LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Wayland, MI
Individuals seek therapy for many issues. I have been afforded the opportunity to work alongside people that want help in managing Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem barriers and daily stress. Often times these issues are masked by deep rooted trauma, grief and abuse. Individuals need encouragement, support, feeling that they are heard and validation while on their journey to healing.
Individuals seek therapy for many issues. I have been afforded the opportunity to work alongside people that want help in managing Anxiety, Depression, Self-Esteem barriers and daily stress. Often times these issues are masked by deep rooted trauma, grief and abuse. Individuals need encouragement, support, feeling that they are heard and validation while on their journey to healing.
Comfortable, professional: your space to heal. I started Pro-Active Counseling to help people like you who experience Anxiety, Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder, and other mental/emotional health challenges to find healing and healthier living. As you face day-to-day stressors, worries, or fears, or you encounter struggle, trauma, or trouble, our weekly appointments can help you process what you're going through. I will work with you to identify your own needs and goals, and together we will focus on your healing, growth, and wholeness.
Comfortable, professional: your space to heal. I started Pro-Active Counseling to help people like you who experience Anxiety, Depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder, and other mental/emotional health challenges to find healing and healthier living. As you face day-to-day stressors, worries, or fears, or you encounter struggle, trauma, or trouble, our weekly appointments can help you process what you're going through. I will work with you to identify your own needs and goals, and together we will focus on your healing, growth, and wholeness.
I strive to create a compassionate and safe environment where clients can experience lasting change and growth in their lives. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. In my work I incorporate creativity with proven techniques including Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other techniques to provide treatment that is individualized and the best fit for each client's needs. I take a person-centered, solution focused approach that is safe while challenging at the same time. Our treatment plan will be specific to your wants and needs.
I strive to create a compassionate and safe environment where clients can experience lasting change and growth in their lives. I enjoy working with clients of all backgrounds. In my work I incorporate creativity with proven techniques including Cognitive Behavior Therapy and other techniques to provide treatment that is individualized and the best fit for each client's needs. I take a person-centered, solution focused approach that is safe while challenging at the same time. Our treatment plan will be specific to your wants and needs.
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
I believe in order to make changes in our lives, we must first examine the impact that past relationships, experiences, and environments have had on us. The therapeutic process allows us to examine and process how things that have happened to us can impact who we are as individuals and integrate the past into who we are in the present. The therapeutic relationship can help us to identify sources of resilience and strength that can help us to overcome past negative experiences. By connecting our past with who we are in the present, we can start the process of change.
Do past experiences still hijack your focus, emotions, or energy?
For many adults with ADHD, old wounds, stress, or anxiety can make focus, motivation, and relationships even harder. You may feel stuck in patterns you want to change but can’t shift. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps the brain process painful experiences so they stop triggering the same reactions. You don’t have to talk through every detail for it to work. I help adults with ADHD reduce overwhelm, release the weight of the past, and feel more grounded, confident, and in control of their lives. Real change is possible, with help!
Do past experiences still hijack your focus, emotions, or energy?
For many adults with ADHD, old wounds, stress, or anxiety can make focus, motivation, and relationships even harder. You may feel stuck in patterns you want to change but can’t shift. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps the brain process painful experiences so they stop triggering the same reactions. You don’t have to talk through every detail for it to work. I help adults with ADHD reduce overwhelm, release the weight of the past, and feel more grounded, confident, and in control of their lives. Real change is possible, with help!
More Therapists Nearby
Richelle Whyte
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
4 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49505
Waitlist for new clients
We all want to change in some way, and I believe that real, visible change comes from an internal motivation to be better versions of ourselves. By looking at the uncomfortable or unexamined parts within ourselves, that positive change becomes possible.
We all want to change in some way, and I believe that real, visible change comes from an internal motivation to be better versions of ourselves. By looking at the uncomfortable or unexamined parts within ourselves, that positive change becomes possible.
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.
We have years of specializing in therapy for Black and Brown communities, LGBTQIA folx, and allies.
