LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Orange County, NY
I particularly enjoy working with the queer community, neurodivergence,geeky folks, and young adults.
Deciding to speak with a therapist sounds pretty simple, but it's no easy act of vulnerability. You may be struggling to find a sense of purpose in life, navigating difficult transitions and feel constantly overwhelmed, or making new discoveries about your identity. As a queer therapist, I join with my clients through lived experience and view mental health through a social-justice and change-oriented lens. I will be there to support you through your journey. Let's begin writing the story of your life you want to tell.
I particularly enjoy working with the queer community, neurodivergence,geeky folks, and young adults.
Deciding to speak with a therapist sounds pretty simple, but it's no easy act of vulnerability. You may be struggling to find a sense of purpose in life, navigating difficult transitions and feel constantly overwhelmed, or making new discoveries about your identity. As a queer therapist, I join with my clients through lived experience and view mental health through a social-justice and change-oriented lens. I will be there to support you through your journey. Let's begin writing the story of your life you want to tell.
Deborah Strock
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Windsor, NY 12553 (Online Only)
I am a neurodivergent member of the LGBTQIA+ community who has worked passionately as a therapist for over 25 years. Due to my own early life experiences, my driving motivation is to help other survivors of trauma in overcoming adversity as well as in supporting people in their process of coming out and/or transitioning. I greatly enjoy helping members of the autism community in overcoming challenges & embracing the gifts inherent in being autistic. I am licensed in NY and am currently working 100% virtually.
I am a neurodivergent member of the LGBTQIA+ community who has worked passionately as a therapist for over 25 years. Due to my own early life experiences, my driving motivation is to help other survivors of trauma in overcoming adversity as well as in supporting people in their process of coming out and/or transitioning. I greatly enjoy helping members of the autism community in overcoming challenges & embracing the gifts inherent in being autistic. I am licensed in NY and am currently working 100% virtually.
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
I have particular expertise in working with individuals who are part of transgender, non-binary, queer, lesbian, gay, and bisexual communities or exploring their relationship to those identities.
The decision to begin therapy is rarely easy, but once you begin you may be surprised by the changes that unfold. Finding a therapist who helps you feel safe, supported, and challenged is central to this process. I've been fortunate to work with a wide range of people, including those dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, self-esteem issues, sexual issues, sexual and gender identity exploration, health concerns, artistic blockages, addiction, parenting, and fertility issues.
Diane Martins-Mandel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10941 (Online Only)
Hello! I specialize in working with young adults and adults in navigating stress related to sadness, overwhelm, anxiety, self-doubt, and/or adjusting to adulthood. I have expertise in working with those who identify as LGBTQIA+. I also often work with first-generation Americans who have the added challenge of balancing the expectations of two cultures. I am trilingual (English, Spanish, Portuguese). I have virtual, daytime availability for those living & located in New York State.
Hello! I specialize in working with young adults and adults in navigating stress related to sadness, overwhelm, anxiety, self-doubt, and/or adjusting to adulthood. I have expertise in working with those who identify as LGBTQIA+. I also often work with first-generation Americans who have the added challenge of balancing the expectations of two cultures. I am trilingual (English, Spanish, Portuguese). I have virtual, daytime availability for those living & located in New York State.
Heather L. Kunkel- Davis Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newburgh, NY 12550 (Online Only)
I do offer expertise in couples work, early childhood emotional development & LGBTQ specific issues, Specializing in Transgender work.
My clients range from 20's through Geriatrics. ( Indiv/Couples/Fam) I see a variety of individuals in various situations. Ideally, my clients are seeking to unpack something that they are carrying that may be weighing them down. I like to be the passenger on your journey, and follow your lead while offering possible different ways of seeing a situation, and offering solution focused suggestions. I believe firmly in attachment theory and believe our earliest connections in life have a major impact on how we see life and relationships today. I believe in the ability to gain insight and strength to make positive changes in your life.
I do offer expertise in couples work, early childhood emotional development & LGBTQ specific issues, Specializing in Transgender work.
My clients range from 20's through Geriatrics. ( Indiv/Couples/Fam) I see a variety of individuals in various situations. Ideally, my clients are seeking to unpack something that they are carrying that may be weighing them down. I like to be the passenger on your journey, and follow your lead while offering possible different ways of seeing a situation, and offering solution focused suggestions. I believe firmly in attachment theory and believe our earliest connections in life have a major impact on how we see life and relationships today. I believe in the ability to gain insight and strength to make positive changes in your life.
