LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Clare County, MI

Photo of Cheryl A Biddinger, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Cheryl A Biddinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CAADC
Serves Area
I offer compassionate guidance through life’s struggles. You do not have to go it alone, help is available. Do not be afraid to reach out; we all need a shoulder. Whether it be a new situation or something that has gone on for years, I am here to help. I can help you navigate the course to YOUR life worth living!
I offer compassionate guidance through life’s struggles. You do not have to go it alone, help is available. Do not be afraid to reach out; we all need a shoulder. Whether it be a new situation or something that has gone on for years, I am here to help. I can help you navigate the course to YOUR life worth living!
(989) 394-3794 View (989) 394-3794
Photo of Tanya R Stanley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Tanya R Stanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
You’ve maintained this far. You keep pushing: just one more dish, one more email, one more day until the weekend. You’re holding on by a thread and you feel ready to unravel. The typical things you do to ‘reboot’ aren’t working. You feel disconnected, off, worn incredibly thin, and are very aware that this feeling is just lurking under the surface. With years of experience in mental health and a passion for helping people regain their inner strength, you can escape that slow drowning feeling you are currently experiencing. You are the expert of your life, even if right now you feel anything but, and I can help you find that path.
You’ve maintained this far. You keep pushing: just one more dish, one more email, one more day until the weekend. You’re holding on by a thread and you feel ready to unravel. The typical things you do to ‘reboot’ aren’t working. You feel disconnected, off, worn incredibly thin, and are very aware that this feeling is just lurking under the surface. With years of experience in mental health and a passion for helping people regain their inner strength, you can escape that slow drowning feeling you are currently experiencing. You are the expert of your life, even if right now you feel anything but, and I can help you find that path.
(989) 200-4815 View (989) 200-4815
Photo of Mary Jane Blackmer, Counselor, MA, LPC
Mary Jane Blackmer
Counselor, MA, LPC
Serves Area
I believe that given the time and space to walk through their story, the client holds the solution to the issue at hand. I will listen, encourage, support, and walk with you through your story.
I believe that given the time and space to walk through their story, the client holds the solution to the issue at hand. I will listen, encourage, support, and walk with you through your story.
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Online Therapists

Photo of Sam Shump - Suppression 2 Expression Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
Suppression 2 Expression Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ASDCS
5 Endorsed
Online Only
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients! We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, OCD, trauma, chronic illness, sexual orientation and/or gender identity exploration, and more. We are best reached by email.
Many of our therapists are part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and have experienced symptoms related to neurodivergence, anxiety, and depression themselves.
Accepting New Clients! We believe that you are the master of your own life and that therapy is a joint process that we can navigate together. We are here to help you develop the tools and understanding needed to create the life you want and meet your goals. Our mission is to provide more accessible services to underserved clients. Our counselors can help with a variety of different concerns, such as struggles related to Anxiety, ADHD, Autism, Depression, OCD, trauma, chronic illness, sexual orientation and/or gender identity exploration, and more. We are best reached by email.
(616) 344-5295 View (616) 344-5295
Photo of Shannon Geneen Kelly, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MPA, LCDC
Shannon Geneen Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, MPA, LCDC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
LGBTQ+ affirming.
I work with women carrying more than anyone sees, complex trauma, PTSD, and the anxiety that comes from holding it all together. ADHD that went undiagnosed for decades. Burnout. Grief. Life transitions: divorce, empty nest, major identity shifts. Performing fine on the outside while the inside tells a completely different story.
LGBTQ+ affirming.
I work with women carrying more than anyone sees, complex trauma, PTSD, and the anxiety that comes from holding it all together. ADHD that went undiagnosed for decades. Burnout. Grief. Life transitions: divorce, empty nest, major identity shifts. Performing fine on the outside while the inside tells a completely different story.
(269) 225-3737 View (269) 225-3737
Photo of Katelyn Lutey-Falkey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Katelyn Lutey-Falkey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
2 Endorsed
Linden, MI 48451
Waitlist for new clients
I am a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor with experience helping adolescents, teens and adults through their experiences of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self harm, grief and loss, relationship issues, divorce, trauma, chronic illness, healthy boundaries, and LGBTQIA+ topics.
