LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Nashville, TN
Cole G. Putman
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
I am passionate about working with queer folks in the South - individuals, couples, and parents of LGBTQIA+ persons.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment for my clients that fosters acceptance and connection in a way that best supports their healing and their journey. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to walk beside my clients through sorrow, anxiety, joy – all the experiences inherent in being human. I seek to aid clients in recognizing their own strengths as well as assist them in developing new coping skills to meet life’s challenges. As a therapist, I aim to greet every client, every session with non-judgment, radical acceptance, and a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
I am passionate about working with queer folks in the South - individuals, couples, and parents of LGBTQIA+ persons.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment for my clients that fosters acceptance and connection in a way that best supports their healing and their journey. It is one of the greatest honors of my life to walk beside my clients through sorrow, anxiety, joy – all the experiences inherent in being human. I seek to aid clients in recognizing their own strengths as well as assist them in developing new coping skills to meet life’s challenges. As a therapist, I aim to greet every client, every session with non-judgment, radical acceptance, and a genuine interest in their wellbeing.
Garrette DeBord
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37204
As a gay man who grew up in the rural south, I understand the intense fear and anxiety that can build up inside.
Accepting New Clients Are you always a little bit afraid to be yourself? Have you been hit with what feels like more than you can handle alone? I know those feelings exactly! I am honored to work with those in the LGBTQ+ community as well as individuals who struggle with substance use issues, trauma, anxiety/depression. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective to offer a safe space for those striving for a more fulfilling life.
As a gay man who grew up in the rural south, I understand the intense fear and anxiety that can build up inside.
Accepting New Clients Are you always a little bit afraid to be yourself? Have you been hit with what feels like more than you can handle alone? I know those feelings exactly! I am honored to work with those in the LGBTQ+ community as well as individuals who struggle with substance use issues, trauma, anxiety/depression. I work from a psychoanalytic perspective to offer a safe space for those striving for a more fulfilling life.
Urielle Samis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that prevent you from thriving and succeeding in ways that deep down you know you can? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or intimacy feels hard or scary. Whether it's anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, relationship problems, self-harm, addictions, or something else, my guess is these patterns emerged from a need to cope or survive. As a queer person, I know how hard finding an affirming and non-judgmental therapist can be, especially if you are LGBTQ+. A therapist who meets you exactly where you are right now can be the first step to building the life you want!
Are you feeling stuck in patterns that prevent you from thriving and succeeding in ways that deep down you know you can? Perhaps your relationships are suffering, or intimacy feels hard or scary. Whether it's anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress, relationship problems, self-harm, addictions, or something else, my guess is these patterns emerged from a need to cope or survive. As a queer person, I know how hard finding an affirming and non-judgmental therapist can be, especially if you are LGBTQ+. A therapist who meets you exactly where you are right now can be the first step to building the life you want!
Payton Lindner
MMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Yo! I’m Payton, I’m an openly queer + nonbinary human and my pronoun are they/she! I think that humans are the coolest. My philosophy as an Identity Doula + Healing Practitioner takes into consideration that every human and every situation is different, thus unique tools and approaches are required for unique people and things. Sessions with me will go beyond standard talk therapy, as it is my personal and professional opinion that humans often heal with art, movement, visuals, embodiment, activities, and music better than they do with standard talk therapy alone. (Try to think of this as fun and exciting, not scary or awkward!)
Yo! I’m Payton, I’m an openly queer + nonbinary human and my pronoun are they/she! I think that humans are the coolest. My philosophy as an Identity Doula + Healing Practitioner takes into consideration that every human and every situation is different, thus unique tools and approaches are required for unique people and things. Sessions with me will go beyond standard talk therapy, as it is my personal and professional opinion that humans often heal with art, movement, visuals, embodiment, activities, and music better than they do with standard talk therapy alone. (Try to think of this as fun and exciting, not scary or awkward!)
Kevin Khye
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. Think of me as a dedicated gardener, teaching you to hone your green thumb for personal growth, helping you cultivate the inner calm you deserve. Together, we'll tame the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tend to the roots of your experiences, and prune away what no longer serves you. I'll bring my set of therapy tools, blending cutting-edge techniques with a healthy dose of empathy and understanding. Together we will untangle the complexities of life.
Hi! I'm Kevin- your mindful therapist for the LGBTQIA+ community, trauma survivors, and those battling the twists and turns of anxiety and depression. Think of me as a dedicated gardener, teaching you to hone your green thumb for personal growth, helping you cultivate the inner calm you deserve. Together, we'll tame the overgrowth of ignored emotions, tend to the roots of your experiences, and prune away what no longer serves you. I'll bring my set of therapy tools, blending cutting-edge techniques with a healthy dose of empathy and understanding. Together we will untangle the complexities of life.
