Lesbian Therapists in Miami County, KS
Do you have difficulty sitting in an office to do therapy? Is there a disconnect between mind and body for you? Sometimes we KNOW the stuff, but have difficulty connecting and applying it so our nervous system can truly heal. This is where advanced practice EMDR (with or without horses) can create new pathways to mental wellness!
Come join me at Heartland Therapeutic Riding, inc. for traditional therapy, in a non-traditional setting! Options include "Walk and Talk" sessions on our well maintained trails, working directly with horses during session, or just finding a quiet space at the farm to clear your mind and heal your soul.
Do you have difficulty sitting in an office to do therapy? Is there a disconnect between mind and body for you? Sometimes we KNOW the stuff, but have difficulty connecting and applying it so our nervous system can truly heal. This is where advanced practice EMDR (with or without horses) can create new pathways to mental wellness!
Come join me at Heartland Therapeutic Riding, inc. for traditional therapy, in a non-traditional setting! Options include "Walk and Talk" sessions on our well maintained trails, working directly with horses during session, or just finding a quiet space at the farm to clear your mind and heal your soul.
I work with people struggling with balance, feeling a sense of meaning and fulfillment. Whatever their particular struggle, from interpersonal issues, trauma, changes in life, struggle with identity, emotive control and expression, and self-sabotage-to more extreme expressions of those issues resulting in self harm or suicidal thoughts, my goal is to help every person that I come in contact with build a life worth living. This is accomplished through targeted interventions tailored to that person, their concerns, personality and strengths.
I work with people struggling with balance, feeling a sense of meaning and fulfillment. Whatever their particular struggle, from interpersonal issues, trauma, changes in life, struggle with identity, emotive control and expression, and self-sabotage-to more extreme expressions of those issues resulting in self harm or suicidal thoughts, my goal is to help every person that I come in contact with build a life worth living. This is accomplished through targeted interventions tailored to that person, their concerns, personality and strengths.
Online Therapists
My area of focus is working with youth and adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.
I believe that everyone, young and old, has a right to feel good about themselves. Sometimes, things happen in life that leave us feeling unprepared for the road ahead. We look in the mirror and are unhappy with what we see. We want to feel good about ourselves but don't know how. Past trauma can leave us vulnerable to the environment around us. That is when we need help in discovering who we are and how we want to live our lives. I will use my knowledge and expertise to help you find your best self and live your best life.
My area of focus is working with youth and adults who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.
I believe that everyone, young and old, has a right to feel good about themselves. Sometimes, things happen in life that leave us feeling unprepared for the road ahead. We look in the mirror and are unhappy with what we see. We want to feel good about ourselves but don't know how. Past trauma can leave us vulnerable to the environment around us. That is when we need help in discovering who we are and how we want to live our lives. I will use my knowledge and expertise to help you find your best self and live your best life.
Are you questioning who you are or what's important to you? Do you often find yourself seeking approval from others to measure your self-worth? If you're feeling overwhelmed by pressure from every angle, you're not alone. You deserve a safe space to process your experiences, ask yourself tough questions, and learn to write your story in your own words. I'm passionate about creating that space and I'm here to welcome you when you're ready.
Are you questioning who you are or what's important to you? Do you often find yourself seeking approval from others to measure your self-worth? If you're feeling overwhelmed by pressure from every angle, you're not alone. You deserve a safe space to process your experiences, ask yourself tough questions, and learn to write your story in your own words. I'm passionate about creating that space and I'm here to welcome you when you're ready.
Do you ever catch yourself dwelling on something? Maybe replaying a conversation you had (even just in your mind), fighting with family or friends, or worrying about "what if" scenarios? That’s what unmanaged anxiety can feel like. Sometimes, people don’t realize how overwhelming their anxiety is because we’re not usually taught to pay attention to our own thoughts and feelings. Over time, these patterns can leave you feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected from the present moment and yourself. You might know something isn’t working, but not know what it is or how to change it. You don't have to manage this alone.
