LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Gainesville, FL
Marianne Choy
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, M Ed, Ed S
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
Hello and welcome! I go by Mac and I am a queer, Chinese-Panamanian and White-American mental health counselor. I welcome folks of all identities and their unique reasons for seeking counseling. My intention is to empower clients toward holistic wellness, particularly those who hold marginalized and systematically oppressed identities. Over time, I have worked with a range of clients and concerns including identity exploration, relationship issues, abuse, assault, substance use, incarceration, self-harm, and suicide.
Hello and welcome! I go by Mac and I am a queer, Chinese-Panamanian and White-American mental health counselor. I welcome folks of all identities and their unique reasons for seeking counseling. My intention is to empower clients toward holistic wellness, particularly those who hold marginalized and systematically oppressed identities. Over time, I have worked with a range of clients and concerns including identity exploration, relationship issues, abuse, assault, substance use, incarceration, self-harm, and suicide.
Wyatt Okeefe
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606 (Online Only)
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
As a therapist who identifies as queer and transmasculine, my expertise lies in creating a secure and inclusive environment for the LGBTQ+ community. I conduct private online sessions and hold licenses in Washington, Oregon, Georgia, Florida and New York. Specializing in individual telehealth therapy for adults navigating issues such as coming out, social and/or physical transitioning, and mental health management, I approach each situation with compassion. I am attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community and am committed to fostering a safer world through advocacy and support for all my clients.
Alandria Mustafa
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32653
I specialize in supporting people who are seeking to recover from trauma, developmental/attachment wounds, folx who experience systemic oppression, and LGBTQIA+ folx.
Note: I am not able to accept insurance...Hey and Welcome! As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a space where my clients can show up as their authentic selves and address the various challenges that are creating a sense of hardship and emotional distress in their lives. I seek to facilitate an environment where you can feel self-empowered and liberated. My hope is that, through a non-judgmental and self-compassion based lens, we can thoughtfully reflect on how to construct a life that offers a sense of fulfillment, while thoughtfully considering the barriers, personal and systemic, that get in the way of easily doing so.
I specialize in supporting people who are seeking to recover from trauma, developmental/attachment wounds, folx who experience systemic oppression, and LGBTQIA+ folx.
Note: I am not able to accept insurance...Hey and Welcome! As a therapist, my primary goal is to create a space where my clients can show up as their authentic selves and address the various challenges that are creating a sense of hardship and emotional distress in their lives. I seek to facilitate an environment where you can feel self-empowered and liberated. My hope is that, through a non-judgmental and self-compassion based lens, we can thoughtfully reflect on how to construct a life that offers a sense of fulfillment, while thoughtfully considering the barriers, personal and systemic, that get in the way of easily doing so.
Sandy Piacente
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32611 (Online Only)
Mental Health Counseling for adolescents and adults. Counseling for LGBTQ+ Individuals and Couples embracing a positive view of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identities and relationships. Marriage and Couples counseling. Virtual/Online Counseling Sessions. Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. Free initial consultation. Tuesday through Friday: 9:00am to 8:00pm. Saturdays: 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Mental Health Counseling for adolescents and adults. Counseling for LGBTQ+ Individuals and Couples embracing a positive view of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer identities and relationships. Marriage and Couples counseling. Virtual/Online Counseling Sessions. Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. Free initial consultation. Tuesday through Friday: 9:00am to 8:00pm. Saturdays: 9:00am to 1:00pm.
Amanda Joa
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
She offers gender- and queer-affirming counseling.
Amanda's ideal client is someone who's experienced trauma and seeks a safe, supportive space to heal and grow. They're brave, committed to their journey of transformation, and value collaboration in therapy. With Amanda's guidance, they aim to break free from past traumas and cultivate resilience, exploring therapeutic modalities like neurofeedback, EMDR, and IFS. Ketamine-assisted therapy offers new avenues for healing, whether through prescription or IV treatment. In summary, Amanda's ideal client is resilient, seeking empowerment and a brighter future through healing.
She offers gender- and queer-affirming counseling.
Amanda's ideal client is someone who's experienced trauma and seeks a safe, supportive space to heal and grow. They're brave, committed to their journey of transformation, and value collaboration in therapy. With Amanda's guidance, they aim to break free from past traumas and cultivate resilience, exploring therapeutic modalities like neurofeedback, EMDR, and IFS. Ketamine-assisted therapy offers new avenues for healing, whether through prescription or IV treatment. In summary, Amanda's ideal client is resilient, seeking empowerment and a brighter future through healing.
Madison Curry
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in somatic therapy for those who have experienced trauma. Anxiety, dissociation, reactivity, chronic worry, addiction, and hypervigilance are all adaptive responses for the body after having experienced trauma (car accidents, loss, sexual assault, oppression, domestic violence, emotional abuse, developmental/attachment injuries, and many other historically ignored experiences). My approach is queer, trans, & non-monogamous affirming, sex-positive, and based on a harm reduction approach to addiction.
