LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Saint Louis, MO
As a transgender therapist, one of my passions is working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ population.
I work within the Systems Theory and believe that human behavior is influenced by a variety of factors in their environment. Each client has a different background with different needs and therefore requires a tailored therapeutic approach. I am also EMDR certified and use that treatment modality to help clients process unresolved traumatic experiences.
As a transgender therapist, one of my passions is working with clients who identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ population.
I work within the Systems Theory and believe that human behavior is influenced by a variety of factors in their environment. Each client has a different background with different needs and therefore requires a tailored therapeutic approach. I am also EMDR certified and use that treatment modality to help clients process unresolved traumatic experiences.
I have shared experience and expertise working with queer and trans people.
I utilize several approaches to therapy, with a foundational belief that trusting relationships are a necessary force in well being. I strive to be aware of the influences of culture, power, and privilege on relationships. This includes the relationship between you and I, which I intend to approach with openness and humility.
I have shared experience and expertise working with queer and trans people.
I utilize several approaches to therapy, with a foundational belief that trusting relationships are a necessary force in well being. I strive to be aware of the influences of culture, power, and privilege on relationships. This includes the relationship between you and I, which I intend to approach with openness and humility.
Licensed in CA, IL, & MO. You've survived. You've coped. You’ve done healing ceremonies & sat in therapy, built real integrity into your values - maybe even built a good life from the outside. But something still feels off: disconnected, unsure, lonely in a way you can't quite name. I will guide you on how to navigate those surges of anxiety at 3 a.m., when the real you is waiting to be heard. I work at the intersection of modern trauma science & ancient contemplative wisdom, using a theory I call Dynamic Trauma Integration to help you move from surviving into truly being present - at home with your true nature.
Licensed in CA, IL, & MO. You've survived. You've coped. You’ve done healing ceremonies & sat in therapy, built real integrity into your values - maybe even built a good life from the outside. But something still feels off: disconnected, unsure, lonely in a way you can't quite name. I will guide you on how to navigate those surges of anxiety at 3 a.m., when the real you is waiting to be heard. I work at the intersection of modern trauma science & ancient contemplative wisdom, using a theory I call Dynamic Trauma Integration to help you move from surviving into truly being present - at home with your true nature.
You lie awake at night wondering: "Why did I say that?" "Why did they say that?" "What is wrong with me?" "Will I ever be ok?" "Everyone else has this all figured out, why don't I?" "How come no one wants to be with me?" "Will this anxiety/depression ever lift?" And so many other intrusive thoughts. You realize you're thinking these thoughts all day, but at night they really catch up with you. In the morning your thoughts wake you up and the barrage begins anew, always the same words, invoking the same hopeless and helpless feelings. You do what you can just to get out of bed wondering how life got so hard.
You lie awake at night wondering: "Why did I say that?" "Why did they say that?" "What is wrong with me?" "Will I ever be ok?" "Everyone else has this all figured out, why don't I?" "How come no one wants to be with me?" "Will this anxiety/depression ever lift?" And so many other intrusive thoughts. You realize you're thinking these thoughts all day, but at night they really catch up with you. In the morning your thoughts wake you up and the barrage begins anew, always the same words, invoking the same hopeless and helpless feelings. You do what you can just to get out of bed wondering how life got so hard.
Maybe your child feels different, misunderstood, or is exploring their LGBTQ+ identity.
I offer play-based child therapy and parent coaching that helps kids process trauma, grief, identity exploration, and life transitions. With deep experience supporting neurodivergent children, adoptees, and children with trauma I help you understand what behaviors are communicating while giving your child a safe space to heal, grow, and feel truly seen.
Maybe your child feels different, misunderstood, or is exploring their LGBTQ+ identity.
I offer play-based child therapy and parent coaching that helps kids process trauma, grief, identity exploration, and life transitions. With deep experience supporting neurodivergent children, adoptees, and children with trauma I help you understand what behaviors are communicating while giving your child a safe space to heal, grow, and feel truly seen.
Is your life good on paper but still uncomfortable? Do you feel lonely, bored, different, or unsure of yourself? Have you lost your spark? Do you take care of everyone else first? I can help! I am a calm and sturdy guide to self-compassion, understanding, and empowerment. Your path forward exists! You don't have to find it alone.
Is your life good on paper but still uncomfortable? Do you feel lonely, bored, different, or unsure of yourself? Have you lost your spark? Do you take care of everyone else first? I can help! I am a calm and sturdy guide to self-compassion, understanding, and empowerment. Your path forward exists! You don't have to find it alone.
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, troubles at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
Hello! I'm McCoy and an AutPlay Certified Therapist. I work with Neurodivergent children (ADHD, Autistic, Dyslexic, etc.) and their families. When I work with Neurodivergent kids, my job is not to change their brain but to work with them to help kids become their best selves. I have experience working with a variety of client challenges, including big emotional outbursts, social isolation, troubles at school, self injurious behavior, and parent overwhelm. My demeanor is calm and validating. I aim to make a space for everybody and every kind of human struggle. You and your child are welcome here.
