LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Sibley County, MN

Photo of Cheryl Kack - Stepping Stones Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Stepping Stones Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LADC
Arlington, MN 55307
It is important to find the right therapist that you can trust. Congratulations for getting to this point in your life in seeking out the services to assist you in making a positive transition. My name is Cheryl and I am a LICSW and a LADC. Sometimes life hands you difficulties that can be overwhelming. These situations end up causing you to experience trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, fear or frustration. I believe that successful therapy stems from a positive therapeutic relationship. My process stimulates communication in a respectful, supportive and productive manner.
It is important to find the right therapist that you can trust. Congratulations for getting to this point in your life in seeking out the services to assist you in making a positive transition. My name is Cheryl and I am a LICSW and a LADC. Sometimes life hands you difficulties that can be overwhelming. These situations end up causing you to experience trauma, anxiety, depression, anger, confusion, fear or frustration. I believe that successful therapy stems from a positive therapeutic relationship. My process stimulates communication in a respectful, supportive and productive manner.
(507) 298-2125 View (507) 298-2125
Photo of Jan Schwarzrock - Serenity Family Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT
Serenity Family Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RPT
Serves Area
I believe in providing a caring, supportive, and client-centered environment. I want to offer effective therapeutic interventions to help adults, families, and children manage their mental health symptoms, so they can live a more happy and healthier lifestyle, plus finding their inner peace of "Serenity" in their life. I work with children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and families. I provide individual, family, and group therapies. I have also worked with a number of diverse individuals and families with a wide range of mental health disorders.
I believe in providing a caring, supportive, and client-centered environment. I want to offer effective therapeutic interventions to help adults, families, and children manage their mental health symptoms, so they can live a more happy and healthier lifestyle, plus finding their inner peace of "Serenity" in their life. I work with children as young as 4 years old, adolescents, adults, and families. I provide individual, family, and group therapies. I have also worked with a number of diverse individuals and families with a wide range of mental health disorders.
(507) 616-0273 View (507) 616-0273

Online Therapists

Photo of Chet Lesniak, Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Chet Lesniak
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT
Online Only
I also support clients from LGBTQIA communities and those navigating major life transitions, whether expected or unexpected.
Thank you for looking at my profile. I have the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including other psychologists. I help them to navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, life transitions, and the everyday obstacles that get in the way of enjoying life and being happy. Many of the people I work with carry a great deal of stress, anxiety, loneliness, and fear. I offer a safe space to decompress. A place where you can talk about you, your problems, your relationships, and your most private and confidential thoughts and feelings.
I also support clients from LGBTQIA communities and those navigating major life transitions, whether expected or unexpected.
Thank you for looking at my profile. I have the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, including other psychologists. I help them to navigate a wide range of mental health challenges, life transitions, and the everyday obstacles that get in the way of enjoying life and being happy. Many of the people I work with carry a great deal of stress, anxiety, loneliness, and fear. I offer a safe space to decompress. A place where you can talk about you, your problems, your relationships, and your most private and confidential thoughts and feelings.
(929) 475-0804 View (929) 475-0804
Photo of Heather Marriatori, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
1 Endorsed
Burnsville, MN 55337
I have extensively worked within the LGBTQIA+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy communities.
I believe each individual has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I am SW-friendly and MAP-informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive. Therapy is not "one-size-fits all."
I have extensively worked within the LGBTQIA+, poly, kink, and consensual non-monogamy communities.
I believe each individual has the potential to grow at any age. My ultimate focus in therapy is to not merely eliminate “symptoms” but to increase your fulfillment in life, as defined by you. This means treatment is customized to meet YOUR needs so you can meet your goals. I provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties. I am SW-friendly and MAP-informed. I believe in the potential for individual and emotional growth, striving to provide a safe and warm environment in which you can explore and thrive. Therapy is not "one-size-fits all."
(952) 592-6635 View (952) 592-6635
Photo of Michele Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Michele Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Mankato, MN 56001
Waitlist for new clients
I’m Michele (she/her) and I am a cisgender, queer, AuDHD therapist who believes deeply in the power of connection, curiosity, and compassion in the healing process.
My therapeutic style is trauma-focused, relational, and grounded in social justice. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, and Relational Theory to help clients identify, understand, and care for the parts of themselves that may need more attention, patience, or love.
I’m Michele (she/her) and I am a cisgender, queer, AuDHD therapist who believes deeply in the power of connection, curiosity, and compassion in the healing process.
My therapeutic style is trauma-focused, relational, and grounded in social justice. I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment Theory, and Relational Theory to help clients identify, understand, and care for the parts of themselves that may need more attention, patience, or love.
