LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Lake Waukomis, MO

Photo of Brian Abbott - Brian J Abbott Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brian J Abbott Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The hope is that we can do more than just survive.
I am passionate about helping people who struggle with anxiety, addiction, developmental trauma, depression, and relational issues. At the core of my approach is an attitude of warmth, acceptance, and faith in my client's innate capacity for healing and transformation. Often people come to therapy with a sense of disempowerment. The impulse to reach out in hope of finding a caring, safe, or 'true other' shows your innate wisdom and strength. We are all in desperate need of help and connection. The hope is that we can do more than just survive.
(816) 227-6550 View (816) 227-6550
Photo of Rachel Cooper-Stadler, MME, MT-BC
Rachel Cooper-Stadler
MME, MT-BC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
In client-centered Music Therapy, the client informs the interaction. Music Therapy works to address what we want to change by combining speech, movement, and body based interventions. This method of treatment works to quickly address the reflexive parts of the brain (where our survival instincts and fight or flight responses live). As a therapist, I'm there to provide support, expertise, and guidance! This type of therapeutic interaction can be especially accessible if talking about an event or identifying something specific is challenging.
In client-centered Music Therapy, the client informs the interaction. Music Therapy works to address what we want to change by combining speech, movement, and body based interventions. This method of treatment works to quickly address the reflexive parts of the brain (where our survival instincts and fight or flight responses live). As a therapist, I'm there to provide support, expertise, and guidance! This type of therapeutic interaction can be especially accessible if talking about an event or identifying something specific is challenging.
(816) 281-9188 View (816) 281-9188

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of J Heath Wilson, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CGDC
J Heath Wilson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CGDC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Struggling with anxiety/depression, trying to overcome past trauma, or navigating the unique challenges of the LGBTQIA+ community can be isolating - but you don't have to face it alone.
My approach is simple: no stuffy therapy sessions or rigid protocols - just genuine, relaxed conversations that help you confront the issues that are holding you back. We'll work together to change the negative thinking patterns affecting your mental health, while staying action-oriented and focused on real, lasting change.
Struggling with anxiety/depression, trying to overcome past trauma, or navigating the unique challenges of the LGBTQIA+ community can be isolating - but you don't have to face it alone.
My approach is simple: no stuffy therapy sessions or rigid protocols - just genuine, relaxed conversations that help you confront the issues that are holding you back. We'll work together to change the negative thinking patterns affecting your mental health, while staying action-oriented and focused on real, lasting change.
(314) 970-4818 View (314) 970-4818
Photo of Dr. Luke Allen, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Luke Allen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
I specialize in working transgender and non-binary youth and their families on matters related to gender identity.
My approach to therapy is based on Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT). A core idea in ACT is that trying too hard to get rid of or control our emotions tends to backfire. Instead of trying to get rid of unwanted thoughts and feelings (e.g., anxiety & depression), I will help you learn to react differently to them so that you can keep your focus on living a meaningful and fulfilling life based on what’s important to you. We will work together to set meaningful goals to address your concerns–whether they relate to life transitions, depression, anxiety, body image, grief/loss, job or academic stress, or gender & sexuality.
(314) 668-1760 View (314) 668-1760
Photo of Colby Bruner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Colby Bruner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship struggles ( gay or straight).
I specialize in helping you navigate life’s challenges through a compassionate and evidence-based approach. We’ll work together to uncover underlying patterns and develop practical tools for healing and growth. By exploring your unique story and building a strong therapeutic alliance, we can work towards greater emotional well-being & a more fulfilling life.
Maybe you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, sadness, or relationship struggles ( gay or straight).
I specialize in helping you navigate life’s challenges through a compassionate and evidence-based approach. We’ll work together to uncover underlying patterns and develop practical tools for healing and growth. By exploring your unique story and building a strong therapeutic alliance, we can work towards greater emotional well-being & a more fulfilling life.
(913) 704-4135 View (913) 704-4135
Photo of Sarah Wittman, Pre-Licensed Professional, S-MFT, MS
Sarah Wittman
Pre-Licensed Professional, S-MFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64105
This includes folks in LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kink/BDSM, service industry, and creative communities.