Greetings! If you're here, I want to acknowledge that you've already taken an important first step. As a fellow human being, I get that being human is hard. Sometimes we need support to navigate the complexities of life. You're here because you have a craving for deep healing on and wellness. Whether you're seeking practical tools for managing emotions, greater insight into long-standing patterns, or meaningful, lasting change, I'm here to support you on your journey. If you've been grappling with larger questions about yourself or your life and are ready to take the next step, you've come to the right place.
Greetings! If you're here, I want to acknowledge that you've already taken an important first step. As a fellow human being, I get that being human is hard. Sometimes we need support to navigate the complexities of life. You're here because you have a craving for deep healing on and wellness. Whether you're seeking practical tools for managing emotions, greater insight into long-standing patterns, or meaningful, lasting change, I'm here to support you on your journey. If you've been grappling with larger questions about yourself or your life and are ready to take the next step, you've come to the right place.
I specialize in working with patients who have experienced trauma and are seeking insight into the origins of their symptoms in order to achieve symptom reduction. These patients often seek assistance with depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, etc., and through psychoeducation and deep exploration come to find that the symptoms are manifestations of unresolved emotion and unexplored inner worlds. The initial presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, etc. in this case, are sometimes merely metaphor of adverse experiences stored in the internal landscape. My approach involves using my creative clinical skill set to
I specialize in working with patients who have experienced trauma and are seeking insight into the origins of their symptoms in order to achieve symptom reduction. These patients often seek assistance with depression, anxiety, addiction, eating disorders, etc., and through psychoeducation and deep exploration come to find that the symptoms are manifestations of unresolved emotion and unexplored inner worlds. The initial presenting concerns such as depression, anxiety, etc. in this case, are sometimes merely metaphor of adverse experiences stored in the internal landscape. My approach involves using my creative clinical skill set to
If you’ve been feeling stuck, you’ve come to the right place. I work with clients who feel stuck in heavy emotions, in relationship patterns that are no longer serving them, and even in the world at large as they navigate oppressive systems. If you’ve been questioning the dominant narratives of your life, trying to undo ingrained patterns, or questioning who you are, I’m here to listen.
If you’ve been feeling stuck, you’ve come to the right place. I work with clients who feel stuck in heavy emotions, in relationship patterns that are no longer serving them, and even in the world at large as they navigate oppressive systems. If you’ve been questioning the dominant narratives of your life, trying to undo ingrained patterns, or questioning who you are, I’m here to listen.
I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and couples with a variety of issues, including LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, trauma, attachment and life transitions.
My warm and empathetic approach invites clients to examine the limiting beliefs that keep them feeling stuck, opening the door to new ways of being that better match their true needs and desires. Clients feel deeply understood and compassionately challenged, leading to insight and empowerment toward healing, liberation, and growth.
I specialize in supporting adolescents, adults, and couples with a variety of issues, including LGBTQIA+ identity exploration, trauma, attachment and life transitions.
My warm and empathetic approach invites clients to examine the limiting beliefs that keep them feeling stuck, opening the door to new ways of being that better match their true needs and desires. Clients feel deeply understood and compassionately challenged, leading to insight and empowerment toward healing, liberation, and growth.
The struggles of life can become overwhelming, but change is possible. Stress, anxiety, and fear are just a few things you may be facing, but you do not have to face any of them alone. Reaching out for help is the first step towards restoration and growth.
The struggles of life can become overwhelming, but change is possible. Stress, anxiety, and fear are just a few things you may be facing, but you do not have to face any of them alone. Reaching out for help is the first step towards restoration and growth.
I have a specialty working with couples and families, adolescents, and those in the LGBTQ+ Community.
Starting therapy is no small task. It is hard to come to terms with needing help but you deserve to feel better. I strive to make clients feel welcomed, heard and understood in their thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and commitment to providing the best possible resources and interventions to make positive change and help to meet personal goals.
I have a specialty working with couples and families, adolescents, and those in the LGBTQ+ Community.
Starting therapy is no small task. It is hard to come to terms with needing help but you deserve to feel better. I strive to make clients feel welcomed, heard and understood in their thoughts and feelings. I provide a safe and affirming space for self-exploration and commitment to providing the best possible resources and interventions to make positive change and help to meet personal goals.
Throughout our lives we experience many ups and downs, changes and transitions. When we experience these transitions along with trauma, anxiety, or depression these challenges may feel especially overwhelming. Having support, guidance, and tools can help support us through these difficult transitions.
Throughout our lives we experience many ups and downs, changes and transitions. When we experience these transitions along with trauma, anxiety, or depression these challenges may feel especially overwhelming. Having support, guidance, and tools can help support us through these difficult transitions.
