LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Smyth County, VA
Connections Counseling - Owner, Ali Holbrook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Marion, VA 24354 (Online Only)
Depression, Anxiety, not knowing how to handle something, family stress, work stress. These are all good reasons to talk to someone. To feel supported is one of the best feelings you will ever have. To move past a personal struggle is to feel free. You deserve joy and a sense of peace.
Depression, Anxiety, not knowing how to handle something, family stress, work stress. These are all good reasons to talk to someone. To feel supported is one of the best feelings you will ever have. To move past a personal struggle is to feel free. You deserve joy and a sense of peace.
Jessica Ratcliff
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chilhowie, VA 24319 (Online Only)
Concerns and challenges that commonly motivate others to seek support from me include family struggles, parenting issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use, trauma, low self-worth, managing life transitions, and more.
Sometimes, life can be challenging. You might be overwhelmed with constant stress, plagued by continuous worry, struggling in your relationships, or just feeling trapped in repetitive, unhelpful patterns. Relief is possible. I know firsthand how scary it is to take the first step toward change. I help facilitate growth and awareness, instill hope, and empower people to overcome personal obstacles that keep them stuck. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore your best options, develop practical and creative solutions that are uniquely tailored to you, and help you implement new strategies that will lead you to achieve your goals.
Concerns and challenges that commonly motivate others to seek support from me include family struggles, parenting issues, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, substance use, trauma, low self-worth, managing life transitions, and more.
Sometimes, life can be challenging. You might be overwhelmed with constant stress, plagued by continuous worry, struggling in your relationships, or just feeling trapped in repetitive, unhelpful patterns. Relief is possible. I know firsthand how scary it is to take the first step toward change. I help facilitate growth and awareness, instill hope, and empower people to overcome personal obstacles that keep them stuck. I offer a warm, supportive space to explore your best options, develop practical and creative solutions that are uniquely tailored to you, and help you implement new strategies that will lead you to achieve your goals.
I like helping people who are going through a rough patch and need a little extra help to get through. This can be kids, adults, and whole families. While the people who need my help are not feeling so great when they first come in, I am so happy to help them through the tough times and see them come out on the other side feeling like themselves again, and perhaps even stronger.
I like helping people who are going through a rough patch and need a little extra help to get through. This can be kids, adults, and whole families. While the people who need my help are not feeling so great when they first come in, I am so happy to help them through the tough times and see them come out on the other side feeling like themselves again, and perhaps even stronger.
Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marion, VA 24354
Whether you're facing communication barriers, conflict resolution issues, parenting challenges, or transitions (divorce/blending families/reunification), we are here to help you navigate these transitions.
Welcome to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, where individuals and their families find support, resources, and healing. We specialize in providing short-term services aimed at addressing immediate concerns and fostering positive change within an individual's life or within their family dynamics. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to guiding families through challenges, offering practical strategies, and empowering them to navigate life's complexities together.
Whether you're facing communication barriers, conflict resolution issues, parenting challenges, or transitions (divorce/blending families/reunification), we are here to help you navigate these transitions.
Welcome to the Family Refuge Center of Southwest Virginia, where individuals and their families find support, resources, and healing. We specialize in providing short-term services aimed at addressing immediate concerns and fostering positive change within an individual's life or within their family dynamics. Our team of experienced counselors is dedicated to guiding families through challenges, offering practical strategies, and empowering them to navigate life's complexities together.
Online Therapists
Brandon D. McGhee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
My experience ranges from being a mentor to teens, working in different capacities with The Department of Social Services for over a decade, an in-home counselor, hospital social worker, and an advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and families.
It can be difficult to make that first step. The fact that you are reading this shows your understanding that self care is a top priority. We are living through challenging times which has brought attention to different feelings and emotions. Therapy is a journey and a useful tool to guide you through your most challenging times. My goal is for you to feel safe and be able to have someone help you identify and achieve your therapeutic goals.
My experience ranges from being a mentor to teens, working in different capacities with The Department of Social Services for over a decade, an in-home counselor, hospital social worker, and an advocate for LGBTQ+ youth and families.
It can be difficult to make that first step. The fact that you are reading this shows your understanding that self care is a top priority. We are living through challenging times which has brought attention to different feelings and emotions. Therapy is a journey and a useful tool to guide you through your most challenging times. My goal is for you to feel safe and be able to have someone help you identify and achieve your therapeutic goals.
Zach Pennington
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-CMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24019
I utilize evidence-based treatment (CBT, IFS, DBT, EFT, CPT, MBCT) to help navigate some of life’s toughest questions, challenges, and transitions.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal, occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in our community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
I utilize evidence-based treatment (CBT, IFS, DBT, EFT, CPT, MBCT) to help navigate some of life’s toughest questions, challenges, and transitions.
Feeling stuck in life or relationship? As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I have completed doctoral level coursework and currently hold dual Masters’ Degrees in Marriage and Family Therapy and Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I enjoy working with individuals who may be struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Complex Trauma, and PTSD that negatively impacts personal, occupational life, family, and relationship. For the last ten years, I have built a strong reputation in our community for my ability to make meaningful and transformative connections with others.
