LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Jefferson County, PA
Joseph Van Hannak
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Punxsutawney, PA 15767
Not accepting new clients
**NOT accepting new patients**. My approach is based on building strong relationships because trust and compassion is essential for change. While emotional pain is universal, every person is unique. I listen with empathy and provide honest feedback to help people grow and heal. I have experience with diverse populations in addressing struggles with trauma histories, mood disorders, boundaries, identity, and relationships. We will address how to get through the worst parts of the day right away, but we also discover what is keeping us stuck in not so helpful patterns. I believe this approach gives more relief in the long term.
**NOT accepting new patients**. My approach is based on building strong relationships because trust and compassion is essential for change. While emotional pain is universal, every person is unique. I listen with empathy and provide honest feedback to help people grow and heal. I have experience with diverse populations in addressing struggles with trauma histories, mood disorders, boundaries, identity, and relationships. We will address how to get through the worst parts of the day right away, but we also discover what is keeping us stuck in not so helpful patterns. I believe this approach gives more relief in the long term.
Online Therapists
Jess Schiermeister
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allison Park, PA 15101
Waitlist for new clients
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. I am committed to decreasing stigma around issues such as death and dying, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergency. Other issues include: anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cancer or other life-altering illnesses, body image, compassion fatigue, caregiver fatigue, gender identity, sexuality, kink/sexual outsiders, polyamorous/open relationships, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
I am a member of the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent communities. I am committed to decreasing stigma around issues such as death and dying, gender and sexuality, and neurodivergency. Other issues include: anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder (BPD), cancer or other life-altering illnesses, body image, compassion fatigue, caregiver fatigue, gender identity, sexuality, kink/sexual outsiders, polyamorous/open relationships, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts.
Joseph Marsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Munhall, PA 15120 (Online Only)
“It’s always best to believe in one’s self, but a little help from others can be a great blessing!” I view each person as the main character in their book of life. Each book contains stories of joy, sadness, exploration, struggle, and most importantly, HOPE. My goal to assist in exploring these stories, whether you encounter depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, intersectional struggles, or self-esteem issues. I am especially sensitive to those impacted by LGBTQ issues, religious minorities, activists, uniformed public servants, and those experiencing depression.
“It’s always best to believe in one’s self, but a little help from others can be a great blessing!” I view each person as the main character in their book of life. Each book contains stories of joy, sadness, exploration, struggle, and most importantly, HOPE. My goal to assist in exploring these stories, whether you encounter depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, intersectional struggles, or self-esteem issues. I am especially sensitive to those impacted by LGBTQ issues, religious minorities, activists, uniformed public servants, and those experiencing depression.
Miller Potoma
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
Accepting PA Clients! Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
Accepting PA Clients! Are you in search of a therapist who understands the unique experiences of trans and queer individuals? Are you navigating how to address trauma, cope with late-stage capitalism, handle ADHD and autistic burnout, or explore gender and sexuality? I am committed to serving individuals within my community, particularly those who identify as trans and queer. I approach my practice as kink-aware, anti-capitalist, pro-sex worker, and knowledgeable about non-monogamous relationships.
Avory Billman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15243
Waitlist for new clients
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
My focus includes trauma-informed therapy with LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent individuals. I primarily work with adolescents and young adults. I utilize evidence-based, affirming practices to support my clients in processing trauma, regulating mood instability, improving relationships, coping with life transitions, and building confidence in themselves.
Jannette Travali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, MPH, MS, NCC/LPC, RDN/LDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
Seven Fields, PA 16046
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
DISORDERED EATING (Sprectur: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating, AFRID, PICA, Body Image Distortion, Orthorexia) SAFETY/IDENTITY/RELATIONSHIPS (PTSD, Trauma/Acute Abuse, Bullying, Self-Harm, Suicidality, Grief, LGBTQIA+) MOOD COMPONENTS (Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Bipolar) MEDICAL LAYERS (Food Allergies/Autoimmune/Metabolic) CORE GROUNDING (Spiritual &/or Faith).
