LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Damascus, MD
Is this a time for a new start? A reset in life? I welcome the change to meet with you and support a new beginning for you . I am friendly and open and welcome the change to understand your needs as well as connecting as people.
Is this a time for a new start? A reset in life? I welcome the change to meet with you and support a new beginning for you . I am friendly and open and welcome the change to understand your needs as well as connecting as people.
If you are struggling with frequently feeling unheard, frustrated, resentful, exhausted, overwhelmed, burnt out, anxious or angry, you have likely been struggling for some time. Do you feel that your partner is either too needy or avoids everything and you get so frustrated? Are you tired of nagging pointlessly? Do these challenges cause you to lose sleep at night and a need to find relief? These scenarios are your emotions and logic not adding up, therefore causing discomfort which is so common. In working on big picture issues by changing small, manageable behaviors or thoughts you can find that inner peace you are trying to find.
If you are struggling with frequently feeling unheard, frustrated, resentful, exhausted, overwhelmed, burnt out, anxious or angry, you have likely been struggling for some time. Do you feel that your partner is either too needy or avoids everything and you get so frustrated? Are you tired of nagging pointlessly? Do these challenges cause you to lose sleep at night and a need to find relief? These scenarios are your emotions and logic not adding up, therefore causing discomfort which is so common. In working on big picture issues by changing small, manageable behaviors or thoughts you can find that inner peace you are trying to find.
Hi there, making the decision to begin therapy can feel like a big one. I believe strongly that this decision is a testament to your strength. After almost 20 years in social work, I am passionate about supporting those in helping and caretaking roles, supporting those struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes and/or stress. Through the therapeutic relationship, we will work out a plan for self care, talk through experiences and emotions, thoughts and behaviors in order to understand where they come from and how to move forward.
Hi there, making the decision to begin therapy can feel like a big one. I believe strongly that this decision is a testament to your strength. After almost 20 years in social work, I am passionate about supporting those in helping and caretaking roles, supporting those struggling with depression, anxiety, life changes and/or stress. Through the therapeutic relationship, we will work out a plan for self care, talk through experiences and emotions, thoughts and behaviors in order to understand where they come from and how to move forward.
My ideal client is someone experiencing anxiety, life transitions, or emotional overwhelm. They may feel stuck, burned out, or unsure how to manage difficult emotions. Many are dealing with stress from relationships, work, family dynamics, or past experiences that continue to impact their daily life.
My ideal client is someone experiencing anxiety, life transitions, or emotional overwhelm. They may feel stuck, burned out, or unsure how to manage difficult emotions. Many are dealing with stress from relationships, work, family dynamics, or past experiences that continue to impact their daily life.
Accepting New Clients! I work with people who are experiencing difficult situations, living with depression, anxiety, trauma, hallucinations, schizophrenia, bipolar, and schizo-affective disorder. Together we will find ways to manage symptoms, use coping skills, gain peace, & just feel better. We’ll focus on finding solutions & strengthening a positive self-perception. Through exploration, we’ll create goals to move you towards wellness, while finding root causes, patterns, and blocks that are keeping you from your life goals. Life gets better when we understand ourselves and know how to seek out our goals. You deserve a good life.
Accepting New Clients! I work with people who are experiencing difficult situations, living with depression, anxiety, trauma, hallucinations, schizophrenia, bipolar, and schizo-affective disorder. Together we will find ways to manage symptoms, use coping skills, gain peace, & just feel better. We’ll focus on finding solutions & strengthening a positive self-perception. Through exploration, we’ll create goals to move you towards wellness, while finding root causes, patterns, and blocks that are keeping you from your life goals. Life gets better when we understand ourselves and know how to seek out our goals. You deserve a good life.
Let’s be real—life can feel like a lot. Between relationships, careers, family, and the pressure to “have it all together,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck. If you’re in transition—starting or ending a relationship, shifting careers, or someone who shows up for everyone else but forgets themselves—you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a space where therapy feels less like an interview and more like a genuine conversation—filled with compassion, curiosity, and sometimes even laughter. As a Navy veteran, mom, and therapist who’s sat on both sides of the couch, I get how scary and exciting growth can be.