Chanelle Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
Welcome! I'm Chanelle Henderson, a licensed professional counselor specializing in compassionate support for all those along life's journey. When you step into my office, I see that you are letting me into sacred ground. As a counselor, my role is to provide a place so you can be brave enough to heal and grow. I will support you with cultural humility and LGBTQIA+ affirming practices so you can strengthen a deeper relationship with yourself and those closest to you. I specialize in working with those affected by traumatic experiences such as the immigration process, childhood abuse, and perinatal recovery.
Hello, I'm Benjii Maust a Virginia-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children and adolescents and LGBT+ issues. I have been a Therapist for over 7 years and have had experiences working with all population types. I primarily approach therapy through a Narrative lens, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy exercises to create an individualized approach for each client.
Hello, I'm Benjii Maust a Virginia-based Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a focus on children and adolescents and LGBT+ issues. I have been a Therapist for over 7 years and have had experiences working with all population types. I primarily approach therapy through a Narrative lens, integrating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, motivational, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy exercises to create an individualized approach for each client.
I have a passion for geriatrics and LGBTQ+ and any client who just isn’t sure they have a place in which they fit.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
I have a passion for geriatrics and LGBTQ+ and any client who just isn’t sure they have a place in which they fit.
My passion is driven through the use of self, and fostering an environment that can lead to self-actualization. We often ask ourselves, how can we become better and feel like we have self-worth? Do you find yourself often thinking, how can I take the next step to better my overall emotional health and live a life of purpose and fulfillment? Therapy can lead to a better understanding of our own mental health and reveal underlining causes that are often caused by our own self-disrupting behaviors. I believe that each and every person has the toolbelt they need to overcome their daily struggles, but we often just need some assistance.
Arielle Pollack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to a safe space where your journey to healing begins. I am Arielle (she/her) and I am dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, and identity-affirming care. I aim to create a nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your unfiltered thoughts and feelings. In my practice, I recognize you as the expert in your own life and experiences. Think of me as a co-traveler in your journey, offering support and guidance as you navigate the path to healing. My areas of expertise include working with anxiety, mood disorders, LGBT issues, interpersonal difficulties, substance abuse, and serious mental illnesses.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey to healing begins. I am Arielle (she/her) and I am dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, and identity-affirming care. I aim to create a nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your unfiltered thoughts and feelings. In my practice, I recognize you as the expert in your own life and experiences. Think of me as a co-traveler in your journey, offering support and guidance as you navigate the path to healing. My areas of expertise include working with anxiety, mood disorders, LGBT issues, interpersonal difficulties, substance abuse, and serious mental illnesses.
I welcome clients aged 14 and up, and I especially enjoy working with rising adults and those navigating key life transitions.
Navigating life’s stressors can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. As your counselor, I am here to walk alongside you, helping you navigate these struggles. I believe counseling is a collaborative process, where we work together to find what best suits your needs to improve your situation. I meet my clients where they are, emphasizing their inherent strengths and abilities to solve problems and grow. You are the expert in your own experiences, and I’m here to support your journey, helping you build skills and strengthen healthy coping strategies.
I welcome clients aged 14 and up, and I especially enjoy working with rising adults and those navigating key life transitions.
Navigating life’s stressors can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. As your counselor, I am here to walk alongside you, helping you navigate these struggles. I believe counseling is a collaborative process, where we work together to find what best suits your needs to improve your situation. I meet my clients where they are, emphasizing their inherent strengths and abilities to solve problems and grow. You are the expert in your own experiences, and I’m here to support your journey, helping you build skills and strengthen healthy coping strategies.
I believe that people change because they want to. Through trust and collaboration in the client-counselor relationship, it is possible for anyone to reach their full potential and become the person they want to be. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders and I specialize in helping clients with suicidal and self-harm issues. I’m an advocate for positive social change and identify myself as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I facilitate positive change by providing a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
I believe that people change because they want to. Through trust and collaboration in the client-counselor relationship, it is possible for anyone to reach their full potential and become the person they want to be. I provide treatment for depression, anxiety, ADHD, and mood disorders and I specialize in helping clients with suicidal and self-harm issues. I’m an advocate for positive social change and identify myself as an ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I facilitate positive change by providing a warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental environment.
They persevere through many transitions (college, marriage, divorce, career changes) and identity-defining experiences.
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
They persevere through many transitions (college, marriage, divorce, career changes) and identity-defining experiences.
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
Rae Dawn Linkous
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Abingdon, VA 24210
Rae Linkous holds a license as a LPC in the state of VA and TN. She received her M.Ed. in Human Development & Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College and Has been working in the mental health field for over 7 years. Most of my experience has been serving youth in residential treatment with severe behavioral and mental health issues, such as ODD, ADHD, DMD, BPD, self-harm, suicidal ideations, complex and severe trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ community, grief/loss, change in life status, foster care/adoption issues, family therapy, and many other issues.
