LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Cayuga County, NY

Photo of Denise Litterer, PhD, Psychologist
Denise Litterer
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Cato, NY 13033  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience in helping clients with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, eating disorders, family of origin issues, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, LGBTQ+ identities, and more.
Hi! I'm Denise Litterer and I am a psychologist who has successfully worked with clients with a range of presenting issues and from diverse backgrounds for over 25 years. I am highly collaborative and active in therapy, utilizing an interpersonal, feminist, and multicultural approach to combine your life experiences and identities with my professional knowledge. I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and often incorporate these techniques into my therapy as well as use them in my own life! On a personal note, I live with my wife, three children, dogs and cats and spend my free time cooking, baking, and reading.
I have extensive experience in helping clients with anxiety, social anxiety, depression, interpersonal struggles, eating disorders, family of origin issues, abuse and trauma, grief and loss, spirituality, LGBTQ+ identities, and more.
Hi! I'm Denise Litterer and I am a psychologist who has successfully worked with clients with a range of presenting issues and from diverse backgrounds for over 25 years. I am highly collaborative and active in therapy, utilizing an interpersonal, feminist, and multicultural approach to combine your life experiences and identities with my professional knowledge. I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and often incorporate these techniques into my therapy as well as use them in my own life! On a personal note, I live with my wife, three children, dogs and cats and spend my free time cooking, baking, and reading.
(315) 599-3694 View (315) 599-3694
Photo of Breeanna Riley, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breeanna Riley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
I specialize in LGBTQ-affirming care, though I'm interested in working with a diverse range of marginalized experiences.
Are you aiming to improve your relationships with the goal of creating a greater sense of community support? Are you self-motivated and interested in processing your life experiences to find patterns and make meaning of your emotional experiences? A typical client will be aligned with the belief in the importance of community and community care. I work with clients who are ready to do "the work." The expectation is that clients show up regularly and on time for sessions.
I specialize in LGBTQ-affirming care, though I'm interested in working with a diverse range of marginalized experiences.
Are you aiming to improve your relationships with the goal of creating a greater sense of community support? Are you self-motivated and interested in processing your life experiences to find patterns and make meaning of your emotional experiences? A typical client will be aligned with the belief in the importance of community and community care. I work with clients who are ready to do "the work." The expectation is that clients show up regularly and on time for sessions.
(315) 375-7028 View (315) 375-7028
Photo of Maria Manna, LMHC, Counselor
Maria Manna
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
My areas of focus include working with the LGBTQIA+ communities, chronic pain/illness, mood/anxiety disorders, grief and relationship dynamics.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
My areas of focus include working with the LGBTQIA+ communities, chronic pain/illness, mood/anxiety disorders, grief and relationship dynamics.
I’ve been a Licensed Mental Health Counselor for 20 years, working the last 10+ years in private practice in Ithaca, NY. While I have an office on N. Tioga Street in downtown Ithaca, the majority of my meetings happen online. I take a collaborative approach to this work and draw on my experience and education to provide an individualized approach to therapy. I work with people who are managing acute or chronic physical illness, pain and the often complicated diagnostic process.
(607) 246-8636 View (607) 246-8636
Photo of Cesar Ureta, PsyD, Psychologist
Cesar Ureta
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cayuga, NY 13034
Dr. Ureta holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute as well as a Master’s in Public Health from Columbia University. Dr. Ureta has worked in community mental health centers across the Coachella Valley. Although Dr. Ureta treats a wide range of presenting issues, he holds sub-specialties in working with the LGBTQ population and is on staff with the Desert AIDS Project (DAP Health). He uses a gentle, supportive, and consistent approach to client care. Outside of his work as a therapist, Dr. Ureta can be found connecting with nature, including hiking and taking walks along the beach.
Dr. Ureta holds a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from The Wright Institute as well as a Master’s in Public Health from Columbia University. Dr. Ureta has worked in community mental health centers across the Coachella Valley. Although Dr. Ureta treats a wide range of presenting issues, he holds sub-specialties in working with the LGBTQ population and is on staff with the Desert AIDS Project (DAP Health). He uses a gentle, supportive, and consistent approach to client care. Outside of his work as a therapist, Dr. Ureta can be found connecting with nature, including hiking and taking walks along the beach.
(646) 566-6874 View (646) 566-6874
Photo of Amy Kelly - Amy Kelly, LCSW-R, LCSW-R, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Kelly, LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
My goal as a therapist is to create a comfortable and supportive environment in which clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I take an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to client wellness and help clients meet their individual goals. I have experience working with people of all ages as well as with a variety of issues and struggles. I provide relationship counseling, family therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, Bariatric Assessments and bariatric surgery counseling.
