LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Rensselaer, NY
Jennifer Merritt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Jen. I'm a clinical social worker who has worked with children, adolescents and parents for twenty years. My goal in each session is to make my patients feel comfortable and identify their feelings. Each session begins with an emotional check-in and an update of what has happened in life since the last session. From there, together we can determine what the specific goal of the session will be, or continue to expand on skills and strategies introduced earlier. I believe in the need to be flexible depending on what the needs are in the moment of the patient. I craft a judgment free zone to help people be their best self.
Hi, I'm Jen. I'm a clinical social worker who has worked with children, adolescents and parents for twenty years. My goal in each session is to make my patients feel comfortable and identify their feelings. Each session begins with an emotional check-in and an update of what has happened in life since the last session. From there, together we can determine what the specific goal of the session will be, or continue to expand on skills and strategies introduced earlier. I believe in the need to be flexible depending on what the needs are in the moment of the patient. I craft a judgment free zone to help people be their best self.
Do you feel overwhelmed by trying to do it all and balancing the responsibilities of work, family & friendships? Do you feel constant pressure to be the one that always holds everything together and if you don’t, everything around you will fall apart? Do you find that you spend so much of your time taking care of everyone and everything else that you don’t know who you are anymore? Do you struggle with maintaining healthy relationships and wonder, “when will I ever get it right?” If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone!
Do you feel overwhelmed by trying to do it all and balancing the responsibilities of work, family & friendships? Do you feel constant pressure to be the one that always holds everything together and if you don’t, everything around you will fall apart? Do you find that you spend so much of your time taking care of everyone and everything else that you don’t know who you are anymore? Do you struggle with maintaining healthy relationships and wonder, “when will I ever get it right?” If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone!
Martin Lyden, Ph.D.
Psychologist, Martin, Lyden, PhD
Verified Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144 (Online Only)
I have helped thousands of persons who suffered from a variety of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, attention deficit disorder, and health problems. I have assisted many couples in learning how to reduce destructive conflict and improve healthy communication and cooperation.
I have helped thousands of persons who suffered from a variety of difficulties such as depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, grief, attention deficit disorder, and health problems. I have assisted many couples in learning how to reduce destructive conflict and improve healthy communication and cooperation.
Nicole Romano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144 (Online Only)
We all go through struggles that may get us “stuck.” My approach is to support you in becoming “unstuck” ” I tend to use the cognitive solution focused model. I’ve worked with patients struggling with depression, addiction, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, anger, relationships, phobias and parenting; just to name a few. It’s my objective to support you in reaching your goals at your own pace, although it may seem like I’m pushing you sometimes. I will support you in times you need to vent, but also shift you back to focus and teach you new ways to cope. I’m here to facilitate personal growth when you are feeling like it might not be reachable.
We all go through struggles that may get us “stuck.” My approach is to support you in becoming “unstuck” ” I tend to use the cognitive solution focused model. I’ve worked with patients struggling with depression, addiction, ADHD, anxiety, PTSD, anger, relationships, phobias and parenting; just to name a few. It’s my objective to support you in reaching your goals at your own pace, although it may seem like I’m pushing you sometimes. I will support you in times you need to vent, but also shift you back to focus and teach you new ways to cope. I’m here to facilitate personal growth when you are feeling like it might not be reachable.
Making the commitment to improve your wellbeing is complex. It can feel overwhelming to decide where to begin. Choosing a therapist to work with is a valuable decision. So, I encourage you to ask yourself what you’re desiring from this experience and from the individual you enter treatment with. Therapy is a collaborative journey toward holistic healing. We both play vital roles. My aim is to provide a space that allows you to address whatever it is/has been causing you distress. We will explore what is keeping you from reaching fulfillment in your life.
Making the commitment to improve your wellbeing is complex. It can feel overwhelming to decide where to begin. Choosing a therapist to work with is a valuable decision. So, I encourage you to ask yourself what you’re desiring from this experience and from the individual you enter treatment with. Therapy is a collaborative journey toward holistic healing. We both play vital roles. My aim is to provide a space that allows you to address whatever it is/has been causing you distress. We will explore what is keeping you from reaching fulfillment in your life.
