LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Germantown, MD
I work with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients and engage in anti-racism and ally-ship.
I am trained in Clinical Counseling and Spiritual Integration. I use eclectic approaches enables the client to access all their strengths in order to reflect, acknowledge and achieve set goals in a supported manner. I am also trained in n Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a type of psychotherapy with growing evidence of effectiveness.
I work with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC clients and engage in anti-racism and ally-ship.
I am trained in Clinical Counseling and Spiritual Integration. I use eclectic approaches enables the client to access all their strengths in order to reflect, acknowledge and achieve set goals in a supported manner. I am also trained in n Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a type of psychotherapy with growing evidence of effectiveness.
There are many times in our lives when we feel stuck and unable to find relief. I strive to be guiding light in your therapeutic process. I provide a safe, affirming, and supportive space for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered therapy, which means I meet each client with empathy, respect, and authenticity. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process where you feel empowered to explore your experiences and grow at your own pace.
At Driftwood Psychotherapy, together let's create an environment where you feel heard, understood, and supported.
There are many times in our lives when we feel stuck and unable to find relief. I strive to be guiding light in your therapeutic process. I provide a safe, affirming, and supportive space for individuals navigating anxiety, depression, OCD, and trauma.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in person-centered therapy, which means I meet each client with empathy, respect, and authenticity. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process where you feel empowered to explore your experiences and grow at your own pace.
At Driftwood Psychotherapy, together let's create an environment where you feel heard, understood, and supported.
Brianna Wilson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Germantown, MD 20874
Waitlist for new clients
I am deeply passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and those experiencing symptoms related to borderline personality disorder, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions that shape how they see themselves and their experiences. “I’m too much.” “I’m too sensitive.” “I should just get over it.” These are phrases I often hear from people struggling with deep emotional pain. And emotions aren’t the problem—understanding them is the key to growth and change.
I am deeply passionate about supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and those experiencing symptoms related to borderline personality disorder, mood disorders, trauma, and substance use.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed by intense emotions that shape how they see themselves and their experiences. “I’m too much.” “I’m too sensitive.” “I should just get over it.” These are phrases I often hear from people struggling with deep emotional pain. And emotions aren’t the problem—understanding them is the key to growth and change.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in the treatment of trauma. I'm particularly passionate about working with adults processing childhood physical, sexual, emotional and mental abuse and neglect. My approach often focuses on what it means to give gratitude to all the ways our bodies and minds have learned to manage our trauma and keep us alive, while examining the cost of maintaining these habits and strategies into a safer present and future.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in the treatment of trauma. I'm particularly passionate about working with adults processing childhood physical, sexual, emotional and mental abuse and neglect. My approach often focuses on what it means to give gratitude to all the ways our bodies and minds have learned to manage our trauma and keep us alive, while examining the cost of maintaining these habits and strategies into a safer present and future.
I've seen first-hand how stigma and shame make people hesitant to seek out necessary care – particularly LGBTQ+ clients and clients who identify as disabled, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent.
My therapy style is relational and interactive. I'll bring the therapy concepts and strategies to our work - and we'll adapt them to YOUR unique identities, strengths, challenges, and environment. We can explore unhelpful patterns and ways to break them. We can process what hurts about the past or causes anxiety about the future. We can role-play conversations with a loved one - or between conflicting parts of yourself. We can try a new skill to calm your racing heart or quiet your inner critic. And we'll get meta about the therapy process itself (the "here and now"), so I can adapt my style in real time to be most supportive.
I've seen first-hand how stigma and shame make people hesitant to seek out necessary care – particularly LGBTQ+ clients and clients who identify as disabled, chronically ill, and/or neurodivergent.
My therapy style is relational and interactive. I'll bring the therapy concepts and strategies to our work - and we'll adapt them to YOUR unique identities, strengths, challenges, and environment. We can explore unhelpful patterns and ways to break them. We can process what hurts about the past or causes anxiety about the future. We can role-play conversations with a loved one - or between conflicting parts of yourself. We can try a new skill to calm your racing heart or quiet your inner critic. And we'll get meta about the therapy process itself (the "here and now"), so I can adapt my style in real time to be most supportive.
Accepting New Clients! (September 2025)
I am a holistic psychotherapist that specializes in adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and C-PTSD. Are you experiencing lingering impacts of life transitions, grief, isolation, childhood/acute trauma, or relationship issues? I will meet you where you are and develop skills to find lasting joy and resilience while facing life challenges. I am passionate about creating a space where clients can experience empowerment, safety, connection, and freedom. I strive for clients to leave sessions with a higher sense of self confidence, creativity, and agency.
Accepting New Clients! (September 2025)
I am a holistic psychotherapist that specializes in adults and adolescents experiencing depression, anxiety, ADHD, and C-PTSD. Are you experiencing lingering impacts of life transitions, grief, isolation, childhood/acute trauma, or relationship issues? I will meet you where you are and develop skills to find lasting joy and resilience while facing life challenges. I am passionate about creating a space where clients can experience empowerment, safety, connection, and freedom. I strive for clients to leave sessions with a higher sense of self confidence, creativity, and agency.