I am a Psychotherapist, Nutrition Therapist & Exercise Physiologist. With the Client/Therapist Relationship at CORE, I provide Individualized, Integrative Care: Eating Disorders, Trauma, Mood, Relationships, Transitions -acknowledging & encouraging growth of diverse values &/or needs, I use an Eclectic Therapeutic Approach –including Person-Centered, Mindfulness, Expressive (art, music, movement, writing), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, RO-DBT, Existential, Narrative, EMDR, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, Positive Psychology, Nutrition Therapy –Intuitive Eating/HAES (Health at Any Size) & Medical Nutrition Therapy.
Mark S. Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
As a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, I conducted research specific to the mental health of LGBT individuals.
I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. I can support you to change behaviors to feel better, change patterns of thinking to improve your feelings, develop closer and more satisfying relationships, and much more. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
As a professor at the University of Pittsburgh, I conducted research specific to the mental health of LGBT individuals.
I work with teenagers and adults who are struggling with depression or anxiety. I can support you to change behaviors to feel better, change patterns of thinking to improve your feelings, develop closer and more satisfying relationships, and much more. I use approaches that have been shown to be effective such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
John Michael Welsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16506
I proudly identify as an Eagle Scout and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Welcome to the journey to becoming the best version of yourself! I collaborate with individuals of all ages, genders, and identities. I am dedicated to their personal growth and the journey to self-improvement. Witnessing the remarkable transformations people undergo through counseling is a profoundly inspiring to me.
I proudly identify as an Eagle Scout and as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Welcome to the journey to becoming the best version of yourself! I collaborate with individuals of all ages, genders, and identities. I am dedicated to their personal growth and the journey to self-improvement. Witnessing the remarkable transformations people undergo through counseling is a profoundly inspiring to me.
Saving Sanity, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Culturally sensitive and supportive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, couple/family, consensual non-monogamy and BDSM competency and Mental Health Evaluations.
Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Culturally sensitive and supportive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, couple/family, consensual non-monogamy and BDSM competency and Mental Health Evaluations.
Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
Adam Osborne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
I'm a LGBTQIA+, relationship, and culturally affirming therapist.
Vulnerability. It's a word that sounds all motivating and "Hell yeah!" when Brene Brown talks about it, but when it comes to actually DOING it, it terrifies you. In order to get to the root of what's causing your discomfort, I'm going to ask you to get vulnerable. I'm going to ask you to share your story (no, the real story) with me. But you don't have to do it alone. I want to help you move from SURVIVING to THRIVING. I want you to FINALLY start living the life you've imagined. It doesn't have to be "someday". It can be now. And I can help.
I'm a LGBTQIA+, relationship, and culturally affirming therapist.
Vulnerability. It's a word that sounds all motivating and "Hell yeah!" when Brene Brown talks about it, but when it comes to actually DOING it, it terrifies you. In order to get to the root of what's causing your discomfort, I'm going to ask you to get vulnerable. I'm going to ask you to share your story (no, the real story) with me. But you don't have to do it alone. I want to help you move from SURVIVING to THRIVING. I want you to FINALLY start living the life you've imagined. It doesn't have to be "someday". It can be now. And I can help.
William J Koehler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Erie, PA 16505
Waitlist for new clients
At Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, we are committed to providing a welcoming environment for every client we work with. As a group, we specialize in working with LGBTQ+, HIV+, BIPOC, and those living with a disability. Whether you work with me directly or one of our member therapists, we are skilled in helping people resolve past traumatic events which are interfering with your ability to function from day to day. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. Head to our website (www.atraumainformedlife.com) to learn more
At Journey to a Trauma Informed Life, we are committed to providing a welcoming environment for every client we work with. As a group, we specialize in working with LGBTQ+, HIV+, BIPOC, and those living with a disability. Whether you work with me directly or one of our member therapists, we are skilled in helping people resolve past traumatic events which are interfering with your ability to function from day to day. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and trained in Trauma-Focused CBT. Head to our website (www.atraumainformedlife.com) to learn more
Gregory Dinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MMT, MT-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232
I'm a LGBTQIA+ and relationship minority (i.
