LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Albemarle, NC

Photo of Katherine L Thompson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Katherine L Thompson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28001  (Online Only)
Hey! I'm Katherine, a mom, wife, and mental health counselor. I'm passionate about working with people who are looking for a safe space to figure things out. My ideal client is someone who has a general idea of their goals but isn't sure how to get there. I'm trained in different types of therapy but I'm missing information that only you can bring to the table: your life experiences, passions, and vulnerabilities. Goals I love helping clients working toward include increasing the knowledge you have about yourself, being able to recognize your emotions and how they affect your body, and learning to sit with the uncomfortable stuff.
Hey! I'm Katherine, a mom, wife, and mental health counselor. I'm passionate about working with people who are looking for a safe space to figure things out. My ideal client is someone who has a general idea of their goals but isn't sure how to get there. I'm trained in different types of therapy but I'm missing information that only you can bring to the table: your life experiences, passions, and vulnerabilities. Goals I love helping clients working toward include increasing the knowledge you have about yourself, being able to recognize your emotions and how they affect your body, and learning to sit with the uncomfortable stuff.
(704) 870-4983 View (704) 870-4983
Photo of Elizabeth Ritter, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in Albemarle, NC
Elizabeth Ritter
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28001  (Online Only)
Struggling with work/life balance, relationship issues, or parenting? I fully understand the unique challenges of trying to find balance. I can offer support and real life skills to learn better ways to manage these struggles. I know that life can be difficult at times and you need a relatable, real-life person to work through these struggles with you. I am here to listen, support, and validate you, focus on your needs and encourage you to use the skills and talents you already have to live your BEST life!
Struggling with work/life balance, relationship issues, or parenting? I fully understand the unique challenges of trying to find balance. I can offer support and real life skills to learn better ways to manage these struggles. I know that life can be difficult at times and you need a relatable, real-life person to work through these struggles with you. I am here to listen, support, and validate you, focus on your needs and encourage you to use the skills and talents you already have to live your BEST life!
(704) 459-2028 View (704) 459-2028
Photo of Cottonwood Counseling, Licensed CLinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Cottonwood Counseling
Licensed CLinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28001
Our ideal client is anyone who has a strong desire to better themselves and want a better quality of life. So often we become complacent in our discontent and just settle for what we are accustomed to, but I am here to help anyone who is ready to break through that shell and demand more from life!
Our ideal client is anyone who has a strong desire to better themselves and want a better quality of life. So often we become complacent in our discontent and just settle for what we are accustomed to, but I am here to help anyone who is ready to break through that shell and demand more from life!
(704) 228-4782 View (704) 228-4782
Photo of Yost Counseling, PLLC, Licensed CLinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Yost Counseling, PLLC
Licensed CLinical Mental Health Counselor, JD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28002
My ideal client is a person who truly wants to feel better or to get "unstuck." I work really well with most academically gifted adults.
My ideal client is a person who truly wants to feel better or to get "unstuck." I work really well with most academically gifted adults.
(980) 261-2874 View (980) 261-2874
Photo of Professional Healthcare Solutions, INC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Professional Healthcare Solutions, INC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Albemarle, NC 28001
(980) 577-0820 View (980) 577-0820

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Wiley & Wilburn Counseling Services, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Wiley & Wilburn Counseling Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS-A, NCC
Verified Verified
Concord, NC 28027  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult and so can mental health challenges. There has been a stigma associated with mental health that has prevented people who need mental health counseling from seeking mental health counseling. Anxiety, Depression and Grief, to name a few, are a part of life, and sometimes, we need a little help getting through those difficult periods of life, talking to someone about mental health issues is the first step to moving forward and working through those issues.
Life can be difficult and so can mental health challenges. There has been a stigma associated with mental health that has prevented people who need mental health counseling from seeking mental health counseling. Anxiety, Depression and Grief, to name a few, are a part of life, and sometimes, we need a little help getting through those difficult periods of life, talking to someone about mental health issues is the first step to moving forward and working through those issues.
(704) 931-5599 View (704) 931-5599

