Photo of Rachael Stern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rachael Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
The status quo tells us we can’t trust ourselves, our knowing, or our bodies. Rachael believes that our innate knowing - when we can access it, is not only the gold we seek, but the light we shine for ourselves and in the world around us. From experience with eating disorders, self-injury, trauma, chronic pain, couples and larger family systems and the LGBTQIA umbrella to professional work in issue focused non-profits/campaigns (and even performing), Rachael is deeply in tune with the political and social ecosystems that our intersectional identities transverse on a moment to moment basis
(301) 591-6283 View (301) 591-6283
Photo of Stephanie Winger Rodriguez, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Stephanie Winger Rodriguez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Allow me to embark on this journey to help you heal from the inside out. Together we can get to the root of trauma and addiction, so that you can transcend your experiences and grow in the direction of your goals. Painful childhood memories, trans-generational abuse and dysfunction impact our emotions, behaviors and physiology. We must heal these wounds or we end up reenacting them in our individual, family and community relationships. I am grateful for the opportunity to hold space for you to do your work in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
Allow me to embark on this journey to help you heal from the inside out. Together we can get to the root of trauma and addiction, so that you can transcend your experiences and grow in the direction of your goals. Painful childhood memories, trans-generational abuse and dysfunction impact our emotions, behaviors and physiology. We must heal these wounds or we end up reenacting them in our individual, family and community relationships. I am grateful for the opportunity to hold space for you to do your work in a safe, nonjudgmental environment.
(240) 221-5989 View (240) 221-5989
Photo of Jessie Klein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Jessie Klein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
Life is hard, and we are not born knowing all the answers. Many challenges are thrown our way and it's up to us to find our way through life as best we can. Life can have us feeling stuck, helpless, and confused. I approach therapy as an opportunity to provide others a safe non-judgemental space to learn about themselves, grow, and address challenges that may impact the way we interact with and feel about the world. As a queer-identified therapist, I am passionate about providing care to individuals who are questioning or identify with the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
Life is hard, and we are not born knowing all the answers. Many challenges are thrown our way and it's up to us to find our way through life as best we can. Life can have us feeling stuck, helpless, and confused. I approach therapy as an opportunity to provide others a safe non-judgemental space to learn about themselves, grow, and address challenges that may impact the way we interact with and feel about the world. As a queer-identified therapist, I am passionate about providing care to individuals who are questioning or identify with the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
(443) 727-1521 View (443) 727-1521
Photo of Joseph Kosowsky, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Joseph Kosowsky
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
I specialize in affirming work with the LGBTQIA+ community.
Do you feel like life has become more challenging? Have you begun to feel less fulfilled or feel like something is wrong? People seek therapy at various stages of their life to address their challenges. Sometimes you might know why, and other times it can be confusing or difficult to pinpoint. Therapy not only can help you understand your sources of stress but also to improve symptoms that prevent you from feeling your best. Together, we will work to support you, face challenges within yourself, work towards your goals, and, most importantly, improve your own sense of a life that is meaningful and fulfilled.
(202) 831-4943 View (202) 831-4943
Photo of Thomas J Coughlin, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Thomas J Coughlin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I work with trans/gender expansive/non binary clients to reach their goals in transition, be they internal awareness and acceptance, social, medical and/or legal avenues by offering support, connection to other helpful resources, advocating for health care, and writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care, if part of their personal journey.
You made it this far!! Let's talk! Sometimes creating or maintaining a happy, satisfying life requires help. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I will listen and engage you in ways that support a life of balance, healing & growth as you move toward a better and more authentic you. Though my practice is not limited to work with the LGBTQ population, I have years of experience working with this community especially trans/gender expansive/non binary individuals. I am credentialed through the WPATH GEI certification program. More info: https://www.wpath.org/about-gei
I work with trans/gender expansive/non binary clients to reach their goals in transition, be they internal awareness and acceptance, social, medical and/or legal avenues by offering support, connection to other helpful resources, advocating for health care, and writing letters of support for gender affirming medical care, if part of their personal journey.
