LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Richland, MI
Not every storm is visible, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real. Whether it's the whirlwind of ADHD, the quiet complexities of autism, or the relentless loop of anxious thoughts, I help individuals navigate what others often don’t see. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent clients and those managing anxiety, with a deep commitment to honoring each person’s unique wiring. While I am formally trained in psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy, I integrate behavioral techniques for a well rounded and evidence based approach. I believe in building a depth of knowledge of the self in addition to finding skills to improve resilience.
Not every storm is visible, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t real. Whether it's the whirlwind of ADHD, the quiet complexities of autism, or the relentless loop of anxious thoughts, I help individuals navigate what others often don’t see. I specialize in supporting neurodivergent clients and those managing anxiety, with a deep commitment to honoring each person’s unique wiring. While I am formally trained in psychoanalytic/psychodynamic therapy, I integrate behavioral techniques for a well rounded and evidence based approach. I believe in building a depth of knowledge of the self in addition to finding skills to improve resilience.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the pressure to be everything to everyone. Whether you’re managing a career, relationships, caregiving, motherhood, life transitions, or the expectations placed on women every day, it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs. I specialize in supporting women who feel overextended, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in survival mode due to trauma, burnout, or the chronic stress of carrying too much for too long. I also work with parents and infants, supporting attachment and early development. You deserve space to be held, supported, and seen.
Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re navigating the pressure to be everything to everyone. Whether you’re managing a career, relationships, caregiving, motherhood, life transitions, or the expectations placed on women every day, it’s easy to lose sight of your own needs. I specialize in supporting women who feel overextended, emotionally exhausted, or stuck in survival mode due to trauma, burnout, or the chronic stress of carrying too much for too long. I also work with parents and infants, supporting attachment and early development. You deserve space to be held, supported, and seen.
LGBTQIA+ affirming care with a particular interest in working with gay men and First Responders.
I offer a holistic, collaborative approach tailored to each client’s needs. Specializing in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to address the root causes of their struggles rather than just managing symptoms. Together, we’ll uncover insights, foster resilience, and build the tools needed to create meaningful, lasting change
LGBTQIA+ affirming care with a particular interest in working with gay men and First Responders.
I offer a holistic, collaborative approach tailored to each client’s needs. Specializing in EMDR, Brainspotting, and Internal Family Systems, I work with clients to address the root causes of their struggles rather than just managing symptoms. Together, we’ll uncover insights, foster resilience, and build the tools needed to create meaningful, lasting change
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
I am Ruth Westfall, a licensed Social Worker, with nearly 30 years of experience as a therapist. I am passionate about getting to know my clients and seeing them heal and overcome life's challenges. I have the greatest respect for those who seek support in order to make positive change in their lives! During these past few years, Anxiety and Depression have increased by 25%! So, most people that I work with are experiencing some related symptoms. I have an extensive history of working with trauma and its many effects. I prefer to work with individual clients, especially when on the telehealth platform.
Do you struggle with conflict in your relationship, unresolved trauma, or a sense of disconnection that affects your daily life and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed or frustrated trying to navigate endless arguments, isolation, or unprocessed pain? Do you hope for deeper connections or to feel more grounded in yourself? Now more than ever, couples and individuals feel uncertain about how to heal and reconnect. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—together, we can work toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Do you struggle with conflict in your relationship, unresolved trauma, or a sense of disconnection that affects your daily life and emotional wellbeing? Do you feel overwhelmed or frustrated trying to navigate endless arguments, isolation, or unprocessed pain? Do you hope for deeper connections or to feel more grounded in yourself? Now more than ever, couples and individuals feel uncertain about how to heal and reconnect. You don’t have to face these challenges alone—together, we can work toward a healthier, more balanced life.
Allyson McClellan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I’m passionate about working with people from all walks of life including survivors of abuse and trauma, parents, those who identify as neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+, individuals experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Searching for a therapist is a courageous first step towards healing, and sometimes the search for one can be overwhelming. If you think we may be a good fit to work together let’s connect via a free consultation phone call where you can ask any questions you may have, because choosing a therapist that you can feel safe with is important. Whether you are hoping to work through trauma, learn new coping skills, or strengthen your relationships, I look forward to working with and walking alongside you.
I’m passionate about working with people from all walks of life including survivors of abuse and trauma, parents, those who identify as neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+, individuals experiencing grief, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
Searching for a therapist is a courageous first step towards healing, and sometimes the search for one can be overwhelming. If you think we may be a good fit to work together let’s connect via a free consultation phone call where you can ask any questions you may have, because choosing a therapist that you can feel safe with is important. Whether you are hoping to work through trauma, learn new coping skills, or strengthen your relationships, I look forward to working with and walking alongside you.
More Therapists Nearby
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.
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.
I am also neurodivergent and a member of LGTBQ+ community and work with fellow ND/ Queer folks.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin the healing process or making changes in our lives. I want to help folks see how the past and present environment and systems shape how one views themselves and the world. Therapy helps us learn more about ourselves, our strengths and how resilient humans are. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
I am also neurodivergent and a member of LGTBQ+ community and work with fellow ND/ Queer folks.
Starting therapy is often the hardest part of therapy itself. In order to begin the healing process or making changes in our lives. I want to help folks see how the past and present environment and systems shape how one views themselves and the world. Therapy helps us learn more about ourselves, our strengths and how resilient humans are. My approach is to help you identify your strengths, areas of growth and goals you want to meet to begin making changes while accepting that healing and progress are not linear, but rather part of what makes us human.
