LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Clayton, NC
Hi there! I am glad you are here. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, and starting therapy is a big step. No matter your story, know that you deserve support, healing, and a space where you can be fully seen and heard. Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, depression, or navigating complex diagnoses like PTSD, bipolar disorder, or co-occurring mental health issues. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Maybe you're hoping to feel more like yourself again, to reconnect with others, or to simply feel more at peace in your day-to-day life!
Hi there! I am glad you are here. Reaching out for help can feel overwhelming, and starting therapy is a big step. No matter your story, know that you deserve support, healing, and a space where you can be fully seen and heard. Life can be incredibly challenging, especially when you're carrying the weight of trauma, anxiety, depression, or navigating complex diagnoses like PTSD, bipolar disorder, or co-occurring mental health issues. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Maybe you're hoping to feel more like yourself again, to reconnect with others, or to simply feel more at peace in your day-to-day life!
Healing begins with a single step. Start your journey today with a clinician who is deeply passionate about walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as we work together toward healing, growth, and meaningful change. My clients enjoy a warm and compassionate counselor with extensive knowledge and experience working with men, women, and children of all ages across a wide range of life experiences and challenges. My ideal clients are those who are ready to take the first step, whether they are navigating anxiety, relationship struggles, past trauma, life transitions, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of themselves.
Healing begins with a single step. Start your journey today with a clinician who is deeply passionate about walking alongside individuals, couples, and families as we work together toward healing, growth, and meaningful change. My clients enjoy a warm and compassionate counselor with extensive knowledge and experience working with men, women, and children of all ages across a wide range of life experiences and challenges. My ideal clients are those who are ready to take the first step, whether they are navigating anxiety, relationship struggles, past trauma, life transitions, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of themselves.
I think of therapy as a journey. I see my role as walking along side my client, shedding light on the past, helping make connections between events, thoughts, actions, and feelings. Working collaboratively, we make use of these insights to develop new perspectives on the past and the present. At the end of our time together, I want my client to feel more secure and confident moving forward under their own power, liking who they are and what they have to offer the world.
I think of therapy as a journey. I see my role as walking along side my client, shedding light on the past, helping make connections between events, thoughts, actions, and feelings. Working collaboratively, we make use of these insights to develop new perspectives on the past and the present. At the end of our time together, I want my client to feel more secure and confident moving forward under their own power, liking who they are and what they have to offer the world.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I create a safe, affirming space where clients can show up as their authentic selves. Using a neuroaffirmative lens, I honor neurological differences like autism and ADHD as valuable aspects of identity. My work blends DBT for emotional regulation and relationship skills, Motivational Interviewing to support self-directed change, and the Gottman Method to strengthen couples’ communication and connection. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, where together we build tools, insight, and confidence to help you live a life that feels authentic and meaningful.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I create a safe, affirming space where clients can show up as their authentic selves. Using a neuroaffirmative lens, I honor neurological differences like autism and ADHD as valuable aspects of identity. My work blends DBT for emotional regulation and relationship skills, Motivational Interviewing to support self-directed change, and the Gottman Method to strengthen couples’ communication and connection. I believe therapy is a collaborative journey, where together we build tools, insight, and confidence to help you live a life that feels authentic and meaningful.
Thank you for visiting my page. By visiting this site, you are taking the first step towards realizing the positive changes that you would like to see in your life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings with people struggling with many different types of problems. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I typically approach treatment from a family systems perspective, often focusing on communication patterns and roles that individuals serve in the family system.
Thank you for visiting my page. By visiting this site, you are taking the first step towards realizing the positive changes that you would like to see in your life. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years working in the mental health field. I have worked in a variety of settings with people struggling with many different types of problems. Whether working with individuals, couples, or families, I typically approach treatment from a family systems perspective, often focusing on communication patterns and roles that individuals serve in the family system.
Every therapy client has unique needs and goals. Some people seek clarification during transitional times, while others desire an open, nonjudgmental space to share and process complex emotions. Many therapy clients seek a space to vent or air frustrations. I enjoy meeting each client where they are in their mental health journey and working to approach their individual needs.
Every therapy client has unique needs and goals. Some people seek clarification during transitional times, while others desire an open, nonjudgmental space to share and process complex emotions. Many therapy clients seek a space to vent or air frustrations. I enjoy meeting each client where they are in their mental health journey and working to approach their individual needs.
I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with couples, teens, parents, women empowerment, LGBTQIA+, ADHD, and kink communities.
When you work with me, I meet you where you are, focusing on what’s happening in your life and relationships right now while also exploring how your past shapes your present. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I create a supportive, gender-affirming space where we can dig deep together.
I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with couples, teens, parents, women empowerment, LGBTQIA+, ADHD, and kink communities.
When you work with me, I meet you where you are, focusing on what’s happening in your life and relationships right now while also exploring how your past shapes your present. Whether you're an individual or a couple, I create a supportive, gender-affirming space where we can dig deep together.
My ideal client would be someone that would like to work on achieving their goals to discover more about themselves. They may of struggled with other mental health professionals and felt like their needs weren't met. They would want to learn more about themselves as a person and discover a more clear diagnosis. If you are questioning ADHD or Autism diagnosis I can help guide you.
I have worked with people in helping professions like, first responders who may want to learn how to cope with the job or cope with retiring from the profession. I have a background in EMS so I have been able to relate to these professions.
My ideal client would be someone that would like to work on achieving their goals to discover more about themselves. They may of struggled with other mental health professionals and felt like their needs weren't met. They would want to learn more about themselves as a person and discover a more clear diagnosis. If you are questioning ADHD or Autism diagnosis I can help guide you.
