LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Natalie Haidle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
You might be feeling emotionally overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or stuck carrying stress and responsibilities that have slowly become too heavy to manage alone. Anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions can make it difficult to feel grounded or fully connected to yourself and the people around you. At times, it may feel like you’re constantly trying to hold everything together while quietly struggling underneath the surface. You don’t have to navigate that alone. Therapy can be a space where you feel genuinely supported, understood, and empowered to move toward healing and meaningful change.
You might be feeling emotionally overwhelmed, mentally exhausted, or stuck carrying stress and responsibilities that have slowly become too heavy to manage alone. Anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, or major life transitions can make it difficult to feel grounded or fully connected to yourself and the people around you. At times, it may feel like you’re constantly trying to hold everything together while quietly struggling underneath the surface. You don’t have to navigate that alone. Therapy can be a space where you feel genuinely supported, understood, and empowered to move toward healing and meaningful change.
(317) 676-7891 View (317) 676-7891
David M. James
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Maybe you need help with depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues but you’re worried about being misunderstood or judged for being queer.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but I'm also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Schema Therapy and more. My practice is welcoming to all the flavors of the rainbow.
Maybe you need help with depression, anxiety, addiction, or relationship issues but you’re worried about being misunderstood or judged for being queer.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, but I'm also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Schema Therapy and more. My practice is welcoming to all the flavors of the rainbow.
(317) 360-3942 View (317) 360-3942
Leo Andrew Bowman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
While working at University of Louisville Trager Institute, I gained experience in treatment areas such as conversion disorders/PNES, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, transgender issues, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues.
My approach to therapy is person centered. My therapeutic approaches are trauma informed and solution focused along with helping patients to set goals and objectives they wish to achieve in our time together.
While working at University of Louisville Trager Institute, I gained experience in treatment areas such as conversion disorders/PNES, PTSD/Trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, transgender issues, gender dysphoria and LGBTQ+ issues.
My approach to therapy is person centered. My therapeutic approaches are trauma informed and solution focused along with helping patients to set goals and objectives they wish to achieve in our time together.
(463) 287-7155 View (463) 287-7155
Jackson (Jack) Garner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
Are you gender diverse and seeking support? Are you struggling with your identity or determining what social, medical, or legal steps to take (or not take)? Are you struggling with your family/friends, the world at large, or navigating life as a gender diverse person? Jack's private practice is solely devoted to folx who identify as gender diverse and is designed to offer you the support you need through either on-going counseling/coaching or offering expertise in WPATH referral letters (all letters are written in just one session under an informed consent assessment model).
Are you gender diverse and seeking support? Are you struggling with your identity or determining what social, medical, or legal steps to take (or not take)? Are you struggling with your family/friends, the world at large, or navigating life as a gender diverse person? Jack's private practice is solely devoted to folx who identify as gender diverse and is designed to offer you the support you need through either on-going counseling/coaching or offering expertise in WPATH referral letters (all letters are written in just one session under an informed consent assessment model).
(931) 538-3486 View (931) 538-3486
Melle Browning
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
You are tired of feeling stuck or feeling frozen by anxiety, worry or stress. You're confused about the reactions you have to others or your environment or the reactions you receive from others. You may be feeling burnt out and don't know why you can't just push passed it like you used to. Or you may be questioning your identity, struggling with a transition in life and not knowing where to go next. You want to feel centered, confident in yourself and know how to support your own individual needs as you navigate your life and your relationships going forward. And you deserve support!
You are tired of feeling stuck or feeling frozen by anxiety, worry or stress. You're confused about the reactions you have to others or your environment or the reactions you receive from others. You may be feeling burnt out and don't know why you can't just push passed it like you used to. Or you may be questioning your identity, struggling with a transition in life and not knowing where to go next. You want to feel centered, confident in yourself and know how to support your own individual needs as you navigate your life and your relationships going forward. And you deserve support!
(707) 702-6076 View (707) 702-6076
Kellie Ramdeen
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, MA, LMHCA
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46208
I am committed to upholding multiculturalism, creating a safe space that supports BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I value the power of the therapeutic relationship for creating trust and vulnerability. I also believe in recognizing each person’s strengths as a starting point for growth and healing. We can incorporate art therapy, somatic techniques, nature outings, and parts work into our sessions—whatever makes sense for you.