My goal as a therapist is to create a comfortable and supportive environment in which clients can explore their emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential. I take an open-minded and non-judgmental approach to client wellness and help clients meet their individual goals. I have experience working with people of all ages as well as with a variety of issues and struggles. I provide relationship counseling, family therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, Bariatric Assessments and bariatric surgery counseling.
(315) 406-1981 View (315) 406-1981
Photo of Cheri Wakeham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cheri Wakeham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
Are you noticing that your life is hard to deal with? Whether you are experiencing anxiety, trauma responses, depression, life transitions or chronic illness, my goal is to help you through what is leaving you unhappy, tired and unable to manage daily stress.
Are you noticing that your life is hard to deal with? Whether you are experiencing anxiety, trauma responses, depression, life transitions or chronic illness, my goal is to help you through what is leaving you unhappy, tired and unable to manage daily stress.
(315) 509-1137 View (315) 509-1137
Photo of Ellen Ross, PsyD, LP, NCPsyA, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Ellen Ross
Licensed Psychoanalyst, PsyD, LP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
When I think of therapy, I see it as a chance to study one's life and patterns non-judgmentally, with the opportunity to modify things that do not help to live a life satisfactorily. It is a self-educational experience where all thoughts and feelings and the obstacles which interfere with living are cooperatively addressed. Progressive talking takes place to work through anxiety, depression, relationships, workplace stress and parenting, as well as the whole scope of emotional challenges, mild to serious. It is a form of maturation occurring at a pace amenable to the individual. Please call for more information.
When I think of therapy, I see it as a chance to study one's life and patterns non-judgmentally, with the opportunity to modify things that do not help to live a life satisfactorily. It is a self-educational experience where all thoughts and feelings and the obstacles which interfere with living are cooperatively addressed. Progressive talking takes place to work through anxiety, depression, relationships, workplace stress and parenting, as well as the whole scope of emotional challenges, mild to serious. It is a form of maturation occurring at a pace amenable to the individual. Please call for more information.
(315) 231-6067 View (315) 231-6067
Photo of Sydney Dinneen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sydney Dinneen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Sydney! I'm a therapist who has been practicing clinically since 2019, specializing in individual therapy with adolescents, teens, and adults of all ages. Whether you are processing life changes and transitions, navigating relationships, managing overwhelming feelings, or handling day-to-day stressors, seeking therapy can be a vulnerable experience and I'm dedicated to creating a comfortable and affirming space.
Hi, I'm Sydney! I'm a therapist who has been practicing clinically since 2019, specializing in individual therapy with adolescents, teens, and adults of all ages. Whether you are processing life changes and transitions, navigating relationships, managing overwhelming feelings, or handling day-to-day stressors, seeking therapy can be a vulnerable experience and I'm dedicated to creating a comfortable and affirming space.
(315) 509-9364 View (315) 509-9364
Photo of Lauren J Walsh, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren J Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021  (Online Only)
It's difficult to take the step to ask for help. Life can be challenging for everyone at times. I am currently taking virtual clients for therapy as well as providing clinical supervision to therapists who are working towards their licensure.
It's difficult to take the step to ask for help. Life can be challenging for everyone at times. I am currently taking virtual clients for therapy as well as providing clinical supervision to therapists who are working towards their licensure.
(315) 641-7821 View (315) 641-7821
Photo of Karen Dellonte, LMHC, Counselor
Karen Dellonte
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
I am excited to bring my 20 plus years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor into private practice. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents in a variety of environments. I have worked in community based, school, and clinic settings, providing services to children with a mental health diagnosis, and their families. In addition, I have been trained in positive parenting practices as well as Crisis Intervention techniques. Further, I have experience working with adults in a not for profit clinic, I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders and more.
I am excited to bring my 20 plus years of experience as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor into private practice. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents in a variety of environments. I have worked in community based, school, and clinic settings, providing services to children with a mental health diagnosis, and their families. In addition, I have been trained in positive parenting practices as well as Crisis Intervention techniques. Further, I have experience working with adults in a not for profit clinic, I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, mood disorders and more.
(315) 825-6334 View (315) 825-6334
Photo of Jami Stanforth-Choueiry, MS, LMHC
Jami Stanforth-Choueiry
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
Jami is a licensed mental health counselor. She provides a warm and empathic space to aid clients in their process of healing and growth. Jami uses evidence based practices to support clients in strengthening their coping skills, processing difficult emotions and past traumas, challenging unhealthy and unrealistic beliefs about one-self, and to identify and replace unhealthy behaviors. Jami works with children, adolescents and adults.
