LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Merrillville, IN

Photo of Denise Marie Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Denise Marie Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
My ideal client is open to therapy and has a willingness to face the difficult feelings that come up. I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ population including those working through the issues society places on transgendered individuals.
(219) 245-7322 View (219) 245-7322
Photo of Emily Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Emily Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
To those who are LGBTQ+, I'm here to support and listen.
If you are struggling to find some peace and happiness, I am here to help. If you are frustrated by injustice in the world, I feel your pain. Combining neuroscience, social awareness, and evidence-based theory allows me to offer treatment methods that are unique to each person's needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or simply feeling lost and need some guidance, I hope to be that support for you. Let's work together to find you some relief.
To those who are LGBTQ+, I'm here to support and listen.
If you are struggling to find some peace and happiness, I am here to help. If you are frustrated by injustice in the world, I feel your pain. Combining neuroscience, social awareness, and evidence-based theory allows me to offer treatment methods that are unique to each person's needs. Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, relationship problems, or simply feeling lost and need some guidance, I hope to be that support for you. Let's work together to find you some relief.
(219) 233-2309 View (219) 233-2309
Photo of Lawrence Pincus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Lawrence Pincus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCSW, LMFT, LAC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
We work with substance abuse, trauma, grief, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dealing with everyday issues and stress.
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
We work with substance abuse, trauma, grief, relationship issues, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and dealing with everyday issues and stress.
Our mission statement at LPA Counseling is that we respond personally and immediately to families, couples, and individuals seeking counseling services, providing excellent, confidential, and affordable therapy, when and where our clients' need us, throughout Northwest Indiana. For more information on our services, please visit our website at www.lpacounseling.com
(219) 359-4287 View (219) 359-4287
Photo of Lisa Marie Munoz, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Lisa Marie Munoz
Counselor, MS, LMHCA, LCACA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410  (Online Only)
Lisa (she/her) earned her MS in Psychology from Purdue, and completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology with specializations in Addictions, Neuroscience, and Women's Studies from IU. Lisa approaches therapy with warm and grounded energy and a collaborative style. She offers experience and expertise in treating mood disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, and navigating life transitions. Lisa is adept in evidence-based therapies like CBT, REBT, MI, and DBT, specifically tailoring those methods to the individual, empowering clients to overcome challenges; unlocking your full potential.
Lisa (she/her) earned her MS in Psychology from Purdue, and completed her undergraduate degree in Psychology with specializations in Addictions, Neuroscience, and Women's Studies from IU. Lisa approaches therapy with warm and grounded energy and a collaborative style. She offers experience and expertise in treating mood disorders, PTSD, Substance Use Disorders, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorders, and navigating life transitions. Lisa is adept in evidence-based therapies like CBT, REBT, MI, and DBT, specifically tailoring those methods to the individual, empowering clients to overcome challenges; unlocking your full potential.
(219) 300-6534 View (219) 300-6534
Photo of Anthony Sandilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Anthony Sandilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410  (Online Only)
I am a social worker who specializes in couples and sexual-related issues. I do a lot of work with couples around infidelity, trust and sexual issues. I spend much time helping couples overcome the aftermath of affairs and help lead them to a better relationship than they previously had. I also work with individuals with problems like depression, anxiety and loss. I do my sessions exclusively by video and phone and have done teletherapy for about five years. My style is very casual and thoughtful. And I have become very adept at doing teletherapy. I find that most of my clients prefer this format.
I am a social worker who specializes in couples and sexual-related issues. I do a lot of work with couples around infidelity, trust and sexual issues. I spend much time helping couples overcome the aftermath of affairs and help lead them to a better relationship than they previously had. I also work with individuals with problems like depression, anxiety and loss. I do my sessions exclusively by video and phone and have done teletherapy for about five years. My style is very casual and thoughtful. And I have become very adept at doing teletherapy. I find that most of my clients prefer this format.