Let’s be real—life can feel like a lot. Between relationships, careers, family, and the pressure to “have it all together,” it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck. If you’re in transition—starting or ending a relationship, shifting careers, or someone who shows up for everyone else but forgets themselves—you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a space where therapy feels less like an interview and more like a genuine conversation—filled with compassion, curiosity, and sometimes even laughter. As a Navy veteran, mom, and therapist who’s sat on both sides of the couch, I get how scary and exciting growth can be.
More Therapists Nearby
I specialize in helping people find and use their voice, especially adolescents, adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those navigating ADHD, anxiety, and life transitions.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, affirming space where you can show up as your full self—no masks, no judgment. Life can be overwhelming, and having the right support makes all the difference when it comes to healing and self-discovery. I’ve learned through my own challenges just how powerful it is to have someone in your corner—someone who listens with empathy, helps you unpack what’s weighing you down, and walks alongside you on your journey.
I specialize in helping people find and use their voice, especially adolescents, adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those navigating ADHD, anxiety, and life transitions.
My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, affirming space where you can show up as your full self—no masks, no judgment. Life can be overwhelming, and having the right support makes all the difference when it comes to healing and self-discovery. I’ve learned through my own challenges just how powerful it is to have someone in your corner—someone who listens with empathy, helps you unpack what’s weighing you down, and walks alongside you on your journey.
Rachael Stern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
She is experienced with Autistic+ADHD clients, trauma, self-injury, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, chronic health, sex therapy, couples and larger family systems, and the LGBTQIA umbrella to prof
Rachael has spent her career both in and out of the therapy room working to dismantle systems of oppression and crafting structures that treat people better - including ourselves. Rachael is a solid partner in change. She enjoys the work alongside her clients in (re)claiming their space in the world both physically and metaphorically.
She is experienced with Autistic+ADHD clients, trauma, self-injury, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, chronic health, sex therapy, couples and larger family systems, and the LGBTQIA umbrella to prof
Rachael has spent her career both in and out of the therapy room working to dismantle systems of oppression and crafting structures that treat people better - including ourselves. Rachael is a solid partner in change. She enjoys the work alongside her clients in (re)claiming their space in the world both physically and metaphorically.
I work with the LGBTQ, BIPOC, neurodivergent, immigrants, kink/BDSM community, polyamorous or nonmonogamous folks, and survivors who are done with shrinking, burning out, or wondering if they’re "too much
Whether you're navigating complex relationships, unlearning survival patterns, or healing in the aftermath of harm, therapy with me is collaborative, tender, and rooted in dignity. I offer therapy that honors your cultural, spiritual, and erotic truths, no need to filter or censor. We’ll go at your pace, together.
I work with the LGBTQ, BIPOC, neurodivergent, immigrants, kink/BDSM community, polyamorous or nonmonogamous folks, and survivors who are done with shrinking, burning out, or wondering if they’re "too much
Whether you're navigating complex relationships, unlearning survival patterns, or healing in the aftermath of harm, therapy with me is collaborative, tender, and rooted in dignity. I offer therapy that honors your cultural, spiritual, and erotic truths, no need to filter or censor. We’ll go at your pace, together.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. I strive to create a supportive, affirming, & inclusive space where clients feel heard, respected and safe to explore their experiences without judgment.
I work with individuals across the lifespan using a person-centered, evidence-based approach. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity development & relationship stress. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community as well as individuals experiencing mild to moderate mood concerns.
I am a graduate counseling intern working under clinical supervision and am committed to ethical, collaborative and client-centered care.
Starting therapy can feel overwhelming. I strive to create a supportive, affirming, & inclusive space where clients feel heard, respected and safe to explore their experiences without judgment.
I work with individuals across the lifespan using a person-centered, evidence-based approach. My clinical interests include anxiety, depression, ADHD, identity development & relationship stress. I enjoy working with the LGBTQI+ community as well as individuals experiencing mild to moderate mood concerns.
I am a graduate counseling intern working under clinical supervision and am committed to ethical, collaborative and client-centered care.
With extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ clients, those in alternative lifestyles, sex-positive communities, and non-monogamous relationships,
She creates a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients are free to explore their identities and experiences authentically.
