Photo of Emily Jacobson, Pastoral Counselor in Massachusetts
Emily Jacobson
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
I blend alternative therapeutic models with the latest research in epigenetics, insights from ancient spiritual traditions, wisdom from earth-based living, and embodied rituals to create processes that shift your relationship to suffering, sorrow, or emotional challenges and open you into deeper connection with your true self and harmony with life. I am affirming of LGBTQ+, poly/ENM, and kink identities. I use anti-oppression, anti-racist, ecopsychology & trauma-informed frameworks to support individual and collective liberation.
I blend alternative therapeutic models with the latest research in epigenetics, insights from ancient spiritual traditions, wisdom from earth-based living, and embodied rituals to create processes that shift your relationship to suffering, sorrow, or emotional challenges and open you into deeper connection with your true self and harmony with life. I am affirming of LGBTQ+, poly/ENM, and kink identities. I use anti-oppression, anti-racist, ecopsychology & trauma-informed frameworks to support individual and collective liberation.
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Photo of Luke Patrick 'tt' King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Luke Patrick 'tt' King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
Throughout my career I have have most consistently worked with trans/non-binary persons throughout various chapters of transition.
Note: I am only accepting full-fee pts at this time. I apologize my sliding scale is full! (04/2023). It is my belief that healing happens in relationships, and therapy is no different. We will orient our work toward what matters to you most, and through somatic tools, relationship building, and exploration of different parts of self, you can practice having choice over your patterns of being, relating, and feeling. I acknowledge the role of systems of oppression on mental health and wellness, and have particular training supporting an increased sense of safety, dignity, and belonging for those who have experienced trauma.
Throughout my career I have have most consistently worked with trans/non-binary persons throughout various chapters of transition.
Note: I am only accepting full-fee pts at this time. I apologize my sliding scale is full! (04/2023). It is my belief that healing happens in relationships, and therapy is no different. We will orient our work toward what matters to you most, and through somatic tools, relationship building, and exploration of different parts of self, you can practice having choice over your patterns of being, relating, and feeling. I acknowledge the role of systems of oppression on mental health and wellness, and have particular training supporting an increased sense of safety, dignity, and belonging for those who have experienced trauma.
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Photo of Nicole Warner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Nicole Warner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beverly, MA 01915  (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients for telehealth. I’m here to offer space for a collaborative environment that we create together based around shifts you want to feel in your life. I have focused my work supporting queer and trans folks in various areas of life. Using a trauma-sensitive framework, I hope to support folks in bringing awareness to how emotions, trauma, conflict (and more) are showing up in the body. I hope to encourage curiosity, compassion, and groundedness towards an individual’s system- however that may look and feel right for you.
Currently accepting new clients for telehealth. I’m here to offer space for a collaborative environment that we create together based around shifts you want to feel in your life. I have focused my work supporting queer and trans folks in various areas of life. Using a trauma-sensitive framework, I hope to support folks in bringing awareness to how emotions, trauma, conflict (and more) are showing up in the body. I hope to encourage curiosity, compassion, and groundedness towards an individual’s system- however that may look and feel right for you.
(978) 391-2600 View (978) 391-2600
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of The Phoenix Rising Centers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
The Phoenix Rising Centers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waltham, MA 02453  (Online Only)
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
(339) 215-3902 View (339) 215-3902
Photo of Dave Shannon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Dave Shannon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
My clinical areas of expertise include working with people who feel anxious and/or depressed; survivors of emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse; LGBTQ people facing a host of life issues; and gay men who engage in compulsive sexual behavior.
Entering therapy is a bold, brave step. Most people who have been struggling have tried everything they know to feel better. Asking for support from a therapist marks a turning point. I offer clients my clinical judgment and attention that is rooted in a blend of Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural and Mindfulness theories with a body-oriented focus. I integrate these concepts into our work in clear, understandable and practical ways. My clients tell me that they appreciate my real and authentic presence; my gentle, direct and honest feedback; and my engaging and interactive way of talking with them.