My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of my client's experience. Since everyone faces unique challenges, I use a combination of evidence based approaches to best meet the clients unique needs. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and judgment free environment where my client can be their authentic self.
I am a dedicated and compassionate licensed professional counselor with experience helping adolescents, teens and adults through their experiences of anxiety, depression, self-esteem, self harm, grief and loss, relationship issues, divorce, trauma, chronic illness, healthy boundaries, and LGBTQIA+ topics.
My approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep understanding of my client's experience. Since everyone faces unique challenges, I use a combination of evidence based approaches to best meet the clients unique needs. As a therapist, I strive to create a safe and judgment free environment where my client can be their authentic self.
(810) 246-4899 View (810) 246-4899
Photo of Ryver Maddern, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MA
Ryver Maddern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, MA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My pronouns are they/them and I love helping queer people including exploring Gender Identity, Sexuality, and processing Religious & Complex Trauma.
Clients continue to confirm that having a therapist who understands their perspective as a queer person has made a huge difference in their therapy experience. I have experience assessing and providing support for Anxiety, Depression, C-PTSD, OCD, Autism, and ADHD.
My pronouns are they/them and I love helping queer people including exploring Gender Identity, Sexuality, and processing Religious & Complex Trauma.
Clients continue to confirm that having a therapist who understands their perspective as a queer person has made a huge difference in their therapy experience. I have experience assessing and providing support for Anxiety, Depression, C-PTSD, OCD, Autism, and ADHD.
(616) 739-6535 View (616) 739-6535
Photo of Kriston Nixon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kriston Nixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am a part of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, a feminist, and neurodivergent, and I hope to create safety for you by sharing.
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, desires, and even fears. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I am licensed to practice in Virginia, Michigan, and Maine!
I am a part of the LGBTQIA+ community myself, a feminist, and neurodivergent, and I hope to create safety for you by sharing.
I use a collaborative approach with my clients to develop and work toward their personal goals. I offer a safe and inclusive space for my clients to explore their identities, relationships, needs, desires, and even fears. I have experiences working with adults, adolescents, children, couples, and families. I am licensed to practice in Virginia, Michigan, and Maine!
(757) 267-9759 View (757) 267-9759
Photo of Amy Duffy-Barnes - Heartstone Guidance Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Heartstone Guidance Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
27 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Heartstone Guidance Center is a group of neurodivergent therapists offering neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA-affirming, and culturally aware therapy services.
As neurodivergent therapists, we can offer you lived experience and a safe space where you can enter therapy as yourself unmasked and unashamed. We have years of experience offering children, teens, adults, and families nonjudgemental support. We specialize in Neurodivergence - Autism, ADHD, DID, OCD, LGBTQIA support, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, etc.
Heartstone Guidance Center is a group of neurodivergent therapists offering neurodiversity affirming, LGBTQIA-affirming, and culturally aware therapy services.
As neurodivergent therapists, we can offer you lived experience and a safe space where you can enter therapy as yourself unmasked and unashamed. We have years of experience offering children, teens, adults, and families nonjudgemental support. We specialize in Neurodivergence - Autism, ADHD, DID, OCD, LGBTQIA support, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, etc.
(616) 984-1023 View (616) 984-1023
Photo of Janelle Uganski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Janelle Uganski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Online Only
I am passionate about working with late teens, young adults, and adult women. I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, burnout, low self-worth, perfectionism, and body image. I specialize in treating college students, helping professionals, and those who are navigating stressful life transitions. Many of my clients starting out would describe themselves as “people pleasers” with overachieving tendencies who are ready to let go of these behaviors and are seeking balance in their lives.
I am passionate about working with late teens, young adults, and adult women. I work with people who are struggling with anxiety, trauma, burnout, low self-worth, perfectionism, and body image. I specialize in treating college students, helping professionals, and those who are navigating stressful life transitions. Many of my clients starting out would describe themselves as “people pleasers” with overachieving tendencies who are ready to let go of these behaviors and are seeking balance in their lives.
(231) 277-0128 View (231) 277-0128
Photo of Susan Thomas, Master Social Worker, MSW, LLMSW, ThM
Susan Thomas
Master Social Worker, MSW, LLMSW, ThM
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Their own path—as adoptee, queer, gender non-conforming person, hospice chaplain, pastor, caregiver, and even race car driver—has taught them to be inclusive of all persons and to be present with people through challenging times.