Do you ever catch yourself dwelling on something? Maybe replaying a conversation you had (even just in your mind), fighting with family or friends, or worrying about "what if" scenarios? That’s what unmanaged anxiety can feel like. Sometimes, people don’t realize how overwhelming their anxiety is because we’re not usually taught to pay attention to our own thoughts and feelings. Over time, these patterns can leave you feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected from the present moment and yourself. You might know something isn’t working, but not know what it is or how to change it. You don't have to manage this alone.
I’m a trained sex-positive relationship therapist. I use evidenced-based relationship therapy techniques to support my clients in actualizing their interpersonal potential while honoring their individuality in the context of their relationships. I also practice Gottman Couples therapy, which integrates empirical evidence on what makes love last. Based on 40+ years of relationship research, the Gottman approach takes the guesswork out of how we can cultivate strong & lasting relationships
I’m a trained sex-positive relationship therapist. I use evidenced-based relationship therapy techniques to support my clients in actualizing their interpersonal potential while honoring their individuality in the context of their relationships. I also practice Gottman Couples therapy, which integrates empirical evidence on what makes love last. Based on 40+ years of relationship research, the Gottman approach takes the guesswork out of how we can cultivate strong & lasting relationships
If one more person tells you “you’re so resilient,” you might scream. You are burned out, anxious, masking hard, or stuck in trauma loops no one sees. I help clients like you break the cycle. I work with adults, teens, and couples who are done pretending they’re okay. My clients often include — Women carrying everyone else’s weight — LGBTQ+ folks craving real safety — Neurodivergent people with ADHD or autism tired of performing — Trauma survivors who need someone who won’t flinch — Couples in crisis — Teens and adults dealing with anxiety and depression, especially when things feel too messy for most therapists
If one more person tells you “you’re so resilient,” you might scream. You are burned out, anxious, masking hard, or stuck in trauma loops no one sees. I help clients like you break the cycle. I work with adults, teens, and couples who are done pretending they’re okay. My clients often include — Women carrying everyone else’s weight — LGBTQ+ folks craving real safety — Neurodivergent people with ADHD or autism tired of performing — Trauma survivors who need someone who won’t flinch — Couples in crisis — Teens and adults dealing with anxiety and depression, especially when things feel too messy for most therapists
Accepting New Clients.
We tend to carry pains from previous relationships into the present. This can affect the way you are a friend, lover, child, parent, etc. Let's dig deep. Identifying your attachment style can lead to security and effective communication. This allows for successful relationships and healing of broken connections.
It also matters what we say to and about ourselves. How often do you "should" yourself? Do you take into consideration how heavy that word can be on your daily choices? We will work on healing your inner self by rebuilding self-esteem.
Accepting New Clients.
We tend to carry pains from previous relationships into the present. This can affect the way you are a friend, lover, child, parent, etc. Let's dig deep. Identifying your attachment style can lead to security and effective communication. This allows for successful relationships and healing of broken connections.
It also matters what we say to and about ourselves. How often do you "should" yourself? Do you take into consideration how heavy that word can be on your daily choices? We will work on healing your inner self by rebuilding self-esteem.
The tension in your chest is there, again! You can hardly catch your breath. So much to do! Your mind is racing and you feel like you can't hold it together. Even the smallest things are annoying and irritating. You just yelled at your son, and now feel terrible about it. You missed another deadline at work because you’re so distracted. Confidence is at an all-time low. “I can’t do anything right,” you tell yourself. You know something needs to change, but you’re paralyzed by anxiety. Overthinking every choice until you can’t take any action. It’s gotten to the point where you just want to stay in bed, avoid everyone, and give up.
The tension in your chest is there, again! You can hardly catch your breath. So much to do! Your mind is racing and you feel like you can't hold it together. Even the smallest things are annoying and irritating. You just yelled at your son, and now feel terrible about it. You missed another deadline at work because you’re so distracted. Confidence is at an all-time low. “I can’t do anything right,” you tell yourself. You know something needs to change, but you’re paralyzed by anxiety. Overthinking every choice until you can’t take any action. It’s gotten to the point where you just want to stay in bed, avoid everyone, and give up.