Currently, I mostly work with complex trauma and LGBTQIA+ folks, using Internal Family Systems.
As a therapist, I practice Internal Family Systems, social justice-informed approach, using Motivational Interviewing, CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy tools/techniques. I am trained in Internal Family Systems(level 1/certified), and I am using it dominantly, because has worked so well to heal and affirm my clients with so much stigma.
Currently, I mostly work with complex trauma and LGBTQIA+ folks, using Internal Family Systems.
As a therapist, I practice Internal Family Systems, social justice-informed approach, using Motivational Interviewing, CBT and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy tools/techniques. I am trained in Internal Family Systems(level 1/certified), and I am using it dominantly, because has worked so well to heal and affirm my clients with so much stigma.
As a therapist, I have a passion for working with people from diverse backgrounds and seek to incorporate cultural humility into my practice. I typically see adult clients (18+) who have a variety of presenting concerns, including anxiety disorders, life transitions, relational concerns and trauma.
As a therapist, I have a passion for working with people from diverse backgrounds and seek to incorporate cultural humility into my practice. I typically see adult clients (18+) who have a variety of presenting concerns, including anxiety disorders, life transitions, relational concerns and trauma.
You feel responsible for holding everything together. You learned to be low-maintenance to be loved. You're seen for what you give, not who you are. And somewhere along the way, you stopped prioritizing you. So, you started doing the work: years of therapy, books, and self-reflection. You can name your attachment style and trace your wounds back to childhood. But, understanding your pain and healing from it are not the same thing. You still feel stuck in the same patterns, still afraid of being hurt, and still losing yourself in relationships. But, there’s a part of you that hopes for deep connections and that part brought you here.
You feel responsible for holding everything together. You learned to be low-maintenance to be loved. You're seen for what you give, not who you are. And somewhere along the way, you stopped prioritizing you. So, you started doing the work: years of therapy, books, and self-reflection. You can name your attachment style and trace your wounds back to childhood. But, understanding your pain and healing from it are not the same thing. You still feel stuck in the same patterns, still afraid of being hurt, and still losing yourself in relationships. But, there’s a part of you that hopes for deep connections and that part brought you here.
Tana Steffens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Waitlist for new clients
I frequently work with people who have a lot of moving parts in their lives. Whether you’re navigating traumatic experiences, exploring components of identity, or wading through overwhelming seasons of life in other ways, my goal is to help you sift through it all and provide support to process at your own pace. I'm comfortable navigating many of the other pieces that come with trauma work - mitigating anxiety, challenging intrusive thoughts, and creating spaces that make life feel worth living.
I frequently work with people who have a lot of moving parts in their lives. Whether you’re navigating traumatic experiences, exploring components of identity, or wading through overwhelming seasons of life in other ways, my goal is to help you sift through it all and provide support to process at your own pace. I'm comfortable navigating many of the other pieces that come with trauma work - mitigating anxiety, challenging intrusive thoughts, and creating spaces that make life feel worth living.
As a queer, disabled therapist, I understand the grief, frustration, and resilience that come with living with pain that others may not understand.
Living with chronic pain or chronic illness can be exhausting. You may feel like your world has gotten smaller, your body has become unpredictable, or the people around you don't fully understand what you're carrying. Whether you're grieving the life you imagined, feeling isolated, overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling to trust your body, you don't have to face it alone. I help people find relief from the emotional burden of chronic conditions while building lives that feel connected, fulfilling, and aligned with their values.
As a queer, disabled therapist, I understand the grief, frustration, and resilience that come with living with pain that others may not understand.
Living with chronic pain or chronic illness can be exhausting. You may feel like your world has gotten smaller, your body has become unpredictable, or the people around you don't fully understand what you're carrying. Whether you're grieving the life you imagined, feeling isolated, overwhelmed by anxiety, or struggling to trust your body, you don't have to face it alone. I help people find relief from the emotional burden of chronic conditions while building lives that feel connected, fulfilling, and aligned with their values.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
Hi! I'm Ann. I enjoy working with people who are open-minded, inquisitive and who like to challenge norms. Part of the therapeutic process is about confronting the parts of ourselves that we tend to hide and feel a bit less comfortable with. I'd like to help you get to know your whole self and walk beside you as you question some of the beliefs you've held, which may be in conflict with who you are now. Like you, I've been there and asked myself. "What do I want?" "Who am I?" and "What feels motivating and pleasurable in my life?" It's tough to feel ‘stuck’ and also, it's the start of something brand new.
See more therapy options for Saint Louis
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Saint Louis
- Affton
- Brentwood
- Clayton
- Jennings
- Kirkwood
- Ladue
- Maplewood
- Olivette
- Overland
- Richmond Heights
- University City
- Webster Groves
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.