My LGBTQIA+ affirming practice honors your cultural & ethnic roots
I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and am licensed in MD, PA, and PsyPact! My ideal clients are children (5+), adolescents, and adults who are seeking a provider that truly understands their cultural context and lived experiences. They are often navigating complex challenges such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, or identity development and need a safe, bilingual space where they can express themselves fully, without having to translate their emotions or explain their background. They want a holistic approach to healing because they understand that mental health is deeply intertwined with their environment, family, and culture.
My LGBTQIA+ affirming practice honors your cultural & ethnic roots
I am bilingual (English and Spanish) and am licensed in MD, PA, and PsyPact! My ideal clients are children (5+), adolescents, and adults who are seeking a provider that truly understands their cultural context and lived experiences. They are often navigating complex challenges such as trauma, anxiety, ADHD, or identity development and need a safe, bilingual space where they can express themselves fully, without having to translate their emotions or explain their background. They want a holistic approach to healing because they understand that mental health is deeply intertwined with their environment, family, and culture.
Hello! You've taken the first step (which is the hardest), let's try to make this a bit easier. Opening up and discussing things that have been bothering you is difficult. It helps when you can be genuine and authentic without fear of judgement or criticism. I aim to help you feel seen; to feel supported in your goals and in your person-hood. Everyone deserves dignity and respect. Everyone has different needs. I aim to embrace those ideas in session. YOU are the expert on you. I am just the tool to be utilized to help you achieve the life you want.
Hello! You've taken the first step (which is the hardest), let's try to make this a bit easier. Opening up and discussing things that have been bothering you is difficult. It helps when you can be genuine and authentic without fear of judgement or criticism. I aim to help you feel seen; to feel supported in your goals and in your person-hood. Everyone deserves dignity and respect. Everyone has different needs. I aim to embrace those ideas in session. YOU are the expert on you. I am just the tool to be utilized to help you achieve the life you want.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I think of my practice as a magnifying glass, one that zooms in on feelings and beliefs that are daunting to examine but painfully hold us captive every day. Too often, we are left feeling cyclically, if not perpetually, disconnected, confused, stagnant, and dissatisfied. I strive to create a collaborative and compassionate space for you to access those vulnerable parts of yourself. I also believe in the power of relationships – ones we have with others and ourselves. In addition to examining your pains in relational terms across time, we will likely explore your needs and values and the realistic ways to fulfill and embody them.
I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I think of my practice as a magnifying glass, one that zooms in on feelings and beliefs that are daunting to examine but painfully hold us captive every day. Too often, we are left feeling cyclically, if not perpetually, disconnected, confused, stagnant, and dissatisfied. I strive to create a collaborative and compassionate space for you to access those vulnerable parts of yourself. I also believe in the power of relationships – ones we have with others and ourselves. In addition to examining your pains in relational terms across time, we will likely explore your needs and values and the realistic ways to fulfill and embody them.
Steven’s therapeutic approach is centered on reducing stigma around neurodiversity, helping clients build their wellness toolbox, and promoting disability justice in the community. As an autistic person, Steven uses the power of lived experience to normalize what it’s like to be neurodivergent. He combines Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic methods with CBT and DBT to help his clients think about their lives in the now, while also processing the past and considering the future.
Steven’s therapeutic approach is centered on reducing stigma around neurodiversity, helping clients build their wellness toolbox, and promoting disability justice in the community. As an autistic person, Steven uses the power of lived experience to normalize what it’s like to be neurodivergent. He combines Narrative Therapy and Psychodynamic methods with CBT and DBT to help his clients think about their lives in the now, while also processing the past and considering the future.
I proudly provide affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
It can feel isolating when you find yourself stuck in a place that seems impossible to change. You may struggle with relationships, difficult emotions, or the impact of past experiences on your life today. Learning more about yourself can help you feel more present, connected, and confident as you move forward. Taking that first step into therapy can be an opportunity to begin that process.
I proudly provide affirming care for LGBTQ+ individuals and communities.
It can feel isolating when you find yourself stuck in a place that seems impossible to change. You may struggle with relationships, difficult emotions, or the impact of past experiences on your life today. Learning more about yourself can help you feel more present, connected, and confident as you move forward. Taking that first step into therapy can be an opportunity to begin that process.
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.
Our clinicians see individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Washington Psychological Wellness is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor and compassion to the practice. Therapy can inspire change, create greater self-awareness and improve one's life and relationships. Our clinicians provide a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling and being. Our aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of problems, provide strategies to help you cope and empower you to trust your inner voice and live each day authentically.
Our clinicians see individuals for a range of issues including anxiety, depression, unsatisfying relationships, LGBTQ issues, overwhelming emotions, self-esteem, academic challenges, family discord, lack of motivation as well as workplace challenges.
