LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Gobles, MI

Shelbey Watson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
Hi there! I'm delighted you've discovered me on your quest for a therapist. As an experienced practitioner specializing in trauma-focused therapy, particularly with children and families, my mission is to provide a safe space for healing and growth. My approach is deeply rooted in understanding the intricate connections between past experience and present struggles. Through a trauma-informed lens, I guide my clients on a journey of self-discovery, helping them unravel the complexities of their emotions and behaviors. Through my tailored therapy sessions, clients will be met with compassion and validation. Welcome!
(269) 399-6189 View (269) 399-6189
Serenity Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also committed to supporting young LGBTQ individuals become empowered and assist with the dialogue unique to their circumstances.
Compassion and supportive listening is often missing when going through difficult circumstances. People sometimes feel alone and don't know where to turn. I consider it a privilege to offer a safe place for individuals facing adversity to explore their strengths and areas of needed growth. Understanding that communicating past hurtful events, thoughts and feelings can leave one feeling vulnerable. I strive to create a safe judgement free environment where people can develop a deeper understanding of self and help them gain the tools they need to create the life they desire. Motivated clients who are willing to work will succeed.
I am also committed to supporting young LGBTQ individuals become empowered and assist with the dialogue unique to their circumstances.
Compassion and supportive listening is often missing when going through difficult circumstances. People sometimes feel alone and don't know where to turn. I consider it a privilege to offer a safe place for individuals facing adversity to explore their strengths and areas of needed growth. Understanding that communicating past hurtful events, thoughts and feelings can leave one feeling vulnerable. I strive to create a safe judgement free environment where people can develop a deeper understanding of self and help them gain the tools they need to create the life they desire. Motivated clients who are willing to work will succeed.
(269) 248-3122 View (269) 248-3122
Stephanie Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping people through difficult times.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a passion for helping people through difficult times.
(269) 442-4492 View (269) 442-4492

More Therapists Nearby

Emmett Lincoln
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
Waitlist for new clients
As an openly trans man, I know how hard life can be for any member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Therapy with me is built upon genuine connection and collaboration. My goal is to listen with deep empathy and to build trust. We'll explore together to find a path that works well for you so you can achieve lasting healing. I'm committed to providing trauma-informed affirmative care that respects your identity and experiences.
As an openly trans man, I know how hard life can be for any member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Therapy with me is built upon genuine connection and collaboration. My goal is to listen with deep empathy and to build trust. We'll explore together to find a path that works well for you so you can achieve lasting healing. I'm committed to providing trauma-informed affirmative care that respects your identity and experiences.
(269) 575-6685 View (269) 575-6685
Jude Tantay, Integrated EMDR Therapist
Master Social Worker, LLMSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
A queer, trans, second-generation Filipina-American.
My work lives where healing becomes a story again. With EMDR, Narrative Therapy, ACT, and harm-reduction, I walk beside you as you give language to what the world tried to quiet. Together we name what hurts, tend what endures, and write a new path for freedom, one built from breath, truth, and becoming.
A queer, trans, second-generation Filipina-American.
My work lives where healing becomes a story again. With EMDR, Narrative Therapy, ACT, and harm-reduction, I walk beside you as you give language to what the world tried to quiet. Together we name what hurts, tend what endures, and write a new path for freedom, one built from breath, truth, and becoming.
(734) 215-3283 View (734) 215-3283
Margarethe Kerlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, ADHD-CC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
You are stronger than you realize. Taking a step toward your mental well-being is an act of courage, and I honor the strength it took to get here. This is a space where you are fully seen, deeply heard, and genuinely valued. You deserve to show up as your authentic self without fear or judgment. You will not walk this journey alone. I will be with you every step of the way. With a heart-centered approach, I will meet you where you are with compassion, empathy, and steady support. This space celebrates your story, your resilience, and everything that makes you beautifully human.
You are stronger than you realize. Taking a step toward your mental well-being is an act of courage, and I honor the strength it took to get here. This is a space where you are fully seen, deeply heard, and genuinely valued. You deserve to show up as your authentic self without fear or judgment. You will not walk this journey alone. I will be with you every step of the way. With a heart-centered approach, I will meet you where you are with compassion, empathy, and steady support. This space celebrates your story, your resilience, and everything that makes you beautifully human.