Ready to talk about it? Let's start therapy together! I work with children, adolescents, and adults all across the gender spectrum and in the LGBTQIA+ community. I provide education to families, discuss concerns related to gender and sexuality, and review the co-occuring mental health issues that sometimes accompany different gender identities. For trans individuals, the world of puberty blockers, hormone replacement therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, and changing name markers can be overwhelming—I'm here to help with that, too. I’m happy to write gender-affirming letters for procedures or institutions.
Ready to talk about it? Let's start therapy together! I work with children, adolescents, and adults all across the gender spectrum and in the LGBTQIA+ community. I provide education to families, discuss concerns related to gender and sexuality, and review the co-occuring mental health issues that sometimes accompany different gender identities. For trans individuals, the world of puberty blockers, hormone replacement therapy, gender-affirming surgeries, and changing name markers can be overwhelming—I'm here to help with that, too. I’m happy to write gender-affirming letters for procedures or institutions.
I specialize in working with adolescents (16+), young adults, and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and with those who are experiencing difficulties with life transitions, self-esteem, relationships, and stress.
You might find yourself feeling untethered, alone, frustrated, or disconnected from your usual self. My focus lies in guiding individuals to rediscover their sense of self when facing challenges. It's common for anxiety, depression, shame, and guilt to emerge during difficult times, and if this resonates with you, know that you're not alone. I am dedicated to offering supportive reflection and compassionate listening, empowering you to tap into your inner resilience, strengths, and goals. Whether you're experiencing a life transition or grappling with the aftermath of trauma or loss, you deserve care that supports your growth.
I specialize in working with adolescents (16+), young adults, and adults experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, and with those who are experiencing difficulties with life transitions, self-esteem, relationships, and stress.
You might find yourself feeling untethered, alone, frustrated, or disconnected from your usual self. My focus lies in guiding individuals to rediscover their sense of self when facing challenges. It's common for anxiety, depression, shame, and guilt to emerge during difficult times, and if this resonates with you, know that you're not alone. I am dedicated to offering supportive reflection and compassionate listening, empowering you to tap into your inner resilience, strengths, and goals. Whether you're experiencing a life transition or grappling with the aftermath of trauma or loss, you deserve care that supports your growth.
Dr. Alan F. Mackie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW-PR
Verified Verified
Westtown, NY 10998 (Online Only)
I am LGBTQ affirming.
My many years of experience afford me the opportunity to empathize and relate to a broad range of individuals and their families. While helping people achieve long lasting change, I try to make counseling pleasant and enjoyable. I empower my clients to recognize the comfort and enjoyment of the here and now as we journey through life’s trials and tribulations Focusing on harm reduction, I utilize a client-centered approach, working from a systems perspective, to help people resolve their internal and external conflicts in a holistic manner.
I am LGBTQ affirming.
My many years of experience afford me the opportunity to empathize and relate to a broad range of individuals and their families. While helping people achieve long lasting change, I try to make counseling pleasant and enjoyable. I empower my clients to recognize the comfort and enjoyment of the here and now as we journey through life’s trials and tribulations Focusing on harm reduction, I utilize a client-centered approach, working from a systems perspective, to help people resolve their internal and external conflicts in a holistic manner.
My dissertation focuses on the sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ community college students with best practices centered around creating affirming campus environments.
I applaud you for your courage in exploring therapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, addiction, recovery, grief, loss, career counseling, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. I employ a Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach, emphasizing the reality that what we tell ourselves affects both how we feel and our actions. I also integrate the Psychodynamic perspective, exploring how our early experiences affect the now, and a Solution-Focused modality to help clients problem solve. I sprinkle in Narrative, REBT, & DBT strategies as well, creating a safe, non-judgmental & trusting environment.
My dissertation focuses on the sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ community college students with best practices centered around creating affirming campus environments.
I applaud you for your courage in exploring therapy. I specialize in anxiety, depression, addiction, recovery, grief, loss, career counseling, LGBTQ+ issues, stress, relationships, self-esteem, and trauma. I employ a Person-Centered, Cognitive-Behavioral approach, emphasizing the reality that what we tell ourselves affects both how we feel and our actions. I also integrate the Psychodynamic perspective, exploring how our early experiences affect the now, and a Solution-Focused modality to help clients problem solve. I sprinkle in Narrative, REBT, & DBT strategies as well, creating a safe, non-judgmental & trusting environment.
Michelle Wade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newburgh, NY 12550 (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! Please, come on in and take a seat in my virtual office. I want to begin by applauding you for recognizing the areas in your life that may not be aligning with your vision and for taking the courageous steps to initiate change. Whether you're navigating a significant life transition, managing neurodivergence, dealing with trauma, facing LGBTQIA-related challenges, or even experiencing all of the above, please know that you are not alone in your journey. My goal is to help you navigate the unique obstacles that can arise from living in a society that may not always provide the support you need.
