LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Chapel Hill, NC
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is steeped in active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I offer an integrative approach to clients that focuses on the client’s unique needs and identities. One of my primary specialties is affirmative and knowledgable therapy for LGBTQ clients. I use various counseling techniques such as unconditional positive regard, Nurture Play Structure (NPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy as well as psychoeducation to provide an individualized plan of care.
I proudly identify as an LGBTQ therapist who believes in a therapeutic relationship that is steeped in active listening, empathy, and unconditional positive regard. I offer an integrative approach to clients that focuses on the client’s unique needs and identities. One of my primary specialties is affirmative and knowledgable therapy for LGBTQ clients. I use various counseling techniques such as unconditional positive regard, Nurture Play Structure (NPS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy as well as psychoeducation to provide an individualized plan of care.
Dr. Michael Eason
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, sex therapy, maladaptive behaviors, trauma-informed care, and multiculturalism.
As a PhD-level counselor with 17+ years of experience, my approach is rooted in Humanistic Psychology, focusing on authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and respect for your unique journey. I integrate a variety of theoretical approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you identify and embrace your values, guiding you to live more meaningfully despite challenges. I tailor our sessions to help you replace unhealthy thought patterns with more grounded, rational ways of thinking. Together, we'll co-create a personalized treatment plan to support your path toward a more fulfilling life.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, sex therapy, maladaptive behaviors, trauma-informed care, and multiculturalism.
As a PhD-level counselor with 17+ years of experience, my approach is rooted in Humanistic Psychology, focusing on authenticity, unconditional positive regard, and respect for your unique journey. I integrate a variety of theoretical approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help you identify and embrace your values, guiding you to live more meaningfully despite challenges. I tailor our sessions to help you replace unhealthy thought patterns with more grounded, rational ways of thinking. Together, we'll co-create a personalized treatment plan to support your path toward a more fulfilling life.
Phillip Bass
Counselor, MDiv, ThM, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
My areas of specialty include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, poly families, and ENM relationships. I also provide clinical supervision to LCMHCA's. With over 10 years of experience, I've come to enjoy helping clients find their voice, recognize their needs, and discover the benefits of self-care and boundaries. My work is heavily focused in Attachment Theory, but I also include aspects of Queer Theory, EMDR, CBT, and others as appropriate.
My areas of specialty include LGBTQIA+ issues, trauma, and relationships. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, poly families, and ENM relationships. I also provide clinical supervision to LCMHCA's. With over 10 years of experience, I've come to enjoy helping clients find their voice, recognize their needs, and discover the benefits of self-care and boundaries. My work is heavily focused in Attachment Theory, but I also include aspects of Queer Theory, EMDR, CBT, and others as appropriate.
Justin Bradshaw - Gay Identifying
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
As a Gay, Black therapist, I’m passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and people of color.
Are you having trouble identifying your feelings and communicating them to your friends and loved ones? Has it been nerve-racking to speak your mind and get a negative reaction from others? You deserve a safe space to explore your emotions and mental health obstacles. Together, we’ll work through these emotional challenges and empower you to find your inner confidence. After a few sessions, you'll learn how to be your own advocate! I'm also a Gottman trained therapist, a research-based therapy has shown to be effective with assisting couples with their various relationship concerns.
As a Gay, Black therapist, I’m passionate about working with the LGBTQ+ community and people of color.
Are you having trouble identifying your feelings and communicating them to your friends and loved ones? Has it been nerve-racking to speak your mind and get a negative reaction from others? You deserve a safe space to explore your emotions and mental health obstacles. Together, we’ll work through these emotional challenges and empower you to find your inner confidence. After a few sessions, you'll learn how to be your own advocate! I'm also a Gottman trained therapist, a research-based therapy has shown to be effective with assisting couples with their various relationship concerns.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here. My name is Dylan Hines, a mental health counselor at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness. I am deeply passionate about supporting members of the queer ( LGBTQ+) community through mental health care and community education. I also enjoy working alongside adolescents and adults of all ages as they explore identities and values; manage anxiety, depression, and daily stressors; process trauma; navigate life transitions; and work towards their goal of creating a more fulfilling life.
Hi, I'm so glad you're here. My name is Dylan Hines, a mental health counselor at Three Oaks Behavioral Health & Wellness. I am deeply passionate about supporting members of the queer ( LGBTQ+) community through mental health care and community education. I also enjoy working alongside adolescents and adults of all ages as they explore identities and values; manage anxiety, depression, and daily stressors; process trauma; navigate life transitions; and work towards their goal of creating a more fulfilling life.
InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
Our therapists utilize all the acronyms you've seen in therapy (DBT, CBT, ACT), we love to use therapy as a tool to manage emotions healthily, process trauma, focus on issues in your life, making being neurodivergent work for you instead of against you, reduce "people pleasing" behaviors, set and achieve goals, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ based stressors (don't worry, you won't have to educate your therapist on your sexuality or gender here!).