Rae Linkous holds a license as a LPC in the state of VA and TN. She received her M.Ed. in Human Development & Counseling from Lindsey Wilson College and Has been working in the mental health field for over 7 years. Most of my experience has been serving youth in residential treatment with severe behavioral and mental health issues, such as ODD, ADHD, DMD, BPD, self-harm, suicidal ideations, complex and severe trauma, abuse, LGBTQ+ community, grief/loss, change in life status, foster care/adoption issues, family therapy, and many other issues.
As a queer woman, am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
As a queer woman, am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
Laura Lindgren, LPC, LCMHC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060 (Online Only)
Sept '24: Accepting new clients. LGBTQ friendly provider. I specialize in IFS therapy, anxiety, and relationships. I provide both couples and individual therapy through a trauma informed lens. Some issues I work with include: relationship difficulties, anxiety/depression, neurodiversity, LGBTQ related issues, health issues (e.g. cancer) academic/career stressors, religious and relational trauma, and life transitions (e.g. postpartum, relocation, divorce). My therapeutic style is warm, empathic, and I value humor in sessions. I will help build self awareness and strategies that will support you on your wellness journey.
Sept '24: Accepting new clients. LGBTQ friendly provider. I specialize in IFS therapy, anxiety, and relationships. I provide both couples and individual therapy through a trauma informed lens. Some issues I work with include: relationship difficulties, anxiety/depression, neurodiversity, LGBTQ related issues, health issues (e.g. cancer) academic/career stressors, religious and relational trauma, and life transitions (e.g. postpartum, relocation, divorce). My therapeutic style is warm, empathic, and I value humor in sessions. I will help build self awareness and strategies that will support you on your wellness journey.
Kara Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAEd
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and provide a welcoming space for everyone.
Difficult life experiences often make us feel powerless, overwhelmed, and like our voice was taken from us. My goal is to help you find your voice and to empower you to make changes to reach your therapeutic goals as I support you with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. First and foremost, I strive to make my clients feel seen, heard, and accepted.
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and provide a welcoming space for everyone.
Difficult life experiences often make us feel powerless, overwhelmed, and like our voice was taken from us. My goal is to help you find your voice and to empower you to make changes to reach your therapeutic goals as I support you with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. First and foremost, I strive to make my clients feel seen, heard, and accepted.
Fink Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I am also certified as a transgender professional through the International Transgender Certification Association.
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
I am also certified as a transgender professional through the International Transgender Certification Association.
Connections with others who foster growth and nurturance are so important for us as humans to live to our fullest potential. I recognize this truth in my psychotherapy with others and in my own personal relationships. My goal in my work is to empower people through a better understanding of themselves and to help others discover meaning and joy in their own lives. Working with trauma, depression, emotional dysregulation, interpersonal problems, relationship issues, grief, challenges with transitions, and/or challenging behavioral problems are all areas of experience and areas in which I feel honored to explore with individuals.
I'm Dr. Nagel (they/them) and I'm here to help you get “unstuck” from old beliefs, habits, and strategies that just aren’t working anymore. You might feel buried under anxiety, panic, or trauma. You might want to embrace your most authentic self, but fear and uncertainty are keeping you stuck. Or perhaps you’re feeling worn down from the effort of navigating spaces that aren’t meant for LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or people of color. As a licensed clinical psychologist and a nonbinary person, I am deeply familiar with the experience of navigating a world that doesn’t feel designed for me.
I'm Dr. Nagel (they/them) and I'm here to help you get “unstuck” from old beliefs, habits, and strategies that just aren’t working anymore. You might feel buried under anxiety, panic, or trauma. You might want to embrace your most authentic self, but fear and uncertainty are keeping you stuck. Or perhaps you’re feeling worn down from the effort of navigating spaces that aren’t meant for LGBTQ+, neurodivergent, or people of color. As a licensed clinical psychologist and a nonbinary person, I am deeply familiar with the experience of navigating a world that doesn’t feel designed for me.
Jason Brinckman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060 (Online Only)
I have experience working with college students (VT students especially!), adolescents, people in crisis, the LGBTQ+ population, and people facing stigma or estrangement from their family.
I have been privileged to be a counselor for over twenty years, working with varied populations to address a wide range of mental health concerns and I remain passionate about this work! I look forward to meeting you and discussing how we may be able to work together to achieve your goals and work towards resolving difficult concerns in your life. My approach to therapy is to be collaborative and eclectic, working flexibly to find the best therapeutic approach for you and I to use together. I want our work to be driven by your experience and vision for how you want your life to change for the better.
I have experience working with college students (VT students especially!), adolescents, people in crisis, the LGBTQ+ population, and people facing stigma or estrangement from their family.
I have been privileged to be a counselor for over twenty years, working with varied populations to address a wide range of mental health concerns and I remain passionate about this work! I look forward to meeting you and discussing how we may be able to work together to achieve your goals and work towards resolving difficult concerns in your life. My approach to therapy is to be collaborative and eclectic, working flexibly to find the best therapeutic approach for you and I to use together. I want our work to be driven by your experience and vision for how you want your life to change for the better.
See more therapy options for Smyth 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.