(269) 256-2456 View (269) 256-2456
Kristina Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
I'm knowledgeable about queer, trans, women's issues, and neurodivergence.
Hi, I'm Kristina (she/they)! My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with the knowledge and tools to heal and make positive, lasting changes in their lives. The first step is creating a safe, affirming, and inclusive environment for them to grow in. I'm here to offer that environment and to create a therapy experience unique to you and your (or your child's) needs. My practice focuses on the impact of trauma, and empowering clients toward their treatment goals. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, and utilize additional elements of CBT, DBT, art and play therapy.
I'm knowledgeable about queer, trans, women's issues, and neurodivergence.
Hi, I'm Kristina (she/they)! My goal as a therapist is to provide my clients with the knowledge and tools to heal and make positive, lasting changes in their lives. The first step is creating a safe, affirming, and inclusive environment for them to grow in. I'm here to offer that environment and to create a therapy experience unique to you and your (or your child's) needs. My practice focuses on the impact of trauma, and empowering clients toward their treatment goals. I work with children, adolescents, and adults. I am trained in Trauma-Focused CBT, and utilize additional elements of CBT, DBT, art and play therapy.
(616) 236-6756 View (616) 236-6756
Katie Vanderweide
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with women and couples. My clients are often starting to question long-held expectations about who they should be and how they should live, and are ready to make more intentional choices in their daily lives and relationships. They may be experiencing anxiety, grief or loss, self-doubt, overthinking, depression, or relationship concerns such as boundaries and communication. I also have a unique professional interest in working with individuals and couples who have been impacted by "purity culture" and have experienced religious and/or spiritual hurt.
I work with women and couples. My clients are often starting to question long-held expectations about who they should be and how they should live, and are ready to make more intentional choices in their daily lives and relationships. They may be experiencing anxiety, grief or loss, self-doubt, overthinking, depression, or relationship concerns such as boundaries and communication. I also have a unique professional interest in working with individuals and couples who have been impacted by "purity culture" and have experienced religious and/or spiritual hurt.
(616) 441-3216 View (616) 441-3216
Christina Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAGCS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
We might be a good fit if you're looking to work on: Anxieties about life or the world, healing trauma, negative self-talk/thoughts, relationship dynamics like communication & attachment, addressing religious trauma, exploring queer identity, coping with chronic illness, executive functioning tools for ADHD or guidance through grief and times of change.
Sometimes we need treatment and sometimes we need support. Whatever your path, you deserve wellness and worth. Come Find It. We start wherever you're at and explore issues with a solution focused outlook that includes goal setting and skill development specific to every unique client. I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find healing, balance & stability within many areas of life including self-worth, relationships, career/school, identity, grief, and mental health symptom management. Let's work together to find your peace.
We might be a good fit if you're looking to work on: Anxieties about life or the world, healing trauma, negative self-talk/thoughts, relationship dynamics like communication & attachment, addressing religious trauma, exploring queer identity, coping with chronic illness, executive functioning tools for ADHD or guidance through grief and times of change.
Sometimes we need treatment and sometimes we need support. Whatever your path, you deserve wellness and worth. Come Find It. We start wherever you're at and explore issues with a solution focused outlook that includes goal setting and skill development specific to every unique client. I take a holistic whole health approach to help those looking to find healing, balance & stability within many areas of life including self-worth, relationships, career/school, identity, grief, and mental health symptom management. Let's work together to find your peace.
(231) 216-6174 View (231) 216-6174
Libby Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I work with young children and their families who are facing challenges with anxiety, OCD, self-esteem, difficulty expressing emotions, life changes/transitions and childhood trauma. I utilize a combination of play and talk therapy to empower children and their caregivers to reach their unique goals. I am trained in PCIT, which is designed to decrease problem behaviors in young children (ages 2-5), while increasing positive interactions by enhancing warmth and connection in the parent-child relationship. My client-centered approach will ensure that you feel supported every step of the way!