(219) 841-7832 View (219) 841-7832
Photo of Natalie Grantner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Natalie Grantner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
I provide an accepting and compassionate environment so that you can begin the healing process and move towards meaningful, long term change. I serve individuals from Illinois and Indiana with eating disorders and co-occurring disorders such as OCD, mood disorders, and trauma. I also work with individuals that have had bariatric surgery and have an eating disorder. I approach food and body issues with the understanding that an ED can affect any person in any body. Clients that are seeking treatment for eating disorders will be encouraged to experience health and body acceptance through a non-diet approach.
I provide an accepting and compassionate environment so that you can begin the healing process and move towards meaningful, long term change. I serve individuals from Illinois and Indiana with eating disorders and co-occurring disorders such as OCD, mood disorders, and trauma. I also work with individuals that have had bariatric surgery and have an eating disorder. I approach food and body issues with the understanding that an ED can affect any person in any body. Clients that are seeking treatment for eating disorders will be encouraged to experience health and body acceptance through a non-diet approach.
(219) 240-0184 View (219) 240-0184
Photo of Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
Are you frustrated with waiting lists? Are you finding it difficult to find a clinician in your time of need? Responsive and responsible mental health care still exists! CLEAR is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost effective, and timely treatment to our clients. Your needs will not be handled haphazardly! We provide intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable at treating an identified issue. We embody expertises in treating anxiety, depression, mood, trauma, personality and impulse disorders.
(219) 291-3931 View (219) 291-3931
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement & Recovery
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement and Recovery is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost-effective, and timely treatment to our clients. We provide our clients with intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable for the identified problem. Our goal is to provide individual, couple, family, and group mental health treatment to guide our clients towards positive change.
Center for Life Enrichment Advancement and Recovery is a group of mental health professionals who believe in providing evidence-based, cost-effective, and timely treatment to our clients. We provide our clients with intentional treatment interventions from approaches that are widely known in the profession to be most reliable for the identified problem. Our goal is to provide individual, couple, family, and group mental health treatment to guide our clients towards positive change.
(219) 245-5242 View (219) 245-5242
Photo of James N Houpt in Merrillville, IN
James N Houpt
LSW
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Hello and welcome. I would like to see where you are in your life and talk about what things you might feel need to change. I will partner with you and discuss what things in your life are troubling or something you might just need to talk about. I will partner with you and together we can decide if or what changes you want to make in your life.
Hello and welcome. I would like to see where you are in your life and talk about what things you might feel need to change. I will partner with you and discuss what things in your life are troubling or something you might just need to talk about. I will partner with you and together we can decide if or what changes you want to make in your life.
(219) 369-4698 View (219) 369-4698
Photo of Awakenings Counseling Center, LLC, Mental Health Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Awakenings Counseling Center, LLC
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Awakenings Counseling Center offers a wide range of mental health and addiction treatment services. Awakenings has provided services throughout the Northwest Indiana Region for 25+ years. Awakenings works directly with Lake County and Porter County Drug Court as well as Lake County Community Corrections Work Release Program. Our goal at Awakenings is to be able to provide you with the tools needed to be the best version of yourself for you and those around you. You deserve to live a healthy and productive life.
Awakenings Counseling Center offers a wide range of mental health and addiction treatment services. Awakenings has provided services throughout the Northwest Indiana Region for 25+ years. Awakenings works directly with Lake County and Porter County Drug Court as well as Lake County Community Corrections Work Release Program. Our goal at Awakenings is to be able to provide you with the tools needed to be the best version of yourself for you and those around you. You deserve to live a healthy and productive life.
(219) 245-7173 View (219) 245-7173
Photo of Katelyn Kapelinski, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Katelyn Kapelinski
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410  (Online Only)
My passion is in working with adolescents, however, I also enjoy working with preteens (11-13), families, and young adults. I believe that creating a calm, comfortable, and open atmosphere for counseling can allow clients to let their guard down and feel as comfortable with the therapeutic process as possible. My goal is to empower clients to help themselves realize their true self, work on building on their strengths, process and learn from past experiences, and make both positive and pro-active adjustments moving forward. I want to assist clients with their personal growth as they become the best version of themselves.