They have a particular passion for supporting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, neurodivergent adults, crip folx, caregivers, anyone experiencing challenging seasons & being an ENM-poly ally. Susan offers life coaching & spiritual direction to support individuals in their search for meaning, spiritual exploration, and the development of mindful/spiritual practices.
Their own path—as adoptee, queer, gender non-conforming person, hospice chaplain, pastor, caregiver, and even race car driver—has taught them to be inclusive of all persons and to be present with people through challenging times.
They have a particular passion for supporting LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, neurodivergent adults, crip folx, caregivers, anyone experiencing challenging seasons & being an ENM-poly ally. Susan offers life coaching & spiritual direction to support individuals in their search for meaning, spiritual exploration, and the development of mindful/spiritual practices.
(231) 886-3956 View (231) 886-3956
Photo of Domenica Dalla-Vecchia, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Domenica Dalla-Vecchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Okemos, MI 48864
Domenica is an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist therapist dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ folks as they navigate the unique challenges they face, including issues related to identity, self-esteem, family dynamics, and social acceptance.
Domenica has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, chronic illness, and trauma. Domenica utilizes a mixed methods approach, including CBT, TFCBT, DBT, MI, and ERP. Domenica has specialized experience and interest in working with student athletes.
Domenica is an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist therapist dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+ folks as they navigate the unique challenges they face, including issues related to identity, self-esteem, family dynamics, and social acceptance.
Domenica has experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, OCD, chronic illness, and trauma. Domenica utilizes a mixed methods approach, including CBT, TFCBT, DBT, MI, and ERP. Domenica has specialized experience and interest in working with student athletes.
(517) 997-1446 View (517) 997-1446
Photo of Caitlin M. Thompson, Counselor, MA, CRC, NCC, LPC
Caitlin M. Thompson
Counselor, MA, CRC, NCC, LPC
East Lansing, MI 48823
My specialization includes assisting adults experiencing challenges of all types: be that physical, mental, psychiatric, developmental, cognitive, intellectual, chronic illness, etc. This may be a personal or indirect experience currently affecting you. We will work together to reflect on and overcome barriers in an empathetic and nurturing environment. We will take the time to grieve any loss, reflect on how things have changed and current frustrations, appreciate where you are now, and work together to find solutions or strategies that work for you and move you towards a better outlook and life.
My specialization includes assisting adults experiencing challenges of all types: be that physical, mental, psychiatric, developmental, cognitive, intellectual, chronic illness, etc. This may be a personal or indirect experience currently affecting you. We will work together to reflect on and overcome barriers in an empathetic and nurturing environment. We will take the time to grieve any loss, reflect on how things have changed and current frustrations, appreciate where you are now, and work together to find solutions or strategies that work for you and move you towards a better outlook and life.
(517) 295-3488 View (517) 295-3488
Photo of Teresita I Jamett-Yount - Love and Healing Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Love and Healing Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Burton, MI 48509
Love and Healing Therapy provides a safe place for clients to learn skills for dealing with today and the future. Sometimes it is not easy to be in present day if we are carrying around the past. Many have been taught to put on the mask and all will be well. Sometimes we need help to let the mask fall and see the real person.
Love and Healing Therapy provides a safe place for clients to learn skills for dealing with today and the future. Sometimes it is not easy to be in present day if we are carrying around the past. Many have been taught to put on the mask and all will be well. Sometimes we need help to let the mask fall and see the real person.
(810) 644-8464 View (810) 644-8464
Photo of Sarah Kamba, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Sarah Kamba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
Trauma leaves us vulnerable, sensitive, and struggling to trust. Often, you may feel as though if you want to belong, you can never be your true-self. Your body holds onto your experiences long after the events have passed. Trauma often causes you to wear a mask - to keep your true self safe and hidden. But if you feel suffocated, lost and disconnected - confused about who you are - you are welcome here in every way. I specialize in trauma work and child-parent attachment to help individuals and families who are struggling with connection to lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Trauma leaves us vulnerable, sensitive, and struggling to trust. Often, you may feel as though if you want to belong, you can never be your true-self. Your body holds onto your experiences long after the events have passed. Trauma often causes you to wear a mask - to keep your true self safe and hidden. But if you feel suffocated, lost and disconnected - confused about who you are - you are welcome here in every way. I specialize in trauma work and child-parent attachment to help individuals and families who are struggling with connection to lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
(616) 947-8452 View (616) 947-8452
Photo of Sarah Clymer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Sarah Clymer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Kentwood, MI 49512
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma, grief & loss, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I approach my work as a collaborator, always remembering that YOU are the only expert in your experience. I believe it is an honor to be trusted to walk alongside you in your healing journey. Although I practice EMDR and other modalities, I embrace a client-centered approach and work with you to find what will be most helpful.