Online Therapists

Photo of Alex Zima, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Alex Zima
Counselor, MS Ed, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
I am LGBTQ+ -affirming and committed to serving clients that reflect diversity in racial and cultural identity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and stage of life.
In times of great vulnerability, mind-body awareness, self-compassion and insight guide the way to self-empowerment, healing and renewed purpose. We all carry this capacity within. My approach combines evidence-based clinical, holistic and mindfulness-based methodologies grounded in the leading-edge neuroscience of emotional wellbeing and personal growth. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety and panic, post-traumatic symptoms, grief and loss, sleep dysregulation, depression, major life and career transitions, clinician and caregiver chronic stress, end-of-life and psycho-spiritual integration.
I am LGBTQ+ -affirming and committed to serving clients that reflect diversity in racial and cultural identity, gender identity, sexual orientation, and stage of life.
In times of great vulnerability, mind-body awareness, self-compassion and insight guide the way to self-empowerment, healing and renewed purpose. We all carry this capacity within. My approach combines evidence-based clinical, holistic and mindfulness-based methodologies grounded in the leading-edge neuroscience of emotional wellbeing and personal growth. I specialize in helping clients navigate anxiety and panic, post-traumatic symptoms, grief and loss, sleep dysregulation, depression, major life and career transitions, clinician and caregiver chronic stress, end-of-life and psycho-spiritual integration.
(984) 203-9414 View (984) 203-9414
Photo of Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
As a Black, Queer, Millennial therapist, I am passionate about providing relatable therapy to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Millennials.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
(704) 610-3278 View (704) 610-3278
Photo of Emilee Futrell, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Emilee Futrell
Counselor, LCMHC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Emilee has experience working with young adult and adult individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, sports related concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She also has worked with clients who have experienced trauma in many forms. She also enjoys working with athletes at all levels and recognizes the specific challenges that this community faces.
Emilee has experience working with young adult and adult individuals with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, sports related concerns, and LGBTQIA+ issues. She also has worked with clients who have experienced trauma in many forms. She also enjoys working with athletes at all levels and recognizes the specific challenges that this community faces.
(704) 850-6706 View (704) 850-6706
Photo of Katrina (Max) Sutton, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Katrina (Max) Sutton
Counselor, LCMHCA, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Have you been holding onto a burden since you were a child or a young adult? Are you ready to grow into the person you want to be and utilize the skills needed to cope with life’s difficulties? Do you want a counselor to see you for who you really are and give you a safe space to work through any concerns you bring to counseling? As a genderfluid counselor, I can help you onto the path to true healing whether that be from PTSD, C-PTSD, and trauma-related concerns, dissociation, LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, etc.
Have you been holding onto a burden since you were a child or a young adult? Are you ready to grow into the person you want to be and utilize the skills needed to cope with life’s difficulties? Do you want a counselor to see you for who you really are and give you a safe space to work through any concerns you bring to counseling? As a genderfluid counselor, I can help you onto the path to true healing whether that be from PTSD, C-PTSD, and trauma-related concerns, dissociation, LGBTQIA+ issues, anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions, etc.
(704) 286-1307 View (704) 286-1307
Photo of Bethany Otten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Bethany Otten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, RYT-500
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
I specialize in adults, pre-teen, & teenagers in the areas of LGBTQIA+, addiction, anxiety, mood instability, OR people desiring a holistic counselor. I love helping people overcome various challenges including stress, substance use, school, work, identity, gender, OR transitions. People with various disorders may seek me out specifically so they can include holistic practices within their counseling as I have a background in teaching yoga & as a Reiki practitioner. No matter how big or small you believe a problem to be, your challenges are valid and worthy of attention. You are not your symptoms or thoughts!
I specialize in adults, pre-teen, & teenagers in the areas of LGBTQIA+, addiction, anxiety, mood instability, OR people desiring a holistic counselor. I love helping people overcome various challenges including stress, substance use, school, work, identity, gender, OR transitions. People with various disorders may seek me out specifically so they can include holistic practices within their counseling as I have a background in teaching yoga & as a Reiki practitioner. No matter how big or small you believe a problem to be, your challenges are valid and worthy of attention. You are not your symptoms or thoughts!
(704) 251-6711 View (704) 251-6711
Photo of Kelsey S. Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Kelsey S. Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population and those experiencing trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
“Tell me, What is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” –Mary Oliver I am licensed in NC, SC and VA. I hold tight to the experience and belief that we already have the answers within us. I want my clients to not only survive the things that challenge them the most, but to thrive and fall in love with their life. I love the process of supporting people in reconnecting to themselves, especially during times of life’s inevitable transitions. You may find yourself separating, becoming a parent, experiencing grief and loss, or beginning to shift your identity. Growth is never easy.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQ+ population and those experiencing trauma, addiction, depression, and anxiety.
“Tell me, What is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” –Mary Oliver I am licensed in NC, SC and VA. I hold tight to the experience and belief that we already have the answers within us. I want my clients to not only survive the things that challenge them the most, but to thrive and fall in love with their life. I love the process of supporting people in reconnecting to themselves, especially during times of life’s inevitable transitions. You may find yourself separating, becoming a parent, experiencing grief and loss, or beginning to shift your identity. Growth is never easy.
(704) 469-4105 View (704) 469-4105
Photo of Hazel Bright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Hazel Bright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
I believe that knowing oneself is an important step in developing a fulfilling life and fulfilling relationships. The story of who we are impacts how we see ourselves, our companions, and our challenges. I specialize in working with young adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm also uniquely qualified to work with LGBTQ folks. I welcome and affirm clients of all identities and backgrounds in my practice.