I specialize in somatic therapy for those who have experienced trauma. Anxiety, dissociation, reactivity, chronic worry, addiction, and hypervigilance are all adaptive responses for the body after having experienced trauma (car accidents, loss, sexual assault, oppression, domestic violence, emotional abuse, developmental/attachment injuries, and many other historically ignored experiences). My approach is queer, trans, & non-monogamous affirming, sex-positive, and based on a harm reduction approach to addiction.
Tracey J Hurley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
Am passionate about holding space for individuals struggling from painful past learning experiences and trauma, which may lead to anxiety, depression, and substance use. I am also an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Am passionate about holding space for individuals struggling from painful past learning experiences and trauma, which may lead to anxiety, depression, and substance use. I am also an advocate for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ezekiel McLeskey
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, EdS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32606
I appreciate you considering me as someone that may stand by you during this difficult time. The focus of my individual clinical work has been with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, identity crises, childhood trauma, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while tackling a plethora of general life issues. I have also worked with couples and families to resolve interpersonal issues. I am passionate about helping people in systemically oppressed groups like those in LGBTQ+, non-monogamy, and kink communities as well as any others that may find it hard to express parts of themselves. All of you is welcome!
I appreciate you considering me as someone that may stand by you during this difficult time. The focus of my individual clinical work has been with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, identity crises, childhood trauma, and obsessive-compulsive symptoms, while tackling a plethora of general life issues. I have also worked with couples and families to resolve interpersonal issues. I am passionate about helping people in systemically oppressed groups like those in LGBTQ+, non-monogamy, and kink communities as well as any others that may find it hard to express parts of themselves. All of you is welcome!
Krista Jo Buda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with people who are trying to overcome trauma, self doubt or unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns. I am passionate about and have an extensive background in working with poly/ENM, kink, LGBTQIA and other alternative lifestyle communities.
I am passionate about working with people who are trying to overcome trauma, self doubt or unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns. I am passionate about and have an extensive background in working with poly/ENM, kink, LGBTQIA and other alternative lifestyle communities.
Katlyn P Nolan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MCAP, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32653 (Online Only)
My practice is a place for those who seek refuge from stigma, which includes but is not limited to, LGBTQ+, kink, ethical non monogamy, and sex worker communities.
Welcome! I believe therapy is a place to heal from past hurts, learn healthy behaviors, and recognize the strength you have to feel whole. Living with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues can leave you feeling isolated. There is hope for healing, change, and growth!
My practice is a place for those who seek refuge from stigma, which includes but is not limited to, LGBTQ+, kink, ethical non monogamy, and sex worker communities.
Welcome! I believe therapy is a place to heal from past hurts, learn healthy behaviors, and recognize the strength you have to feel whole. Living with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues can leave you feeling isolated. There is hope for healing, change, and growth!
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601 (Online Only)
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
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Florida LGBTQ+ Teletherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601 (Online Only)
Experienced therapist providing teletherapy to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies across the state of Florida. Our conversations often include topics like anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, substance use and feelings of being overwhelmed by life. I also specialize in working with professionals in high stress jobs. My focus is on providing a safe environment where you can share anything on your heart of mind without fear of judgement.
Experienced therapist providing teletherapy to LGBTQ+ individuals and allies across the state of Florida. Our conversations often include topics like anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, substance use and feelings of being overwhelmed by life. I also specialize in working with professionals in high stress jobs. My focus is on providing a safe environment where you can share anything on your heart of mind without fear of judgement.
Jill Rosemont
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, RCSWI
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601 (Online Only)
I am ready to help you decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety from a realistic perspective. It's time to create a down-to-earth plan that really works. Stop being controlled by your past trauma and learn to heal. Let's work towards your inner peace while balancing the complexities of the outside world. My goal as your therapist is to hold a space where you feel safe and validated as you learn to navigate life's many challenges. I am LGBTQ inclusive!
I am ready to help you decrease symptoms of depression and anxiety from a realistic perspective. It's time to create a down-to-earth plan that really works. Stop being controlled by your past trauma and learn to heal. Let's work towards your inner peace while balancing the complexities of the outside world. My goal as your therapist is to hold a space where you feel safe and validated as you learn to navigate life's many challenges. I am LGBTQ inclusive!
Joseph Fuhrmeister
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
This is you taking the next step toward personal growth and healing. The focus of my therapeutic practice is to help individuals who have experienced trauma, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those wishing to understand and manage emotions. If you struggle to recover from your past, feel disconnected, isolated, and frustrated, and if it feels like you are stuck in the same patterns over and over with little support or guidance, I think I can help. Many of the clients I work with have endured abuse, neglect, or are survivors of other traumas. I also specialize in helping clients navigate adversities related to their gender or sexuality.
This is you taking the next step toward personal growth and healing. The focus of my therapeutic practice is to help individuals who have experienced trauma, the LGBTQIA+ community, and those wishing to understand and manage emotions. If you struggle to recover from your past, feel disconnected, isolated, and frustrated, and if it feels like you are stuck in the same patterns over and over with little support or guidance, I think I can help. Many of the clients I work with have endured abuse, neglect, or are survivors of other traumas. I also specialize in helping clients navigate adversities related to their gender or sexuality.