I work with young children and their families who are facing challenges with anxiety, OCD, self-esteem, difficulty expressing emotions, life changes/transitions and childhood trauma. I utilize a combination of play and talk therapy to empower children and their caregivers to reach their unique goals. I am trained in PCIT, which is designed to decrease problem behaviors in young children (ages 2-5), while increasing positive interactions by enhancing warmth and connection in the parent-child relationship. My client-centered approach will ensure that you feel supported every step of the way!
(269) 307-7210 View (269) 307-7210
Allison Traxler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Kalamazoo, MI 49008
I specialize in trauma across the lifespan and am passionate about providing affirming, inclusive care for neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and tailored to who you are. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, chronic illness, and other emotional challenges. My experience spans a variety of settings, including nonprofit services, case management, and autism support, giving me a broad understanding of the many factors that influence mental health throughout life.
I specialize in trauma across the lifespan and am passionate about providing affirming, inclusive care for neurodivergent individuals and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe therapy should feel supportive, collaborative, and tailored to who you are. I work with children, adolescents, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, chronic illness, and other emotional challenges. My experience spans a variety of settings, including nonprofit services, case management, and autism support, giving me a broad understanding of the many factors that influence mental health throughout life.
(269) 895-6412 View (269) 895-6412
Marianna (Emmy) Bryant
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Kalamazoo, MI 49006
I am sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and poly- and kink-knowledgeable, offering care that respects diverse identities and personal values.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or the life you want to be living. Many people seek therapy for anxiety, depression, low self-worth, or the emotional impact of difficult relationships or life transitions. You might feel like you’re functioning on the outside while feeling exhausted, numb, or uncertain on the inside. You’re looking for a supportive space to slow down, talk openly, and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and needs without fear of judgment or need to filter yourself.
I am sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming, and poly- and kink-knowledgeable, offering care that respects diverse identities and personal values.
You may be feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected from yourself or the life you want to be living. Many people seek therapy for anxiety, depression, low self-worth, or the emotional impact of difficult relationships or life transitions. You might feel like you’re functioning on the outside while feeling exhausted, numb, or uncertain on the inside. You’re looking for a supportive space to slow down, talk openly, and better understand your thoughts, feelings, and needs without fear of judgment or need to filter yourself.
(269) 397-4712 View (269) 397-4712
Alivia Hay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have a special passion for supporting the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ population both in an individual and couples therapy setting.
Whether you are seeking individual therapy or couples counseling, we will work together to better understand your experiences, strengthen communication, build emotional resilience, and create lasting change. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, alexithymia, sexual concerns and interpersonal stress.
I have a special passion for supporting the neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ population both in an individual and couples therapy setting.
Whether you are seeking individual therapy or couples counseling, we will work together to better understand your experiences, strengthen communication, build emotional resilience, and create lasting change. I have experience supporting clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, emotional dysregulation, alexithymia, sexual concerns and interpersonal stress.
(616) 741-3954 View (616) 741-3954
Anne Hensley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
My practice experience includes ACT, gender-affirming care, issues related to gender, creative process support, nonmonosexual identity and relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, and support for LGBTQIA families.
Change is inevitable. Whether you’re looking for it or it’s busting down your door, a supportive relationship with a therapist can help you navigate it. I work together with individuals and partners in relationship to help identify goals and values and move toward them. If you're feeling challenged by your relationships with yourself and/or others; navigating unjust systems and unsupportive environments; dealing with grief, anxiety, or depression; or looking to make important life changes that lead to greater fulfillment, I can support your process with compassion, curiosity, and creativity.
My practice experience includes ACT, gender-affirming care, issues related to gender, creative process support, nonmonosexual identity and relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, neurodivergence, and support for LGBTQIA families.
Change is inevitable. Whether you’re looking for it or it’s busting down your door, a supportive relationship with a therapist can help you navigate it. I work together with individuals and partners in relationship to help identify goals and values and move toward them. If you're feeling challenged by your relationships with yourself and/or others; navigating unjust systems and unsupportive environments; dealing with grief, anxiety, or depression; or looking to make important life changes that lead to greater fulfillment, I can support your process with compassion, curiosity, and creativity.
(269) 475-9661 View (269) 475-9661
Ruth Spalding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
If you're questioning whether you're neurodivergent or want to better understand an Autistic or AudHD identity, my practice has immediate openings for individual therapy. Current time slots open are for 11 am on Sundays or 2 pm on Mondays. The link in my Psych Today profile allows you to request an appointment for therapy or an assessment.