I believe that knowing oneself is an important step in developing a fulfilling life and fulfilling relationships. The story of who we are impacts how we see ourselves, our companions, and our challenges. I specialize in working with young adults experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I'm also uniquely qualified to work with LGBTQ folks. I welcome and affirm clients of all identities and backgrounds in my practice.
(984) 224-7193 View (984) 224-7193
Photo of Delynn Turner in Albemarle, NC
Delynn Turner
MS, CGPC, CLC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28205
My ideal client is one whom is willing and ready to take care of themselves emotionally, spiritually, and physically for proper growth. If you are in need of grief counseling then I am the counselor that can help you by creating a safe and inclusive space by offering cultural spaces to those of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, LGBT+ community and people of color. Many times people enjoy having the right counselor that comes with an intersectional approach, understands the historical trauma and recognizes the impact of ones sexual orientation and racial idenity on their experiences of grief.
My ideal client is one whom is willing and ready to take care of themselves emotionally, spiritually, and physically for proper growth. If you are in need of grief counseling then I am the counselor that can help you by creating a safe and inclusive space by offering cultural spaces to those of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, LGBT+ community and people of color. Many times people enjoy having the right counselor that comes with an intersectional approach, understands the historical trauma and recognizes the impact of ones sexual orientation and racial idenity on their experiences of grief.
(980) 372-6655 View (980) 372-6655
Photo of Christien Harden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Christien Harden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27407  (Online Only)
While attending graduate school, my focuses were the LGBT community, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and Substance Use Disorders.
Hello! My name is Christien Harden, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC and VA), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (NC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (NC). It is my wish to assist those struggling with mental health and substance use issues by providing an experienced, caring atmosphere to grow and heal. Overall, I want to talk about the matters that matter to you. Life isn't always easy but, it should not always be a struggle.
While attending graduate school, my focuses were the LGBT community, Severe and Persistent Mental Illness, and Substance Use Disorders.
Hello! My name is Christien Harden, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (NC and VA), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (NC) and Certified Clinical Supervisor (NC). It is my wish to assist those struggling with mental health and substance use issues by providing an experienced, caring atmosphere to grow and heal. Overall, I want to talk about the matters that matter to you. Life isn't always easy but, it should not always be a struggle.
(336) 916-1586 View (336) 916-1586
Photo of Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Walker Behavioral Healthcare, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LCMHCA, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28273  (Online Only)
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
As individuals with lives in constant flux, it can seem strange and feel scary to ask for assistance from other. Despite that fear, when we take that step and seek assistance in life, we open ourselves to wonderful possibilities and opportunities for growth and change. As a Counselor, I find personal growth can flow both ways during therapy. learn more about others and our respective worlds that empowers us to push past barriers that we thought were impossible to breach. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
(704) 802-1509 View (704) 802-1509
Photo of Kat Milberger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Albemarle, NC
Kat Milberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27704  (Online Only)
I am a part of the LGBTQ+, disabled, and neurodivergent communities and I use any pronouns (they/she/he).
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical social worker and I offer telehealth therapy services in North Carolina. I love my job! I work from a neurodiversity and culturally affirming perspective and specialize in the treatment of trauma through EMDR. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based treatment modality used to help us identify impactful life experiences that have kept us stuck in unhelpful patterns through persistent negative beliefs about ourselves.
I am a part of the LGBTQ+, disabled, and neurodivergent communities and I use any pronouns (they/she/he).
Hello there! I am a licensed clinical social worker and I offer telehealth therapy services in North Carolina. I love my job! I work from a neurodiversity and culturally affirming perspective and specialize in the treatment of trauma through EMDR. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based treatment modality used to help us identify impactful life experiences that have kept us stuck in unhelpful patterns through persistent negative beliefs about ourselves.
(919) 902-5634 View (919) 902-5634
Photo of Bradley Vaughn, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Bradley Vaughn
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
Being human is hard, emotions are complicative, and our mental health is real and important. I encourage clients to come to me as they are with a desire to make changes to become who they want to be. Together we will explore and challenge our thoughts and beliefs while remaining gentle recognizing that the process can be hard and slow at times. We will set goals and strive to reach them. We will stay open to gain a sense of self-awareness as you move forward on your path of becoming who you desire to be. I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship/sex issues, & LGBTQIA+.
(980) 655-2283 View (980) 655-2283
Photo of Phillip Bass, Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Phillip Bass
Counselor, MDiv, ThM, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My areas of specialty include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, poly families, and ENM relationships. I also provide clinical supervision to LCMHCA's. With over 10 years of experience, I've come to enjoy helping clients find their voice, recognize their needs, and discover the benefits of self-care and boundaries. My work is heavily focused in Attachment Theory, but I also include aspects of Queer Theory, EMDR, CBT, and others as appropriate.
My areas of specialty include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, poly families, and ENM relationships. I also provide clinical supervision to LCMHCA's. With over 10 years of experience, I've come to enjoy helping clients find their voice, recognize their needs, and discover the benefits of self-care and boundaries. My work is heavily focused in Attachment Theory, but I also include aspects of Queer Theory, EMDR, CBT, and others as appropriate.
(919) 582-7462 View (919) 582-7462
Photo of Ellie Mental Health-Raleigh, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Albemarle, NC
Ellie Mental Health-Raleigh
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
We want to help clients from all walks of life and from all different backgrounds. We approach therapy from a holistic, integrative, and supportive framework where we meet clients where they are. We are trans/queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed. We work with a multitude of issues including identity concerns, anxiety, depression, life transitions, and mood dysregulation.
(984) 368-4609 View (984) 368-4609

See more therapy options for Albemarle


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.