Ezra Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
Waitlist for new clients
I provide creative, gender-affirming therapy for queer and trans clients, as well as short-term solution focused therapy for partners and family members to process a loved one’s coming out. Clients come to me for a lot of reasons— they’re questioning their gender identity, struggling with the coming out process, or looking to learn more about how to support someone they love. Sometimes they have past traumas that are getting in the way of feeling secure, safe, and authentic. Or they want some strategies for managing anxiety or depression. No matter what brings you here, welcome.
I provide creative, gender-affirming therapy for queer and trans clients, as well as short-term solution focused therapy for partners and family members to process a loved one’s coming out. Clients come to me for a lot of reasons— they’re questioning their gender identity, struggling with the coming out process, or looking to learn more about how to support someone they love. Sometimes they have past traumas that are getting in the way of feeling secure, safe, and authentic. Or they want some strategies for managing anxiety or depression. No matter what brings you here, welcome.
Sarah Meng
Counselor, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32611 (Online Only)
Overwhelmed and grieving the state of the world? Struggling with placing the burden of other people's expectations on yourself? Seeking skilled, non-judgmental support that actually makes a difference? I've got you! I help people connect with themselves, significant others, and community so they can meaningfully engage in life. I am known for my warmth and commitment to high quality care, especially with clients who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, or in a larger body. I am a Health at Every Size clinician. My practice is culturally affirming and anti-oppressive. I'm licensed in GA, SC, FL, IA, and CO.
Overwhelmed and grieving the state of the world? Struggling with placing the burden of other people's expectations on yourself? Seeking skilled, non-judgmental support that actually makes a difference? I've got you! I help people connect with themselves, significant others, and community so they can meaningfully engage in life. I am known for my warmth and commitment to high quality care, especially with clients who are queer, trans, neurodivergent, or in a larger body. I am a Health at Every Size clinician. My practice is culturally affirming and anti-oppressive. I'm licensed in GA, SC, FL, IA, and CO.
Lance Madow
Associate Professional Counselor, MS, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Gainesville, FL 32601
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
Are you full of racing thoughts and can't figure out why or how to stop them? Are you looking for a therapist who you can discuss your D&D character with? Maybe you're tired from reviewing every mistake you've ever made and struggle to communicate how you feel to friends and family. I value creating a space where we will explore who the villain of your story is, whether it be feeling overwhelmed, isolated, or something else. While I enjoy working with everyone, as a queer and GNC therapist, I specialize in working with queer/trans teens & adults. I appreciate creating a comfortable & geeky space where you can show up as yourself.
Victoria Roland - Adhd Trauma Informed
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, RMHCI, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
I specialize in guiding individuals across various life stages, who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and eating disorders. I am here to guide you through the internal rollercoaster you may be feeling. My approach is neurodivergent, queer, and sex-positive affirming, when aiming to assist you in overcoming challenges, recognizing your inherent strengths, and fostering resilience in a way that works best for you.
I specialize in guiding individuals across various life stages, who are navigating the complexities of anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and eating disorders. I am here to guide you through the internal rollercoaster you may be feeling. My approach is neurodivergent, queer, and sex-positive affirming, when aiming to assist you in overcoming challenges, recognizing your inherent strengths, and fostering resilience in a way that works best for you.
Katie Hughes
Counselor, LHMC, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32606
My true passion involves working with the LGBTQ+ community, ethically non-monogamous couples, and people within the kink scene.
Life presents all kinds of challenges. Whether you are in the midst of a painful loss or simply feeling stuck, you do not have to face your struggles alone! Therapy offers you a supportive space where you can journey down a path of intentional healing. Together we can walk through the difficulties in life and begin to cultivate effective communication skills, build your confidence, and increase your internal awareness. I believe it is my role as your therapist to provide guidance and support that encourages your growth and promotes balance in your life.
My true passion involves working with the LGBTQ+ community, ethically non-monogamous couples, and people within the kink scene.
Life presents all kinds of challenges. Whether you are in the midst of a painful loss or simply feeling stuck, you do not have to face your struggles alone! Therapy offers you a supportive space where you can journey down a path of intentional healing. Together we can walk through the difficulties in life and begin to cultivate effective communication skills, build your confidence, and increase your internal awareness. I believe it is my role as your therapist to provide guidance and support that encourages your growth and promotes balance in your life.
Laura Templeton
Counselor, MEd, EdS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, FL 32601
I am available to help individuals live the life that they want. I work with folks to assist in building resilience and coping skills. I have specialized training in somatic and DBT practices. My background includes crisis and suicidal ideation, trauma, and substance use. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I come from a place of respect and unconditional positive regard when working with folks.
I am available to help individuals live the life that they want. I work with folks to assist in building resilience and coping skills. I have specialized training in somatic and DBT practices. My background includes crisis and suicidal ideation, trauma, and substance use. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist. I come from a place of respect and unconditional positive regard when working with folks.
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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.