LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in East Isles, Minneapolis, MN

Photo of Jen Traw, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADC
Jen Traw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LADC
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Hi there—starting or returning to therapy is a courageous step. My approach is direct, compassionate, and goal-oriented, with humor when helpful. I aim to create a space where you feel safe to be honest, supported to take risks, and empowered to make meaningful changes. I work with life transitions, stress, grief, identity, substance use, and relationship challenges. I practice unconditional positive regard, meeting you without judgment and supporting your goals. Please reach out with any questions, and best of luck finding the right fit.
Hi there—starting or returning to therapy is a courageous step. My approach is direct, compassionate, and goal-oriented, with humor when helpful. I aim to create a space where you feel safe to be honest, supported to take risks, and empowered to make meaningful changes. I work with life transitions, stress, grief, identity, substance use, and relationship challenges. I practice unconditional positive regard, meeting you without judgment and supporting your goals. Please reach out with any questions, and best of luck finding the right fit.
(651) 372-8917 View (651) 372-8917
Photo of Tanya Louise Brown - Vibrant Life Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Vibrant Life Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
We have immediate openings both in person and via telehealth! At Vibrant Life Therapy we strive to create safe spaces for individuals of all backgrounds to feel seen, heard, understood, and empowered. It takes courage to begin your healing journey, and we are here to help. We pride ourselves on having an amazing group of diverse providers who can meet you where you are at with openness and compassion. Each provider will walk alongside you on your path towards health and healing, with the goal of assisting you in living a Vibrant Life!
We have immediate openings both in person and via telehealth! At Vibrant Life Therapy we strive to create safe spaces for individuals of all backgrounds to feel seen, heard, understood, and empowered. It takes courage to begin your healing journey, and we are here to help. We pride ourselves on having an amazing group of diverse providers who can meet you where you are at with openness and compassion. Each provider will walk alongside you on your path towards health and healing, with the goal of assisting you in living a Vibrant Life!
(651) 615-5193 View (651) 615-5193
Photo of Kane Kealy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Kane Kealy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Waitlist for new clients
The best indicator of healing in therapy is the quality of the working relationship. I live by these words by offering a safe space for clients to unmask and encourage their needs to be known. Often people are sharing their most vulnerable moments in the four walls of my office and I see it as my duty to honor their experiences with curiosity and gentleness. As a therapist I’m not shy about letting patients know I have personal experience with mental health, addiction, and queer/ trans identity. Clients will likely notice the humor, creativity, and honesty I bring to sessions.
The best indicator of healing in therapy is the quality of the working relationship. I live by these words by offering a safe space for clients to unmask and encourage their needs to be known. Often people are sharing their most vulnerable moments in the four walls of my office and I see it as my duty to honor their experiences with curiosity and gentleness. As a therapist I’m not shy about letting patients know I have personal experience with mental health, addiction, and queer/ trans identity. Clients will likely notice the humor, creativity, and honesty I bring to sessions.
(612) 400-7738 View (612) 400-7738
Photo of Theo Jerry Thompson-Guldseth, Pre-Licensed Professional
Theo Jerry Thompson-Guldseth
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
As a gay, cisgender man, my identity informs my work in meaningful ways.
Hi, I’m Theo Thompson-Guldseth (he/him), a pre-licensed therapist currently studying at the University of Minnesota. I believe deeply in the power of the here and now, while also honoring the experiences that have shaped who you are. I hold the belief that change is possible whenever you decide you’re ready—and that learning to trust yourself often begins with small, meaningful steps.
As a gay, cisgender man, my identity informs my work in meaningful ways.
Hi, I’m Theo Thompson-Guldseth (he/him), a pre-licensed therapist currently studying at the University of Minnesota. I believe deeply in the power of the here and now, while also honoring the experiences that have shaped who you are. I hold the belief that change is possible whenever you decide you’re ready—and that learning to trust yourself often begins with small, meaningful steps.
(651) 615-7191 View (651) 615-7191
Photo of James Edwin Chadwick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
James Edwin Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
It’s difficult enough to figure out what you want. But saying it out loud to a partner? That can be even scarier. What if we don’t want the same things? Or, worse still, what if I hurt them? Does any of this sound familiar? Many people live in silence to avoid the pain of hurting another. But at some point that backs up on you. Therapy is your place to give voice to those feelings and decide what, if anything, you want to do with them..
It’s difficult enough to figure out what you want. But saying it out loud to a partner? That can be even scarier. What if we don’t want the same things? Or, worse still, what if I hurt them? Does any of this sound familiar? Many people live in silence to avoid the pain of hurting another. But at some point that backs up on you. Therapy is your place to give voice to those feelings and decide what, if anything, you want to do with them..
(612) 448-3159 View (612) 448-3159
Photo of Elliot Huemann, Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Elliot Huemann
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
5 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I work most often with gay men navigating identity, sexuality, and relationships.
