LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Douglas, MI

Photo of Mark Nania, Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Mark Nania
Counselor, MA, LLPC, NCC
Serves Area
Hello there. It can be hard to know where to turn to for help or who to trust, and just as hard to ask for help in the world that we live in. Sometimes life can be uncertain, difficult or scary. You don't have to face life alone. As someone who is a full-time wheelchair user, I have learned the importance of having hope, working towards one’s goals and facing life’s challenges head on. We'll work together to reach your goals in a warm, open, safe, and nonjudgmental environment.
Hello there. It can be hard to know where to turn to for help or who to trust, and just as hard to ask for help in the world that we live in. Sometimes life can be uncertain, difficult or scary. You don't have to face life alone. As someone who is a full-time wheelchair user, I have learned the importance of having hope, working towards one’s goals and facing life’s challenges head on. We'll work together to reach your goals in a warm, open, safe, and nonjudgmental environment.
(616) 326-3379 View (616) 326-3379
Photo of Kelsey Enriquez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Kelsey Enriquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Life can be challenging; there are moments of happiness, sadness and everything in-between. Managing complex emotions on your own can be overwhelming. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your emotions by using the tools you already have, but may not have tapped into quite yet. Through collaboration we can navigate your past, present and future. Together we will create a safe space for you to thrive within.
Life can be challenging; there are moments of happiness, sadness and everything in-between. Managing complex emotions on your own can be overwhelming. Together, we’ll create a safe space to explore your emotions by using the tools you already have, but may not have tapped into quite yet. Through collaboration we can navigate your past, present and future. Together we will create a safe space for you to thrive within.
(616) 737-0270 View (616) 737-0270
Photo of Mark Smaller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Mark Smaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD
Douglas, MI 49406
As a psychoanalyst with 40+ years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, parents, and couples, individuals often to come see me when they have reached the limit of how families, parents, friends, teachers, and colleagues can help. People with whom I have worked have taught me how being understood and responded to regarding interpersonal concerns, conflicts, and crises, can help them move forward in their lives. Just as with chronic physical pain, no one deserves to live with chronic emotional pain. Therapy, as I practice it, is based upon a collaborative effort to alleviate such pain and move forward.
As a psychoanalyst with 40+ years of experience working with adults, adolescents, children, parents, and couples, individuals often to come see me when they have reached the limit of how families, parents, friends, teachers, and colleagues can help. People with whom I have worked have taught me how being understood and responded to regarding interpersonal concerns, conflicts, and crises, can help them move forward in their lives. Just as with chronic physical pain, no one deserves to live with chronic emotional pain. Therapy, as I practice it, is based upon a collaborative effort to alleviate such pain and move forward.
(312) 548-1276 View (312) 548-1276
Photo of Kate Smaller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
Kate Smaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, MEd
1 Endorsed
Douglas, MI 49406
You deserve a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and start finding your way back to yourself. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, or just feeling stuck, therapy can help you reconnect with your strength and sense of direction. I take a warm, thoughtful, and collaborative approach—one that goes beyond surface fixes to help you understand what’s happening underneath. When we make sense of your patterns and experiences together, real change becomes possible—change that holds.
You deserve a space where you can slow down, feel understood, and start finding your way back to yourself. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, relationship challenges, burnout, or just feeling stuck, therapy can help you reconnect with your strength and sense of direction. I take a warm, thoughtful, and collaborative approach—one that goes beyond surface fixes to help you understand what’s happening underneath. When we make sense of your patterns and experiences together, real change becomes possible—change that holds.
(269) 231-8404 View (269) 231-8404
Photo of Sara Ruiter, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
Sara Ruiter
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Douglas, MI 49406
Not accepting new clients
With over 20 years of dedicated experience supporting youth, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community across three continents, I’ve learned one profound truth: no matter the struggle, hope is always within reach.
Our work will begin by exploring painful areas in your life. We will investigate them gently, respectfully and with a keen awareness of any unresolved trauma and the mind-body connection. We will also discover and practice (imperfectly) new skills aimed at growth and healing. Together we will discover the wealth of resources that already exist inside of you.
With over 20 years of dedicated experience supporting youth, women, and the LGBTQIA+ community across three continents, I’ve learned one profound truth: no matter the struggle, hope is always within reach.