Jami is a licensed mental health counselor. She provides a warm and empathic space to aid clients in their process of healing and growth. Jami uses evidence based practices to support clients in strengthening their coping skills, processing difficult emotions and past traumas, challenging unhealthy and unrealistic beliefs about one-self, and to identify and replace unhealthy behaviors. Jami works with children, adolescents and adults.
(315) 864-9240 View (315) 864-9240
Photo of Sara Lewis - Fingerlakes LCSW Counseling Services, PLLC, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Fingerlakes LCSW Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
We have a team of therapist in-person and remote that are solution-focused therapists within sessions and believe in working side by side with clients in making progress. Our goal as a therapist is to make clients feel safe, confident and comfortable working through issues. We have a large amount of experience working with anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bi-polar, marital issues, post-partum depression, grief/loss, and codependency
We have a team of therapist in-person and remote that are solution-focused therapists within sessions and believe in working side by side with clients in making progress. Our goal as a therapist is to make clients feel safe, confident and comfortable working through issues. We have a large amount of experience working with anxiety, panic, OCD, depression, bi-polar, marital issues, post-partum depression, grief/loss, and codependency
(315) 636-6220 View (315) 636-6220
Photo of Brandi Danielle Mack, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandi Danielle Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
I work with individuals, couples, and families as they work on personal and relational growth. I create a warm a collaborative environment to identify concerns and create change. I can help as you navigate your way through difficulties in your personal life and relationships with others.
I work with individuals, couples, and families as they work on personal and relational growth. I create a warm a collaborative environment to identify concerns and create change. I can help as you navigate your way through difficulties in your personal life and relationships with others.
(315) 758-6389 View (315) 758-6389
Photo of Stephanie Zuber, LMHC, MS, Counselor
Stephanie Zuber
Counselor, LMHC, MS
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
I am currently not accepting new patients until 2024. Experiencing a loss of sexual desire? Arguing about frequency of sex? Worried about performance issues? Healing from sexual trauma or infidelity? Want to better understand your sexuality? I specialize in working with individuals, couples and multi-partnered relationships as they explore concerns related to sex, intimacy and gender identity. Using a combination of proven methods in sex therapy and relationship/family therapies, I help people heal and experience a satisfying sex life so they can live a more connected and thriving life.
I am currently not accepting new patients until 2024. Experiencing a loss of sexual desire? Arguing about frequency of sex? Worried about performance issues? Healing from sexual trauma or infidelity? Want to better understand your sexuality? I specialize in working with individuals, couples and multi-partnered relationships as they explore concerns related to sex, intimacy and gender identity. Using a combination of proven methods in sex therapy and relationship/family therapies, I help people heal and experience a satisfying sex life so they can live a more connected and thriving life.
(607) 228-8157 View (607) 228-8157
Photo of Jennifer Beaton, LMHC, Counselor
Jennifer Beaton
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
I helped people navigate a variety of topics, including anxiety, codependency, substance abuse, relational issues, ADHD, gender/identity exploration, and religious trauma, among others. My ideal client is ready to explore, ask questions, and get to the root of things. They want to improve their relationship with themselves and others. They are an active participant in the therapeutic process and are willing to work with me to explore solutions.
I helped people navigate a variety of topics, including anxiety, codependency, substance abuse, relational issues, ADHD, gender/identity exploration, and religious trauma, among others. My ideal client is ready to explore, ask questions, and get to the root of things. They want to improve their relationship with themselves and others. They are an active participant in the therapeutic process and are willing to work with me to explore solutions.
(315) 818-3130 View (315) 818-3130
Photo of Christopher Bruzee, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Christopher Bruzee
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Auburn, NY 13021
Welcome! You are taking a positive step towards your journey through life. I am an active participant in this journey with you and will assist you in navigating through the turmoil as well as any adversity you may face in your voyage. I have significant experience working with those who struggle through anxiety, depression, anger management, difficulty coping, difficulty with self-esteem, men’s issues, antisocial personality, disorder, and issues related to being in the field of first responders. I offer counseling services in a welcoming, confidential, judgement free, and insightful space. I look forward to meeting with you!
Welcome! You are taking a positive step towards your journey through life. I am an active participant in this journey with you and will assist you in navigating through the turmoil as well as any adversity you may face in your voyage. I have significant experience working with those who struggle through anxiety, depression, anger management, difficulty coping, difficulty with self-esteem, men’s issues, antisocial personality, disorder, and issues related to being in the field of first responders. I offer counseling services in a welcoming, confidential, judgement free, and insightful space. I look forward to meeting with you!