You want to live a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling, but for various reasons this feels hard to get to on your own. I help men who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and lost reconnect to confidence, hope, and connection.
I work most often with gay men navigating identity, sexuality, and relationships.
You want to live a life that feels meaningful and fulfilling, but for various reasons this feels hard to get to on your own. I help men who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and lost reconnect to confidence, hope, and connection.
(206) 309-5417 View (206) 309-5417
Photo of Tim Winchell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW
Tim Winchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
For the past 12 years I've been providing individual therapy for adults coping with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, LGBT issues, drug and alcohol issues and PTSD.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and advanced Flash Technique trained therapist who specializes in treating trauma and the problems that can come along with it including anxiety and depression. It's an amazing process to see the people I work with overcome the effects of painful life experiences over time and respond to life in ways they feel good about.
For the past 12 years I've been providing individual therapy for adults coping with depression, anxiety, gender dysphoria, LGBT issues, drug and alcohol issues and PTSD.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and advanced Flash Technique trained therapist who specializes in treating trauma and the problems that can come along with it including anxiety and depression. It's an amazing process to see the people I work with overcome the effects of painful life experiences over time and respond to life in ways they feel good about.
(651) 362-4008 View (651) 362-4008
Photo of Travis Taylor, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Travis Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
3 Endorsed
Online Only
You just don’t know what to do. Feeling stuck and struggling to make a decision. No matter what you do it’s never enough. Overwhelmed and frustrated, the fear of doing the wrong thing is paralyzing. Everything is on the line and you need help figuring things out. Exhausted from the worrying, tired of the feelings of sadness, preventing you from thriving. You are ready for relief, you are ready for help.
You just don’t know what to do. Feeling stuck and struggling to make a decision. No matter what you do it’s never enough. Overwhelmed and frustrated, the fear of doing the wrong thing is paralyzing. Everything is on the line and you need help figuring things out. Exhausted from the worrying, tired of the feelings of sadness, preventing you from thriving. You are ready for relief, you are ready for help.
(612) 429-4730 View (612) 429-4730
Photo of Adrienne Marcellus-Altman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Adrienne Marcellus-Altman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, as a queer identifying person, I create a safe space for those that identify with the LGBTQIA2S+ and Relationship Expansive community.
I offer official clinical Autism and/or ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and an intensive and detailed write up. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored for adults especially those who may have gone under the radar. I am for this process to be mostly about self-discovery and deeper understanding. I also support clients with OCD, PTSD, and neurodivergent experiences in therapy. My work blends evidence-based care with lived experience and deep respect for your unique mind. Feel free to text or email me!
Additionally, as a queer identifying person, I create a safe space for those that identify with the LGBTQIA2S+ and Relationship Expansive community.
I offer official clinical Autism and/or ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and an intensive and detailed write up. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored for adults especially those who may have gone under the radar. I am for this process to be mostly about self-discovery and deeper understanding. I also support clients with OCD, PTSD, and neurodivergent experiences in therapy. My work blends evidence-based care with lived experience and deep respect for your unique mind. Feel free to text or email me!
(612) 662-8695 View (612) 662-8695
Photo of Ashley Shepard, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Ashley Shepard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ teens (12+) & young adults navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, identity exploration, family conflict, and suicidality.
Let’s be honest—being an adolescent, teen, or young adult these days can feel extremely overwhelming. Sometimes emotions run high, identity feels uncertain, and life can start to feel isolating or hard to make sense of. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are becoming. In our work together, we’ll slow things down so there’s room for whatever you’re carrying, allowing your emotions and experiences to be met without judgment or shame. Along the way, there will be some messiness, tears, relief, and laughter—therapy isn’t tidy, and that's okay!
I primarily work with LGBTQIA+ teens (12+) & young adults navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, identity exploration, family conflict, and suicidality.
Let’s be honest—being an adolescent, teen, or young adult these days can feel extremely overwhelming. Sometimes emotions run high, identity feels uncertain, and life can start to feel isolating or hard to make sense of. You might feel stuck, disconnected, or unsure of who you are becoming. In our work together, we’ll slow things down so there’s room for whatever you’re carrying, allowing your emotions and experiences to be met without judgment or shame. Along the way, there will be some messiness, tears, relief, and laughter—therapy isn’t tidy, and that's okay!
(763) 347-2496 View (763) 347-2496
Photo of Aryn Katterjohn, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Aryn Katterjohn
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
I have experience working with queer and trans folx who have experienced complex trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, and I have particular interest in working with folx who have done the work in therapy before and are ready to dive deeper into identity exploration through a trauma-informed lens.