Our work will begin by exploring painful areas in your life. We will investigate them gently, respectfully and with a keen awareness of any unresolved trauma and the mind-body connection. We will also discover and practice (imperfectly) new skills aimed at growth and healing. Together we will discover the wealth of resources that already exist inside of you.
(269) 421-6307 View (269) 421-6307

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ash Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Ash Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Hudsonville, MI 49426
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer, trans therapist, my work is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and authenticity.
I support teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals navigating identity, trauma, anxiety, faith, and life transitions. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, I offer a warm, affirming space to explore your story, build resilience, and reconnect with your authentic self.
As a queer, trans therapist, my work is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and authenticity.
I support teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ individuals navigating identity, trauma, anxiety, faith, and life transitions. Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or just need someone to talk to, I offer a warm, affirming space to explore your story, build resilience, and reconnect with your authentic self.
(616) 779-8230 x728 View (616) 779-8230 x728
Photo of Kayla Vander Haar, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MI, LPCC-OH
Kayla Vander Haar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MI, LPCC-OH
4 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with couples & providing individual EMDR trauma therapy. EMDR therapy is incredible at healing old wounds & reducing the emotional charge around trauma. Relationships can be incredibly rewarding & incredibly hard. I specialize in helping partners and also polyamorous constellations slow down, really hear each other, and build the kind of relationship that feels safe, supportive, & aligned. I also work with couples about to move in together or get married in starting out with healthy foundations. Think, pre-marital therapy without any religion involved.
I specialize in working with couples & providing individual EMDR trauma therapy. EMDR therapy is incredible at healing old wounds & reducing the emotional charge around trauma. Relationships can be incredibly rewarding & incredibly hard. I specialize in helping partners and also polyamorous constellations slow down, really hear each other, and build the kind of relationship that feels safe, supportive, & aligned. I also work with couples about to move in together or get married in starting out with healthy foundations. Think, pre-marital therapy without any religion involved.
(616) 213-0044 View (616) 213-0044
Photo of Taylor Bowie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, LGSW
Taylor Bowie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW, LGSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Waitlist Specializing in complex trauma (CPTSD) and mood + personality disorders, specifically borderline and BPD, I work with individuals aged 15+ and couples. I am an effective, educational, honest and unmasked clinical social worker. I am equally warm, kind, empathetic and non judgmental. While a diagnosis offers a framework to understand you, I take a trauma resolution + interpersonal neurobiology approach that focuses on you and your goals for change. I am flexible in structure but guided in change. Therapy is a collaborative experience and the goal is you learning enough to be the same expert I am, just over yourself.
Waitlist Specializing in complex trauma (CPTSD) and mood + personality disorders, specifically borderline and BPD, I work with individuals aged 15+ and couples. I am an effective, educational, honest and unmasked clinical social worker. I am equally warm, kind, empathetic and non judgmental. While a diagnosis offers a framework to understand you, I take a trauma resolution + interpersonal neurobiology approach that focuses on you and your goals for change. I am flexible in structure but guided in change. Therapy is a collaborative experience and the goal is you learning enough to be the same expert I am, just over yourself.
(616) 727-8231 View (616) 727-8231
Photo of Taryn Sinclaire, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Taryn Sinclaire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. I get to help you add those tools to your toolbox. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
I enjoy working with clients who are up for a little work and challenge. I have a strong belief in the idea that therapy isn't something that is done to us, but rather something we must take an active role in to see any true progress. I view therapy as another way to add more tools to our toolbox in an effort to better ourselves. I get to help you add those tools to your toolbox. My goal is that by working together, you will learn things in a manner that allows you to function at your best regardless of what life throws at you.