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!
I primarily work with the LGBTQ+ community and girls and women on issues including relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I value openness to new experiences, to different ways of thinking, to honest conversations, to more authentic ways of living. My goal is for the therapy environment to be characterized by openness, where there are no taboo topics and you’re supported in talking about anything. I’m committed to providing an open, affirming therapy experience, where therapy helps you open doors to more genuine and more effective ways of engaging in life.
I primarily work with the LGBTQ+ community and girls and women on issues including relationships, self-esteem, and life transitions.
I value openness to new experiences, to different ways of thinking, to honest conversations, to more authentic ways of living. My goal is for the therapy environment to be characterized by openness, where there are no taboo topics and you’re supported in talking about anything. I’m committed to providing an open, affirming therapy experience, where therapy helps you open doors to more genuine and more effective ways of engaging in life.
I enjoy working with clients from the LGBTQ+, ENM, and health care communities, who I've proudly served for years.
Working with clients who have survived trauma is incredibly rewarding for me. I have over 10 years experience working alongside clients with anxiety and trauma, and work primarily with folks experiencing PTSD. Over and over, I've found people coming to therapy with anxiety, depression, substance use, and so on with a trauma history at the root. In addition to clients with anxiety and PTSD, I also see clients with issues of identity, relationship and sexual issues, and severe mental illness with psychosis, including bipolar disorder. I'm currently training to work more with female military members and veterans.
I enjoy working with clients from the LGBTQ+, ENM, and health care communities, who I've proudly served for years.
Working with clients who have survived trauma is incredibly rewarding for me. I have over 10 years experience working alongside clients with anxiety and trauma, and work primarily with folks experiencing PTSD. Over and over, I've found people coming to therapy with anxiety, depression, substance use, and so on with a trauma history at the root. In addition to clients with anxiety and PTSD, I also see clients with issues of identity, relationship and sexual issues, and severe mental illness with psychosis, including bipolar disorder. I'm currently training to work more with female military members and veterans.
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.
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).
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.
If you are looking to reclaim your voice and power, change habits, reframe your thinking, and end unhelpful cycles, we can do that together and meet your personal and emotional goals. I strive to create a warm, authentic, hopeful environment where we can explore feelings and experiences, find healing, and build the strength, skills, and confidence to succeed. You will not do this work alone. I am a dedicated and active participant in this process and will highlight and celebrate any and all successes along the way!
If you are looking to reclaim your voice and power, change habits, reframe your thinking, and end unhelpful cycles, we can do that together and meet your personal and emotional goals. I strive to create a warm, authentic, hopeful environment where we can explore feelings and experiences, find healing, and build the strength, skills, and confidence to succeed. You will not do this work alone. I am a dedicated and active participant in this process and will highlight and celebrate any and all successes along the way!
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.
I work with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those who have experience life challenges due to their experiences with high control religion.
Therapy saved my life. After experiencing years of interpersonal relationship abuse and a lifetime of religious trauma, therapy helped pull me from an incredibly dark place and give my life meaning. Now, I get to help others experience hope. If you are struggling with the feelings of hopelessness and loss after leaving your religion, estrangement from your family of origin, or having difficulty navigating normal daily life after experiencing trauma, I want to help.
I work with members of the LGBTQIA+ community and those who have experience life challenges due to their experiences with high control religion.
Therapy saved my life. After experiencing years of interpersonal relationship abuse and a lifetime of religious trauma, therapy helped pull me from an incredibly dark place and give my life meaning. Now, I get to help others experience hope. If you are struggling with the feelings of hopelessness and loss after leaving your religion, estrangement from your family of origin, or having difficulty navigating normal daily life after experiencing trauma, I want to help.
I specialize in substance abuse, behavior challenges in adolescents and young adults, and work within the LGBTQIA community.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
I specialize in substance abuse, behavior challenges in adolescents and young adults, and work within the LGBTQIA community.
It is my personal and professional belief that everyone is capable of discovering their most authentic and successful self, but may occasionally need assistance in their journey to personal enrichment. I have been lucky enough to find those people in my own life, and I consider it an honor to serve that purpose for my clients in a warm, welcoming, yet professional fashion. I respect the individual needs of varying cultural backgrounds, and enjoy finding common ground with varying clientele.
I believe in your inherent capacity for growth, self-understanding, and change at any age. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges such as ADHD, Autism, grief from loss of loved ones or life changes, trouble with relationships, school issues at any level, or burnout, together we can focus on a path to improve your experience.
Based in Vicksburg, MI, I am a clinical mental health counselor with more than a decade of experience in social and student services. My journey began in art and graphic design, but a desire to make a meaningful difference led me to counseling.
I believe in your inherent capacity for growth, self-understanding, and change at any age. If you are currently experiencing anxiety, depression, or other mental health challenges such as ADHD, Autism, grief from loss of loved ones or life changes, trouble with relationships, school issues at any level, or burnout, together we can focus on a path to improve your experience.
Based in Vicksburg, MI, I am a clinical mental health counselor with more than a decade of experience in social and student services. My journey began in art and graphic design, but a desire to make a meaningful difference led me to counseling.
See more therapy options for Richland
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Richland
- Battle Creek
- Galesburg
- Hastings
- Hickory Corners
- Kalamazoo
- Mattawan
- Otsego
- Plainwell
- Portage
- Schoolcraft
- Vicksburg
- Wayland
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.