As a nonbinary, fat, disabled, lesbian therapist, my work is grounded in liberation, queer, and feminist theories and I am drawn to narrative, IFS (parts work), and ACT modalities. I take an empathetic, relaxed, collaborative approach to therapy that is deeply influenced by social justice, anti-racism, fat liberation, and disability justice.
I have experience working with queer and trans folx who have experienced complex trauma, depression, anxiety, OCD, and I have particular interest in working with folx who have done the work in therapy before and are ready to dive deeper into identity exploration through a trauma-informed lens.
As a nonbinary, fat, disabled, lesbian therapist, my work is grounded in liberation, queer, and feminist theories and I am drawn to narrative, IFS (parts work), and ACT modalities. I take an empathetic, relaxed, collaborative approach to therapy that is deeply influenced by social justice, anti-racism, fat liberation, and disability justice.
(612) 887-3089 View (612) 887-3089
Photo of Aaron Sandage, Pre-Licensed Professional
Aaron Sandage
Pre-Licensed Professional
1 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that greater self-awareness can help us live more authentically, navigate challenges with confidence, and create lives that feel meaningful and aligned with our values. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your identity, experiences, relationships, and emotions with curiosity and compassion. Whether you are facing a specific challenge or seeking deeper personal growth, my goal is to support you not only in coping, but in thriving.
My approach to therapy is grounded in the belief that greater self-awareness can help us live more authentically, navigate challenges with confidence, and create lives that feel meaningful and aligned with our values. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and nonjudgmental space where you can explore your identity, experiences, relationships, and emotions with curiosity and compassion. Whether you are facing a specific challenge or seeking deeper personal growth, my goal is to support you not only in coping, but in thriving.
(651) 899-7180 View (651) 899-7180
Photo of Peggy Van Duyne, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LPC, LMHC
Peggy Van Duyne
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, LPC, LMHC
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Welcome - My practice is LGBTQiA friendly and strives to be anti-racist in policy and action.
I have over 20 years experience working with clients in variety of setting and with a variet of concerns. My practice focuses on depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, Bipolar, Development and Acute Trauma and post traumatic growth. I utilize DBT, CBT, IFS, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IPNB, MBSR and Somatic approaches to foster healing and growth.
Welcome - My practice is LGBTQiA friendly and strives to be anti-racist in policy and action.
I have over 20 years experience working with clients in variety of setting and with a variet of concerns. My practice focuses on depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use, Bipolar, Development and Acute Trauma and post traumatic growth. I utilize DBT, CBT, IFS, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IPNB, MBSR and Somatic approaches to foster healing and growth.
(612) 441-5209 View (612) 441-5209
Photo of Monica Bernards, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Monica Bernards
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, but rather it is shaped by your needs and life experiences. Starting therapy can be daunting but I am here to make it feel less intimidating. It is my purpose to find what sets everyone apart, helping you discover and develop the tools you have within you. We are all human. With that comes imperfections, differences, and experiences that impact who we are. Therapy is a non-judgmental space to remind the inner critic that it does not belong. Humanity is strength. I value showing up authentically and genuinely. I am human too, imperfections and all, and I seek to remind you that you are not alone.
Therapy is not one-size-fits-all, but rather it is shaped by your needs and life experiences. Starting therapy can be daunting but I am here to make it feel less intimidating. It is my purpose to find what sets everyone apart, helping you discover and develop the tools you have within you. We are all human. With that comes imperfections, differences, and experiences that impact who we are. Therapy is a non-judgmental space to remind the inner critic that it does not belong. Humanity is strength. I value showing up authentically and genuinely. I am human too, imperfections and all, and I seek to remind you that you are not alone.
(612) 482-4365 View (612) 482-4365
Photo of Daniel A. Christensen, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Daniel A. Christensen
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
1 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Unseen in Plain Sight - the anguish can be debilitating and confusing. Learning to calmly see ourselves is a central part of change in therapy, both relationally and neurologically. I guide people in seeing themselves in a more grounded way, manifesting core aspirations and values, and in working themselves away from past ruptures blocking their experience of feeling resourced and regulated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues (emotional malnourishment in all of its forms), trauma, abuse and neglect, and chemical use/compulsive comfort seeking behaviors. I see individuals, couples, and families.
Unseen in Plain Sight - the anguish can be debilitating and confusing. Learning to calmly see ourselves is a central part of change in therapy, both relationally and neurologically. I guide people in seeing themselves in a more grounded way, manifesting core aspirations and values, and in working themselves away from past ruptures blocking their experience of feeling resourced and regulated. I work with developmental/family of origin issues (emotional malnourishment in all of its forms), trauma, abuse and neglect, and chemical use/compulsive comfort seeking behaviors. I see individuals, couples, and families.