Experiential Mental Health Counseling (EMHC)
Counselor, LMHC
Not Verified Not Verified
Rensselaer, NY 12144
Waitlist for new clients
We are a practice of mental health counselors who utilizes an integrated approach. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy to those who are looking to work on their emotional, behavioral, and mental health. We provide a safe and genuine space to help clients improve skills to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma and work on interpersonal relationships.
We are a practice of mental health counselors who utilizes an integrated approach. We offer individual, couple, and family therapy to those who are looking to work on their emotional, behavioral, and mental health. We provide a safe and genuine space to help clients improve skills to manage symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma and work on interpersonal relationships.
More Therapists Nearby
Alex Cristina-Garcia (Sobieraj)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12207 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a nonjudgmental, empathic, and genuine approach with all of my clients. I bring empathy into every interaction I have with every person & I operate from a radical, social justice, abolitionist, anti-oppressive perspective. I incorporate the Liberation Health Framework into my work, paying close attention to how oppression/systems affect everyone's experiences moving through the world. My identity as a queer mixed race woman of color strongly influences my practice and work with clients. I have experience working with QTPOC communities, disenfranchised & marginalized identities, and folks navigating mental health challenges.
I offer a nonjudgmental, empathic, and genuine approach with all of my clients. I bring empathy into every interaction I have with every person & I operate from a radical, social justice, abolitionist, anti-oppressive perspective. I incorporate the Liberation Health Framework into my work, paying close attention to how oppression/systems affect everyone's experiences moving through the world. My identity as a queer mixed race woman of color strongly influences my practice and work with clients. I have experience working with QTPOC communities, disenfranchised & marginalized identities, and folks navigating mental health challenges.
Maeve (Travis) Martin
Licensed Master Social Worker, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12201
I believe that human relationships are the basis of personal well-being, and see the therapy room as a place to develop a model for honest communication and healthy dynamics. I believe our bodies are an invaluable source of information, and I strive to bring clients into their immediate, felt experience while they sit with me. My approach is empathetic, humanistic, present-centered, and aims to help clients understand and live in attunement with their own needs and values. I especially enjoy working with queer, trans, gender queer, and non-binary individuals. My work is grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
I believe that human relationships are the basis of personal well-being, and see the therapy room as a place to develop a model for honest communication and healthy dynamics. I believe our bodies are an invaluable source of information, and I strive to bring clients into their immediate, felt experience while they sit with me. My approach is empathetic, humanistic, present-centered, and aims to help clients understand and live in attunement with their own needs and values. I especially enjoy working with queer, trans, gender queer, and non-binary individuals. My work is grounded in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
James Ramseur III
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Albany, NY 12210 (Online Only)
I specialize in issues relating to gender and sexuality, including affirming LGBTQIA+ identity, kink/BDSM, and polyamory/ENM.
As a therapist I firmly believe that transformative growth and liberation depend on first developing a trusting relationship. My individual clients are looking for space to discuss anxiety, pressures from work and family, and daily stressors with someone who recognizes the connections to social identity. When working in relationships—whether romantic, sexual, familial—my clients value the safety to each express their needs and better understand one another.
I specialize in issues relating to gender and sexuality, including affirming LGBTQIA+ identity, kink/BDSM, and polyamory/ENM.
As a therapist I firmly believe that transformative growth and liberation depend on first developing a trusting relationship. My individual clients are looking for space to discuss anxiety, pressures from work and family, and daily stressors with someone who recognizes the connections to social identity. When working in relationships—whether romantic, sexual, familial—my clients value the safety to each express their needs and better understand one another.
I work with a wide variety of relationship types, styles, and forms, including LGBTQ+ and those who engage in non-monogamy.
One life is One story, is it time to change yours? I aim to help folks take life to the next level, whether it's improving relationships, healing old wounds, or making meaning out of life. I like to integrate both concrete and abstract methods to help folks with work towards their hopes and dreams. Sessions are through telehealth to people across NY and FL. >No Appts Avail at This Time, Not Able to Respond to Inquiries. This Profile Will Be Updated as Openings Occur. <
I work with a wide variety of relationship types, styles, and forms, including LGBTQ+ and those who engage in non-monogamy.
