LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Kentwood, MI
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.
Life isn’t always easy. Our past experiences can sometimes feel like they’re holding us back. But that doesn’t mean we’re stuck. Healing and growth are always possible. I believe that with compassion, support, and a collaborative approach, we can work through emotional wounds and help you reconnect with your sense of purpose. If you’re struggling with low self-worth and challenging thoughts, I’m here to walk alongside you — along with my Golden Retriever, Bailey or Gordie the Bernese Mountain Dog. Together, we offer a safe and welcoming space where you can begin moving forward at your own pace.
Life isn’t always easy. Our past experiences can sometimes feel like they’re holding us back. But that doesn’t mean we’re stuck. Healing and growth are always possible. I believe that with compassion, support, and a collaborative approach, we can work through emotional wounds and help you reconnect with your sense of purpose. If you’re struggling with low self-worth and challenging thoughts, I’m here to walk alongside you — along with my Golden Retriever, Bailey or Gordie the Bernese Mountain Dog. Together, we offer a safe and welcoming space where you can begin moving forward at your own pace.
Trauma leaves us vulnerable and struggling to trust. Often, you may feel as though if you want to belong, you can never be your true-self. Your body will hold 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. If you feel suffocated, lost and disconnected - confused about who you are - you are welcome here in every way. Authenticity and safety are vital to healing. I specialize in trauma work, parenting, and attachment to help individuals and families who are struggling with connection to lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
Trauma leaves us vulnerable and struggling to trust. Often, you may feel as though if you want to belong, you can never be your true-self. Your body will hold 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. If you feel suffocated, lost and disconnected - confused about who you are - you are welcome here in every way. Authenticity and safety are vital to healing. I specialize in trauma work, parenting, and attachment to help individuals and families who are struggling with connection to lead more meaningful and fulfilling lives.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s pressures without judgment. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, identity shifts, relationship challenges, or questions about purpose, I offer a space where you don't have to perform or pretend. My approach is direct, compassionate, and grounded in practical tools that support emotional clarity, resilience, and growth. I understand that many men weren’t raised to discuss their inner world—and that opening up can feel risky. But healing doesn't require perfection—just a willingness to start.
I specialize in helping individuals navigate life’s pressures without judgment. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, identity shifts, relationship challenges, or questions about purpose, I offer a space where you don't have to perform or pretend. My approach is direct, compassionate, and grounded in practical tools that support emotional clarity, resilience, and growth. I understand that many men weren’t raised to discuss their inner world—and that opening up can feel risky. But healing doesn't require perfection—just a willingness to start.
As a queer, neurodivergent human, I understand the importance of finding safe spaces.
My specialties include neurodivergent support, sex therapy, trauma, depression, anxiety, somatic concerns, and negative or intrusive thought patterns. I utilize evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Progressive Counting, and Somatic Therapy. I also hold certifications in Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, and Trauma Therapy.
As a queer, neurodivergent human, I understand the importance of finding safe spaces.
My specialties include neurodivergent support, sex therapy, trauma, depression, anxiety, somatic concerns, and negative or intrusive thought patterns. I utilize evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, Progressive Counting, and Somatic Therapy. I also hold certifications in Sex Therapy, Sexuality Education, and Trauma Therapy.
Hi! I’m Kerina, a children’s mental health therapist specializing in working with kids ages 2–16, including neurodivergent children and those with diverse developmental needs. I help children navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, sensory differences, social challenges, self-esteem, and big feelings that can feel overwhelming at home, school, or in relationships. For families interested in more comprehensive support, I collaborate with the speech, feeding, and occupational therapists in my office to help meet each child’s emotional, sensory, communication, and developmental needs.
Hi! I’m Kerina, a children’s mental health therapist specializing in working with kids ages 2–16, including neurodivergent children and those with diverse developmental needs. I help children navigate anxiety, emotional regulation, sensory differences, social challenges, self-esteem, and big feelings that can feel overwhelming at home, school, or in relationships. For families interested in more comprehensive support, I collaborate with the speech, feeding, and occupational therapists in my office to help meet each child’s emotional, sensory, communication, and developmental needs.
I also have a particular passion for supporting individuals from the LGBTQIA community.
Hi, thanks for stopping by! I am invested in cultivating a warm and authentic environment for you to feel comfortable bringing your full self to sessions. Together, we will work on processing intense emotions, building compassion for all parts of self, and overall making your mind a softer, kinder place to be. Together, we will explore what it means to feel more grounded and at home within yourself.
I also have a particular passion for supporting individuals from the LGBTQIA community.
Hi, thanks for stopping by! I am invested in cultivating a warm and authentic environment for you to feel comfortable bringing your full self to sessions. Together, we will work on processing intense emotions, building compassion for all parts of self, and overall making your mind a softer, kinder place to be. Together, we will explore what it means to feel more grounded and at home within yourself.