Washington Psychological Wellness is passionate about helping people live the lives they have envisioned by bringing values of honesty, kindness, humor and compassion to the practice. Therapy can inspire change, create greater self-awareness and improve one's life and relationships. Our clinicians provide a comfortable and collaborative environment in which you can take risks and explore different ways of thinking, feeling and being. Our aim is to help you gain clarity about the underlying causes of problems, provide strategies to help you cope and empower you to trust your inner voice and live each day authentically.
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.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping individuals explore, gain insight and become the best versions of themselves. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health working with a diverse population. I am an innovative professional with outstanding therapeutic and interpersonal skills. I have a talent for motivating, teaching, supporting and effectively collaborating with individuals to meet their treatment goals. My practice centers on creating a supportive atmosphere rooted in mutual respect and open communication, allowing healing to occur.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping individuals explore, gain insight and become the best versions of themselves. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health working with a diverse population. I am an innovative professional with outstanding therapeutic and interpersonal skills. I have a talent for motivating, teaching, supporting and effectively collaborating with individuals to meet their treatment goals. My practice centers on creating a supportive atmosphere rooted in mutual respect and open communication, allowing healing to occur.
I have session times available during the day, Monday through Friday.
Are you looking for a solution-oriented, compassionate teammate to help you navigate a difficult life situation, mental health issue, or painful stressor? If you have reached the point where you realize you can't keep feeling this way, I'm here to listen, help you better define the issue and work with you at your pace to give you relief. I use a blend of therapy modalities, empathy and humor to help individuals and families recognize their strengths and understand the barriers that may be in the way of change.
I have session times available during the day, Monday through Friday.
Are you looking for a solution-oriented, compassionate teammate to help you navigate a difficult life situation, mental health issue, or painful stressor? If you have reached the point where you realize you can't keep feeling this way, I'm here to listen, help you better define the issue and work with you at your pace to give you relief. I use a blend of therapy modalities, empathy and humor to help individuals and families recognize their strengths and understand the barriers that may be in the way of change.
Life can feel exhausting when you’re carrying anxiety, sadness, self-doubt, relationship struggles, or the pressure of trying to hold everything together. Many of the people I work with come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of how to move forward. Others simply know that something needs to change, but they’re not sure where to begin. We specifically work with adolescents, men, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, adoptive and foster parents, clinicians, and healthcare workers. We understand that our identities, relationships, and life experiences shape how we move through the world.
Life can feel exhausting when you’re carrying anxiety, sadness, self-doubt, relationship struggles, or the pressure of trying to hold everything together. Many of the people I work with come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, disconnected from themselves, or unsure of how to move forward. Others simply know that something needs to change, but they’re not sure where to begin. We specifically work with adolescents, men, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, adoptive and foster parents, clinicians, and healthcare workers. We understand that our identities, relationships, and life experiences shape how we move through the world.
I have experience in inpatient mental health, outpatient mental health, and private practice settings. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor in the State of Maryland and also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. I work with clients of many mental health issues and typically work with children, adolescents, and adults. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other mental health diagnoses as well.
I have experience in inpatient mental health, outpatient mental health, and private practice settings. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor in the State of Maryland and also a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. I work with clients of many mental health issues and typically work with children, adolescents, and adults. I work primarily with clients experiencing depression, anxiety, bipolar, schizophrenia, and other mental health diagnoses as well.
I am certified in Relational Life Therapy and I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I provide walking therapy, virtual, and office based therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults and couples in communication, relational skills, healthy coping skills in an effort to improve their relationship. I also have extensive experience in assisting couples uncouple. I also specialize in working with high-risk adolescents struggling with difficult relationships, high-risk behaviors, anxiety, and depression. I am licensed in Maryland and Virginia.
I am certified in Relational Life Therapy and I am also a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Professional. I provide walking therapy, virtual, and office based therapy. I have extensive experience working with adults and couples in communication, relational skills, healthy coping skills in an effort to improve their relationship. I also have extensive experience in assisting couples uncouple. I also specialize in working with high-risk adolescents struggling with difficult relationships, high-risk behaviors, anxiety, and depression. I am licensed in Maryland and Virginia.
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
I know that asking for help can feel like a burden sometimes. Do you feel like you have to be “everything” to everyone but feel alone when your in need? Are you struggling to say “no” then resent your yes? Do you put everyone before you and then don't have enough time for you or your dreams? Do you feel “stuck” after giving so much and then realize your not making progress in your life? More often than we realize, we tend to lose ourselves giving what we don’t have while trying to manage it all; parenthood, relationships, careers, and life situations. We then become overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or stuck about our next move.
See more therapy options for Germantown
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Germantown
- Clarksburg
- Damascus
- Darnestown
- Derwood
- Gaithersburg
- Ijamsville
- Montgomery Village
- North Potomac
- Olney
- Poolesville
- Potomac
- Rockville
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.