(507) 565-0584 View (507) 565-0584
Photo of Abby Singleton, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Abby Singleton
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
I am a queer-identifying, fat-positive, and social justice therapist - my practice is a space where all bodies, identities, and lived experiences are welcome.
Accepting new clients! Are you looking for a space where you can be seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly as you are? You've come to the right place! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist that enjoys exploring how your past can impact your present and can impact your future. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify my approach and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
I am a queer-identifying, fat-positive, and social justice therapist - my practice is a space where all bodies, identities, and lived experiences are welcome.
Accepting new clients! Are you looking for a space where you can be seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly as you are? You've come to the right place! I use a radical and compassionate approach to therapy and am a trauma-informed and affirming therapist that enjoys exploring how your past can impact your present and can impact your future. I recognize that therapy is not one-size-fits-all, and I meet each person where they are at; I will modify my approach and modalities based on the needs of each individual. We can work together to set goals and promote growth in whatever way feels best for you.
(651) 273-0687 View (651) 273-0687
Photo of Eloise von DeWitt, Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, LPCC
Eloise von DeWitt
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC, LPCC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with the queer and trans community as well as people struggling with mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, religious trauma, family of origin trauma, intimate partner violence, neurodiversity, and climate grief.
As a dual-licensed substance use counselor and mental health therapist, I am uniquely equipped to serve people with co-occurring disorders. I tend to focus initially on skills coaching and self accommodation so that clients have concrete tools to weather the storm before diving into deeper exploration, collaborating with you to find the best approaches.
I am passionate about working with the queer and trans community as well as people struggling with mood disorders, substance use, eating disorders, religious trauma, family of origin trauma, intimate partner violence, neurodiversity, and climate grief.
As a dual-licensed substance use counselor and mental health therapist, I am uniquely equipped to serve people with co-occurring disorders. I tend to focus initially on skills coaching and self accommodation so that clients have concrete tools to weather the storm before diving into deeper exploration, collaborating with you to find the best approaches.
(612) 662-4630 View (612) 662-4630
Photo of Brittany-Jean Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Brittany-Jean Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
2 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
Do you find yourself caught in strained or complicated relationships—with family, partners, or friends—and feeling drained by how much it impacts your life? Our relationships play a big role in shaping how we understand ourselves over time and when life gets messy we can lose sight of everything we’re quietly carrying. While it can feel isolating and lonely to find yourself here, it’s also a common way to realize you're ready for stronger boundaries. Let’s explore how layers of your identities like gender, sexuality, race & neurodivergence relate to your relationships and larger social inequalities, so we can refocus your needs.
Do you find yourself caught in strained or complicated relationships—with family, partners, or friends—and feeling drained by how much it impacts your life? Our relationships play a big role in shaping how we understand ourselves over time and when life gets messy we can lose sight of everything we’re quietly carrying. While it can feel isolating and lonely to find yourself here, it’s also a common way to realize you're ready for stronger boundaries. Let’s explore how layers of your identities like gender, sexuality, race & neurodivergence relate to your relationships and larger social inequalities, so we can refocus your needs.
(651) 538-2951 View (651) 538-2951
Photo of Isabelle Lankhorst, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Isabelle Lankhorst
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Online Only
Hi! Finding a therapist who's the right fit for you can be such a rough process, right? I'll be as straightforward as possible: From me you can expect gentle honesty, flexibility, and lots of humor. I'm also super gay, super ADHD, anti capitalist, and body neutral. I've worked in mental health care for ten years focusing on the intersections of sex and trauma, as well as body size and trauma. Fat is not a bad word. I'm trained in EMDR and love it, but my goal is truly to meet you where you're at, pushing you just to your comfortable edge for growth.
Hi! Finding a therapist who's the right fit for you can be such a rough process, right? I'll be as straightforward as possible: From me you can expect gentle honesty, flexibility, and lots of humor. I'm also super gay, super ADHD, anti capitalist, and body neutral. I've worked in mental health care for ten years focusing on the intersections of sex and trauma, as well as body size and trauma. Fat is not a bad word. I'm trained in EMDR and love it, but my goal is truly to meet you where you're at, pushing you just to your comfortable edge for growth.
(651) 888-8591 View (651) 888-8591
Photo of Barbara Wormington, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BS, MS, MEd
Barbara Wormington
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BS, MS, MEd
1 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55104
As a queer, Native American, former teacher, divorced mom, I get it.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, stuck or just yourself? I want to listen and advocate for you. My job is to support you in your journey and growth in a way that makes sense to YOU. I want to help you understand yourself better in order to meet your goals, needs and wants. Let's chat more about we might connect and grow together.