Welcome! I’m Sarah, here to support you on your journey toward growth, healing, and connection. Our world and relationships are hard, and finding the right therapist can be too. I understand how important it is to work with a therapist who truly “gets” where you’re coming from. In this space, all parts of you are welcomed and accepted, whether you're navigating identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and much more. My approach is holistic, trauma-focused, and flexible to what works best for you. And yes, I believe in finding moments for humor along the way—therapy doesn’t have to be all serious!
This includes folks in LGBTQIA+, non-monogamous, kink/BDSM, service industry, and creative communities.
Welcome! I’m Sarah, here to support you on your journey toward growth, healing, and connection. Our world and relationships are hard, and finding the right therapist can be too. I understand how important it is to work with a therapist who truly “gets” where you’re coming from. In this space, all parts of you are welcomed and accepted, whether you're navigating identity, relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and much more. My approach is holistic, trauma-focused, and flexible to what works best for you. And yes, I believe in finding moments for humor along the way—therapy doesn’t have to be all serious!
(816) 296-8043 View (816) 296-8043
Photo of Nick Harper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Nick Harper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, but my practice is open to anyone who’s seeking honest, affirming, and down-to-earth support.
Maybe you’ve been carrying too much for too long. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, burned out, or just not like yourself. Or perhaps you're not even sure what you're feeling—only that you want something to shift. That’s where I come in. I work with adults from all walks of life who are ready (or almost ready!) to feel more grounded, clear, and connected. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, or life’s inevitable curveballs, therapy is a place where we make sense of the mess—and build something better from it.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ folks, but my practice is open to anyone who’s seeking honest, affirming, and down-to-earth support.
Maybe you’ve been carrying too much for too long. Maybe you’re feeling anxious, burned out, or just not like yourself. Or perhaps you're not even sure what you're feeling—only that you want something to shift. That’s where I come in. I work with adults from all walks of life who are ready (or almost ready!) to feel more grounded, clear, and connected. Whether you're navigating anxiety, trauma, identity exploration, or life’s inevitable curveballs, therapy is a place where we make sense of the mess—and build something better from it.
(725) 900-2799 View (725) 900-2799
Photo of Tyler Sharpe, LCPC, MA, PhD
Tyler Sharpe
LCPC, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also highly experienced in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Did you know that it’s ok, not to be ok? Before you can heal, change and transform yourself, you must accept where you are and what you feel right now. Being confronted with obstacles and stressors in life can be confusing and challenging, but you do not have to tackle them alone. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first, and hardest step; reaching out for help. No matter what struggles you may be facing, always remember, the comeback is stronger than the setback. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, with an educational background in Behavioral Neuroscience & Clinical Psychology; I will help you better understand - YOU.
I am also highly experienced in working with the LGBTQ+ community.
Did you know that it’s ok, not to be ok? Before you can heal, change and transform yourself, you must accept where you are and what you feel right now. Being confronted with obstacles and stressors in life can be confusing and challenging, but you do not have to tackle them alone. If you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first, and hardest step; reaching out for help. No matter what struggles you may be facing, always remember, the comeback is stronger than the setback. As a Licensed Psychotherapist, with an educational background in Behavioral Neuroscience & Clinical Psychology; I will help you better understand - YOU.
(913) 318-3763 View (913) 318-3763
Photo of Brenton Guice, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RDH
Brenton Guice
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RDH
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64113
As a queer therapist, I know how crucial it is to have a space where you don’t have to explain or justify your identities and existence.
I blend somatic (i.e., IFS, EMDR) and talk therapy to help you untangle trauma, embrace who you really are, and build a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you’re questioning your identities, grieving, or just plain tired, know this: You’re not alone. This is your space to be seen, heard, and fully accepted—no judgment or need to explain.
As a queer therapist, I know how crucial it is to have a space where you don’t have to explain or justify your identities and existence.
I blend somatic (i.e., IFS, EMDR) and talk therapy to help you untangle trauma, embrace who you really are, and build a stronger relationship with yourself. Whether you’re questioning your identities, grieving, or just plain tired, know this: You’re not alone. This is your space to be seen, heard, and fully accepted—no judgment or need to explain.
(816) 653-3552 View (816) 653-3552
Photo of Amy Studer - Alternative Access Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Alternative Access Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Our clients often identify as LGBTQIAs2+ / Queer, Non-monogamous, sex positive or sex neutral, neurodivergence, and or disabled and living within Missouri or Kansas boarder's.