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergence work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in NC. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
Our therapists utilize all the acronyms you've seen in therapy (DBT, CBT, ACT), we love to use therapy as a tool to manage emotions healthily, process trauma, focus on issues in your life, making being neurodivergent work for you instead of against you, reduce "people pleasing" behaviors, set and achieve goals, addiction, and LGBTQIA+ based stressors (don't worry, you won't have to educate your therapist on your sexuality or gender here!).
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied). We focus on working with trauma, LGBTQIA+, folx making neurodivergence work for them, specialty with religious trauma, self-harm, couples counseling, BPD, grief, anxiety, and depression. We work with teens and adults in NC. We love working through the good, the bad, and the ugly and supporting our clients to make life feel just a little lighter for them. Text or call today for your FREE-15 minute consult, to make sure you feel like we're a good fit!
I work with young adults, college students, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, transgender and nonbinary folx, and neurodivergent adults with ADHD or ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us human. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
I work with young adults, college students, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, transgender and nonbinary folx, and neurodivergent adults with ADHD or ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us human. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
Bailey Hanagan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community and looking for a therapist that “just gets it?” Have you been feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, a transition, family or relationship difficulties, or hoping to better manage stress and anxiety? As a queer and trans person of color, I am passionate about collective liberation and providing affirming and empowering care to the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who are trans or gender diverse. I know that finding a therapist who is a good fit for your specific needs, and goals can be a very overwhelming process.
Are you a member of the LGBTQ+ community and looking for a therapist that “just gets it?” Have you been feeling overwhelmed by life’s challenges, a transition, family or relationship difficulties, or hoping to better manage stress and anxiety? As a queer and trans person of color, I am passionate about collective liberation and providing affirming and empowering care to the LGBTQ+ community, especially those who are trans or gender diverse. I know that finding a therapist who is a good fit for your specific needs, and goals can be a very overwhelming process.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
As a Therapist, I believe that central to our success is a safe, supportive therapeutic relationship. I prioritize creating a safe relational space for my clients so that we can identify areas of strength and areas of growth. I specialize in Mood Disorders such as anxiety and depression, Eating Disorders, life transitions, Gender and Sexuality, and social/relational issues. I am a Certified EMDR Practitioner with extensive training and experience in supporting LGBTQIA+ adolescents and adults through transitions and mental health distress.
Louise Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy working with folks who are seeking to build satisfaction, authenticity, and fulfillment in their lives. Many of those that I have worked with have faced challenges related to life transitions, neurdivergence, LGBTQIA+ identity, systemic oppression, interpersonal relationships, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between client and therapist; ultimately, that you, the client, are the experts of their own life.
I enjoy working with folks who are seeking to build satisfaction, authenticity, and fulfillment in their lives. Many of those that I have worked with have faced challenges related to life transitions, neurdivergence, LGBTQIA+ identity, systemic oppression, interpersonal relationships, and trauma. I believe that the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration between client and therapist; ultimately, that you, the client, are the experts of their own life.
Brooke Reiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599 (Online Only)
As a therapist, a fellow human being, a neurodivergent, and a member of the LGBT+ community, I understand that life can be challenging at times.
I’m so glad that you’re considering therapy! It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous, but I want you to know that I’ll be here to support you throughout this journey. Right now, I have openings for virtual evening sessions at Phoenix Rising Centers! As part of the LGBTQ+ community, I especially focus on supporting individuals like you. I have a wealth of experience working with people ages 12 to 50, helping them through challenges like anxiety, depression, body image issues, relationship concerns, co-dependency, and life transitions.
As a therapist, a fellow human being, a neurodivergent, and a member of the LGBT+ community, I understand that life can be challenging at times.
I’m so glad that you’re considering therapy! It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous, but I want you to know that I’ll be here to support you throughout this journey. Right now, I have openings for virtual evening sessions at Phoenix Rising Centers! As part of the LGBTQ+ community, I especially focus on supporting individuals like you. I have a wealth of experience working with people ages 12 to 50, helping them through challenges like anxiety, depression, body image issues, relationship concerns, co-dependency, and life transitions.
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Are you struggling as a queer person in today’s world? Do you feel discouraged about coming out and transitioning? I'm an out therapist and specialize in LGBTQ affirmative therapy, with a focus on trans/gender identity issues. In our sessions we use a compassionate lens to uncover obstacles that have held you back. We address your authentic needs and what is important to you. As your self awareness expands, your mood and confidence will improve, creating momentum for goals such as coming out, freely expressing yourself, and finding queer community.
Are you struggling as a queer person in today’s world? Do you feel discouraged about coming out and transitioning? I'm an out therapist and specialize in LGBTQ affirmative therapy, with a focus on trans/gender identity issues. In our sessions we use a compassionate lens to uncover obstacles that have held you back. We address your authentic needs and what is important to you. As your self awareness expands, your mood and confidence will improve, creating momentum for goals such as coming out, freely expressing yourself, and finding queer community.
Lee Doyle
LCSW Associate, MSW, MPH, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
I am a white, queer, trans therapist.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and depleted? Do you feel disconnected from your body? Are your relationships or sex life struggling? Do you find yourself wondering about your gender or sexuality? Have you done therapy before but feel stuck in your progress? Are you ready for change but unsure how to get there? Is it important to you that your therapist be a safe person who holds values and identities to yours?