One life is One story, is it time to change yours? I aim to help folks take life to the next level, whether it's improving relationships, healing old wounds, or making meaning out of life. I like to integrate both concrete and abstract methods to help folks with work towards their hopes and dreams. Sessions are through telehealth to people across NY and FL. >No Appts Avail at This Time, Not Able to Respond to Inquiries. This Profile Will Be Updated as Openings Occur. <
My journey as a therapist began as a lifeline counselor for The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ youth.
I work relationally and humanistically with patients. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am warm, empathic, and believe humor can be a powerful force for healing. Late stage capitalism, climate and environmental destruction, a digital age that often makes us feel more isolated; There are many sources of pain and suffering in our modern world in addition to our individual stressors and traumas. Now more than ever we need space for connection, insight, and healing. You can see my availability and book a session online at Headway by clicking on the "My Website" button.
My journey as a therapist began as a lifeline counselor for The Trevor Project, a suicide prevention lifeline for LGBTQ youth.
I work relationally and humanistically with patients. I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am warm, empathic, and believe humor can be a powerful force for healing. Late stage capitalism, climate and environmental destruction, a digital age that often makes us feel more isolated; There are many sources of pain and suffering in our modern world in addition to our individual stressors and traumas. Now more than ever we need space for connection, insight, and healing. You can see my availability and book a session online at Headway by clicking on the "My Website" button.
I specialize in working with the Queer/ LGBTQIA+ community, children/adolescents and young adults.
As of 8/24/24 I am currently accepting new clients! If you have found your way here, you may be craving change. I am here to assist you on your journey. I work best with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, history of trauma, and/or attachment issues.
I specialize in working with the Queer/ LGBTQIA+ community, children/adolescents and young adults.
As of 8/24/24 I am currently accepting new clients! If you have found your way here, you may be craving change. I am here to assist you on your journey. I work best with individuals struggling with low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, history of trauma, and/or attachment issues.
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.
Ashley C. Whiteside
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12206
Again, I center and prioritize Black and Brown Femmes! Our space is unapologetically Black, Queer, and Loving (PERIODT).
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
Again, I center and prioritize Black and Brown Femmes! Our space is unapologetically Black, Queer, and Loving (PERIODT).
My name is Ashley and I am a healer, therapist, doula, and educator. I am fueled by my charge: to walk alongside Black and Brown femmes as they continue on the ever-evolving process of self-discovery, making adjustments to live in alignment with their desires and express themselves the most authentically. I believe that choosing to heal is a radical act of self-love. I am a Licensed Social Worker and in my practice, I center and prioritize the experiences and healing of Black and Brown Femmes (women, girls). I serve as a guide as clients navigate back to a space of remembering the inherent truths of who they are and desire to be.
I am passionate about expanding access to high quality mental health care to the LGBTQIA+ community and am dedicated to the safety and liberation for all of my clients.
Trying to overcome grief and the oppression of our current systems is exhausting. Being in relationship with others in a shifting world can be scary. If you're wanting to find relief from bearing the weight of it all, I hope to help carry it. I work from a trauma-informed, sex-positive, anti-oppressive stance and hope to create an environment of warmth, connection, and curiosity. I aim to honor the ways in which larger social structures shape our experience of day-to-day life and offer a space where you can be heard, understood, and uplifted. I will work to hold space for the complexities of your life and the grief we all experience
I am passionate about expanding access to high quality mental health care to the LGBTQIA+ community and am dedicated to the safety and liberation for all of my clients.
Trying to overcome grief and the oppression of our current systems is exhausting. Being in relationship with others in a shifting world can be scary. If you're wanting to find relief from bearing the weight of it all, I hope to help carry it. I work from a trauma-informed, sex-positive, anti-oppressive stance and hope to create an environment of warmth, connection, and curiosity. I aim to honor the ways in which larger social structures shape our experience of day-to-day life and offer a space where you can be heard, understood, and uplifted. I will work to hold space for the complexities of your life and the grief we all experience
Georgia Chan
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12201 (Online Only)
I believe that each individual has an innate capacity to shape their own narrative and navigate life's complexities with agency and resilience. I work to create a respectful relationship with my clients, offering empathy and helping them focus on their strengths and positive aspects of their lives, even as they grapple with the challenges that they face. My goal is for clients to leave our sessions feeling empowered, more connected to themselves and the world around them, and equipped with a deeper understanding of their own journey. I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, stress, LGBTQ &identity issues.