I am committed to upholding multiculturalism, creating a safe space that supports BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities.
I value the power of the therapeutic relationship for creating trust and vulnerability. I also believe in recognizing each person’s strengths as a starting point for growth and healing. We can incorporate art therapy, somatic techniques, nature outings, and parts work into our sessions—whatever makes sense for you.
(317) 836-2766 View (317) 836-2766
Jessica Armstrong
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMHCA
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46203
You may look like you are holding it together, but inside your body feels tense, tired, or on edge. Past experiences may still surface through anxiety, grief, or a sense of not feeling safe, even when life seems calm. If this sounds familiar, you are not broken and you are not alone. I work with children, teens, and adults impacted by trauma, including medical trauma, who want relief and deeper healing. Clients often seek support for anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, family stress, grief, life transitions, or questions around identity, sexuality, or faith. Some simply want a safe place to feel seen and begin healing.
You may look like you are holding it together, but inside your body feels tense, tired, or on edge. Past experiences may still surface through anxiety, grief, or a sense of not feeling safe, even when life seems calm. If this sounds familiar, you are not broken and you are not alone. I work with children, teens, and adults impacted by trauma, including medical trauma, who want relief and deeper healing. Clients often seek support for anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, family stress, grief, life transitions, or questions around identity, sexuality, or faith. Some simply want a safe place to feel seen and begin healing.
(463) 282-7667 View (463) 282-7667
Joey Gray Purcell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46219
Hi there! And congratulations on taking a big step towards self care in seeking therapy! I am a therapist that specializes in couples and family therapy. I also offer individual therapy for adults.
Hi there! And congratulations on taking a big step towards self care in seeking therapy! I am a therapist that specializes in couples and family therapy. I also offer individual therapy for adults.
(317) 933-8378 View (317) 933-8378
Nick Denney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I work with all types of clients, but particularly enjoy working with individuals struggling with OCD, issues within the LGBTQIA community, and personality disorders.
I have prior experience in residential, inpatient, outpatient, and addiction recovery services. I specialize in assisting adults with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorders, mood and personality disorders, and phase of life/adjustment concerns.
I work with all types of clients, but particularly enjoy working with individuals struggling with OCD, issues within the LGBTQIA community, and personality disorders.
I have prior experience in residential, inpatient, outpatient, and addiction recovery services. I specialize in assisting adults with a range of concerns including depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorders, mood and personality disorders, and phase of life/adjustment concerns.
(317) 836-0519 View (317) 836-0519
Courtney Harmatys
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Indianapolis, IN 46220
LGBTQIA+ affirming, BIPOC friendly, Human-rights believing.
Feeling stuck or heavy? Perhaps you are experiencing a lot changes in your life, processing a traumatic event, or feeling unsure how to navigate feeling more like "you" again. These can contribute to you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or isolated. Seeking support, insight, & understanding are common human desires. Therapeutic relationships provide the gift of connection & space- to help you feel more connected, mindful, & hopeful. I specialize in teens, young adults, & adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, depression, & trauma.
LGBTQIA+ affirming, BIPOC friendly, Human-rights believing.
Feeling stuck or heavy? Perhaps you are experiencing a lot changes in your life, processing a traumatic event, or feeling unsure how to navigate feeling more like "you" again. These can contribute to you feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or isolated. Seeking support, insight, & understanding are common human desires. Therapeutic relationships provide the gift of connection & space- to help you feel more connected, mindful, & hopeful. I specialize in teens, young adults, & adults navigating anxiety, life transitions, depression, & trauma.
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Dr. Samantha Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
No matter where you are at in your readiness for change, I will meet you right where you are and help you work towards your mental health goals at the pace that works best for you. Each client comes with a unique perspective on life and mental health that should be heard, seen, and appreciated throughout the process. I love working with clients who recognize the collaborative experience that comes from therapy. Clients that desire to become the best version of themselves. I am passionate about serving clients with diverse perspectives, values, and lived experiences.
