LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Columbia, MO
I am a psychologist with several years of experience providing psychotherapy to adult clients, as well as adolescent clients who have been identified as gifted and/or creative. I specialize in LGBTQIA+-affirming care and working with visual artists, musicians, and clients engaged in additional creative endeavors. Past clients have come to therapy with symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as distress related to life/career transitions, the sociopolitical climate, and identity. Additionally, I have experience in ADHD assessment and assisting clients with managing symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
I am a psychologist with several years of experience providing psychotherapy to adult clients, as well as adolescent clients who have been identified as gifted and/or creative. I specialize in LGBTQIA+-affirming care and working with visual artists, musicians, and clients engaged in additional creative endeavors. Past clients have come to therapy with symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as distress related to life/career transitions, the sociopolitical climate, and identity. Additionally, I have experience in ADHD assessment and assisting clients with managing symptoms of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.
Ozzie Dinwiddie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
My ideal clients are those who have experienced stressful, traumatic events and want to take control over their lives again. I love verbal processors, but have no issue with asking questions to facilitate productive conversations. I work best with adolescents and young adults, and want to be someone knowledgeable and professional, yet relatable and open, in order to create a comfortable environment. I love working with those in the LGBTQ+ community and using my lived experience in that identity to foster a genuine connection and make sure your voice is heard.
My ideal clients are those who have experienced stressful, traumatic events and want to take control over their lives again. I love verbal processors, but have no issue with asking questions to facilitate productive conversations. I work best with adolescents and young adults, and want to be someone knowledgeable and professional, yet relatable and open, in order to create a comfortable environment. I love working with those in the LGBTQ+ community and using my lived experience in that identity to foster a genuine connection and make sure your voice is heard.
J Heath Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CGDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203 (Online Only)
Struggling with anxiety/depression, trying to overcome past trauma, or navigating the unique challenges of the LGBTQIA+ community can be isolating - but you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can create a safe, welcoming environment where authenticity and real conversations are at the heart of your healing journey.
Struggling with anxiety/depression, trying to overcome past trauma, or navigating the unique challenges of the LGBTQIA+ community can be isolating - but you don't have to face it alone. Together, we can create a safe, welcoming environment where authenticity and real conversations are at the heart of your healing journey.
Rynn Wyrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65211
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
I specialize in offering trauma-informed therapy to LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent adults residing in Missouri. As a queer and trans individual myself, my focus is on co-creating a safe and affirming environment for folks to thrive. I hold space for clients to explore and process their experiences of grief, complex trauma, and challenges stemming from the impacts of living in a traumatic and oppressive society. I particularly enjoy working with queer and neurodiverse individuals who are interested in taking a more deliberate approach to their personal growth and who wish to develop a deeper connection with themselves and their bodies.
, Cognitive Processing Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, substance use, as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care.
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
, Cognitive Processing Therapy), Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, substance use, as well as LGBTQ+ affirming care.
The road we travel towards living as our truest self is by no means smooth. Often, we have learned messages that get in the way of living authentically, whether it be messages from society, family, peers, strangers, or even ourselves. We may feel lost and uncertain of finding a way forward. We will work together to find ways that you can feel empowered to break free from these messages to live openly and authentically. I love working with many different concerns including healing from traumatic experiences, being present with our emotions, creating positive self-narratives, and providing affirming LGBTQ+ care.
Are you transgender or a part of the LGBTQIA+ community? As someone who is a part of that community, I would love to help you sort out your identities and find ways to cope with life. Additionally, many individuals in this community have experienced trauma due to various religious or spiritual environments, and I would love to help you work toward freedom from guilt, shame, and other feelings that come up. Many people, queer or not, churchgoer or not, experience this trauma, and processing this can make a big difference. I also work with addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, and other forms of trauma as well.
Are you transgender or a part of the LGBTQIA+ community? As someone who is a part of that community, I would love to help you sort out your identities and find ways to cope with life. Additionally, many individuals in this community have experienced trauma due to various religious or spiritual environments, and I would love to help you work toward freedom from guilt, shame, and other feelings that come up. Many people, queer or not, churchgoer or not, experience this trauma, and processing this can make a big difference. I also work with addictions, anxiety, depression, grief, and other forms of trauma as well.
My practice is LGBTQIA+-celebratory, sex-positive, non-monogamy-affirming, kink-aware, and sex worker-affirming.
Are you looking to connect with a more authentic version of yourself? As a queer therapist, I want to help support you through difficult times or times of self-discovery. Life can be demanding, and I aim to empower you with what you need. That can encompass many things from developing new skills to giving you a safe space to learn more about who you are. Together we will build a place that allows for reflection, growth, and compassion. Whether you are working through anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, all of the above, or more. I will work with you to overcome them and live the fulfilling life that you want.
My practice is LGBTQIA+-celebratory, sex-positive, non-monogamy-affirming, kink-aware, and sex worker-affirming.