My passion is in working with adolescents, however, I also enjoy working with preteens (11-13), families, and young adults. I believe that creating a calm, comfortable, and open atmosphere for counseling can allow clients to let their guard down and feel as comfortable with the therapeutic process as possible. My goal is to empower clients to help themselves realize their true self, work on building on their strengths, process and learn from past experiences, and make both positive and pro-active adjustments moving forward. I want to assist clients with their personal growth as they become the best version of themselves.
(219) 334-2574 View (219) 334-2574
Photo of Patrick O'Connell, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Patrick O'Connell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
I provide therapeutic services for children and teens. I have worked at alternative schools, inpatient hospitals, and residential treatment facilities. I am a staunch advocate for youth, and have extensive knowledge of psychiatric medication for children and teens. I am comfortable working with a wide range of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, ADHD, autism, childhood trauma, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. I utilize sensory integration therapy to help children self-sooth and enhance their independence. I enjoy working with children and families in crisis. I also work with young adults and college students.
(219) 544-5163 View (219) 544-5163
Photo of Pillars of Wellness Inc in Merrillville, IN
Pillars of Wellness Inc
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
Over the years and after receiving thousands of initial calls and emails from clients, it is clear that many are unsure of what they need or where to go. We find great pleasure in helping clients navigate this process. As a group practice we are able to provide services for a variety of needs: anxiety, addictions, pain management, depression, relationship issues, psychological testing, individual, life transitions and even helping clients who just want to live their best life! We stand out in our efforts to make this process as smooth as possible. Many providers boast about their training in a particular treatment approach (and this is important) but research suggests that the interventions are only part of the story. The fit between client and clinician, the wellbeing of the clinician, the ease of access and the experience of the treatment process matter as much, and sometimes more, than the particular treatment model used. Pillars of Wellness was founded with the hope of ensuring an ideal client-clinician fit and providing both clients and clinicians with a positive experience. We let our clinicians excel at their craft by giving them the space to create their ideal practice.
(219) 641-3819 View (219) 641-3819
Photo of Jessica Del Re, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Jessica Del Re
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
First, great job being here! Finding a counselor is an important task, and finding one that matches your needs is even more important. I am so appreciative that you are here. I might be a good match for you if: you are interested in working with a counselor that will take a collaborative journey with you, that will listen, challenge, and validate you, and will sprinkle in a bit of humor (when the time is right). I believe we strive to be our best selves, but we don’t always know what ‘best selves’ mean; that is where I come in!
First, great job being here! Finding a counselor is an important task, and finding one that matches your needs is even more important. I am so appreciative that you are here. I might be a good match for you if: you are interested in working with a counselor that will take a collaborative journey with you, that will listen, challenge, and validate you, and will sprinkle in a bit of humor (when the time is right). I believe we strive to be our best selves, but we don’t always know what ‘best selves’ mean; that is where I come in!
(219) 259-5743 View (219) 259-5743
Photo of Dale W. Klooster, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Dale W. Klooster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
You have decided to look for a guide through unfamiliar territory, whether it is a new problem or an old nagging issue. I can help you by providing a safe place to take that difficult look at old patterns that no longer work. Becoming mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and judgments can free you to creatively re-imagine yourself and your situation and find new solutions. My thoughtful and intuitive approach can guide you on this journey. I have been especially successful with clients struggling with codependent issues, anxiety, divorce or other transitions, and anger. All are welcome.
You have decided to look for a guide through unfamiliar territory, whether it is a new problem or an old nagging issue. I can help you by providing a safe place to take that difficult look at old patterns that no longer work. Becoming mindful of your thoughts, feelings, and judgments can free you to creatively re-imagine yourself and your situation and find new solutions. My thoughtful and intuitive approach can guide you on this journey. I have been especially successful with clients struggling with codependent issues, anxiety, divorce or other transitions, and anger. All are welcome.
(219) 595-8976 View (219) 595-8976
Photo of Jennifer Dyarman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Jennifer Dyarman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Jennifer can help you make sense of your experience in a time when things feel very out-of-control and even senseless at times. Jennifer has 18 years of experience in Northern Indiana and Illinois working with individuals, adolescents, couples, families and Veterans facing a variety of life’s challenges. Jennifer specializes in trauma and stress-related disorders but can treat a host of issues competently with evidence-based interventions. She makes you feel welcome and safe.