(315) 712-1305 View (315) 712-1305
Photo of Lydia Vazquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Vazquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cato, NY 13033
Hey! I'm Lydia Vazquez a Licensed Clinical Social Worker ready to discuss the good, the bad, and even funny! In navigating our difficult truths, my hope is to help you in navigating acceptance and strategies. Laughter is a tool that I appreciate for connectivity. I've been privileged to work with a myriad of lovely people. A good amount of the folks I work with are working professionals navigating the stressors of work, relationships, and family. I see folks with short and long-term conditions of depression, anxiety, and inattention. I work in trying to understand ways to change your symptoms.
Hey! I'm Lydia Vazquez a Licensed Clinical Social Worker ready to discuss the good, the bad, and even funny! In navigating our difficult truths, my hope is to help you in navigating acceptance and strategies. Laughter is a tool that I appreciate for connectivity. I've been privileged to work with a myriad of lovely people. A good amount of the folks I work with are working professionals navigating the stressors of work, relationships, and family. I see folks with short and long-term conditions of depression, anxiety, and inattention. I work in trying to understand ways to change your symptoms.
(646) 845-7769 View (646) 845-7769
Photo of Melissa M Kallfelz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Melissa M Kallfelz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, stress, relationship struggles, life transitions, loss and more.
Things happen to us everyday which impact and change who we are and how we live in this world. My role as a therapist is to support others in identifying their purpose. The passion for guiding others in identifying positive choices and making healthy changes is my purpose. Whether you are going through life transitions, feel depressed, or anxious, therapy can help facilitate positive change and improve your overall quality of life.
My areas of specialization include anxiety, depression, self-esteem, family conflict, stress, relationship struggles, life transitions, loss and more.
Things happen to us everyday which impact and change who we are and how we live in this world. My role as a therapist is to support others in identifying their purpose. The passion for guiding others in identifying positive choices and making healthy changes is my purpose. Whether you are going through life transitions, feel depressed, or anxious, therapy can help facilitate positive change and improve your overall quality of life.
(315) 707-4246 View (315) 707-4246
Photo of Amy J Sargent Westermann, LMHC, CCTP I, CCTP II, Counselor
Amy J Sargent Westermann
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP I, CCTP II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Auburn, NY 13021
Waitlist for new clients
I work with folx of all ages and stages of life, because transitions and adjustments happen thoughout our lives and sometimes we need someone to help on that journey.
Many things can affect the ways we think, feel and interact with the world. Having the courage to call a counselor and say, “I need help”, is a huge step toward inviting change. My part in that journey is helping you develop positive trust based connections in an environment of support and acceptance. I use a strengths based, humanistic approach to meet you where you are in your life. Simply, I bring my authentic self and meet you where you're at.
I work with folx of all ages and stages of life, because transitions and adjustments happen thoughout our lives and sometimes we need someone to help on that journey.
Many things can affect the ways we think, feel and interact with the world. Having the courage to call a counselor and say, “I need help”, is a huge step toward inviting change. My part in that journey is helping you develop positive trust based connections in an environment of support and acceptance. I use a strengths based, humanistic approach to meet you where you are in your life. Simply, I bring my authentic self and meet you where you're at.
(315) 766-2565 View (315) 766-2565
Photo of Tiffany Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weedsport, NY 13166
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 8 years of counseling experience. My expertise lies in helping people achieve their goals of stress reduction, improved coping skills, communication, and self-esteem. My eclectic approach includes extensive knowledge in cognitive behavioral, client-centered, and trauma-informed therapy modalities. As an Afro-Latina myself, I know that having a culturally-sensitive therapist is very important to ensure that clients feel heard and supported in sessions. I believe in creating a space of acceptance and unconditional positive regard in order to foster self-acceptance and healing.
Hello! I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 8 years of counseling experience. My expertise lies in helping people achieve their goals of stress reduction, improved coping skills, communication, and self-esteem. My eclectic approach includes extensive knowledge in cognitive behavioral, client-centered, and trauma-informed therapy modalities. As an Afro-Latina myself, I know that having a culturally-sensitive therapist is very important to ensure that clients feel heard and supported in sessions. I believe in creating a space of acceptance and unconditional positive regard in order to foster self-acceptance and healing.
(716) 321-0817 View (716) 321-0817
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See more therapy options for Cayuga County

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.