Are you looking to connect with a more authentic version of yourself? As a queer therapist, I want to help support you through difficult times or times of self-discovery. Life can be demanding, and I aim to empower you with what you need. That can encompass many things from developing new skills to giving you a safe space to learn more about who you are. Together we will build a place that allows for reflection, growth, and compassion. Whether you are working through anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues, all of the above, or more. I will work with you to overcome them and live the fulfilling life that you want.
There is value in therapy for every individual. Therapeutic support is especially helpful for individuals who are marginalized by society. This includes (but is certainly not limited to) BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people in ethically non-monogamous relationships, and those of alternative faiths. Assistance is within reach for your concerns, including sexuality and relationships, self-discovery, and processing trauma.
There is value in therapy for every individual. Therapeutic support is especially helpful for individuals who are marginalized by society. This includes (but is certainly not limited to) BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people in ethically non-monogamous relationships, and those of alternative faiths. Assistance is within reach for your concerns, including sexuality and relationships, self-discovery, and processing trauma.
Amanda Tompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes.
My name is Amanda Tompkins. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing in-patient, outpatient and telehealth individual and group therapy throughout my career. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The are the primary therapy modalities that I utilize but am also well versed in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, and others. Our first session will typically consist of you and I getting to know each other and exploring what it is that you would like to achieve in therapy, so that we can create a treatment plan with goals.
I have experience in helping clients with LGBTQ+ related issues, parenting issues, motivation, self-esteem and confidence, and coping with life changes.
My name is Amanda Tompkins. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been practicing in-patient, outpatient and telehealth individual and group therapy throughout my career. I am formally trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. The are the primary therapy modalities that I utilize but am also well versed in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Internal Family Systems therapy, and others. Our first session will typically consist of you and I getting to know each other and exploring what it is that you would like to achieve in therapy, so that we can create a treatment plan with goals.
Danielle Conforti
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
I am an LPC (MO) and LCPC (KS) who specializes in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, domestic violence, military and first responder trauma, and LGBTQIA-related issues. Throughout my years as a clinician, I have learned that the best therapy is done when a positive connection and therapeutic trust can be built and maintained. I work to make therapy a safe place for clients to open up and feel supported and valued. Therapy can be intense and hard at times, I work to keep a positive balance between seriousness and humor. I am a person-centered therapist and I believe in encouraging and challenging my clients to grow.
Sophie Pellegrini
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65211 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am committed to anti-oppressive, non-pathologizing practice, and am LGBTQIA2S+ celebratory, sex positive, non-monogamy affirming, kink aware, sex worker affirming, and fat-positive.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality/asexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. Our work together will likely be less focused on coping skills or quick solutions, but instead involve deep reflection, processing, and relationship building.
I am committed to anti-oppressive, non-pathologizing practice, and am LGBTQIA2S+ celebratory, sex positive, non-monogamy affirming, kink aware, sex worker affirming, and fat-positive.
I am a queer, neurodivergent therapist who is passionate about supporting clients as they uncover and connect with their most authentic, grounded selves. I specialize in working with queer, trans, and non-binary folks, with a focus on sexuality/asexuality, gender, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, and trauma. My clients are often exploring emergent identities, unpacking relational patterns, learning to unmask, and seeking a greater sense of belonging. Our work together will likely be less focused on coping skills or quick solutions, but instead involve deep reflection, processing, and relationship building.
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
As a queer, trans, and neurodiverse human, I know this struggle, because it has been my struggle.
Normative, cishet society wasn't made for you, and you've felt that deeply. You’ve intellectualized your internal struggle, understanding the 'why' and 'what' behind your feelings. Despite this insight, you’re still not experiencing the forward motion you crave. You want to navigate life authentically, without the weight of societal expectations holding you back.
As a queer, trans, and neurodiverse human, I know this struggle, because it has been my struggle.
Normative, cishet society wasn't made for you, and you've felt that deeply. You’ve intellectualized your internal struggle, understanding the 'why' and 'what' behind your feelings. Despite this insight, you’re still not experiencing the forward motion you crave. You want to navigate life authentically, without the weight of societal expectations holding you back.
L. Charlie Janski-Ogunfidodo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
During my career, I have worked with both individual and group settings, including adults with people living with HIV, veterans, incarcerated people and transgender/gender variant individuals. These populations included people with depression, bi-polar disorder, personality disorders, anxiety, PTSD and depression. I co-facilitated a group for trans youth and co-coordinated it for 6 years. As a proud bisexual, trans man, I love to work with my LGBT communities. I celebrate kinky and poly people. I strive to be an imperfect ally to non-binary trans people and people of color. I take private pay/in person through findingnormalstl.com
My practice is sex-positive, fat-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Life can be incredibly hard at times. We can't control or change what has happened to us, what we needed but didn't get, or how isolating and confusing things can be. Sometimes we don't understand why we feel the way we do, how people interact with us, our reactions, or what to do next. Maybe we don't feel much at all. We don't have to keep repeating the same patterns or relating to ourselves and others in the same ways, even though that might feel impossible right now. I know reflecting on our behaviors, thought patterns, and life experiences can be incredibly difficult, and I’m here to support you through that process.