My clinical areas of expertise include working with people who feel anxious and/or depressed; survivors of emotional, physical and/or sexual abuse; LGBTQ people facing a host of life issues; and gay men who engage in compulsive sexual behavior.
Entering therapy is a bold, brave step. Most people who have been struggling have tried everything they know to feel better. Asking for support from a therapist marks a turning point. I offer clients my clinical judgment and attention that is rooted in a blend of Psychodynamic, Relational-Cultural and Mindfulness theories with a body-oriented focus. I integrate these concepts into our work in clear, understandable and practical ways. My clients tell me that they appreciate my real and authentic presence; my gentle, direct and honest feedback; and my engaging and interactive way of talking with them.
(617) 388-3256 View (617) 388-3256
Photo of John Drollinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
John Drollinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Cambridge, MA 02139  (Online Only)
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
I am committed to providing queer- and LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and I believe in the collaborative exploration of all intersections of identity that feel important to you.
Time and again, the same struggles can show up in relationships or at work. I know how hard it is to break the cycle. Other times, events and life changes challenge our ability to cope and accomplish what we need. Healing and self-discovery are possible in a safe and supportive therapy relationship. My goal is to help you create a rich and meaningful life and better navigate life's challenges. I work with folks facing a range of issues, with a specialty in trauma, burnout, relationship issues and eco-anxiety/climate grief. If you experience stress from caring for/about others and our environment, I am ready to support you.
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Photo of Kc Schuck, Counselor in Massachusetts
Kc Schuck
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01701
Want to embody your most authentic self? I believe people find healing through community connection and creative expression. My practice focuses on empowering LGBTQIA+ teens and adults who are motivated to increase competence in being able to connect and sit with emotions, communicate with others and understand the multiple parts of who we are when living and engaging with the world around us. I work from a trauma-informed, strengths based approach, including elements of person-centered, CBT, and systems-based methods to explore mood related emotional stressors.
Want to embody your most authentic self? I believe people find healing through community connection and creative expression. My practice focuses on empowering LGBTQIA+ teens and adults who are motivated to increase competence in being able to connect and sit with emotions, communicate with others and understand the multiple parts of who we are when living and engaging with the world around us. I work from a trauma-informed, strengths based approach, including elements of person-centered, CBT, and systems-based methods to explore mood related emotional stressors.
(339) 217-9861 View (339) 217-9861
Photo of Kamela Dolinova in Massachusetts
Kamela Dolinova
CST
Verified Verified
Medford, MA 02155
I am an open and accepting practitioner with experience in the polyamorous and kinky communities, as well as with queer sexuality.
I help people who are exploring questions of sexuality, gender expression, and relationship styles to accept themselves in their beauty and strength, so they can experience loving connection in their lives. Whether you are struggling with gender expression, sexual orientation, desire for multiple partners, BDSM or kink, or other desires that are outside the mainstream, I am here to listen, to educate, to guide, and to help you integrate the parts of you that are currently closed off. I also work with trauma and grief, and provide a space for the boundaried expression and relief of old wounds.
I am an open and accepting practitioner with experience in the polyamorous and kinky communities, as well as with queer sexuality.
I help people who are exploring questions of sexuality, gender expression, and relationship styles to accept themselves in their beauty and strength, so they can experience loving connection in their lives. Whether you are struggling with gender expression, sexual orientation, desire for multiple partners, BDSM or kink, or other desires that are outside the mainstream, I am here to listen, to educate, to guide, and to help you integrate the parts of you that are currently closed off. I also work with trauma and grief, and provide a space for the boundaried expression and relief of old wounds.
(617) 208-4593 View (617) 208-4593
Photo of Melissa Nilles, Counselor in Massachusetts
Melissa Nilles
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Somerville, MA 02143  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I support men, women, and non-binary and transgender folx with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, or a history of trauma on their journey to build a better relationship with themselves, learn helpful mental health survival skills, and unlock their true potential. I also help artists, musicians, writers, poets, philosophers, and all creative types who are building creative careers or juggling multiple careers to explore interests, hone their path, work with a complicated world, and get out of their own way to enjoy greater creative engagement and personal freedom. I help my clients break down barriers of shame & self-doubt and find their supports.