Jennifer can help you make sense of your experience in a time when things feel very out-of-control and even senseless at times. Jennifer has 18 years of experience in Northern Indiana and Illinois working with individuals, adolescents, couples, families and Veterans facing a variety of life’s challenges. Jennifer specializes in trauma and stress-related disorders but can treat a host of issues competently with evidence-based interventions. She makes you feel welcome and safe.
(219) 266-6737 View (219) 266-6737
Photo of Hector Zavala, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Hector Zavala
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410
Starting counseling is a significant decision. Counseling can sometimes lead to intense emotions, and clients sometimes feel worse before they feel better. However, counseling often leads to significant symptom reduction, increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, greater personal awareness and insight, and increased skills for managing stress.
Starting counseling is a significant decision. Counseling can sometimes lead to intense emotions, and clients sometimes feel worse before they feel better. However, counseling often leads to significant symptom reduction, increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, greater personal awareness and insight, and increased skills for managing stress.
(219) 214-4264 View (219) 214-4264
Photo of Ellen Minter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Merrillville, IN
Ellen Minter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Merrillville, IN 46410  (Online Only)
Life is hard and it certainly didn’t come with a manual. For the most part, we go through life trying to emulate what we see and hear hoping that it will work for us, and most times…..it doesn’t. That’s when you have to do something different. Everyone is on their own journey in life and what works for some, may not work for others. Where some are swimming, other people are slowly sinking. I want to not only help you stay afloat, but provide you with the tools, encouragement, and empowerment to swim your way back to the surface, if you do happen to sink.
Life is hard and it certainly didn’t come with a manual. For the most part, we go through life trying to emulate what we see and hear hoping that it will work for us, and most times…..it doesn’t. That’s when you have to do something different. Everyone is on their own journey in life and what works for some, may not work for others. Where some are swimming, other people are slowly sinking. I want to not only help you stay afloat, but provide you with the tools, encouragement, and empowerment to swim your way back to the surface, if you do happen to sink.
(219) 327-1477 View (219) 327-1477
Photo of Kim Harman, Counselor in Merrillville, IN
Kim Harman
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCAC
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
I have been working in the field of counseling for 25+ years. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals from many walks of life with various issues. I have worked with very diverse populations including federal pre-trial, post-conviction and probation clients, all areas of substance abuse issues, drug testing, anger management, EAP services, rapid response emergency services, grief/loss, domestic violence, family services, marital, youth, and spiritual counseling. I have extensive experience working in the area of high conflict co-parenting-divorce issues .
I have been working in the field of counseling for 25+ years. I have had the pleasure of working with individuals from many walks of life with various issues. I have worked with very diverse populations including federal pre-trial, post-conviction and probation clients, all areas of substance abuse issues, drug testing, anger management, EAP services, rapid response emergency services, grief/loss, domestic violence, family services, marital, youth, and spiritual counseling. I have extensive experience working in the area of high conflict co-parenting-divorce issues .
(219) 682-0412 View (219) 682-0412
Photo of Martha M O'Danovich, Psychologist in Merrillville, IN
Martha M O'Danovich
Psychologist, PsyD, HSPP
Verified Verified
Merrillville, IN 46410
Life is about the journey, not getting to the station. Take charge of yourself and live your life. Make it a masterpiece. In the past 27 years, I have worked in community mental health, inpatient and outpatient settings, corrections and private practice. I specialize in trauma work, EMDR, gender issues, addictions, mood and personality disorders. We are stronger than we believe we can be. Together we will discover that strength.
Life is about the journey, not getting to the station. Take charge of yourself and live your life. Make it a masterpiece. In the past 27 years, I have worked in community mental health, inpatient and outpatient settings, corrections and private practice. I specialize in trauma work, EMDR, gender issues, addictions, mood and personality disorders. We are stronger than we believe we can be. Together we will discover that strength.
(219) 736-1000 View (219) 736-1000

See more therapy options for Merrillville

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.