As a queer, Native American, former teacher, divorced mom, I get it.
Are you feeling lost, overwhelmed, stuck or just yourself? I want to listen and advocate for you. My job is to support you in your journey and growth in a way that makes sense to YOU. I want to help you understand yourself better in order to meet your goals, needs and wants. Let's chat more about we might connect and grow together.
(763) 373-4697 View (763) 373-4697
Photo of Adrienne Marcellus, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Adrienne Marcellus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55401
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 Autism and ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and a detailed write up. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored for adults especially those who may have gone under the radar. I aim for this process to be focused on self discovery and a deeper understanding. of yourself and your life. I also support clients with OCD and PTSD through evidenced based treatment modalities. My work blends evidence-based care with lived experience and a deep respect for you and your mind.
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 Autism and ADHD evaluations with diagnosis and a detailed write up. My approach is collaborative, affirming, and tailored for adults especially those who may have gone under the radar. I aim for this process to be focused on self discovery and a deeper understanding. of yourself and your life. I also support clients with OCD and PTSD through evidenced based treatment modalities. My work blends evidence-based care with lived experience and a deep respect for you and your mind.
(612) 268-6739 View (612) 268-6739
Photo of Jennifer Kolstad - Pride Counseling Services PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pride Counseling Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
2 Endorsed
Mankato, MN 56001
Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where LGBTQ+ people can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
We provide gender affirmative mental health assessments to help people who are transgender, gender non-conforming, nonbinary, or agender prepare and receive a letter for surgery.
Our mission is to provide a safe and supportive environment where LGBTQ+ people can embark on their journey towards healing and personal growth.
We provide gender affirmative mental health assessments to help people who are transgender, gender non-conforming, nonbinary, or agender prepare and receive a letter for surgery.
(507) 225-1698 x2 View (507) 225-1698 x2
Photo of Jessica Belter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
Jessica Belter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Minneapolis, MN 55405
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide IN-PERSON in Minneapolis or Telehealth in all 3 States. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you feel stuck in your relationships, career or family; if inner peace and contentment elude you; if you feel lost and overwhelmed but aren’t sure why; if you feel that others got the instructions on how to do life but you missed the memo, perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short. You are worth this.
I am licensed in CA, AZ and MN and can provide IN-PERSON in Minneapolis or Telehealth in all 3 States. Who doesn't want freedom in all aspects of life? I believe that true freedom comes from transformation of self from the inside out. We are not on this planet to struggle, rather to find the courage to let our light shine. If you feel stuck in your relationships, career or family; if inner peace and contentment elude you; if you feel lost and overwhelmed but aren’t sure why; if you feel that others got the instructions on how to do life but you missed the memo, perhaps it is time for a change. Life is short. You are worth this.
(612) 260-1593 View (612) 260-1593
Photo of Jeb Sawyer - Relationship Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Relationship Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis Park, MN 55416
At The Relationship Therapy Center (RTC), our mission is to help people grow in health and happiness in their important relationships! With over 30 dedicated therapists specializing in relationships, we are proud to be the largest couples therapy practice in the Midwest. Our team integrates empirically informed methods, exceptional care, and a genuine passion for helping people reconnect and heal. Every therapist at RTC takes the time to understand your unique story, tailoring therapy to meet the needs of each individual, couple, and family we serve.
At The Relationship Therapy Center (RTC), our mission is to help people grow in health and happiness in their important relationships! With over 30 dedicated therapists specializing in relationships, we are proud to be the largest couples therapy practice in the Midwest. Our team integrates empirically informed methods, exceptional care, and a genuine passion for helping people reconnect and heal. Every therapist at RTC takes the time to understand your unique story, tailoring therapy to meet the needs of each individual, couple, and family we serve.
(612) 787-2832 View (612) 787-2832
Photo of Madison Garnhardt, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Madison Garnhardt
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
3 Endorsed
Minnetonka, MN 55343
As a queer therapist, I enjoy working with those in our community.
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like things “should” be better by now - but nothing seems to change. Therapy can help, and it doesn't have to feel intimidating. In our work together, we will recognize how your experiences and understanding of the world have led to feelings of doubt, confusion, and exhaustion in order to discover new ways of thinking and acting. I focus on patterns of behavior, emotional insight, and a strong therapeutic relationship. Clients often tell me they feel safe, understood, and surprised by how comfortable therapy can feel - even when we’re doing hard work!
As a queer therapist, I enjoy working with those in our community.