I support men, women, and non-binary and transgender folx with ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, or a history of trauma on their journey to build a better relationship with themselves, learn helpful mental health survival skills, and unlock their true potential. I also help artists, musicians, writers, poets, philosophers, and all creative types who are building creative careers or juggling multiple careers to explore interests, hone their path, work with a complicated world, and get out of their own way to enjoy greater creative engagement and personal freedom. I help my clients break down barriers of shame & self-doubt and find their supports.
(617) 644-4757 View (617) 644-4757
Photo of Angela Villani, Counselor in Massachusetts
Angela Villani
Counselor
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
Both my Bachelors and Masters level education experiences also had a golden thread of social justice, with a focus on LGBTQ+ populations.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been providing behavioral and mental health care services for many years. I have worked in community-based settings including homes, schools, clinic, as well as in inpatient hospitals. My background includes working with elementary age children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to my experiences in community mental health, my inpatient work with adolescents and adults with trauma and dissociative disorders gave me invaluable experiences that highlight the importance of compassionate care.
Both my Bachelors and Masters level education experiences also had a golden thread of social justice, with a focus on LGBTQ+ populations.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been providing behavioral and mental health care services for many years. I have worked in community-based settings including homes, schools, clinic, as well as in inpatient hospitals. My background includes working with elementary age children, adolescents, and adults. In addition to my experiences in community mental health, my inpatient work with adolescents and adults with trauma and dissociative disorders gave me invaluable experiences that highlight the importance of compassionate care.
(508) 501-7032 View (508) 501-7032
Photo of Brielle Finer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Brielle Finer, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
Not only do I love working with folks courageous enough to work on their issues, I have a particular passion for helping queer individuals understand how personal trauma and larger systems impact your ability to live a full life.
Do you often feel down, lost, or confused about why you feel the way you do? At night, do you replay the events of the day over and over? Maybe you feel confused about who you really are. Facing trauma and PTSD or oppressive systems can leave us feeling stuck, trapped in depression or isolated, unsure of how to live the life we want. You want more. You want to understand yourself and your life better, taking positive steps forward. You want to get a better grasp of your true identity. You want to get to a place where you can embrace your authentic self, feel connected to yourself and to and to the world around you.
Not only do I love working with folks courageous enough to work on their issues, I have a particular passion for helping queer individuals understand how personal trauma and larger systems impact your ability to live a full life.
Do you often feel down, lost, or confused about why you feel the way you do? At night, do you replay the events of the day over and over? Maybe you feel confused about who you really are. Facing trauma and PTSD or oppressive systems can leave us feeling stuck, trapped in depression or isolated, unsure of how to live the life we want. You want more. You want to understand yourself and your life better, taking positive steps forward. You want to get a better grasp of your true identity. You want to get to a place where you can embrace your authentic self, feel connected to yourself and to and to the world around you.
(857) 371-1888 View (857) 371-1888
Photo of Cassidy Bingham-The Therapy Space LLC, Counselor in Massachusetts
Cassidy Bingham-The Therapy Space LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, MA 02062  (Online Only)
I offer knowledgeable and affirming relationship and identity support to queer, trans, kinky, and polyamorous clients. I'm a nonbinary lesbian who is passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I come from a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and pleasure-focused perspective. I value the mind-body connection and can use a body-oriented approach to help you navigate how mental health symptoms manifest in the body, how trauma shows up in a dysregulated nervous system, and how we can cultivate relationships with our bodies to reconnect with the present through mindfulness, imagination, and play.
I offer knowledgeable and affirming relationship and identity support to queer, trans, kinky, and polyamorous clients. I'm a nonbinary lesbian who is passionate about serving LGBTQIA+ clients. I come from a sex-positive, trauma-informed, and pleasure-focused perspective. I value the mind-body connection and can use a body-oriented approach to help you navigate how mental health symptoms manifest in the body, how trauma shows up in a dysregulated nervous system, and how we can cultivate relationships with our bodies to reconnect with the present through mindfulness, imagination, and play.