Five Lakes Counseling & Psychological Services is dedicated to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. Our clinicians provide therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and couples, as well as psychological evaluations for cognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders. Whether you're seeking support through therapy or clarity from an evaluation, we’re here to help. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but it’s a sign of strength and self-care. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone—we’ll be with you every step of the way.
Five Lakes Counseling & Psychological Services is dedicated to compassionate, comprehensive mental health care. Our clinicians provide therapy for children, adolescents, adults, and couples, as well as psychological evaluations for cognitive and neurodevelopmental disorders. Whether you're seeking support through therapy or clarity from an evaluation, we’re here to help. Taking the first step can feel daunting, but it’s a sign of strength and self-care. You don’t have to face life’s challenges alone—we’ll be with you every step of the way.
I believe that clients are the authors of their own lives and, as such, have the potential to turn the page and write the next chapter however they want. I work collaboratively with clients to provide tools and prepare them for a future in which their potential is recognized.
I believe that clients are the authors of their own lives and, as such, have the potential to turn the page and write the next chapter however they want. I work collaboratively with clients to provide tools and prepare them for a future in which their potential is recognized.
Additionally, I hold a Certificate in Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan with over 150hrs of specialized training & education in sexual health & wellbeing ( LGBTQ+, concerns with desire/libido, pain, trauma, & more).
The decision to start therapy can be overwhelming & anxiety provoking. You may be wondering how therapy can help or who the right therapist is. You're not alone! My hope is to help you feel comfortable & confident in your decision to be here. I have over eight years of clinical experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, family &/or relational conflict, grief, complex medical diagnoses, & trauma. I strive to create an environment in which we identify where change is needed while highlighting the strengths you already possess. I value building trust, fostering connection, & embracing vulnerability.
Additionally, I hold a Certificate in Sex Therapy from the University of Michigan with over 150hrs of specialized training & education in sexual health & wellbeing ( LGBTQ+, concerns with desire/libido, pain, trauma, & more).
The decision to start therapy can be overwhelming & anxiety provoking. You may be wondering how therapy can help or who the right therapist is. You're not alone! My hope is to help you feel comfortable & confident in your decision to be here. I have over eight years of clinical experience working with depression, anxiety, life transitions, mood disorders, family &/or relational conflict, grief, complex medical diagnoses, & trauma. I strive to create an environment in which we identify where change is needed while highlighting the strengths you already possess. I value building trust, fostering connection, & embracing vulnerability.
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
Do you feel stuck having the same arguments where you know how things will end before it begins? Everyone experiences periods of difficulties as life changes and turns in unexpected directions. Whatever difficulties you are facing, you do not need to face them alone. As a marriage and family therapist, I will provide you and your family the tools needed to navigate life’s challenges in a safe, warm and understanding environment. Seeking help is not always easy although it can be rewarding.
Hello, I’m Jess! I support folks navigating overwhelm, grief, trauma, and mood shifts, as well as those exploring or embracing a neurodivergent identity. Many of the people I work with are deep thinkers and feelers, highly attuned to patterns, sensations, and unspoken dynamics. They’re curious about how their brain and body make sense of the world and want a space where that complexity is welcomed, not pathologized. Our work together is sensory-aware, identity-affirming, and grounded in compassion.
I currently have openings as soon as next week. If you’re interested in working together, please reach out to schedule a consult!
Hello, I’m Jess! I support folks navigating overwhelm, grief, trauma, and mood shifts, as well as those exploring or embracing a neurodivergent identity. Many of the people I work with are deep thinkers and feelers, highly attuned to patterns, sensations, and unspoken dynamics. They’re curious about how their brain and body make sense of the world and want a space where that complexity is welcomed, not pathologized. Our work together is sensory-aware, identity-affirming, and grounded in compassion.
I currently have openings as soon as next week. If you’re interested in working together, please reach out to schedule a consult!
We are looking to help individuals with suicidal ideation, self harm, trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, grief, work stress, or life changes. Email or call to make a appointment.
We are looking to help individuals with suicidal ideation, self harm, trauma, depression, PTSD, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, relationship issues, grief, work stress, or life changes. Email or call to make a appointment.
Hi, I’m Audrey. I’m an AASECT certified sex therapist. Before you read anymore, I want you to know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are important. My assumption is you may feel anxious, alone, curious, frustrated, confused or some of all those things (or none- that’s okay too). I provide a safe space for you to feel brave on your path towards awareness & growth through an empowering therapeutic relationship. It’s a privilege for me to walk alongside you, whether you are an individual or couple.
Hi, I’m Audrey. I’m an AASECT certified sex therapist. Before you read anymore, I want you to know that you are seen, you are valued, and you are important. My assumption is you may feel anxious, alone, curious, frustrated, confused or some of all those things (or none- that’s okay too). I provide a safe space for you to feel brave on your path towards awareness & growth through an empowering therapeutic relationship. It’s a privilege for me to walk alongside you, whether you are an individual or couple.
I enjoy working with people experiencing life transitions, educational or vocational issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, neurodivergence issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety.