There is no shame in feeling tired. The world can be a heavy place, asking you to be everything to everyone while forgetting the weight of your own heart. Some days, you move through the noise like a whisper, unseen but still standing. That quiet endurance is not weakness. It’s history. It’s resilience wearing your name.
Here, we understand what it means to navigate overlapping identities and expectations, to move through a world that doesn’t always see you. We know the ache of being both invisible and too visible at once. We built this space for you. A space that does not require you to explain yourself or translate your truth.
We have years of specializing in therapy for Black and Brown communities, LGBTQIA folx, and allies.
There is no shame in feeling tired. The world can be a heavy place, asking you to be everything to everyone while forgetting the weight of your own heart. Some days, you move through the noise like a whisper, unseen but still standing. That quiet endurance is not weakness. It’s history. It’s resilience wearing your name.
Here, we understand what it means to navigate overlapping identities and expectations, to move through a world that doesn’t always see you. We know the ache of being both invisible and too visible at once. We built this space for you. A space that does not require you to explain yourself or translate your truth.
Kalamazoo Empowerment Services, PLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LMFT, CAADC, ADS
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
At KES, we believe healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and understood.
Life can be overwhelming. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, stress, grief, anger, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone.
Our compassionate therapists provide a safe, welcoming, and judgment-free space where individuals, couples, families, and groups can explore life’s challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. We meet you where you are and work alongside you to help you develop the tools, confidence, and support needed to succeed.
At KES, we believe healing begins when people feel seen, heard, and understood.
Life can be overwhelming. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use, relationship challenges, stress, grief, anger, or simply feeling stuck, you don’t have to face it alone.
Our compassionate therapists provide a safe, welcoming, and judgment-free space where individuals, couples, families, and groups can explore life’s challenges, build resilience, and create meaningful change. We meet you where you are and work alongside you to help you develop the tools, confidence, and support needed to succeed.
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
Vulnerability: while rewarding, can be daunting. It isn’t easy to let someone into your internal landscape and I value the possibility of learning yours. My name is Sam and I work with clients to become intimately comfortable with the buried and beautifully impactful aspects of themselves. Often, the relationship to yourself contributes to how your days unfold in the world around you. When was the last time you heard or nurtured the parts of yourself that long for you? In doing so, a gateway opens up to a sense of self-worth that will allow you to experience yourself and your environment with a new lens.
I am temporarily licensed in Minnesota to support folks in processing traumatic events.
I’m a social worker and educator whose main focus is Trauma/PTSD. My personal and professional experience have provided me with additional insight to support neurodivergent and LGBTQIA2S+ folks. My therapeutic style is quite non-traditional, which can be refreshing for those who haven’t felt supported by the rigidity that is common within clinical practice. I hope to be a safe space for you to feel seen and supported while exploring identity, seeking opportunities for growth and change, and/or continuing your healing journey.
I am temporarily licensed in Minnesota to support folks in processing traumatic events.
I’m a social worker and educator whose main focus is Trauma/PTSD. My personal and professional experience have provided me with additional insight to support neurodivergent and LGBTQIA2S+ folks. My therapeutic style is quite non-traditional, which can be refreshing for those who haven’t felt supported by the rigidity that is common within clinical practice. I hope to be a safe space for you to feel seen and supported while exploring identity, seeking opportunities for growth and change, and/or continuing your healing journey.
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.
I am especially passionate about the healing and wellbeing of POC, QTPOC, Women, and young adults. I understand how the intersectionality of our identities impacts our experience of the world, and I strive to provide a safe, warm, and supportive space for those experiences to be discussed.
I am especially passionate about the healing and wellbeing of POC, QTPOC, Women, and young adults. I understand how the intersectionality of our identities impacts our experience of the world, and I strive to provide a safe, warm, and supportive space for those experiences to be discussed.
Amy Lynn Ver Wey
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, RPT
3 Endorsed
Grand Rapids, MI 49503
Waitlist for new clients
Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
Amy practices a gender affirmative therapeutic approach, with significant experience working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She has held full membership with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health since 2017 and is a WPATH Certified Transgender Health Provider. Amy runs a Trans/Non-Binary Youth Support Group-- message for details.