(781) 678-8133 View (781) 678-8133
Photo of Tiffany Crockett, Counselor in Massachusetts
Tiffany Crockett
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watertown, MA 02472  (Online Only)
Hi, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Art Therapist. I am not a blank slate therapist and am quite expressive (which could be assumed due to being an expressive art therapist). I have personal experience with mental health illnesses, chronic physical health issues, addiction as well as my own fair share of trauma. I am no stranger to being in your chair. I also am very transparent about where I stand politically aka human rights and am a loud and proud queer! Therapy already has power dynamics and I as a white cis person am very aware of this and do my best to name it, listen and make changes when needed.
Hi, I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Expressive Art Therapist. I am not a blank slate therapist and am quite expressive (which could be assumed due to being an expressive art therapist). I have personal experience with mental health illnesses, chronic physical health issues, addiction as well as my own fair share of trauma. I am no stranger to being in your chair. I also am very transparent about where I stand politically aka human rights and am a loud and proud queer! Therapy already has power dynamics and I as a white cis person am very aware of this and do my best to name it, listen and make changes when needed.
(617) 915-3524 View (617) 915-3524
Photo of Sarah Bolte, Counselor in Massachusetts
Sarah Bolte
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQIA+ identified clinician.
I am interested in sex-positive and inclusive sex-education, overdose awareness and prevention, supporting survivors of IPV/trafficking, immigration rights, and the advocacy for person-centered terminology and equal treatment access for substance use and mental health. I have experience working with adults with co-occurring substance use diagnoses and utilizes a relational, trauma-informed, mind-body approach with an emphasis on increasing self-motivation and self-esteem collaboratively with clients.
I am an LGBTQIA+ identified clinician.
I am interested in sex-positive and inclusive sex-education, overdose awareness and prevention, supporting survivors of IPV/trafficking, immigration rights, and the advocacy for person-centered terminology and equal treatment access for substance use and mental health. I have experience working with adults with co-occurring substance use diagnoses and utilizes a relational, trauma-informed, mind-body approach with an emphasis on increasing self-motivation and self-esteem collaboratively with clients.
(857) 626-9789 View (857) 626-9789
Photo of Sarah Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Sarah Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Malden, MA 02148
Do you believe normal is just a setting on the dishwasher? Then you’ve come to the right place for affirming collaborative therapy. I enjoy working with individuals/couples via telehealth and in their homes. I have over a decade of experience working with older adults, individuals living with disabilities/chronic illnesses, and the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience treating clients with caregiver stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss issues, trauma, & anxiety. I have a special interest in sexuality & experience with the poly/CNM and kink communities. I am working towards becoming certified as a sex therapist.
Do you believe normal is just a setting on the dishwasher? Then you’ve come to the right place for affirming collaborative therapy. I enjoy working with individuals/couples via telehealth and in their homes. I have over a decade of experience working with older adults, individuals living with disabilities/chronic illnesses, and the LGBTQ+ community. I have experience treating clients with caregiver stress, relationship challenges, grief and loss issues, trauma, & anxiety. I have a special interest in sexuality & experience with the poly/CNM and kink communities. I am working towards becoming certified as a sex therapist.
(617) 819-0847 View (617) 819-0847
Photo of Chatham M. Dann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Chatham M. Dann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northampton, MA 01060  (Online Only)
He has a special interest in decolonization, trauma, race, neurodiversity, Queer identity and healthy sexuality.
Using a humanistic approach free of judgment, Chatham will collaborate with each person served to help them meet their personal and therapeutic goals. Chatham uses Internal Family Systems and other approaches to help individuals and families problem-solve their life's obstacles. Whether you experience anxiety, self-doubt, social isolation, hopelessness, addiction, suffered from a past traumatic event or you have other concerns, Chatham will partner with you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilled, and balanced life. Insurance accepted Telehealth only.
He has a special interest in decolonization, trauma, race, neurodiversity, Queer identity and healthy sexuality.