First and foremost, I am a person-centered therapist. I believe in following your lead as you are the expert about your own life. I am hopeful to be a part of your journey in a supportive role. I provide a non-judgmental, welcoming and compassionate space to work on your concerns. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy for adolescents (DBT-A), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Motivational Interviewing. While these models are all wonderful, I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship we build together based on trust and mutual respect.
I enjoy working with people experiencing life transitions, educational or vocational issues, LGBTQIA+ issues, neurodivergence issues, mood disorders, depression, and anxiety.
First and foremost, I am a person-centered therapist. I believe in following your lead as you are the expert about your own life. I am hopeful to be a part of your journey in a supportive role. I provide a non-judgmental, welcoming and compassionate space to work on your concerns. I have training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy for adolescents (DBT-A), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Motivational Interviewing. While these models are all wonderful, I believe the most important part of therapy is the relationship we build together based on trust and mutual respect.
Have you ever felt like there’s just something missing? Or maybe you’re facing a hurdle in life that just seems so hard to get over? As humans, our lives are constantly changing and sometimes it’s hard to adapt! Counseling can be used as a tool to help you grow and learn during this season of life, whether it’s focusing on current, past, or lifelong topics. My role as a counselor is to work with you on areas of your life that you’re craving change or experiencing a hurdle with. My goal is to make sure you feel supported, empowered, educated, and prepared to accomplish not only current hurdles but future one’s as well!
Have you ever felt like there’s just something missing? Or maybe you’re facing a hurdle in life that just seems so hard to get over? As humans, our lives are constantly changing and sometimes it’s hard to adapt! Counseling can be used as a tool to help you grow and learn during this season of life, whether it’s focusing on current, past, or lifelong topics. My role as a counselor is to work with you on areas of your life that you’re craving change or experiencing a hurdle with. My goal is to make sure you feel supported, empowered, educated, and prepared to accomplish not only current hurdles but future one’s as well!
You were never too much - you may have simply never been fully understood. I work with sensitive and neurodivergent children, teens, adults, and parents who feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally intense, sensory-sensitive, or pressured to fit into systems that do not honor who they are. Together, we make space to move from masking, self-doubt, and self-judgment toward emotional safety, self-understanding, and empowered authenticity.
You were never too much - you may have simply never been fully understood. I work with sensitive and neurodivergent children, teens, adults, and parents who feel overwhelmed, anxious, emotionally intense, sensory-sensitive, or pressured to fit into systems that do not honor who they are. Together, we make space to move from masking, self-doubt, and self-judgment toward emotional safety, self-understanding, and empowered authenticity.
I help people who look like they’re functioning well on the outside—but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck underneath.
Many of my clients are also working through religious trauma or leaving high-control belief systems.
Many of the people I work with are high-functioning professionals, parents, or helpers who look fine on the outside but feel overwhelmed or disconnected internally. For some of the folks I work with things show up as anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing.
I help people who look like they’re functioning well on the outside—but feel anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck underneath.
Many of my clients are also working through religious trauma or leaving high-control belief systems.
Many of the people I work with are high-functioning professionals, parents, or helpers who look fine on the outside but feel overwhelmed or disconnected internally. For some of the folks I work with things show up as anxiety, perfectionism, or people-pleasing.
Oriana Christina Bruno
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LP, ICAADC, CTS, NCSC
1 Endorsed
Kentwood, MI 49512
Over the past thirty years, I have worked in community mental health, residential and private practice facilities helping children, adolescents, and adults solve problems and make significant changes in their lives. I am a Licensed Psychologist, Certified Trauma Specialist, Adoption Specialist and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important element in making lasting changes. Helping you feel comfortable so we can build a trusting and secure relationship is my goal.
Over the past thirty years, I have worked in community mental health, residential and private practice facilities helping children, adolescents, and adults solve problems and make significant changes in their lives. I am a Licensed Psychologist, Certified Trauma Specialist, Adoption Specialist and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I strongly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the most important element in making lasting changes. Helping you feel comfortable so we can build a trusting and secure relationship is my goal.
My ideal client is someone looking to make a change and work towards their goals. It is hard to identify how and sometimes it feels overwhelming, but that is why I am here to help!
I think people come to my practice due to my welcoming energy and my knowledge of tools and techniques. I love to get to know you as the person you are and find the best avenue for you in reaching your goals. My goal is to give you the skills to no longer need counseling and be able to take on what life throws you with the confidence of how to handle it!
My ideal client is someone looking to make a change and work towards their goals. It is hard to identify how and sometimes it feels overwhelming, but that is why I am here to help!
I think people come to my practice due to my welcoming energy and my knowledge of tools and techniques. I love to get to know you as the person you are and find the best avenue for you in reaching your goals. My goal is to give you the skills to no longer need counseling and be able to take on what life throws you with the confidence of how to handle it!
See more therapy options for Kentwood
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Kentwood
- Ada
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Cascade
- Comstock Park
- East Grand Rapids
- Grand Rapids
- Grandville
- Hudsonville
- Jenison
- Walker
- Wyoming
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.