My practice is sex-positive, fat-positive, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
Life can be incredibly hard at times. We can't control or change what has happened to us, what we needed but didn't get, or how isolating and confusing things can be. Sometimes we don't understand why we feel the way we do, how people interact with us, our reactions, or what to do next. Maybe we don't feel much at all. We don't have to keep repeating the same patterns or relating to ourselves and others in the same ways, even though that might feel impossible right now. I know reflecting on our behaviors, thought patterns, and life experiences can be incredibly difficult, and I’m here to support you through that process.
Areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Depression, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Attachment Issues, Autism, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Military and Veterans Issues, Narcissistic abuse, PTSD, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and more.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Areas of focus: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Grief, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Depression, Compassion fatigue, ADHD, Attachment Issues, Autism, Codependency, Domestic Violence, Forgiveness, Guilt and Shame, Military and Veterans Issues, Narcissistic abuse, PTSD, Sexuality, Social Anxiety and more.
I am licensed in Missouri with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.
Jaxon Jaay Kobey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201
I offer lived experience when it comes to exploring LGBTQ+ transitions, along with a clinical background and years of training.
Many teens and adults exploring their gender feel uncertain or alone. It might feel like those around you don’t (or won’t) get it, or you may be afraid to talk to them about it. You may still be learning who you are, and how to love yourself. I’ve been through this process personally, and I get it. There’s a lot going on, and a lot to understand. If you’re at this kind of important moment in your life, I’m here to be an accepting person to guide you through this time.
I offer lived experience when it comes to exploring LGBTQ+ transitions, along with a clinical background and years of training.
Many teens and adults exploring their gender feel uncertain or alone. It might feel like those around you don’t (or won’t) get it, or you may be afraid to talk to them about it. You may still be learning who you are, and how to love yourself. I’ve been through this process personally, and I get it. There’s a lot going on, and a lot to understand. If you’re at this kind of important moment in your life, I’m here to be an accepting person to guide you through this time.
LGBTQIA+.
I'm Shelby Myers, owner and counselor of Strong Heart Counseling. I have a warm, interactive, and direct approach to therapy. I work to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment in which my clients can heal and grow. I work with individuals, couples, families, and LGBTQIA+. I love to work with individuals, couples, and families who are searching for answers, have experienced trauma, are transitioning in life, or are experiencing relationship issues. I use a combined method approach to therapy, drawing on Internal Family Systems, the Gottman method, feminist and client focused therapy.
LGBTQIA+.
I'm Shelby Myers, owner and counselor of Strong Heart Counseling. I have a warm, interactive, and direct approach to therapy. I work to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic environment in which my clients can heal and grow. I work with individuals, couples, families, and LGBTQIA+. I love to work with individuals, couples, and families who are searching for answers, have experienced trauma, are transitioning in life, or are experiencing relationship issues. I use a combined method approach to therapy, drawing on Internal Family Systems, the Gottman method, feminist and client focused therapy.
Bill Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbia, MO 65203 (Online Only)
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
We all go through difficult times at different parts of our life. It can help to have someone to talk to. I have particular experience with adults in midlife crisis, couples counseling, and adolescents experiencing, school problems, behavior problems, parent/child conflict, and trauma. I have experience with individual therapy, parent/child conflict, divorce, alternative relationships and LGBTQIA issues. I specialize in trauma treatment for all age groups. CURRENTLY OFFERING TELEMEDICINE SESSIONS VIA ZOOM OR SKYPE.
Jane Henke
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults in LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and International communities who find living in the Midwest challenging.
Hello! I'm Jane, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience providing care to clients who come with a wide variety of life's difficulties and struggles. I have a proven track record of helping clients reach their therapy goals. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and Religious Trauma, but also enjoy helping clients work through depression, anxiety and various life transitions. I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and DBT.
I have experience working with adults in LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and International communities who find living in the Midwest challenging.
Hello! I'm Jane, a Licensed Professional Counselor with 20 years of experience providing care to clients who come with a wide variety of life's difficulties and struggles. I have a proven track record of helping clients reach their therapy goals. I specialize in the treatment of grief, trauma, PTSD, C-PTSD, and Religious Trauma, but also enjoy helping clients work through depression, anxiety and various life transitions. I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and DBT.
Hailee Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, MO 65201 (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults 18 years and older and couples. I have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I am an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and I want to help encourage people through finding themselves. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and holistic DBT approach.
Hi, I’m Hailee, a licensed clinical social worker at Small Victories. I work with adults 18 years and older and couples. I have experience working with people with anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar, body image and self esteem issues. I aim to provide a safe environment where we can talk about anything you want to bring to the table. I am an LGBTQIA+ allied therapist and I want to help encourage people through finding themselves. I use a person centered approach in my therapy sessions and incorporate both CBT and holistic DBT approach.
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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.