Using a humanistic approach free of judgment, Chatham will collaborate with each person served to help them meet their personal and therapeutic goals. Chatham uses Internal Family Systems and other approaches to help individuals and families problem-solve their life's obstacles. Whether you experience anxiety, self-doubt, social isolation, hopelessness, addiction, suffered from a past traumatic event or you have other concerns, Chatham will partner with you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilled, and balanced life. Insurance accepted Telehealth only.
(413) 339-3767 View (413) 339-3767
Photo of Lily Noonan, Pre-Licensed Professional in Massachusetts
Lily Noonan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Stoughton, MA 02072  (Online Only)
I am especially passionate about sexual diversity and interested in working with LGBTQ+, polyamorous, and kink-identified clients.
My name is Lily Noonan (she/they) and I am a master's level clinician with psychodynamic training from Northwestern University. As a therapist, I understand that the reasons we come to therapy are not cookie-cutter. By learning the unique context you live in, we will collaboratively work towards ways to live a more authentic, aligned life. I am client-centered, IFS-informed and understand the importance of somatic work to achieving wellness. My clinical interests include anxiety, adjustment/life transitions, relational stress, occupational stress, burnout, ADHD, self esteem, identity issues, body image and trauma.
I am especially passionate about sexual diversity and interested in working with LGBTQ+, polyamorous, and kink-identified clients.
My name is Lily Noonan (she/they) and I am a master's level clinician with psychodynamic training from Northwestern University. As a therapist, I understand that the reasons we come to therapy are not cookie-cutter. By learning the unique context you live in, we will collaboratively work towards ways to live a more authentic, aligned life. I am client-centered, IFS-informed and understand the importance of somatic work to achieving wellness. My clinical interests include anxiety, adjustment/life transitions, relational stress, occupational stress, burnout, ADHD, self esteem, identity issues, body image and trauma.
(781) 630-7639 View (781) 630-7639
Photo of Stryder (Katey) Pestilli, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Stryder (Katey) Pestilli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marshfield, MA 02050
NOTE: I am currently full but my coworkers in my office have some room and have similar areas of expertise! Clients who work with me will be getting an authentic, genuine and relational experience versus the feeling of talking with someone cold, overly clinical or robotic. My favorite clients to work with are those who are part of the queer community, neurodivergent or who have a trauma history. I aim to work from a client-centered perspective and understand the importance of cultural humility in this work, particularly when working across differences.
NOTE: I am currently full but my coworkers in my office have some room and have similar areas of expertise! Clients who work with me will be getting an authentic, genuine and relational experience versus the feeling of talking with someone cold, overly clinical or robotic. My favorite clients to work with are those who are part of the queer community, neurodivergent or who have a trauma history. I aim to work from a client-centered perspective and understand the importance of cultural humility in this work, particularly when working across differences.
(339) 229-5747 x272 View (339) 229-5747 x272
Photo of Kara Blake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Massachusetts
Kara Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
Groups I have expertise in working with include: people who use drugs (problematic and non-problematic), people who love people who use drugs, queer people (LGBTQ+), people living with HIV, non-monogamous people, and other helping professionals.
I have over a decade of experience in the field, focusing primarily on an approach called harm reduction. Harm Reduction is a grassroots movement that started among people who were at risk for HIV and HepC (queer people, people who use drugs, sex workers). This approach impacts the work I do with all people. It is an approach to behavioral change that emphasizes meeting you where you are without judgement while moving you towards your goals. My work is also trauma informed, works with your mind and body, relational, and informed by social justice and systems of power, privilege, and oppression.
Groups I have expertise in working with include: people who use drugs (problematic and non-problematic), people who love people who use drugs, queer people (LGBTQ+), people living with HIV, non-monogamous people, and other helping professionals.
I have over a decade of experience in the field, focusing primarily on an approach called harm reduction. Harm Reduction is a grassroots movement that started among people who were at risk for HIV and HepC (queer people, people who use drugs, sex workers). This approach impacts the work I do with all people. It is an approach to behavioral change that emphasizes meeting you where you are without judgement while moving you towards your goals. My work is also trauma informed, works with your mind and body, relational, and informed by social justice and systems of power, privilege, and oppression.
(781) 650-8603 View (781) 650-8603

See more therapy options for Massachusetts

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.