Amy identifies as a queer therapist and strives to create a genuinely warm and inclusive therapeutic environment based upon empathy, resiliency and a relatable atmosphere to help normalize mental health services.
Amy practices a gender affirmative therapeutic approach, with significant experience working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community. She has held full membership with the World Professional Association for Transgender Health since 2017 and is a WPATH Certified Transgender Health Provider. Amy runs a Trans/Non-Binary Youth Support Group-- message for details.
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.
Are you struggling with feelings of not being enough, being too much, insecurity in relationships, rejection sensitivity, and fear of abandonment? Did you grow up in a dysfunctional family atmosphere? Did trauma(s) during crucial developmental years affect the way you connect with yourself and others? I focus on working with adults who are coping with the effects of developmental/complex PTSD (cPTSD) and/or growing up in a dysfunctional family environment. Trauma is an experience that overwhelms our ability to cope. In relationships a rupture (physical or emotional) in our primary attachment can cause traumatic effects.
Are you struggling with feelings of not being enough, being too much, insecurity in relationships, rejection sensitivity, and fear of abandonment? Did you grow up in a dysfunctional family atmosphere? Did trauma(s) during crucial developmental years affect the way you connect with yourself and others? I focus on working with adults who are coping with the effects of developmental/complex PTSD (cPTSD) and/or growing up in a dysfunctional family environment. Trauma is an experience that overwhelms our ability to cope. In relationships a rupture (physical or emotional) in our primary attachment can cause traumatic effects.
Those who are LGBTQIA+ and navigating a world that doesn't always make room for them.
I work with people who are ready to stop hiding inside their own lives. In our work together, we slow down. We tell the truth about what's hard. We build self-trust and soften old wounds. We create change that actually lasts. Without shame, rushing or pretending you have to have it figured out first.
You get to come as you are.
Those who are LGBTQIA+ and navigating a world that doesn't always make room for them.
I work with people who are ready to stop hiding inside their own lives. In our work together, we slow down. We tell the truth about what's hard. We build self-trust and soften old wounds. We create change that actually lasts. Without shame, rushing or pretending you have to have it figured out first.
You get to come as you are.
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
Sometimes life can present us with difficulties, as well as opportunities, that we don't expect or aren't sure how to handle. Many people find ways of healing, growing, and even striving through the counseling process. Once you've decided to seek out psychotherapy, finding the therapist who is the right fit for you can feel overwhelming. The psychologists, professional counselors and social workers at River City Psychological Services (RCPS) strive to create a safe environment where people can grow and heal.
I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist specializing in neurodiverse brains and LGBTQIA+ issues, with a unique clinical background in folks with high suicidality.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or exhausted from trying to navigate a world that doesn't feel like it was built with you in mind? Maybe you're dealing with chronic suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and burnout, but aren't entirely sure why. If you're looking for answers, I offer Affirming Autism Assessments with personalized life recommendations tailored to your unique brain style; and for those looking for more, I offer short and long term- individual therapy or coaching to help creative problem solve and build systems that uniquely work for you, and hopefully make life feel a little more manageable.
I’m a queer, neurodivergent therapist specializing in neurodiverse brains and LGBTQIA+ issues, with a unique clinical background in folks with high suicidality.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, misunderstood, or exhausted from trying to navigate a world that doesn't feel like it was built with you in mind? Maybe you're dealing with chronic suicidal thoughts, anxiety, and burnout, but aren't entirely sure why. If you're looking for answers, I offer Affirming Autism Assessments with personalized life recommendations tailored to your unique brain style; and for those looking for more, I offer short and long term- individual therapy or coaching to help creative problem solve and build systems that uniquely work for you, and hopefully make life feel a little more manageable.
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.
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Wayland
- Allegan
- Byron Center
- Caledonia
- Cascade
- East Grand Rapids
- Grandville
- Hastings
- Jenison
- Kentwood
- Otsego
- Plainwell
- 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.