Gabriel Starner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
Nora Honeyman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
Lee Owen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I have a special interest in working with young adults around identity exploration, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Being a person is hard. Whether for a lifelong struggle or a short-term issue, we all need space to breathe and talk it through sometimes. Whatever your reason, whatever your goals, I'm here as a companion on your journey. My goal is to help you connect to your values and live authentically.
I have a special interest in working with young adults around identity exploration, particularly those in the LGBTQ+ community.
Being a person is hard. Whether for a lifelong struggle or a short-term issue, we all need space to breathe and talk it through sometimes. Whatever your reason, whatever your goals, I'm here as a companion on your journey. My goal is to help you connect to your values and live authentically.
Charles B Cobble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BCD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37212 (Online Only)
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2016 and have worked with diverse populations, including active duty military, veterans in transition, & the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2016 and have worked with diverse populations, including active duty military, veterans in transition, & the LGBTQ+ community.
I’m glad to see you are considering therapy to overcome your challenges. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, stress, or another other issue, I can help you find relief and overcome obstacles on your path to success. I’m compassionate and supportive. Our conversation is confidential in the comfort of your own home.
Glynn Griggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
OTHER SPECIALTIES: LGBTQ Affirmative Counseling, exploring Spirituality vs.
As an artist, I understand the life-long vitality of artistic growth, & the importance of creativity to one’s perception of the world. As a professional counselor, I treat issues unique to artists, performers and other creative individuals. I encourage my clients to work with the highs/lows of the creative process, integrate them, and channel them appropriately through their art. Let’s explore ways to balance intense periods of creative work with healthy self-care and self-compassion. See more on my website on ways I can support you on your artist’s journey.
OTHER SPECIALTIES: LGBTQ Affirmative Counseling, exploring Spirituality vs.
As an artist, I understand the life-long vitality of artistic growth, & the importance of creativity to one’s perception of the world. As a professional counselor, I treat issues unique to artists, performers and other creative individuals. I encourage my clients to work with the highs/lows of the creative process, integrate them, and channel them appropriately through their art. Let’s explore ways to balance intense periods of creative work with healthy self-care and self-compassion. See more on my website on ways I can support you on your artist’s journey.
Rebecca Delaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37205 (Online Only)
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
I have experience helping individuals living with substance misuse, anxiety, depression, LGBTQIA+ specific issues, negative self-esteem, stress, and life transitions.
Do you feel like you are in a rut? Are you struggling to overcome a habit? Do you want to make improvements but do not know where to start? Are you struggling with negative thoughts about yourself? I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who is passionate about helping people overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to them! I provide telehealth therapy for those in the state of TN. I strive to provide a safe and accepting environment for you to overcome barriers and achieve goals that are important to you.
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Stephen Lockridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37204
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
Juliana Vokes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance use? Do you identify as LGBTQ+? Are you in the process of questioning your identity? We can work together using mindfulness-based healing techniques and behavioral coaching, with a focus on connectivity and relationships, to help you navigate everyday challenges.
Self-discovery is an intentional process which helps us create a balanced approach to change and acceptance. I offer a safe and creative space for teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community to explore identity, life changes, and relationships.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance use? Do you identify as LGBTQ+? Are you in the process of questioning your identity? We can work together using mindfulness-based healing techniques and behavioral coaching, with a focus on connectivity and relationships, to help you navigate everyday challenges.
Self-discovery is an intentional process which helps us create a balanced approach to change and acceptance. I offer a safe and creative space for teens, young adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community to explore identity, life changes, and relationships.
Katelyn Mase
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37205
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures (LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
I work with individuals and partnerships who are neurodivergent (ASD, ADHD) those in “alternative” relationship structures (LGBTQIA+, ENM, poly, open, swinging, kink), those who have experienced trauma, struggle with depression or anxiety, are hoping to do some self-exploration (sexual, gender, career, religious, etc.), or are looking for a change. Because every person is unique, your needs and desires will also be unique. I approach my work through a trauma-informed lens, using evidence-based practices that find a balance between thinking and feeling and emphasize the importance of connection, experience and safety.
Tynya Patton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37211 (Online Only)
I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere where you’ll receive expert care from an experienced LGBTQIA+ identifying therapist.
You're experiencing gender confusion or gender dysphoria. Are you exhausting yourself trying to figure it out on your own? Your anxiety only adds to your distress. Gender dysphoria may manifest as depression, anxiety, or feeling disgust at the way your body looks. You can learn ways to cope with dysphoria or reduce dysphoria.