No matter where you are at in your readiness for change, I will meet you right where you are and help you work towards your mental health goals at the pace that works best for you. Each client comes with a unique perspective on life and mental health that should be heard, seen, and appreciated throughout the process. I love working with clients who recognize the collaborative experience that comes from therapy. Clients that desire to become the best version of themselves. I am passionate about serving clients with diverse perspectives, values, and lived experiences.
(463) 220-4293 View (463) 220-4293
Rebecca Ogle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
10 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46268
If you're seeking a neurodivergent and/or LGBT+ affirming provider, you may be in the right place!
Those who know me describe me as warm, relatable and empowering. Collaborative, relational, and trauma-informed is how I would describe my approach. I enjoy working with recovering people pleasers and fellow social workers. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cults and Undue Influence at the Freedom of Mind Center.
If you're seeking a neurodivergent and/or LGBT+ affirming provider, you may be in the right place!
Those who know me describe me as warm, relatable and empowering. Collaborative, relational, and trauma-informed is how I would describe my approach. I enjoy working with recovering people pleasers and fellow social workers. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Cults and Undue Influence at the Freedom of Mind Center.
(463) 238-3743 View (463) 238-3743
Kendra Smeltzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46280
I bring 15 years of experience as a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) and am excited to return to my true passion, working with others ranging from 10 - 60 years old by holding space, enforcing everyone’s inherent worth, and feeling heard in addition to strategies including MI, CBT, ACT, DBT, IFS, polyvagal and play therapy. I am training in EMDR training at this time, and can provide this service to adults only. I have worked with a wide range of needs for children, adolescents, and adults including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD. LGBQTIA+ Affirming and an ally.
I bring 15 years of experience as a Licensed Social Worker (LCSW) and am excited to return to my true passion, working with others ranging from 10 - 60 years old by holding space, enforcing everyone’s inherent worth, and feeling heard in addition to strategies including MI, CBT, ACT, DBT, IFS, polyvagal and play therapy. I am training in EMDR training at this time, and can provide this service to adults only. I have worked with a wide range of needs for children, adolescents, and adults including ADHD, anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD. LGBQTIA+ Affirming and an ally.
(317) 936-1672 View (317) 936-1672
Elise Birch
Counselor, LMHC, MA-AT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I help clients better understand themselves, break unhelpful patterns, and move toward lasting healing. My approach is collaborative, transparent, and grounded in creating a space that feels genuine, supportive, and judgment-free. Therapy with me feels like a real conversation—I welcome humor, value your unique interests, and enjoy helping you understand how your mind works. I’m passionate about those “aha” moments when insight clicks, self-understanding deepens, and a clearer path forward begins to emerge.
I help clients better understand themselves, break unhelpful patterns, and move toward lasting healing. My approach is collaborative, transparent, and grounded in creating a space that feels genuine, supportive, and judgment-free. Therapy with me feels like a real conversation—I welcome humor, value your unique interests, and enjoy helping you understand how your mind works. I’m passionate about those “aha” moments when insight clicks, self-understanding deepens, and a clearer path forward begins to emerge.
(317) 676-9273 View (317) 676-9273
David Richardson
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
I am also particularly interested in working with the LGBTQIA+ community as well as any other groups who feel as though they are not properly supported or represented.
It can be difficult to talk about mental health and illness. Sometimes we feel as though no one is truly listening when we ask for help. Whether you are struggling to push back against overwhelming despair, fears of tomorrow, or crushing sadness due to loss, I am listening. If it is your own, private journey or perhaps difficulties with a relationship, I am listening. Maybe you aren't sure what is real and what isn't, or maybe you feel trapped in a body that is not you, I am listening. Perhaps you have been shunned or turned away by friends and family simply because of who you are. I am listening.
I am also particularly interested in working with the LGBTQIA+ community as well as any other groups who feel as though they are not properly supported or represented.
It can be difficult to talk about mental health and illness. Sometimes we feel as though no one is truly listening when we ask for help. Whether you are struggling to push back against overwhelming despair, fears of tomorrow, or crushing sadness due to loss, I am listening. If it is your own, private journey or perhaps difficulties with a relationship, I am listening. Maybe you aren't sure what is real and what isn't, or maybe you feel trapped in a body that is not you, I am listening. Perhaps you have been shunned or turned away by friends and family simply because of who you are. I am listening.