I believe that each individual has an innate capacity to shape their own narrative and navigate life's complexities with agency and resilience. I work to create a respectful relationship with my clients, offering empathy and helping them focus on their strengths and positive aspects of their lives, even as they grapple with the challenges that they face. My goal is for clients to leave our sessions feeling empowered, more connected to themselves and the world around them, and equipped with a deeper understanding of their own journey. I help clients with anxiety, depression, relationship problems, stress, LGBTQ &identity issues.
My fully telehealth practice is catered towards working professionals, college students and teens (14+). I am a trauma-informed therapist that provides an intentional nonjudgmental LGBTQIA+ affirming space. My practice is centered around folks dealing with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and LGBTQIA+ issues; including exploring sexuality and gender identity. Many of my clients are dealing with life stressors/ transitions, relationship struggles and self-esteem concerns.
My fully telehealth practice is catered towards working professionals, college students and teens (14+). I am a trauma-informed therapist that provides an intentional nonjudgmental LGBTQIA+ affirming space. My practice is centered around folks dealing with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, trauma and LGBTQIA+ issues; including exploring sexuality and gender identity. Many of my clients are dealing with life stressors/ transitions, relationship struggles and self-esteem concerns.
I work with adults ages 18+ who want to work on anxiety, life transitions, career development, trauma, women's issues, communication dynamics, and relationship difficulties.
Engaging in therapy can feel very vulnerable - it's so important to feel like you "click" with your therapist. My practice focuses on developing relationships with clients that are empathic, collaborative, and reflective, so that clients can feel comfortable, heard, and understood in exploring their concerns and goals. I’m committed to recognizing and affirming each client's individuality and intersecting identities - and to supporting individuals in the LGBTQ+ and CNM communities, college students, and people who are working towards personal growth or enhanced self-awareness.
I work with adults ages 18+ who want to work on anxiety, life transitions, career development, trauma, women's issues, communication dynamics, and relationship difficulties.
Engaging in therapy can feel very vulnerable - it's so important to feel like you "click" with your therapist. My practice focuses on developing relationships with clients that are empathic, collaborative, and reflective, so that clients can feel comfortable, heard, and understood in exploring their concerns and goals. I’m committed to recognizing and affirming each client's individuality and intersecting identities - and to supporting individuals in the LGBTQ+ and CNM communities, college students, and people who are working towards personal growth or enhanced self-awareness.
Lionheart Psychotherapy offers individual, family, and couples counseling, as well as partnership with queer-allied small businesses.
Lionheart Psychotherapy is an establishment run by innovative queer folks and allies that are dedicated to healing and creating a new path to accessible mental and emotional well-being. We know welcoming and social-justice oriented care can be difficult to find so we are dedicated to providing a safe space for our clients where their informed treatment is unique to them.
Lionheart Psychotherapy offers individual, family, and couples counseling, as well as partnership with queer-allied small businesses.
Lionheart Psychotherapy is an establishment run by innovative queer folks and allies that are dedicated to healing and creating a new path to accessible mental and emotional well-being. We know welcoming and social-justice oriented care can be difficult to find so we are dedicated to providing a safe space for our clients where their informed treatment is unique to them.
A. Jovenia Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Albany, NY 12201 (Online Only)
Jovi (she/they) is a queer therapist who specializes in working with clients with trauma, LGBTQIA+ clientele, religious trauma, eating disorders & clients who are healing from a breakup. Jovi has over 7 years experience providing care to clients who have experienced sexual assault, loss and grief, domestic violence, anxiety, & depression. Jovi is an eating disorder informed therapist. She uses Intuitive Eating & the All Sizes Fit approach. As a queer clinician, they have firsthand knowledge of the LGBTQIA+ experience in addition to expertise in working with clients who need gender-affirming & identity-affirming care.
Jovi (she/they) is a queer therapist who specializes in working with clients with trauma, LGBTQIA+ clientele, religious trauma, eating disorders & clients who are healing from a breakup. Jovi has over 7 years experience providing care to clients who have experienced sexual assault, loss and grief, domestic violence, anxiety, & depression. Jovi is an eating disorder informed therapist. She uses Intuitive Eating & the All Sizes Fit approach. As a queer clinician, they have firsthand knowledge of the LGBTQIA+ experience in addition to expertise in working with clients who need gender-affirming & identity-affirming care.
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Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Rensselaer
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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.