I specialize in trauma, grief & loss, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I approach my work as a collaborator, always remembering that YOU are the only expert in your experience. I believe it is an honor to be trusted to walk alongside you in your healing journey. Although I practice EMDR and other modalities, I embrace a client-centered approach and work with you to find what will be most helpful.
(616) 779-8876 View (616) 779-8876
Photo of Anya Nyson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Anya Nyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Traverse City, MI 49686
From the outside, you look like you’re managing—but inside, you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Joy is rare, rest feels guilty, and self-doubt shows up daily. Maybe you scroll on your phone, overthink, or numb out with food, shows, your distraction of choice—yet nothing brings real relief. You wonder if your struggles are “bad enough” for therapy, but deep down, you know something isn’t working.
From the outside, you look like you’re managing—but inside, you feel anxious, overwhelmed, and exhausted. Joy is rare, rest feels guilty, and self-doubt shows up daily. Maybe you scroll on your phone, overthink, or numb out with food, shows, your distraction of choice—yet nothing brings real relief. You wonder if your struggles are “bad enough” for therapy, but deep down, you know something isn’t working.
(231) 597-7675 View (231) 597-7675
Photo of Shanty Robbennolt, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCS
Shanty Robbennolt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, CCS
1 Endorsed
Lansing, MI 48917
When stressors, anxiety, relationship issues, life-changes, or past experiences become overwhelming, it's easy to feel stuck or alone. You may find yourself emotionally exhausted, disconnected from others, caught in recurring conflicts, coping in unhealthy ways, avoiding life, or even just feeling unsure of how to move forward. I provide a space for you to slow down, gain clarity, and develop healthier ways of navigating these struggles. We'll work together to build you greater self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with who you want to be.
When stressors, anxiety, relationship issues, life-changes, or past experiences become overwhelming, it's easy to feel stuck or alone. You may find yourself emotionally exhausted, disconnected from others, caught in recurring conflicts, coping in unhealthy ways, avoiding life, or even just feeling unsure of how to move forward. I provide a space for you to slow down, gain clarity, and develop healthier ways of navigating these struggles. We'll work together to build you greater self-awareness, strengthen coping skills, improve relationships, and create a life that feels more balanced, meaningful, and aligned with who you want to be.
(517) 221-9522 View (517) 221-9522
Photo of Jeffrey Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Jeffrey Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Online Only
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting individuals across the lifespan, with specialized expertise in working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. I am committed to empowering clients to achieve emotional well-being, mental clarity, and personal growth.
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist dedicated to supporting individuals across the lifespan, with specialized expertise in working with children, adolescents, young adults, couples, and families. I am committed to empowering clients to achieve emotional well-being, mental clarity, and personal growth.
(616) 374-2099 View (616) 374-2099
Photo of Kendra Avila, Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Kendra Avila
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
7 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
As a Mindfulness Therapist, I believe in a personalized and inclusive approach to counseling. I combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with techniques like Mindfulness, Hypnotherapy, Meditation, to create a unique treatment plan for you. Together, we'll work at your own pace to improve your mental health and well-being. Are you curious about how holistic therapy can help you build emotional resilience and effectively manage stress?
As a Mindfulness Therapist, I believe in a personalized and inclusive approach to counseling. I combine Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with techniques like Mindfulness, Hypnotherapy, Meditation, to create a unique treatment plan for you. Together, we'll work at your own pace to improve your mental health and well-being. Are you curious about how holistic therapy can help you build emotional resilience and effectively manage stress?
(616) 537-2863 View (616) 537-2863

See more therapy options for Clare County

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.