(616) 681-5970 View (616) 681-5970
Photo of Amy Duffy-Barnes - Heartstone Guidance Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Heartstone Guidance Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
27 Endorsed
Serves Area
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 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 Alyse Meadows, Counselor, MA, LLC
Alyse Meadows
Counselor, MA, LLC
5 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or like you’re facing life’s challenges all on your own? Whether it’s struggles with self-acceptance, relationships, executive dysfunction, grief, or navigating big life changes, it can feel exhausting to carry it all by yourself. But reaching out for support is such a brave step, and therapy can be a powerful way to find healing and clarity. Starting therapy might feel intimidating, and that’s okay—it’s a meaningful act of self-care and growth. By showing up here, you’ve already taken a big step forward, and I’d be honored to walk with you on your journey.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, or like you’re facing life’s challenges all on your own? Whether it’s struggles with self-acceptance, relationships, executive dysfunction, grief, or navigating big life changes, it can feel exhausting to carry it all by yourself. But reaching out for support is such a brave step, and therapy can be a powerful way to find healing and clarity. Starting therapy might feel intimidating, and that’s okay—it’s a meaningful act of self-care and growth. By showing up here, you’ve already taken a big step forward, and I’d be honored to walk with you on your journey.
(616) 585-0138 View (616) 585-0138
Photo of Taylor Vanderlaan, Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
Taylor Vanderlaan
Pre-Licensed Professional, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
We all want to experience life to the fullest without allowing what has been done to us get in the way. My name is Taylor and I have seven years of experience as a social worker. My work includes addressing childhood trauma, navigating family issues, discussing issues related to your sexual/gender identity, and athlete mental health. My focus is with teens, and adults; addressing their challenges and identify what is affecting their lives.
We all want to experience life to the fullest without allowing what has been done to us get in the way. My name is Taylor and I have seven years of experience as a social worker. My work includes addressing childhood trauma, navigating family issues, discussing issues related to your sexual/gender identity, and athlete mental health. My focus is with teens, and adults; addressing their challenges and identify what is affecting their lives.
(616) 867-0464 View (616) 867-0464
Photo of Fern Pinkston - Bespoke Healing, Psychologist, PsyD
Bespoke Healing
Psychologist, PsyD
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
We work with folks of all identities, but we specialize in offering therapy to queer folks and their loved ones.
Now seeing clients in Michigan! When we're feeling the weight of the world, it's a good time to have some extra support in our corner. At Bespoke Healing, we like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. We know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways to improve their relationships and quality of life. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
We work with folks of all identities, but we specialize in offering therapy to queer folks and their loved ones.
Now seeing clients in Michigan! When we're feeling the weight of the world, it's a good time to have some extra support in our corner. At Bespoke Healing, we like to form connections with folks that feel supportive, brave, and most of all, REAL. We know therapy is going well when we see folks begin to step out in new ways to improve their relationships and quality of life. We find it fruitful to explore how past traumas show up in current relationships, and our therapists are active in session as part of our relational style. We also help folks befriend their bodies as an important resource.
(773) 902-0512 View (773) 902-0512
Photo of Max Malave, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Max Malave
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
1 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
My passion to work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, & adolescents & young adults stems from wanting to provide the therapy & be that person I wish I could have had growing up. Being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, I strive to make an inclusive environment for all clients that I see. I hope to provide a trusting & nonjudgmental environment to challenge & also work alongside you to see the growth & progress that you may be seeking.
My passion to work with the LGBTQIA2S+ community, & adolescents & young adults stems from wanting to provide the therapy & be that person I wish I could have had growing up. Being part of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, I strive to make an inclusive environment for all clients that I see. I hope to provide a trusting & nonjudgmental environment to challenge & also work alongside you to see the growth & progress that you may be seeking.
(616) 345-2860 View (616) 345-2860
Photo of Parke Smith - Charleston Counseling, MS, PC, SOTP
Charleston Counseling
Verified Verified
Wyoming, MI 49519
Are you seeking a compassionate therapist who understands your unique needs? If you’ve survived a difficult past, you might feel disconnected from yourself or the world around you. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed by feelings or memories. Many people even blame themselves for what happened. Fortunately, there are approaches that can help you not only feel like yourself again but also gain the confidence to pursue your dreams. I specialize in treating PTSD, whether it’s caused by sexual abuse, domestic violence, combat, or other difficult experiences. You can get back to a more peaceful and enjoyable life.
Are you seeking a compassionate therapist who understands your unique needs? If you’ve survived a difficult past, you might feel disconnected from yourself or the world around you. Perhaps you’re overwhelmed by feelings or memories. Many people even blame themselves for what happened. Fortunately, there are approaches that can help you not only feel like yourself again but also gain the confidence to pursue your dreams. I specialize in treating PTSD, whether it’s caused by sexual abuse, domestic violence, combat, or other difficult experiences. You can get back to a more peaceful and enjoyable life.