You made it this far!! Let's talk! Sometimes creating or maintaining a happy, satisfying life requires help. As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I will listen and engage you in ways that support a life of balance, healing & growth as you move toward a better and more authentic you. Though my practice is not limited to work with the LGBTQ population, I have years of experience working with this community especially trans/gender expansive/non binary individuals. I am credentialed through the WPATH GEI certification program. More info: https://www.wpath.org/about-gei
(202) 738-5456 View (202) 738-5456
Photo of Stacey Jackson-Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Stacey Jackson-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Are you seeking a therapist who specializes in major life transitions, including gender, sexuality, faith, and career transitions? Do you need a therapist with experience meeting the unique needs of women, transgender, and LGBTQ individuals? Are you seeking an affirming therapist with a focus on centering you as expert over your own identity and empowering you to reach your fullest potential? Are you seeking a therapist with experience working with high-profile (i.e., political, executive, and entertainment) individuals and their unique needs?
Are you seeking a therapist who specializes in major life transitions, including gender, sexuality, faith, and career transitions? Do you need a therapist with experience meeting the unique needs of women, transgender, and LGBTQ individuals? Are you seeking an affirming therapist with a focus on centering you as expert over your own identity and empowering you to reach your fullest potential? Are you seeking a therapist with experience working with high-profile (i.e., political, executive, and entertainment) individuals and their unique needs?
(301) 701-4478 View (301) 701-4478
Photo of Molly McCracken, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Molly McCracken
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I am a queer, white, fat, cis-woman.
In my practice, clients find a warm, non-judgmental space where they can learn to get to know and accept themselves. I provide SOLELY teletherapy, which means that I am able to work with clients across the state. I work with youth and adults who are struggling to cope with issues including depression, family conflict, anxiety, negative body image, self-esteem, family conflict, and navigating oppressive social systems.
I am a queer, white, fat, cis-woman.
In my practice, clients find a warm, non-judgmental space where they can learn to get to know and accept themselves. I provide SOLELY teletherapy, which means that I am able to work with clients across the state. I work with youth and adults who are struggling to cope with issues including depression, family conflict, anxiety, negative body image, self-esteem, family conflict, and navigating oppressive social systems.
(301) 234-8422 View (301) 234-8422
Photo of Megan Kalbaugh, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Megan Kalbaugh
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20997
As a therapist on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, I love to celebrate living the best life possible with the deck of cards we have been given.
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach, and that a variety of interventions are required to assist clients in illuminating who they want to be. My approach is interactive, non-pathologizing, and client-centered. I believe that clients have developed skills through their life that have helped them get this far, and sometimes we need an extra eye to help us see our own skills, strengths, and patterns. I started my work in Ohio in 2017, and through moves to NC and DC, I have developed a very integrative model through the therapists I've had the pleasure of working with.
As a therapist on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, I love to celebrate living the best life possible with the deck of cards we have been given.
Thank you for considering me to be a part of your mental health journey. I believe in a holistic approach, and that a variety of interventions are required to assist clients in illuminating who they want to be. My approach is interactive, non-pathologizing, and client-centered. I believe that clients have developed skills through their life that have helped them get this far, and sometimes we need an extra eye to help us see our own skills, strengths, and patterns. I started my work in Ohio in 2017, and through moves to NC and DC, I have developed a very integrative model through the therapists I've had the pleasure of working with.
(301) 450-7619 View (301) 450-7619
Photo of Darby Integrative Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Darby Integrative Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCADAS
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Our practice is allied with our communities including the: LGBTQIA+, minority and immigrant, and kink/poly.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
Our practice is allied with our communities including the: LGBTQIA+, minority and immigrant, and kink/poly.
Currently accepting new clients at Darby Integrative Counseling. We offer in-person and/or video sessions to accommodate your needs. We welcome you to the next courageous step on your journey walking through life's challenges. Are you struggling with fear, grief, sadness, anxiety, or stress? Have anger, shame or guilt been preventing you from the joys of life? Do your relationships at home or work feel strained? Let us awaken your best self and find solutions for the problems you face on your path to wellness.