Hello, and welcome! Please, come on in and take a seat in my virtual office. I want to begin by applauding you for recognizing the areas in your life that may not be aligning with your vision and for taking the courageous steps to initiate change. Whether you're navigating a significant life transition, managing neurodivergence, dealing with trauma, facing LGBTQIA-related challenges, or even experiencing all of the above, please know that you are not alone in your journey. My goal is to help you navigate the unique obstacles that can arise from living in a society that may not always provide the support you need.
Margaret E. Paone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monroe, NY 10950
Insurances Accepted: Traditional Medicare, AETNA & CIGNA - Is your goal to better manage stress and anxiety, improve your communication and relationships, or create new connections that feel more genuine and supportive? We can work together to improve your quality of life, by identifying obstacles and how to best navigate them, with the goal of being true to yourself and your unique needs. My specialty focus is in working with Autistic and other Neurodivergent teens (ages 16+) & adults through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. LGBTQ+ ally.
Insurances Accepted: Traditional Medicare, AETNA & CIGNA - Is your goal to better manage stress and anxiety, improve your communication and relationships, or create new connections that feel more genuine and supportive? We can work together to improve your quality of life, by identifying obstacles and how to best navigate them, with the goal of being true to yourself and your unique needs. My specialty focus is in working with Autistic and other Neurodivergent teens (ages 16+) & adults through a neurodiversity-affirming lens. LGBTQ+ ally.
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Kymberly Corley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newburgh, NY 12550
In our work, I believe it is important to take into consideration the outside world around us and address how sexism, homophobia, and transphobia affects mental health.
I work mostly with adolescents and emerging adults looking to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and codependecy/relational challenges. A big focus of mine is helping my clients foster a sense of independence and autonomy as well as learning interpersonal effectiveness skills. As a queer therapist myself, I love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
In our work, I believe it is important to take into consideration the outside world around us and address how sexism, homophobia, and transphobia affects mental health.
I work mostly with adolescents and emerging adults looking to address anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and codependecy/relational challenges. A big focus of mine is helping my clients foster a sense of independence and autonomy as well as learning interpersonal effectiveness skills. As a queer therapist myself, I love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Join me in a safe, collaborative space to explore how you would like life to be different. I believe in partnering with my clients to travel the path of personal growth in order to reach a place of awareness, self-acceptance, and meaning. I blend tools from the cognitive-behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential, and psychodynamic paradigms in order to tailor an individualized approach for each client. During our journey we will collaborate to find solutions that are fitting for you. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, LGBTQ+ issues, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief, and men’s issues.
Join me in a safe, collaborative space to explore how you would like life to be different. I believe in partnering with my clients to travel the path of personal growth in order to reach a place of awareness, self-acceptance, and meaning. I blend tools from the cognitive-behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), existential, and psychodynamic paradigms in order to tailor an individualized approach for each client. During our journey we will collaborate to find solutions that are fitting for you. I specialize in the treatment of OCD, LGBTQ+ issues, bipolar disorder, relationship issues, grief, and men’s issues.
My extensive experience working with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, and with the LGBTQ+ community help me to create a safe and compassionate environment, while challenging you to confront and overcome your obstacles.
People decide to begin therapy for a variety of reasons. Many have had painful or traumatic experiences that they are unable to move past. Some feel stuck in unhelpful thought patterns or behaviors, or struggle to find fulfillment in relationships or at work. Others may feel burdened with excessive worry, or with feelings of low self worth and inadequacy. I believe that recovery involves healing of the mind and body, and I am trained in several modalities, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), eating disorder treatment, and suicide prevention.
My extensive experience working with eating disorders, depression, anxiety, trauma, and with the LGBTQ+ community help me to create a safe and compassionate environment, while challenging you to confront and overcome your obstacles.
People decide to begin therapy for a variety of reasons. Many have had painful or traumatic experiences that they are unable to move past. Some feel stuck in unhelpful thought patterns or behaviors, or struggle to find fulfillment in relationships or at work. Others may feel burdened with excessive worry, or with feelings of low self worth and inadequacy. I believe that recovery involves healing of the mind and body, and I am trained in several modalities, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), eating disorder treatment, and suicide prevention.
Aedrea Androus
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warwick, NY 10990
Hello! My name is Aedrea and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York. I address different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental health needs and interpersonal challenges. I hold zeal in supporting those in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as non-traditional relationships, sex, and sexuality. I encourage growth with adolescents, adults, and couples, and I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach that is tailored to your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Aedrea and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York. I address different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental health needs and interpersonal challenges. I hold zeal in supporting those in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as non-traditional relationships, sex, and sexuality. I encourage growth with adolescents, adults, and couples, and I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach that is tailored to your unique needs.