You might be feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or like things “should” be better by now - but nothing seems to change. Therapy can help, and it doesn't have to feel intimidating. In our work together, we will recognize how your experiences and understanding of the world have led to feelings of doubt, confusion, and exhaustion in order to discover new ways of thinking and acting. I focus on patterns of behavior, emotional insight, and a strong therapeutic relationship. Clients often tell me they feel safe, understood, and surprised by how comfortable therapy can feel - even when we’re doing hard work!
(866) 522-2472 View (866) 522-2472
Photo of Ryanne Underhill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Ryanne Underhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Online Only
I am a queer identified LICSW with more than 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy.
I use a strengths based, somatic, transpersonal (spiritual) approach to therapy. We will co-create a space that allows you the time & space to bring forward whatever wants to be present. My philosophy is that healing happens in relationship, healing is not done to you, healing is done with you. While I have expertise, you are the expert in you.
I am a queer identified LICSW with more than 15 years of experience providing psychotherapy.
I use a strengths based, somatic, transpersonal (spiritual) approach to therapy. We will co-create a space that allows you the time & space to bring forward whatever wants to be present. My philosophy is that healing happens in relationship, healing is not done to you, healing is done with you. While I have expertise, you are the expert in you.
(612) 688-5906 View (612) 688-5906
Photo of Presley Nuutinen, Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Presley Nuutinen
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
New Hope, MN 55428
I work with adults and couples, and often work with with folks who identify as fat, queer, trans, polyamorous, and neurodivergent.
As a therapist, I create space for folks to explore their relationships and their authentic selves. I work from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive perspective. I believe therapy is collaborative, and I hope to meet you where you are in working toward a life that feels authentic to you.
I work with adults and couples, and often work with with folks who identify as fat, queer, trans, polyamorous, and neurodivergent.
As a therapist, I create space for folks to explore their relationships and their authentic selves. I work from a trauma-informed, anti-oppressive perspective. I believe therapy is collaborative, and I hope to meet you where you are in working toward a life that feels authentic to you.
(651) 372-2565 View (651) 372-2565
Photo of Sara E Goldstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, MSW
Sara E Goldstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LGSW, MSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I greatly enjoy working with adults (18+) who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and/or anybody navigating gender identity, perfectionism, life transitions, anxiety, self-worth, and/or self-compassion.
At its core, my therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, liberatory, and collaborative. I strive to be a steady and warm presence, a good listener, and to create a space where folks feel deeply accepted, understood, and valued. I approach the therapeutic relationship with gentle curiosity, compassion, authenticity, and a touch of humor.
I greatly enjoy working with adults (18+) who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and/or anybody navigating gender identity, perfectionism, life transitions, anxiety, self-worth, and/or self-compassion.
At its core, my therapeutic approach is client-centered, trauma-informed, liberatory, and collaborative. I strive to be a steady and warm presence, a good listener, and to create a space where folks feel deeply accepted, understood, and valued. I approach the therapeutic relationship with gentle curiosity, compassion, authenticity, and a touch of humor.
(651) 977-6682 View (651) 977-6682
Photo of Heather Marriatori, Psychologist, PhD, LP
Heather Marriatori
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Burnsville, MN 55337
I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties.
My clinical specialties include anxiety disorders, trauma, and gender/sexual identity ( LGBTQIA+). I also have extensive experience working with grief, loss, panic, relationship/communication issues, unresolved childhood issues, and more. Therapy is not a "one-size-fits all" approach so together, we will personalize it to suit YOUR needs.
I'm LGBTQIA+-Affirming & provide therapy for a variety of clinical disorders, including but not limited to anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, & interpersonal difficulties.
My clinical specialties include anxiety disorders, trauma, and gender/sexual identity ( LGBTQIA+). I also have extensive experience working with grief, loss, panic, relationship/communication issues, unresolved childhood issues, and more. Therapy is not a "one-size-fits all" approach so together, we will personalize it to suit YOUR needs.
(619) 648-3167 View (619) 648-3167
Photo of Sam Gardow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Sam Gardow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LGSW
Saint Paul, MN 55102
Clients often come to me seeking a queer therapist who isn't afraid to truly sit in the hard feelings and approach themes related to trauma, identity, and relationships.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, trauma survivors, immigrants/refugees, and asylum-seekers. My therapeutic lens emphasizes attachment, relationships, and cumulative development, and is guided by and tailored to the unique cultural and environmental contexts of each individual sitting across from me.
Clients often come to me seeking a queer therapist who isn't afraid to truly sit in the hard feelings and approach themes related to trauma, identity, and relationships.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, trauma survivors, immigrants/refugees, and asylum-seekers. My therapeutic lens emphasizes attachment, relationships, and cumulative development, and is guided by and tailored to the unique cultural and environmental contexts of each individual sitting across from me.
(651) 564-7337 View (651) 564-7337
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.