I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive atmosphere where you’ll receive expert care from an experienced LGBTQIA+ identifying therapist.
You're experiencing gender confusion or gender dysphoria. Are you exhausting yourself trying to figure it out on your own? Your anxiety only adds to your distress. Gender dysphoria may manifest as depression, anxiety, or feeling disgust at the way your body looks. You can learn ways to cope with dysphoria or reduce dysphoria.
Melissa Bond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37214
Everyone has a different approach to life and therapy. I do my best to meet people where they are, and I want you to feel safe and comfortable to unburden yourself and share aspects of your life with me, so we can facilitate growth and healing for you. I have experience in crisis intervention, grief support, suicide survivor support, life transitions, and LGBT+. Coming from 22+ years’ experience in a massage therapy and yoga background, I am Culture inclusive, encourage feedback, and the best way for me to help you is by learning and listening to what you share with me. I aim to build trust, and I realize that takes time. BEST!
Everyone has a different approach to life and therapy. I do my best to meet people where they are, and I want you to feel safe and comfortable to unburden yourself and share aspects of your life with me, so we can facilitate growth and healing for you. I have experience in crisis intervention, grief support, suicide survivor support, life transitions, and LGBT+. Coming from 22+ years’ experience in a massage therapy and yoga background, I am Culture inclusive, encourage feedback, and the best way for me to help you is by learning and listening to what you share with me. I aim to build trust, and I realize that takes time. BEST!
Mallorie Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
I love working with clients who have a readiness to gain greater self awareness, and those who have a deep desire to know and accept themselves. I have a heart for working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, as a member of the community myself, and deeply value the healing power of trauma work. I also love working with individuals who might benefit from a more experiential approach. I find so much value in the power of creative activities that help engage the client in effective and meaningful ways.
I love working with clients who have a readiness to gain greater self awareness, and those who have a deep desire to know and accept themselves. I have a heart for working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, as a member of the community myself, and deeply value the healing power of trauma work. I also love working with individuals who might benefit from a more experiential approach. I find so much value in the power of creative activities that help engage the client in effective and meaningful ways.
Chelsea Doyscher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community in today's world, you’re constantly wondering whether you are in a safe place to be your authentic self. Perhaps you've been hurt by your parents, the Church, and people who were supposed to love you unconditionally, simply because of your sexuality or pronouns. You don’t want to lose these relationships, but you also know that something needs to change. Whether you're exploring your sexuality or gender identity for the first time, or came out a long time ago but are struggling due to unsupportive family, friends, or your own self-doubts, there IS a path forward to live freely and happily.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community in today's world, you’re constantly wondering whether you are in a safe place to be your authentic self. Perhaps you've been hurt by your parents, the Church, and people who were supposed to love you unconditionally, simply because of your sexuality or pronouns. You don’t want to lose these relationships, but you also know that something needs to change. Whether you're exploring your sexuality or gender identity for the first time, or came out a long time ago but are struggling due to unsupportive family, friends, or your own self-doubts, there IS a path forward to live freely and happily.
Vanessa Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Being a human is hard. Reaching out is hard. Needing a safe and accepting space with a compassionate person who will walk with you on your journey is a basic need of every human. I work with adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, mood disorders, self-esteem, life transitions, and stress. Working with women's issues, LGBTQ+, infertility and creating families through IVF/donors/other non-traditional routes, and supporting families of those with mental illness are also passions of mine.
Being a human is hard. Reaching out is hard. Needing a safe and accepting space with a compassionate person who will walk with you on your journey is a basic need of every human. I work with adults with issues such as depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, mood disorders, self-esteem, life transitions, and stress. Working with women's issues, LGBTQ+, infertility and creating families through IVF/donors/other non-traditional routes, and supporting families of those with mental illness are also passions of mine.
Heather Alesch
Psychologist, MEd, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37203
Hello- Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I love working with adolescents, adults, and family/relational systems. I am particularly interested in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, facilitating trauma processes, and substance use recovery. Positivity, laughter, music, and creativity are essential elements of my practice. I look forward to helping you identify your strengths while expressing difficulties through modalities that fit your abilities and preferences.
Hello- Thank you for taking the time to learn about me. I love working with adolescents, adults, and family/relational systems. I am particularly interested in working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community, facilitating trauma processes, and substance use recovery. Positivity, laughter, music, and creativity are essential elements of my practice. I look forward to helping you identify your strengths while expressing difficulties through modalities that fit your abilities and preferences.
See more therapy options for Nashville
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Nashville
- Antioch
- Bellevue
- Berry Hill
- Brentwood
- Franklin
- Goodlettsville
- Hendersonville
- Hermitage
- La Vergne
- Madison
- Mount Juliet
- Old Hickory
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.