(843) 612-1062 View (843) 612-1062
Photo of August Crowley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
August Crowley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Grandville, MI 49418
I am trained in play therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and am trained in writing letters of Support for trans folks and working primarily with the 2S- LGBTQ community.
My ideal client and those I serve best are people who struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, and OCD. I love helping people find their authentic self and invite in the peace and calm we all need right now. I provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals of all ages, races, sexual orientations, genders, and more, and I provide a space of safety and empathy. My number one priority in therapy is the human I'm working with and how they feel in our sessions.
I am trained in play therapy, family therapy, couples therapy, and am trained in writing letters of Support for trans folks and working primarily with the 2S- LGBTQ community.
My ideal client and those I serve best are people who struggle with anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, ADHD, Autism, and OCD. I love helping people find their authentic self and invite in the peace and calm we all need right now. I provide individual therapy, couples therapy, and family therapy. I have worked with individuals of all ages, races, sexual orientations, genders, and more, and I provide a space of safety and empathy. My number one priority in therapy is the human I'm working with and how they feel in our sessions.
(616) 439-2903 View (616) 439-2903
Photo of Ryan N Kron, PhD, MS, BA
Ryan N Kron
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grandville, MI 49418
I help parents, couples, LGBTQ+, high achievers, athletes, trauma +.
Be Your BEST Self! Make the best of your life through my multisystemic reciprocal determinism (MRD) program for whole life health & wellness. Whether it's resolving trauma (PTSD), abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction, divorce, grief & loss, mood, perspective OR you're a high achieving individual fine tuning your quality of life, my MRD program strengthens MIND & BODY. Make the good better; resolve the negative. You are worthy. You are deserving. You matter. If you've tried therapy before or think therapy is pointless, try MRD. This is not just sit and talk therapy. This is multisystemic, wholistic, full mind and body improvement.
I help parents, couples, LGBTQ+, high achievers, athletes, trauma +.
Be Your BEST Self! Make the best of your life through my multisystemic reciprocal determinism (MRD) program for whole life health & wellness. Whether it's resolving trauma (PTSD), abuse, anxiety, depression, addiction, divorce, grief & loss, mood, perspective OR you're a high achieving individual fine tuning your quality of life, my MRD program strengthens MIND & BODY. Make the good better; resolve the negative. You are worthy. You are deserving. You matter. If you've tried therapy before or think therapy is pointless, try MRD. This is not just sit and talk therapy. This is multisystemic, wholistic, full mind and body improvement.
(616) 344-9081 View (616) 344-9081
Photo of Bradley Redeker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
Bradley Redeker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MDiv
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in helping those going through significant life events and discernment, individuals who experience depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, as well as those who identify as LGBTQIA.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be a powerful treatment for PTSD, anxiety, grief, performance improvement, depression and many other conditions—I highly recommend this approach. I also offer more traditional approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and like to incorporate solution focused techniques.
I specialize in helping those going through significant life events and discernment, individuals who experience depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, as well as those who identify as LGBTQIA.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), which can be a powerful treatment for PTSD, anxiety, grief, performance improvement, depression and many other conditions—I highly recommend this approach. I also offer more traditional approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and like to incorporate solution focused techniques.
(616) 310-4885 View (616) 310-4885
Photo of Mia Flynn, Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
Mia Flynn
Limited Licensed Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Wyoming, MI 49519
I have a special interest in working with those impacted by early life and identity-based experiences (e.g., unhealthy family systems, LGBTQ+ community, folks managing ADHD).
My approach to therapy centers on building a collaborative, honest relationship where clients are invited to show up genuinely as themselves. To me, there is nothing more important than the therapeutic relationship, which means I value the input of my clients, where they want to focus, and how we can work together to get you where you want to be.
I have a special interest in working with those impacted by early life and identity-based experiences (e.g., unhealthy family systems, LGBTQ+ community, folks managing ADHD).
My approach to therapy centers on building a collaborative, honest relationship where clients are invited to show up genuinely as themselves. To me, there is nothing more important than the therapeutic relationship, which means I value the input of my clients, where they want to focus, and how we can work together to get you where you want to be.
(616) 883-2396 View (616) 883-2396

See more therapy options for Douglas

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.