(612) 354-8008 View (612) 354-8008
Photo of Todd M Frickey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Todd M Frickey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
“Stuck.” This is a word that often comes up in therapy: feeling stuck with painful feelings, with past traumatic experiences, in unhealthy ways of coping, or in challenging relationship dynamics. When stuck with thoughts of the past or worries about the future, this gets in the way of living in the present. Especially as environments are often invalidating of emotional experiences, getting unstuck is about making room for what we've learned to avoid. Through a close and meaningful relationship, I am passionate about creating a safe environment in which we can get to the bottom of what is keeping you from the life you want to lead.
“Stuck.” This is a word that often comes up in therapy: feeling stuck with painful feelings, with past traumatic experiences, in unhealthy ways of coping, or in challenging relationship dynamics. When stuck with thoughts of the past or worries about the future, this gets in the way of living in the present. Especially as environments are often invalidating of emotional experiences, getting unstuck is about making room for what we've learned to avoid. Through a close and meaningful relationship, I am passionate about creating a safe environment in which we can get to the bottom of what is keeping you from the life you want to lead.
(651) 401-7380 View (651) 401-7380
Photo of Arianne Johnston, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Arianne Johnston
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
5 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Hello! I’m Arianne (she/her). I am a certified Brainspotting therapist and I specialize in working with people who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions & trauma. I strive to create a warm, safe & non-judgmental space for clients to explore what they're seeking through therapy. As a white, heterosexual, cisgender woman, I am actively engaging in deepening my understanding of how these identities & society have shaped my experiences. I am passionate about exploring and celebrating all the different aspects of one’s identity.
Hello! I’m Arianne (she/her). I am a certified Brainspotting therapist and I specialize in working with people who are navigating anxiety, depression, stress, life transitions & trauma. I strive to create a warm, safe & non-judgmental space for clients to explore what they're seeking through therapy. As a white, heterosexual, cisgender woman, I am actively engaging in deepening my understanding of how these identities & society have shaped my experiences. I am passionate about exploring and celebrating all the different aspects of one’s identity.
(612) 712-7547 View (612) 712-7547
Photo of Margo Fritz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Margo Fritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Many are queer, trans, neurodivergent, and high-masking.
The people I work with often feel disconnected from the deep intimacy they desire with friends, family, and partners. After experiences of harm or trauma, relationships might feel risky, exhausting, or unsatisfying. Together we'll work to understand how you show up in relationships and why, exploring what it could look like to be more fully seen and loved. My aim is to nurture a safe environment where you feel heard, held, and gently challenged as you observe your patterns, reclaim choice, grow self-compassion, and come into greater alignment with your hopes and values. Your autonomy and security are centered every step of the way.
Many are queer, trans, neurodivergent, and high-masking.
The people I work with often feel disconnected from the deep intimacy they desire with friends, family, and partners. After experiences of harm or trauma, relationships might feel risky, exhausting, or unsatisfying. Together we'll work to understand how you show up in relationships and why, exploring what it could look like to be more fully seen and loved. My aim is to nurture a safe environment where you feel heard, held, and gently challenged as you observe your patterns, reclaim choice, grow self-compassion, and come into greater alignment with your hopes and values. Your autonomy and security are centered every step of the way.
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Photo of Ada Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Ada Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
“Just because the pain is comfortable doesn’t mean you have to wear it.” -Blake Auden- Change can be scary, even when staying the same feels just as unbearable. Reaching out for therapy, whether you are in a moment of crisis, anticipating upcoming life transitions, or have been waiting for the right time to sift through your past to better understand your present, can be terrifying. I'm here to sit in the thick of it with you and create a safer, contained space for you to discover who you are now, what you want, and what your future holds in your own time.
“Just because the pain is comfortable doesn’t mean you have to wear it.” -Blake Auden- Change can be scary, even when staying the same feels just as unbearable. Reaching out for therapy, whether you are in a moment of crisis, anticipating upcoming life transitions, or have been waiting for the right time to sift through your past to better understand your present, can be terrifying. I'm here to sit in the thick of it with you and create a safer, contained space for you to discover who you are now, what you want, and what your future holds in your own time.
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Photo of Roxy Sullivan, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Roxy Sullivan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
East Isles, Minneapolis, MN 55408
Feeling stressed, frustrated, or stuck? At work, in your relationships, in life? Finding the right therapist shouldn't add to the strain. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to listen, explore what’s shaping your life, and combine insight with practical tools to create lasting change. Together we'll clarify goals, rewrite unhelpful patterns, and build a life that feels more manageable, connected, and meaningful.
Feeling stressed, frustrated, or stuck? At work, in your relationships, in life? Finding the right therapist shouldn't add to the strain. I provide a warm, nonjudgmental space to listen, explore what’s shaping your life, and combine insight with practical tools to create lasting change. Together we'll clarify goals, rewrite unhelpful patterns, and build a life that feels more manageable, connected, and meaningful.
(651) 409-8484 View (651) 409-8484
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.