(301) 945-7306 View (301) 945-7306
Photo of Cara Miller, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Cara Miller
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I believe every person has the ability to grow and transform. I believe that we can best do so when accompanied compassionately along our journeys. Through increasing self-awareness, cultivating our inner and external resources, and understanding the interconnected influences of mind and body in our daily lives, we can transform through painful times and arrive into greater and deeper capacity for relationships to ourselves and with others. I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
I believe every person has the ability to grow and transform. I believe that we can best do so when accompanied compassionately along our journeys. Through increasing self-awareness, cultivating our inner and external resources, and understanding the interconnected influences of mind and body in our daily lives, we can transform through painful times and arrive into greater and deeper capacity for relationships to ourselves and with others. I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
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Photo of Mirshelle Edwards, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Mirshelle Edwards
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I embrace LGBTQ+, AAPI and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
I embrace LGBTQ+, AAPI and BIPOC identities and address the impact of homophobia, racism, sexism, transphobia, patriarchy & more.
My clients are looking develop insight and gain skills to manage anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, self-worth, adulthood, ADHD, immigrant and cultural identity, mood disorders, experiences, school/work stress, relationships, socializing and difficult transitions. We'll explore the effects of relational dynamics, early life experiences, thought and behavior patterns, culture and identity, transitions and family of origin. We'll identify triggers, understand how the past affects and informs the present, improve ability to regulate, and uncover patterns/trauma that impact you and implement new cognitive and behavior patterns.
(240) 202-2667 View (240) 202-2667
Photo of Lissa Mantell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Lissa Mantell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults, and have expertise and a special interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, including those who consider themselves transgender, genderqueer, gender non-conforming or questioning.
It's time to help you connect to your best self. My goal is for you to feel heard, supported and able to look at your challenges and successes. I'm warm, kind and welcoming as a therapist. Together we'll create a safe space for you to look at where the problem(s) may lie, and come up with solutions that will work in your everyday life. Let's talk about how I can help you feel more satisfied and at peace in your life.
I specialize in working with children, adolescents and adults, and have expertise and a special interest in working with the LGBTQIA+ community, including those who consider themselves transgender, genderqueer, gender non-conforming or questioning.
It's time to help you connect to your best self. My goal is for you to feel heard, supported and able to look at your challenges and successes. I'm warm, kind and welcoming as a therapist. Together we'll create a safe space for you to look at where the problem(s) may lie, and come up with solutions that will work in your everyday life. Let's talk about how I can help you feel more satisfied and at peace in your life.
(301) 760-2195 View (301) 760-2195
Photo of Martina E. Efodzi, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Martina E. Efodzi
Counselor, MDiv, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, then perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two, might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn how to take charge of your thoughts, emotions and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include: trauma, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spirituality and grief and loss.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges? Are your emotions, or a complicated relationship, weighing you down? Are you interested in finding creative solutions to your problems? If so, then perhaps counseling, art therapy, or some combination of the two, might be right for you! I offer a supportive and non-judgmental space where you will learn how to take charge of your thoughts, emotions and actions while practicing better self-care and improving insight. My areas of expertise include: trauma, HIV/AIDS, diabetes, depression, anxiety, multicultural and LGBTQ+ concerns, existential dilemmas, spirituality and grief and loss.
(202) 759-2328 View (202) 759-2328
Photo of Sam Klotz, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Sam Klotz
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as a member of LGBTQIA+/ENM/ND communities.
I provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space for clients. I work collaboratively in areas such as anxiety, depression, and relationship issues through a focus on self-awareness, self-acceptance, and communication skills. I utilize creative interventions personalized to each individual or family. As a licensed school counselor and professional therapist, I work closely with children, families, and adults around topics of gender identity, non-traditional family structures, and neurodiversity. I often work with autism, ADHD, school or workplace accommodations, relationship issues, life skills, and major transitions.
I identify as a member of LGBTQIA+/ENM/ND communities.
I provide a nonjudgmental, empathetic, and safe space for clients. I work collaboratively in areas such as anxiety, depression, and relationship issues through a focus on self-awareness, self-acceptance, and communication skills. I utilize creative interventions personalized to each individual or family. As a licensed school counselor and professional therapist, I work closely with children, families, and adults around topics of gender identity, non-traditional family structures, and neurodiversity. I often work with autism, ADHD, school or workplace accommodations, relationship issues, life skills, and major transitions.
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Photo of Janice Fain Dean, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Janice Fain Dean
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I enjoy working with women and men; with LGBT individuals; and a special interest is working with musicians, artists, writers, and others exploring the creative process.