Accepting new clients! You often feel like you are navigating a world that was not meant for you. You have spent years trying to find "your place" in the chaos but continue to struggle with where that is and how to even begin exploring that in a way that feels safe and supportive. Honestly, you have a hard time envisioning what it would even feel like to have found "your place". You often feel "other" and "on the outside", which makes social and romantic relationships difficult and only exacerbates the feelings and experiences you already struggle with on a daily basis. Anxiety, grief and loss, depression, neurodiversity, stress...
I'm a LGBTQIA+ and relationship minority (i.
Accepting new clients! You often feel like you are navigating a world that was not meant for you. You have spent years trying to find "your place" in the chaos but continue to struggle with where that is and how to even begin exploring that in a way that feels safe and supportive. Honestly, you have a hard time envisioning what it would even feel like to have found "your place". You often feel "other" and "on the outside", which makes social and romantic relationships difficult and only exacerbates the feelings and experiences you already struggle with on a daily basis. Anxiety, grief and loss, depression, neurodiversity, stress...
Ben Hearn
PhD, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
I specialize in working with members of the LGBTQ+ community and their families on a range of issues including trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, spiritual development, identity exploration, and psychedelic integration. I work with clients such as yourself deep-seated respect and acknowledgment of your humanity and right to be treated with dignity, care, and respect. I assist clients develop their curiosity and courage for introspection to work through the "hard stuff". Overall, I hope to help my clients become more open and whole in their relationships with themselves, others, and the world around them.
Dempsey Young
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
State College, PA 16803 (Online Only)
I work with most mental health concerns and have specialized training and experience in trauma recovery and working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
I truly believe that one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. From this understanding and processing of your unique story, you can let go of traumas that control you, anxiety and depression road blocks, bad relationships, and overall the emotional pain that may prevent you from living a happy and fulfilling life that gets you excited to wake up to everyday. I want you to be free of that pain so that you can find meaning, excitement, and purpose in work, friendships, relationships, family, and really ALL areas of your life. You DESERVE this and I'm here to help you on this healing journey!
I work with most mental health concerns and have specialized training and experience in trauma recovery and working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
I truly believe that one of the bravest things you can do is to begin to understand your own story. From this understanding and processing of your unique story, you can let go of traumas that control you, anxiety and depression road blocks, bad relationships, and overall the emotional pain that may prevent you from living a happy and fulfilling life that gets you excited to wake up to everyday. I want you to be free of that pain so that you can find meaning, excitement, and purpose in work, friendships, relationships, family, and really ALL areas of your life. You DESERVE this and I'm here to help you on this healing journey!
Manifest Psychotherapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
We specialize primarily in working with people experiencing stress from life transitions, anxiety and depression symptoms, grief and loss, LGBT related issues (including gender dysphoria), suicidality/homicidality, distress from trauma (including military related trauma) and religious/spiritual issues.
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
We specialize primarily in working with people experiencing stress from life transitions, anxiety and depression symptoms, grief and loss, LGBT related issues (including gender dysphoria), suicidality/homicidality, distress from trauma (including military related trauma) and religious/spiritual issues.
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
Charles Warren
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15232 (Online Only)
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
Currently accepting new clients! As a queer, trans, non-binary human I will offer my lived experience and clinical expertise where appropriate to provide a safe and affirming space. Not only for queer people, but anyone who has ever felt alone or ‘other’. I became a therapist because I know how hard it was for me to find a queer-competent and affirming mental healthcare provider when I needed it the most. I specialize working with people who struggle with complicated thoughts and feelings surrounding sexual health & wellness, intimacy, desire, sexuality, gender identity, trauma, and non-monogamous relationships.