You may not feel like it, but seeking help is an act of bravery, and I'm proud of you for taking this step. My name is Erin Ballew-Sunsong, and I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, or the challenges that come with being LGBTQ+. I have extensive experience helping people explore their gender and sexuality, as well as dealing with religious trauma. As a queer woman I want you to know, no matter who you are or what you believe, that I care about you, and I want happiness for you. If you resonate with any of that, I can help you.
You may not feel like it, but seeking help is an act of bravery, and I'm proud of you for taking this step. My name is Erin Ballew-Sunsong, and I specialize in helping individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD, or the challenges that come with being LGBTQ+. I have extensive experience helping people explore their gender and sexuality, as well as dealing with religious trauma. As a queer woman I want you to know, no matter who you are or what you believe, that I care about you, and I want happiness for you. If you resonate with any of that, I can help you.
I think "moving on” from life's challenges isn’t easy; it doesn’t matter what actually happened/happening... getting over whatever is going on in your life is just hard. I think “moving on” actually means you have to move “through” & I provide a safe space for that to happen. I’m an experienced therapist who believes some topics deserve a deep dive & others are better tackled with solution-focused coaching. Over the years, I’ve helped people cope, heal, recover & basically “move on” from the hard stuff.
I think "moving on” from life's challenges isn’t easy; it doesn’t matter what actually happened/happening... getting over whatever is going on in your life is just hard. I think “moving on” actually means you have to move “through” & I provide a safe space for that to happen. I’m an experienced therapist who believes some topics deserve a deep dive & others are better tackled with solution-focused coaching. Over the years, I’ve helped people cope, heal, recover & basically “move on” from the hard stuff.
In therapy we are not trying to fix ourselves, we instead learn how to co-exist, practice self-compassion, and broaden our perspective. Starting therapy can be challenging and can bring up many things that we spend a lot of time and energy avoiding.
I will try my best to create a non-judgmental and safe space for you to process what is going on in your life. My approach is trauma-informed and mindfulness-based. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate part-work and somatic approaches in therapy sessions. The space I offer in therapy is queer-affirming.
In therapy we are not trying to fix ourselves, we instead learn how to co-exist, practice self-compassion, and broaden our perspective. Starting therapy can be challenging and can bring up many things that we spend a lot of time and energy avoiding.
I will try my best to create a non-judgmental and safe space for you to process what is going on in your life. My approach is trauma-informed and mindfulness-based. I am trained in EMDR and incorporate part-work and somatic approaches in therapy sessions. The space I offer in therapy is queer-affirming.
Sagan Smith, LMSW: Sage Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
6 Endorsed
Lawrence, KS 66044
Everyone deserves a space where they can be their authentic selves, free from judgment and met with understanding.
I love working with clients with a variety of concerns, goals, and backgrounds. I am here to support anyone and everyone who is going through a difficult time in life or a has a goal they would like to reach. I have 12 years of experience practicing therapy with clients ranging from 5 years old to adulthood. I have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and families that have endured significant traumas or are struggling with mental health from a multitude of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
Everyone deserves a space where they can be their authentic selves, free from judgment and met with understanding.
I love working with clients with a variety of concerns, goals, and backgrounds. I am here to support anyone and everyone who is going through a difficult time in life or a has a goal they would like to reach. I have 12 years of experience practicing therapy with clients ranging from 5 years old to adulthood. I have extensive experience working with adults, adolescents, and families that have endured significant traumas or are struggling with mental health from a multitude of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
Life can feel unbearably heavy when you’re carrying trauma, chronic stress, or generational patterns that you never chose. You might feel exhausted, misunderstood, or stuck in cycles you can’t seem to break. I believe you’re doing the best you can with the resources you’ve had — and therapy can give you the support, clarity, and tools you deserve. My telehealth practice offers a warm, real, non-judgmental space for adults of all ages in Kansas, Missouri, and Wisconsin who are ready to heal and reconnect with themselves.
Life can feel unbearably heavy when you’re carrying trauma, chronic stress, or generational patterns that you never chose. You might feel exhausted, misunderstood, or stuck in cycles you can’t seem to break. I believe you’re doing the best you can with the resources you’ve had — and therapy can give you the support, clarity, and tools you deserve. My telehealth practice offers a warm, real, non-judgmental space for adults of all ages in Kansas, Missouri, and Wisconsin who are ready to heal and reconnect with themselves.