(463) 241-6402 View (463) 241-6402
KP Puckett
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with individual adults and couples who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and non-monogamous.
My primary therapeutic approaches are emotion focused (or attachment based) therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I believe in the importance of relationships inside and outside of the therapy room. I work to continue to be more anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, disability justice oriented, and trauma informed.
I specialize in working with individual adults and couples who are LGBTQIA+, neurodivergent, and non-monogamous.
My primary therapeutic approaches are emotion focused (or attachment based) therapy (EFT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I believe in the importance of relationships inside and outside of the therapy room. I work to continue to be more anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, neurodivergent affirming, disability justice oriented, and trauma informed.
(317) 754-7038 View (317) 754-7038
Michelle Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46260
Hi, I’m Michelle. I am so glad you’re here. In my experience as a therapist, I’ve walked alongside many people who feel caught in patterns they’ve carried for as long as they can remember. You know self-compassion is possible, yet real change can feel elusive. If this sounds like you, I want you to know you’re not alone. I support clients navigating anxiety, grief & loss, depression, spiritual grief, disordered eating and eating disorders, as well as those struggling with self-worth, identity, and the weight of life transitions.
Hi, I’m Michelle. I am so glad you’re here. In my experience as a therapist, I’ve walked alongside many people who feel caught in patterns they’ve carried for as long as they can remember. You know self-compassion is possible, yet real change can feel elusive. If this sounds like you, I want you to know you’re not alone. I support clients navigating anxiety, grief & loss, depression, spiritual grief, disordered eating and eating disorders, as well as those struggling with self-worth, identity, and the weight of life transitions.
(317) 608-1836 View (317) 608-1836
Kelsey Hug
Licensed Independent Social Worker, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46202
Most importantly, my therapy practice celebrates LGBTQIA+, queer, and gender diverse community, kink, non-monogamy, sex work, fat bodies, experiences of neurodivergence, and any person who needs a safe place to explore, experiment, and grow.
I provide ongoing therapy for adolescents and adults using an approach centering your experience as the expert. I have experience with complex trauma, OCD, anxiety, life changes, and processing impacts of oppression.
Most importantly, my therapy practice celebrates LGBTQIA+, queer, and gender diverse community, kink, non-monogamy, sex work, fat bodies, experiences of neurodivergence, and any person who needs a safe place to explore, experiment, and grow.
I provide ongoing therapy for adolescents and adults using an approach centering your experience as the expert. I have experience with complex trauma, OCD, anxiety, life changes, and processing impacts of oppression.
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Margaret Susanne Alonso Lipman
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Indianapolis, IN 46235
As a Latina, queer woman, I deeply value diverse perspectives and strive to create an inclusive, respectful space for all aspects of your identity.
My approach to therapy is integrative, which means treatment focuses on you as a whole person rather than just your symptoms. I will work with you to identify your unique needs and goals, drawing from different therapeutic techniques to find what works best for your situation.
As a Latina, queer woman, I deeply value diverse perspectives and strive to create an inclusive, respectful space for all aspects of your identity.
My approach to therapy is integrative, which means treatment focuses on you as a whole person rather than just your symptoms. I will work with you to identify your unique needs and goals, drawing from different therapeutic techniques to find what works best for your situation.
(463) 219-4327 View (463) 219-4327
Haleigh Rigger
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, intimidating, even confusing. As a therapist, it is my goal to create a space in which you can explore life’s difficulties and to help you find your path to healing. I have experience working with trauma, interpersonal and sexual violence, family of origin issues, anxiety, mood disorders, and gender and sexuality issues.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, intimidating, even confusing. As a therapist, it is my goal to create a space in which you can explore life’s difficulties and to help you find your path to healing. I have experience working with trauma, interpersonal and sexual violence, family of origin issues, anxiety, mood disorders, and gender and sexuality issues.
(463) 251-7122 View (463) 251-7122

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

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.