David Loeffler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Carnegie, PA 15106 (Online Only)
I typically work with LGBTQIA+ folk through a variety of experiences.
I believe we're all natural storytellers. Our stories are self-created and influenced by the people and world around us. These stories help us to make meaning of our lives and experiences. Sometimes they help us to feel comfort and strength, while other times we may feel distressing and uncomfortable emotions. It's possible that they can even get in the way of how we want to live our lives. When this happens, we may feel stuck and hopeless. Together, let’s explore how they are affecting you and help you to begin living your preferred story.
I typically work with LGBTQIA+ folk through a variety of experiences.
I believe we're all natural storytellers. Our stories are self-created and influenced by the people and world around us. These stories help us to make meaning of our lives and experiences. Sometimes they help us to feel comfort and strength, while other times we may feel distressing and uncomfortable emotions. It's possible that they can even get in the way of how we want to live our lives. When this happens, we may feel stuck and hopeless. Together, let’s explore how they are affecting you and help you to begin living your preferred story.
Tyler Rogols
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
Accepting new clients! I help people overcome difficulty and use it to grow and pursue a life of meaning and purpose. Sometimes we start by treating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, career, or LGBTQ+ and other identity issues, and over time turn to deeper issues about the life you want to create, your identity, and your values. I’m a humanistic counselor, which means I’ll never tell you what to do and I’ll always empower you to make the choice that’s best for you. I use a collaborative, gentle approach that helps you connect with your intuitive sense of self and your intrinsic motivation to grow and do difficult things.
Accepting new clients! I help people overcome difficulty and use it to grow and pursue a life of meaning and purpose. Sometimes we start by treating stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, career, or LGBTQ+ and other identity issues, and over time turn to deeper issues about the life you want to create, your identity, and your values. I’m a humanistic counselor, which means I’ll never tell you what to do and I’ll always empower you to make the choice that’s best for you. I use a collaborative, gentle approach that helps you connect with your intuitive sense of self and your intrinsic motivation to grow and do difficult things.
Cp Coppersmith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15221
I am a person of trans experience, advocate for queer community, and train other therapists on polyamory, kink, and LGBTQ competence.
I work with people who want to reclaim the story of their lives. Some of us lost years fulfilling someone else's narrative- -but it's never too late to become yourself. You can determine the genre of story you live in, the type of protagonist you become. I try to help people navigate the excitement of infinite potential and the terror of infinite choice.
I am a person of trans experience, advocate for queer community, and train other therapists on polyamory, kink, and LGBTQ competence.
I work with people who want to reclaim the story of their lives. Some of us lost years fulfilling someone else's narrative- -but it's never too late to become yourself. You can determine the genre of story you live in, the type of protagonist you become. I try to help people navigate the excitement of infinite potential and the terror of infinite choice.
Camille J Interligi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201 (Online Only)
I am a queer, agender, social justice-focused & relationally-oriented therapist.
My mission is to join with others in pursuit of healing, empowerment, & liberation. Those who work with me are often exploring issues of gender, sexuality, disability, racial identity, complex trauma, and relationships. We often focus on alleviating the anxiety, depression, and disconnection from self & others that can result from our lived experiences. Together, we work towards building self-understanding so you can make decisions about your life & relationships with awareness and intention.
I am a queer, agender, social justice-focused & relationally-oriented therapist.
My mission is to join with others in pursuit of healing, empowerment, & liberation. Those who work with me are often exploring issues of gender, sexuality, disability, racial identity, complex trauma, and relationships. We often focus on alleviating the anxiety, depression, and disconnection from self & others that can result from our lived experiences. Together, we work towards building self-understanding so you can make decisions about your life & relationships with awareness and intention.
See more therapy options for Jefferson 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.