Amy Studer (she/zir) has a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling and specializes in accessibility for those with disabilities, trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence, and severe mental health diagnoses. We aim to equip our clients with a plan, the tools and resources, and awareness to create their own paths, and to build the courage to take the first steps.
Our clients often identify as LGBTQIAs2+ / Queer, Non-monogamous, sex positive or sex neutral, neurodivergence, and or disabled and living within Missouri or Kansas boarder's.
Amy Studer (she/zir) has a Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling and specializes in accessibility for those with disabilities, trauma, chronic pain, neurodivergence, and severe mental health diagnoses. We aim to equip our clients with a plan, the tools and resources, and awareness to create their own paths, and to build the courage to take the first steps.
(573) 577-3368 View (573) 577-3368
Photo of Natalie McQuinn, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Natalie McQuinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder.
I use a strengths based, person centered approach while working with you to build a treatment plan that works best for you.
I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, coping with addictions, trauma and abuse, & bipolar disorder.
I use a strengths based, person centered approach while working with you to build a treatment plan that works best for you.
(816) 693-6372 View (816) 693-6372
Photo of Amie Grant, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Amie Grant
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I specialize in working with women, LGBTQIA individuals, and politically progressive clients who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or frustrated by the pressures of the world.
If you feel like you're constantly swimming against the tide, you're not alone. Maybe you're burnt out from capitalism, rage-scrolling the news, or unlearning everything you were taught about success, relationships, and identity. You’ve spent years people-pleasing, contorting yourself to fit expectations, or silencing parts of who you are—and it’s exhausting. You’re ready for something different. Clarity. Relief. A life that actually feels like yours. You don’t need to be “fixed.” You need space to unlearn, heal, and reclaim your power.
I specialize in working with women, LGBTQIA individuals, and politically progressive clients who feel overwhelmed, disconnected, or frustrated by the pressures of the world.
If you feel like you're constantly swimming against the tide, you're not alone. Maybe you're burnt out from capitalism, rage-scrolling the news, or unlearning everything you were taught about success, relationships, and identity. You’ve spent years people-pleasing, contorting yourself to fit expectations, or silencing parts of who you are—and it’s exhausting. You’re ready for something different. Clarity. Relief. A life that actually feels like yours. You don’t need to be “fixed.” You need space to unlearn, heal, and reclaim your power.
(216) 714-1730 View (216) 714-1730
Photo of Crystal D Deets, Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Crystal D Deets
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSCP, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Groups that see the most positive outcomes from working with me are those working to make strengths of anxiety, those that see the world through a neurodivergent lens, and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
Individuals who have seen the best outcomes from my approach have struggled with anxiety, sexuality, gender, social interactions, autism, eating behaviors, and individuals who are looking for a better understanding of themselves. Please reach out and we'll schedule consult
Groups that see the most positive outcomes from working with me are those working to make strengths of anxiety, those that see the world through a neurodivergent lens, and those within the LGBTQ+ community.
Individuals who have seen the best outcomes from my approach have struggled with anxiety, sexuality, gender, social interactions, autism, eating behaviors, and individuals who are looking for a better understanding of themselves. Please reach out and we'll schedule consult
(816) 466-5236 View (816) 466-5236
Photo of Rae Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Rae Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
The world is a scary place for the LGBTQIA+ community.
I specialize in working with queer individuals, to unpack, unlearn, and rediscover who they are beyond societal norms. I offer a supportive space to explore identity, address trauma, anxiety and depression, and build a life that aligns with your authenticity. Together, we’ll move from understanding your struggles to actively living your truth.
The world is a scary place for the LGBTQIA+ community.
I specialize in working with queer individuals, to unpack, unlearn, and rediscover who they are beyond societal norms. I offer a supportive space to explore identity, address trauma, anxiety and depression, and build a life that aligns with your authenticity. Together, we’ll move from understanding your struggles to actively living your truth.
(314) 343-0981 View (314) 343-0981
Photo of Leslie Campbell-York, Pre-Licensed Professional
Leslie Campbell-York
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64153
I specialize in supporting marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people in ethically non-monogamous relationships, those of alternative faiths, and racial and ethnic minorities.
Additional support in life is not to be underestimated. Some lesser known concerns, including sexuality and relationships, self-discovery, and trauma, require specific attention. Therapeutic support is especially helpful for individuals who are marginalized by society. A sex-positive, kink-affirming, and ENM-affirming approach is my standard. My approach emphasizes a person-centered perspective, meeting you where you are and honoring your unique experiences and perspectives. Any topic that is relevant to your journey can be explored. I will maintain openness, unconditional positive regard, and radical respect.