Emily Hodson LCSW-C has historically focused on serving marginalized and underserved populations. Her work is guided by cultural humility, intersectionality, and a deep respect for each client’s lived experience. She provides compassionate, evidence-based support to help clients build more balanced and fulfilling lives.
With extensive experience supporting LGBTQIA+ clients, those in alternative lifestyles, sex-positive communities, and non-monogamous relationships,
She creates a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients are free to explore their identities and experiences authentically.
Emily Hodson LCSW-C has historically focused on serving marginalized and underserved populations. Her work is guided by cultural humility, intersectionality, and a deep respect for each client’s lived experience. She provides compassionate, evidence-based support to help clients build more balanced and fulfilling lives.
I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
My goal is to provide a welcoming and safe environment where you can address the challenges preventing you from living at your best. Using reflective listening and empathy, I enjoy collaborating with my clients to heal from past hurt, manage school or career stressors, work through relationship conflicts, and establish meaningful connections with others.
I have experience working with issues such as anxiety, depression, bipolar, trauma, and issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community.
My goal is to provide a welcoming and safe environment where you can address the challenges preventing you from living at your best. Using reflective listening and empathy, I enjoy collaborating with my clients to heal from past hurt, manage school or career stressors, work through relationship conflicts, and establish meaningful connections with others.
Nicole Avallone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Kensington, MD 20895
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer woman committed to liberatory healing, my work is informed by over two decades of experience in community-based mental health, harm reduction, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
While I help people with a range of concerns, I have particular expertise working with LGBQ+ youth and adults, trans and gender expansive folks, as well as parents who are seeking to better understand and support their LGBTQ children. To meet the needs of a wide range of clients, I have advance training in EMDR, CBT, IFS and harm reduction psychotherapy.
As a queer woman committed to liberatory healing, my work is informed by over two decades of experience in community-based mental health, harm reduction, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.
While I help people with a range of concerns, I have particular expertise working with LGBQ+ youth and adults, trans and gender expansive folks, as well as parents who are seeking to better understand and support their LGBTQ children. To meet the needs of a wide range of clients, I have advance training in EMDR, CBT, IFS and harm reduction psychotherapy.
I also hold a special place for challenges that are specific to experiences of women, women who identify as BIPOC, individuals identifying as LGBTQIA+ and adolescents.
I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on a therapeutic journey to self discovery, healing and emotional wellness. Utilizing a multi-modal approach, we will work together to uncover underlying concerns, identify damaging thought patterns and balance responses to improve your quality of life. I am also board certified to provide clinical supervision in the state of Maryland and in Washington, DC.
I also hold a special place for challenges that are specific to experiences of women, women who identify as BIPOC, individuals identifying as LGBTQIA+ and adolescents.
I am honored to have the opportunity to partner with you on a therapeutic journey to self discovery, healing and emotional wellness. Utilizing a multi-modal approach, we will work together to uncover underlying concerns, identify damaging thought patterns and balance responses to improve your quality of life. I am also board certified to provide clinical supervision in the state of Maryland and in Washington, DC.
It's in the past, so why can't I get over it? Am I broken or just doing this to myself? Who even am I now? There's so much suffering in the world, what difference do I make? If you lie awake at night with these racing thoughts, a pit in your stomach, and pressure in your chest, reach out.
Life is messy, so bring your full, messy self to therapy. We'll laugh, swear, rage at injustice, and mourn loss together. We'll figure out what's actually behind the humor, intellectualizing, people pleasing, defensiveness, and shame.
It's in the past, so why can't I get over it? Am I broken or just doing this to myself? Who even am I now? There's so much suffering in the world, what difference do I make? If you lie awake at night with these racing thoughts, a pit in your stomach, and pressure in your chest, reach out.
Life is messy, so bring your full, messy self to therapy. We'll laugh, swear, rage at injustice, and mourn loss together. We'll figure out what's actually behind the humor, intellectualizing, people pleasing, defensiveness, and shame.
Trauma, anxiety and OCD can be debilitating, but there are effective, evidence-based tools that can help.
Trauma, anxiety and OCD can be debilitating, but there are effective, evidence-based tools that can help.