I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples (both LGBTQIA & heterosexual), families & business partners.
Knowing the path to reaching your full potential in life can often be confusing, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed or depleted. Support in your journey makes an enormous difference in the process of self-discovery. Contact me, and together we can enliven your quest for personal and/or professional growth, moving you toward increased self-awareness and confidence to make the changes you want in your life. Whether you want to feel better on a daily basis, improve your relationships or deepen your connection to yourself, the most important component in therapy is the therapeutic relationship.
I have 15 years of experience working with individuals and couples (both LGBTQIA & heterosexual), families & business partners.
Knowing the path to reaching your full potential in life can often be confusing, especially if you are feeling overwhelmed or depleted. Support in your journey makes an enormous difference in the process of self-discovery. Contact me, and together we can enliven your quest for personal and/or professional growth, moving you toward increased self-awareness and confidence to make the changes you want in your life. Whether you want to feel better on a daily basis, improve your relationships or deepen your connection to yourself, the most important component in therapy is the therapeutic relationship.
Tina Valentino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newburgh, NY 12550 (Online Only)
I work well with adolescents and adults who have had trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and depression.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Tina, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about working with people and helping them along their journey. Life presents us with challenges that we can’t always face alone- and you don’t have to! I am here with an empathetic and supportive ear to listen and help you process what's on your mind. Whether it is day-to-day struggles or bigger picture patterns, we will approach things at your pace and comfort. I want you to have a positive and healthy relationship to therapy, and leave feeling better than when you started!
I work well with adolescents and adults who have had trauma, anxiety, life transitions, and depression.
Hello, and welcome! My name is Tina, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am passionate about working with people and helping them along their journey. Life presents us with challenges that we can’t always face alone- and you don’t have to! I am here with an empathetic and supportive ear to listen and help you process what's on your mind. Whether it is day-to-day struggles or bigger picture patterns, we will approach things at your pace and comfort. I want you to have a positive and healthy relationship to therapy, and leave feeling better than when you started!
Hello! My name is Aedrea and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York. I address different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental health needs and interpersonal challenges. I hold zeal in supporting those in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as non-traditional relationships, sex, and sexuality. I encourage growth with adolescents, adults, and couples, and I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach that is tailored to your unique needs.
Hello! My name is Aedrea and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of New York. I address different mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic mental health needs and interpersonal challenges. I hold zeal in supporting those in the LGBTQIA+ community, as well as non-traditional relationships, sex, and sexuality. I encourage growth with adolescents, adults, and couples, and I utilize an eclectic, integrative approach that is tailored to your unique needs.
Tatiana Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, NY 10940 (Online Only)
Help! I'm feeling overwhelmed by my thoughts. Let's Find Clarity Together! When your thoughts leave you feeling trapped and overwhelmed, it can be hard to know where to turn. Enhancing your coping skills is a powerful first step. I’m here to help you unpack negative thoughts and replace them with positive, affirming ones. Together, we’ll explore your emotions and work toward achieving clarity and peace. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, and ADHD. As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC aligned, I’m committed to providing inclusive, affirming care.
Help! I'm feeling overwhelmed by my thoughts. Let's Find Clarity Together! When your thoughts leave you feeling trapped and overwhelmed, it can be hard to know where to turn. Enhancing your coping skills is a powerful first step. I’m here to help you unpack negative thoughts and replace them with positive, affirming ones. Together, we’ll explore your emotions and work toward achieving clarity and peace. I specialize in supporting individuals of all ages dealing with Anxiety, Depression, Mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, and ADHD. As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC aligned, I’m committed to providing inclusive, affirming care.
Pamela French-Stern
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, BCFAPA, EMDR, CERT
Verified Verified
Warwick, NY 10990
I believe that my clients have an innate sense for identifying problem areas and the ability to move in positive directions.
I am originally from California where I earned a Masters' degree in counseling and shortly thereafter relocated to NJ where I continued working as a therapist for the Mental Health Clinic of Passaic. Most recently my professional goals have focused on my bipolar research which lead to the completion of my PhD in clinical psychology and the development of specialized treatment for mood disorders as well as obtaining the highest level of trauma training available: certification in EMDR trauma treatment.
I believe that my clients have an innate sense for identifying problem areas and the ability to move in positive directions.
I am originally from California where I earned a Masters' degree in counseling and shortly thereafter relocated to NJ where I continued working as a therapist for the Mental Health Clinic of Passaic. Most recently my professional goals have focused on my bipolar research which lead to the completion of my PhD in clinical psychology and the development of specialized treatment for mood disorders as well as obtaining the highest level of trauma training available: certification in EMDR trauma treatment.
See more therapy options for Orange 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.