I specialize in supporting marginalized communities, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, people in ethically non-monogamous relationships, those of alternative faiths, and racial and ethnic minorities.
Additional support in life is not to be underestimated. Some lesser known concerns, including sexuality and relationships, self-discovery, and trauma, require specific attention. Therapeutic support is especially helpful for individuals who are marginalized by society. A sex-positive, kink-affirming, and ENM-affirming approach is my standard. My approach emphasizes a person-centered perspective, meeting you where you are and honoring your unique experiences and perspectives. Any topic that is relevant to your journey can be explored. I will maintain openness, unconditional positive regard, and radical respect.
(573) 928-2738 View (573) 928-2738
Photo of Emmogene Chepely, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Emmogene Chepely
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+.
I specialize in trauma, mood disorders, and LGBTQIA+ therapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to explore how our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences affect each other and how we give you tools to start coping and understanding more effectively. I also use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a CBT-based therapy, to treat trauma/PTSD.
Louis area, and I have over 6 years experience treating trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, life changes, bipolar disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorders, and LGBTQ+.
I specialize in trauma, mood disorders, and LGBTQIA+ therapy. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to explore how our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and experiences affect each other and how we give you tools to start coping and understanding more effectively. I also use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a CBT-based therapy, to treat trauma/PTSD.
(636) 245-0180 View (636) 245-0180
Photo of Sammy Stayton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Sammy Stayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
My framework is intersectional, LGBTQIA affirming, anti-racist, and feminist.
I am passionate about helping teens and adults discover more self-compassion, heal from trauma, and feel heard. With my experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I can help you process your painful experiences and emerge with more confidence, connection, and hope.
My framework is intersectional, LGBTQIA affirming, anti-racist, and feminist.
I am passionate about helping teens and adults discover more self-compassion, heal from trauma, and feel heard. With my experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), I can help you process your painful experiences and emerge with more confidence, connection, and hope.
(816) 722-3265 View (816) 722-3265
Photo of Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Jennifer (Jenni) D Liles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work from a queer-friendly, disability aware, and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 13 and up.
With your needs in mind, I provide mental health therapy from a human rights perspective. Whether people think of you as 'deliciously different' or you're 'delightfully normal', let's see what we can do together to help you build a life you love. I therapy through telehealth only. You'll need a data or internet-connected phone, tablet, or computer.
I work from a queer-friendly, disability aware, and neurodivergent perspective with people aged 13 and up.
With your needs in mind, I provide mental health therapy from a human rights perspective. Whether people think of you as 'deliciously different' or you're 'delightfully normal', let's see what we can do together to help you build a life you love. I therapy through telehealth only. You'll need a data or internet-connected phone, tablet, or computer.
(816) 448-8183 View (816) 448-8183
Photo of Sarah Middleton, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Sarah Middleton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence and autism, disability, trauma and acute crisis, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children.
I am able to accept some forms of Missouri Medicaid as payment for therapy sessions, including MoHealthNet, Healthy Blue, and Home State Health. I have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including EMDR, polyvagal theory, and MNRI. I am trained in more traditional therapy methods such as TF-CBT and DBT as well.
I am trained in several modalities, with specific competency training in working with queer and transgender individuals, neurodivergence and autism, disability, trauma and acute crisis, as well as caregivers wanting to better support their children.
I am able to accept some forms of Missouri Medicaid as payment for therapy sessions, including MoHealthNet, Healthy Blue, and Home State Health. I have training in play therapy and several body-based perspectives, including EMDR, polyvagal theory, and MNRI. I am trained in more traditional therapy methods such as TF-CBT and DBT as well.
View
Photo of Addie Cutler, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Addie Cutler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, MO 64055
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize systemic contributions to well-being.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and recognize systemic contributions to well-being.
You wish your relationship and life felt more connected, authentic and whole. You desire to show up as your best self, but find that it’s so much harder than it should be. You tell yourself that you should forgive, move on, commit; and that you should have changed already! You feel bogged down by anxiety and fear, wondering if things can really change. You hope to find deep connection and healing, and hope that therapy is the next step on your path. Let’s walk together toward the life you desire!
(816) 623-1557 View (816) 623-1557
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.