If you're questioning whether you're neurodivergent or want to better understand an Autistic or AudHD identity, my practice has immediate openings for individual therapy. Current time slots open are for 11 am on Sundays or 2 pm on Mondays. The link in my Psych Today profile allows you to request an appointment for therapy or an assessment.
(734) 206-7451 View (734) 206-7451
S Elyse Hughes
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Online Only
I am a queer-identifying therapist trained to work with the LGBTQ+ population including ENM/Poly and kinky folks.
I am a Master’s Limited Psychologist (MLP) in the state of Michigan, which allows me to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. As an MLP, I receive ongoing supervision from a fully licensed psychologist, Julie Meredith Davis, Ph.D., LP.
I am a queer-identifying therapist trained to work with the LGBTQ+ population including ENM/Poly and kinky folks.
I am a Master’s Limited Psychologist (MLP) in the state of Michigan, which allows me to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. As an MLP, I receive ongoing supervision from a fully licensed psychologist, Julie Meredith Davis, Ph.D., LP.
(269) 586-9006 View (269) 586-9006
Summer Bridges
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and I want to primarily work with adolescents and young adults, those who struggle with emotional regulation skills, neurodivergent folks, LGBTQIA+ folks, people with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
I offer therapy that is LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming. I also primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) as well as a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and I want to primarily work with adolescents and young adults, those who struggle with emotional regulation skills, neurodivergent folks, LGBTQIA+ folks, people with PTSD, depression, and anxiety.
I offer therapy that is LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent affirming. I also primarily use Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) as well as a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
(269) 468-0354 View (269) 468-0354
Kristin Travers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with professionals, parents, and couples. Specifically, people needing support in their relationships, parenting, or careers. I have a special interest in helping men with their relationships and women navigate perimenopause. I use a relational approach that is grounded in empathy. I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals and couples can explore their emotions, experiences, and relationships. I believe in the power of personal understanding as a catalyst for positive change and am committed to guiding my clients on their journey towards greater self-awareness and fulfillment.
I work with professionals, parents, and couples. Specifically, people needing support in their relationships, parenting, or careers. I have a special interest in helping men with their relationships and women navigate perimenopause. I use a relational approach that is grounded in empathy. I aim to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where individuals and couples can explore their emotions, experiences, and relationships. I believe in the power of personal understanding as a catalyst for positive change and am committed to guiding my clients on their journey towards greater self-awareness and fulfillment.
(616) 952-3574 View (616) 952-3574
Delayni E Kornak-Kotarba
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, MLP
Kalamazoo, MI 49009
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of growth, and I work to build a warm supportive and understanding space for each individual. When working with clients, I utilize a holistic approach that considers aspects such as individual development and culture as well as interpersonal, physical, and spiritual experiences. I believe our breadth of experiences shape who we become. I recognize that individuals exist within a larger environment and collaborate with clients to identify factors of strength and resilience that can support their personal growth.
I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation of growth, and I work to build a warm supportive and understanding space for each individual. When working with clients, I utilize a holistic approach that considers aspects such as individual development and culture as well as interpersonal, physical, and spiritual experiences. I believe our breadth of experiences shape who we become. I recognize that individuals exist within a larger environment and collaborate with clients to identify factors of strength and resilience that can support their personal growth.
(269) 421-8271 View (269) 421-8271
Lauren Guttersen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Serves Area
Helping others feel understood and confident to live a full, authentic life is my true calling. Respecting the autonomy of each person as holding the key to their own success is an important aspect of therapy. I bring a non-judgmental approach and am experienced in working with people whose lifestyles differ from societal norms. Accepting of all spiritual beliefs, sex positive and polyam friendly.
Helping others feel understood and confident to live a full, authentic life is my true calling. Respecting the autonomy of each person as holding the key to their own success is an important aspect of therapy. I bring a non-judgmental approach and am experienced in working with people whose lifestyles differ from societal norms. Accepting of all spiritual beliefs, sex positive and polyam friendly.
(616) 528-9936 View (616) 528-9936
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.