I am a white, queer, trans therapist.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and depleted? Do you feel disconnected from your body? Are your relationships or sex life struggling? Do you find yourself wondering about your gender or sexuality? Have you done therapy before but feel stuck in your progress? Are you ready for change but unsure how to get there? Is it important to you that your therapist be a safe person who holds values and identities to yours?
Melissa Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27599
My extensive experience working with women, and folks in the LGBTQ+ community, aids me in working with folks when they feel overwhelmed, are experiencing dissatisfaction in relationships, life transitions, trauma, and anxiety.
Do you feel like you want to make a change in your life, but you just can't figure out how to get there? Like you're facing something that you just can't see a way past? I am here to help; to walk with you on the journey; to support the growth that you know you can achieve if you can just get started. We all hold the capacity to thrive in our lives. My goal in working with you is to meet you where you are, help you identify the root of your challenge, build resilience, and help you unearth your inner strength and wisdom, so you can emerge into your full self.
My extensive experience working with women, and folks in the LGBTQ+ community, aids me in working with folks when they feel overwhelmed, are experiencing dissatisfaction in relationships, life transitions, trauma, and anxiety.
Do you feel like you want to make a change in your life, but you just can't figure out how to get there? Like you're facing something that you just can't see a way past? I am here to help; to walk with you on the journey; to support the growth that you know you can achieve if you can just get started. We all hold the capacity to thrive in our lives. My goal in working with you is to meet you where you are, help you identify the root of your challenge, build resilience, and help you unearth your inner strength and wisdom, so you can emerge into your full self.
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of & serving the queer community for 40 years, with a focus on those who defy labels & who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum ( LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
I am a cisgender woman who has been part of & serving the queer community for 40 years, with a focus on those who defy labels & who identify along the gender continuum.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum ( LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
Tiffany R. Baker-Chapman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am Accepting New Clients. My ideal client's are adults ages 18+ who might struggle with being highly self-critical and negative self-talk, feelings of not fitting in / fear of missing out, if you're processing past experiences that have changed your perspective on life, and/or find yourself often living in chronic survival mode; often due to things outside of your control. As a neurodivergent, queer, BIPOC therapist, I also see clients of many marginalized communities looking to gain support, build confidence, and work on past traumas.
Hi, I'm Tiffany! I am Accepting New Clients. My ideal client's are adults ages 18+ who might struggle with being highly self-critical and negative self-talk, feelings of not fitting in / fear of missing out, if you're processing past experiences that have changed your perspective on life, and/or find yourself often living in chronic survival mode; often due to things outside of your control. As a neurodivergent, queer, BIPOC therapist, I also see clients of many marginalized communities looking to gain support, build confidence, and work on past traumas.
People in helping professions are natural givers, but our empathy and compassion can’t keep us from becoming over-extended, unbalanced, and burned out. I help people dealing with these issues understand their challenges and rediscover fulfillment from their work and joy in their lives. My other passions include working with people to navigate a wide variety of transition and/or identity-related areas of life, including: aging, LGBTQIA+, relationships, career, and parenting.
People in helping professions are natural givers, but our empathy and compassion can’t keep us from becoming over-extended, unbalanced, and burned out. I help people dealing with these issues understand their challenges and rediscover fulfillment from their work and joy in their lives. My other passions include working with people to navigate a wide variety of transition and/or identity-related areas of life, including: aging, LGBTQIA+, relationships, career, and parenting.
Rachel Maguire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
Waitlist for new clients
I myself am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, am committed to anti-racist, intersectional work, and practice from a space of cultural humility.
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
I myself am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, am committed to anti-racist, intersectional work, and practice from a space of cultural humility.
I work well with anyone struggling with symptoms of mental illness (including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder), processing trauma or grief, undergoing transitions, exploring their gender or sexual identity, or is a survivor of gender violence. I also understand the emotional impact of online relationships, friendships, and community building, and enjoy working with folks immersed in online culture or who have online/long-distance support systems.
Christian Cagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27514
This is especially true for LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups, who may face additional mental health concerns and life stressors stemming from barriers to care, discrimination, harassment, lack of acceptance, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma therapy), and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused care. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
This is especially true for LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups, who may face additional mental health concerns and life stressors stemming from barriers to care, discrimination, harassment, lack of acceptance, and more.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma therapy), and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused care. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
As a sex therapist, I work with clients across identities and orientations, as well as individuals, couples, and partners. My services include supporting those with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, traumas, sexual orientation, gender identity, and polyamory and non-monogamy. My ideal sex therapy client is willing to commit to therapeutic work together in a trusting, empathetic, and honest environment. I have specialized knowledge about those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am an out queer, trans therapist serving my community.
As a sex therapist, I work with clients across identities and orientations, as well as individuals, couples, and partners. My services include supporting those with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, traumas, sexual orientation, gender identity, and polyamory and non-monogamy. My ideal sex therapy client is willing to commit to therapeutic work together in a trusting, empathetic, and honest environment. I have specialized knowledge about those who identify as LGBTQIA+ and am an out queer, trans therapist serving my community.
See more therapy options for Chapel Hill
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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.