When emotions like anxiety, depression, or overwhelm take over, life can feel disorienting and isolating. You might feel unsure of who you are, what you want, or how to move forward. Maybe you’re constantly on edge, overthinking everything and stuck in overdrive; or you might feel numb, hopeless, and like you're moving in slow motion. You may long for connection but worry about being "too much." Your experience is unique but you do not have to navigate it alone. Together we can work to help you reconnect with your values, build coping tools, and begin creating a life that feels more balanced and worth living.
When emotions like anxiety, depression, or overwhelm take over, life can feel disorienting and isolating. You might feel unsure of who you are, what you want, or how to move forward. Maybe you’re constantly on edge, overthinking everything and stuck in overdrive; or you might feel numb, hopeless, and like you're moving in slow motion. You may long for connection but worry about being "too much." Your experience is unique but you do not have to navigate it alone. Together we can work to help you reconnect with your values, build coping tools, and begin creating a life that feels more balanced and worth living.
I specialize in individual and relational therapy focused on co-constructing sexual wellness and pleasure; queer and trans empowerment and joy; trauma processing and recovery.
Often we get so busy with the stress and fast-paced movement of daily life that when we do come up for air, we may realize we're living a life out of sync with our own wants and needs. We may have normalized parts of our lives we dislike, and now feel unsure or unworthy of who we are or what we want. Therapy is a process in which we will work together to create space for you to slow down and unpack all of the beliefs, burdens, expectations, identities, fears, and hopes you hold; to assess what works and let go of what no longer serves you, to review who you've been and cultivate the person you want to be.
I specialize in individual and relational therapy focused on co-constructing sexual wellness and pleasure; queer and trans empowerment and joy; trauma processing and recovery.
Often we get so busy with the stress and fast-paced movement of daily life that when we do come up for air, we may realize we're living a life out of sync with our own wants and needs. We may have normalized parts of our lives we dislike, and now feel unsure or unworthy of who we are or what we want. Therapy is a process in which we will work together to create space for you to slow down and unpack all of the beliefs, burdens, expectations, identities, fears, and hopes you hold; to assess what works and let go of what no longer serves you, to review who you've been and cultivate the person you want to be.
I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
I integrate evidence-based modalities and complementary approaches rooted in the inextricable connection between mind and body. These include relational-psychodynamic therapies, mindfulness-based therapies, and Somatic Experiencing for trauma resolution. My approach is attachment-oriented, resilience-based, multiculturally-informed, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I specialize in working with adults through trauma healing, grief and loss (including that of beloved animals), LGBTQIA+ identities and relationships, depression/anxiety, and life transitions.
I integrate evidence-based modalities and complementary approaches rooted in the inextricable connection between mind and body. These include relational-psychodynamic therapies, mindfulness-based therapies, and Somatic Experiencing for trauma resolution. My approach is attachment-oriented, resilience-based, multiculturally-informed, and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I also have plenty of experience navigating grief/loss, relationship conflicts, divorce, and LGBTQIA issues.
Have you tried traditional "talk therapy" in the past but haven't made much progress? If you said "yes" to that question, I encourage you to try a different approach. Together we will dive deeper to get to the root cause rather than immediately trying to fix the problem. It's always more complex than it appears on the surface and this work takes time and effort. I offer more expressive and experiential modalities to help you make meaningful, lasting changes and take you beyond just talk therapy. I use a "strengths-based" approach and see you as a whole person rather than a person with a diagnosis.
I also have plenty of experience navigating grief/loss, relationship conflicts, divorce, and LGBTQIA issues.
Have you tried traditional "talk therapy" in the past but haven't made much progress? If you said "yes" to that question, I encourage you to try a different approach. Together we will dive deeper to get to the root cause rather than immediately trying to fix the problem. It's always more complex than it appears on the surface and this work takes time and effort. I offer more expressive and experiential modalities to help you make meaningful, lasting changes and take you beyond just talk therapy. I use a "strengths-based" approach and see you as a whole person rather than a person with a diagnosis.
See more therapy options for Damascus
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Damascus
- Clarksburg
- Darnestown
- Derwood
- Gaithersburg
- Germantown
- Glenelg
- Ijamsville
- Montgomery Village
- Mount Airy
- New Market
- North Potomac
- Urbana
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.