Kindness, unconditional acceptance, and deep listening: these are the basis of my work. If you are looking for someone who will connect with you, understand your particular life or work situation, and help you find and use your strengths to create more calm, better communication, more ease and love in your life, contact me. I always begin with deep listening, to help people find their own inner resources and build wellbeing. My office is fully accessible.
I enjoy working with women and men; with LGBT individuals; and a special interest is working with musicians, artists, writers, and others exploring the creative process.
Kindness, unconditional acceptance, and deep listening: these are the basis of my work. If you are looking for someone who will connect with you, understand your particular life or work situation, and help you find and use your strengths to create more calm, better communication, more ease and love in your life, contact me. I always begin with deep listening, to help people find their own inner resources and build wellbeing. My office is fully accessible.
(301) 679-7886 View (301) 679-7886
Photo of Amy Bibb-Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Amy Bibb-Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am equally committed to working with all members of the LGBTQ community.
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
I am equally committed to working with all members of the LGBTQ community.
Adjusting to life transitions, interpersonal struggles, or needing to look inward are compelling reasons to seek therapy. As a therapist with 25+ years of experience, I establish a confidential, trusting relationship and help individuals, couples, and families cope and move forward. My therapeutic approach is collaborative and transparent, informed by advanced training in treating trauma, evidence-based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), Accelerated Experiential Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Core Self Reclamation Therapy (CSRT) and family therapy.
(240) 661-7069 View (240) 661-7069
Photo of Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Jen Hackler, LCSW, SEP
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, SEP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I specialize in grief and loss, traumatic death (homicide, suicide and child loss), addictions, alcoholism and 12 step recovery, gay and lesbian relationships, self-esteem, depression and anxiety.
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
I specialize in grief and loss, traumatic death (homicide, suicide and child loss), addictions, alcoholism and 12 step recovery, gay and lesbian relationships, self-esteem, depression and anxiety.
In a non-judgemental, respectful atmosphere I accompany people along their journey to living richer, more meaningful life. I encourage people to broaden their awareness into their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors to identify strengths and whats working and challenges and how they are getting in the way. Recognizing the the mind-body-spirit connection, understanding healthy and antiquated defenses and increasing capacity for feeling a greater range of emotions at a deeper level is an important focus of the psychotherapy process. Identifying feelings, understanding reactions and learning better, more effective means of communicating with others is integral as well.
(301) 684-8137 View (301) 684-8137
Photo of Alana Tipton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Alana Tipton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
We all deserve relief from our burdens. Beginning therapy takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. Most of us wouldn’t do it unless we need real help. I create a safe and supportive environment for you to explore how to improve your quality of life and together, we explore ways for you to heal and grow. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges including family of origin stressors, life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am a queer affirming therapist.
We all deserve relief from our burdens. Beginning therapy takes motivation, courage and the desire to change and grow. Most of us wouldn’t do it unless we need real help. I create a safe and supportive environment for you to explore how to improve your quality of life and together, we explore ways for you to heal and grow. I work with clients facing a variety of challenges including family of origin stressors, life transitions, trauma, anxiety, and depression. I am a queer affirming therapist.
(240) 652-2243 View (240) 652-2243
Photo of Rosemary Moulton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Rosemary Moulton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
I have experience working with transgender and gender non-conforming persons.
Have you felt misunderstood because of your sexual orientation, lifestyle, age, disability, or nonconforming body? Have you tried traditional psychotherapy and been disappointed with results? Since 2006, I have provided services to adults and seniors dealing with a wide array of issues. I help people arrive at their own answers and live their most authentic lives using the power of a therapeutic, healing relationship. I help lead people through difficult territory and highlight their successes as they align their lives with their truths. Do you want to change your life but don't know where to start?
I have experience working with transgender and gender non-conforming persons.
Have you felt misunderstood because of your sexual orientation, lifestyle, age, disability, or nonconforming body? Have you tried traditional psychotherapy and been disappointed with results? Since 2006, I have provided services to adults and seniors dealing with a wide array of issues. I help people arrive at their own answers and live their most authentic lives using the power of a therapeutic, healing relationship. I help lead people through difficult territory and highlight their successes as they align their lives with their truths. Do you want to change your life but don't know where to start?
(703) 991-1034 View (703) 991-1034
Photo of Julia Han, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Julia Han
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
(202) 643-2966 View (202) 643-2966

See more therapy options for Silver Spring

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.