to begin the therapeutic process of healing and growth. Over time, we work together to create goals that feel attainable and realistic for you and your partner or family system. Most of all, my goal is to make therapy feel enjoyable, meaningful, and maybe even fun!
Let's face it, therapy isn't always the easiest thing to begin. It requires being open and vulnerable with someone who you don't know yet, and can be doubly hard when you're thinking about opening up about your relationship. I make it my mission to create a safe, non-judgmental, and relaxed space to begin the therapeutic process of healing and growth. Over time, we work together to create goals that feel attainable and realistic for you and your partner or family system. Most of all, my goal is to make therapy feel enjoyable, meaningful, and maybe even fun!
(860) 821-4321 View (860) 821-4321
Photo of Patricia Parks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Willimantic, CT
Patricia Parks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Willimantic, CT 06226
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!! You feel overwhelmed, frustrated, broken and filled with despair. Often you feel undervalued in relationships, school, and work. You want so badly to feel happy, accepted, and valued by the people around you. The ongoing strife with relationships, school, work and personal struggles just seem all too much! You have sleepless nights, due to situations and circumstances constantly on your mind. You are filled with many insecurities, which causes you to doubt who you are and whether you have the strength to pull yourself out this hole you have fallen into.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS!! You feel overwhelmed, frustrated, broken and filled with despair. Often you feel undervalued in relationships, school, and work. You want so badly to feel happy, accepted, and valued by the people around you. The ongoing strife with relationships, school, work and personal struggles just seem all too much! You have sleepless nights, due to situations and circumstances constantly on your mind. You are filled with many insecurities, which causes you to doubt who you are and whether you have the strength to pull yourself out this hole you have fallen into.
(959) 207-8710 View (959) 207-8710
Photo of Stephanie J Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor in Willimantic, CT
Stephanie J Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Willimantic, CT 06226
Not accepting new clients
As all of us seek wellness (safety, comfort, peace, health), and growth (knowledge, spirituality, compassion), we all draw upon various skills, goals, experiences and beliefs that shape our behavior. In my work, I respect clients as individuals who are doing what they can to achieve wellness and growth, and who experience successes to greater or lesser degrees in the different phases and circumstances of their lives. My efforts in counseling focus on what the client wants and how they can identify and apply their own strengths and resources in order to meet their personal goals.
As all of us seek wellness (safety, comfort, peace, health), and growth (knowledge, spirituality, compassion), we all draw upon various skills, goals, experiences and beliefs that shape our behavior. In my work, I respect clients as individuals who are doing what they can to achieve wellness and growth, and who experience successes to greater or lesser degrees in the different phases and circumstances of their lives. My efforts in counseling focus on what the client wants and how they can identify and apply their own strengths and resources in order to meet their personal goals.
(860) 317-2404 View (860) 317-2404

See more therapy options for Willimantic

LGBTQ+ Therapists

Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?

Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.

Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.

How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?

You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.

How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?

Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.

Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?

While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.