I know what it feels to be the smart, self-aware one that people turn to for advice but still feel stuck your own life. You overthink and lose yourself in relationships and it can feel miserable and disorienting. I help individuals and couples break unhealthy patterns, guide them back to their inner wisdom, and communicate with confidence so they can feel more secure and fulfilled. I don't like cold, detached approaches to therapy - you should feel like there's an actual person on your journey with you and someone who's like "Yup, I've totally been there."
I know what it feels to be the smart, self-aware one that people turn to for advice but still feel stuck your own life. You overthink and lose yourself in relationships and it can feel miserable and disorienting. I help individuals and couples break unhealthy patterns, guide them back to their inner wisdom, and communicate with confidence so they can feel more secure and fulfilled. I don't like cold, detached approaches to therapy - you should feel like there's an actual person on your journey with you and someone who's like "Yup, I've totally been there."
Life is challenging enough without strained relationships, difficulties in school, struggles with self-esteem, workplace stress, and navigating our current world. I am here to walk with you and help shoulder the load. I provide individual and family therapy to children, teens, and adults with an emphasis in treating adolescents and young adults who wish to manage symptoms of mood disorders, improve responses to stressors, and learn how to make positive changes in their lives. My work with clients addresses a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, stress, emotion regulation, school concerns, and more.
Life is challenging enough without strained relationships, difficulties in school, struggles with self-esteem, workplace stress, and navigating our current world. I am here to walk with you and help shoulder the load. I provide individual and family therapy to children, teens, and adults with an emphasis in treating adolescents and young adults who wish to manage symptoms of mood disorders, improve responses to stressors, and learn how to make positive changes in their lives. My work with clients addresses a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, stress, emotion regulation, school concerns, and more.
I welcome all individuals that are in need of help. I strive to be as multiculturally aware as possible. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and welcome everyone. I have experience helping individuals struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, body positive and bariatric clients. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions. I believe mental health care is important to everyone.
I welcome all individuals that are in need of help. I strive to be as multiculturally aware as possible. I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and welcome everyone. I have experience helping individuals struggling with mood disorders, depression and anxiety, substance abuse, body positive and bariatric clients. Please don't hesitate to call if you have any questions. I believe mental health care is important to everyone.
Life shifts. Loss lands hard. I can help you find your footing.
I work with children and adults navigating some of the heaviest moments life brings:
Loss—of a person, relationship, sense of self or a former life;
Overwhelm—the weight of carrying something too heavy for too long;
Disconnection—from yourself, others or a sense of meaning and stability.
My role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with what you already carry: your values, resilience, and your own sense of what’s next.
Life shifts. Loss lands hard. I can help you find your footing.
I work with children and adults navigating some of the heaviest moments life brings:
Loss—of a person, relationship, sense of self or a former life;
Overwhelm—the weight of carrying something too heavy for too long;
Disconnection—from yourself, others or a sense of meaning and stability.
My role is to walk alongside you as you reconnect with what you already carry: your values, resilience, and your own sense of what’s next.
Does your family have a lot of complex variables? Are you experiencing trouble managing issues around identity? Have traumatic experiences caused disconnect in your relationships with yourself or others? i believe each person and family has a unique set of needs for emotional health and connection. Emotional wellness is not a “one size fits all”. I can assess your emotional health needs in context of your identity and life experiences and create a plan unique to you and/or your family for connection and peace of mind. I do this all in a safe and accepting place where each part of you is celebrated.
Does your family have a lot of complex variables? Are you experiencing trouble managing issues around identity? Have traumatic experiences caused disconnect in your relationships with yourself or others? i believe each person and family has a unique set of needs for emotional health and connection. Emotional wellness is not a “one size fits all”. I can assess your emotional health needs in context of your identity and life experiences and create a plan unique to you and/or your family for connection and peace of mind. I do this all in a safe and accepting place where each part of you is celebrated.
I am happy to work with adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other mental health issues.
I am happy to work with adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, or any other mental health issues.
See more therapy options for Miami County
Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.
Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.
How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.