I have worked with people in helping professions like, first responders who may want to learn how to cope with the job or cope with retiring from the profession. I have a background in EMS so I have been able to relate to these professions.
Life can throw many unexpected challenges at us and sometimes we may need a little help to remind ourselves who we are and that we can persevere. I am a firm believer that having someone who believes in your potential can go a long way — and I'm excited to go on this journey with you!
You are safe here
You are welcome here.
Life can throw many unexpected challenges at us and sometimes we may need a little help to remind ourselves who we are and that we can persevere. I am a firm believer that having someone who believes in your potential can go a long way — and I'm excited to go on this journey with you!
You are safe here
You are welcome here.
Irina Kucherenko
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, CYT
1 Endorsed
Clayton, NC 27520
Hello and welcome.
I am Irina and I specialize in helping clients with emotional regulation, self-esteem, decision making and self-empowerment. I believe healthy emotional expression and healthy personal boundaries are a must for a healthy life. Are you holding back? Are you overwhelmed by your strong emotions? Do you struggle with setting and maintaining personal boundaries? I can help! In addition to working with individuals, I work with couples who want help untangling resentments and understanding complex emotions and attachment patterns underneath surface behaviors.
Hello and welcome.
I am Irina and I specialize in helping clients with emotional regulation, self-esteem, decision making and self-empowerment. I believe healthy emotional expression and healthy personal boundaries are a must for a healthy life. Are you holding back? Are you overwhelmed by your strong emotions? Do you struggle with setting and maintaining personal boundaries? I can help! In addition to working with individuals, I work with couples who want help untangling resentments and understanding complex emotions and attachment patterns underneath surface behaviors.
I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with adult ADHD & Neurodivergence, single/new/co-parents, women’s issues & empowerment, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC communities.
My approach is eclectic & judgment-free but authentic. I specialize in relational communication, intimacy, boundaries, & trauma to promote healing & self-love. Therapy is led by you, values driven, provides accountability & compassion. We’ll build understanding of your past, learn to live in the present, & stop fearing the future! Be seen and heard!
I'm a neurodivergent therapist who works with adult ADHD & Neurodivergence, single/new/co-parents, women’s issues & empowerment, LGBTQIA+, and BIPOC communities.
My approach is eclectic & judgment-free but authentic. I specialize in relational communication, intimacy, boundaries, & trauma to promote healing & self-love. Therapy is led by you, values driven, provides accountability & compassion. We’ll build understanding of your past, learn to live in the present, & stop fearing the future! Be seen and heard!
I work with teens and adults (15+) who are exhausted from trying to fit into a world that wasn't designed for the way their brain works. They've spent so much energy masking, adapting, and pushing through, and still the anxiety lingers, the focus slips, the weight of it all feels like too much. They're tired of being misunderstood, even by themselves. Together, we deepen self-awareness and work toward meaningful, lasting changes that align with their values and goals. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and deep respect for each person's unique healing journey.
I work with teens and adults (15+) who are exhausted from trying to fit into a world that wasn't designed for the way their brain works. They've spent so much energy masking, adapting, and pushing through, and still the anxiety lingers, the focus slips, the weight of it all feels like too much. They're tired of being misunderstood, even by themselves. Together, we deepen self-awareness and work toward meaningful, lasting changes that align with their values and goals. My work is grounded in compassion, collaboration, and deep respect for each person's unique healing journey.
I am offering virtual appointments to residents of Massachusetts.
I am offering virtual appointments to residents of Massachusetts.
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
If you are thinking about counseling or therapy, chances are you are in distress, feeling not like yourself, or are looking for help in dealing with a difficult situation. You also probably want to find a therapist who is going to understand you and who has experience dealing with the problems and concerns that you are facing. I am available for in-person or telehealth sessions in North Carolina. I also offer telehealth appointments for patients located in New York or Florida.
My passion lies in working with individuals and families to create meaningful change and address big life changes. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, children above the age of 10, with a particular focus on teenagers and young adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stressful life transitions. My hope is that you feel supported and heard in this safe, non-judgemental, and unbiased environment.
My passion lies in working with individuals and families to create meaningful change and address big life changes. I enjoy working with adults, adolescents, children above the age of 10, with a particular focus on teenagers and young adults who have experienced anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stressful life transitions. My hope is that you feel supported and heard in this safe, non-judgemental, and unbiased environment.
If you are looking for a relaxing space that is safe and comfortable, where you can be yourself and feel respected, you are looking in the right place. I strive to give my clients a warm and comfortable environment, where we can work together to accomplish your goals and work through the stress, hurt and confusion of life’s challenges. Whether you have anxiety/depression, need to work through an addiction or just want to process life's current or past issues, lets work together to help you heal and grow into the person you want to be.
If you are looking for a relaxing space that is safe and comfortable, where you can be yourself and feel respected, you are looking in the right place. I strive to give my clients a warm and comfortable environment, where we can work together to accomplish your goals and work through the stress, hurt and confusion of life’s challenges. Whether you have anxiety/depression, need to work through an addiction or just want to process life's current or past issues, lets work together to help you heal and grow into the person you want to be.
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
Ashleigh Weckesser is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master of Social Work from North Carolina State University and a Bachelor’s degree from Meredith College. She has experience working in-patient as well as out-patient with both individuals and groups. Ashleigh works with young adults, adults, couples, and the geriatric population, with evidenced based approaches such as motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and solution-focused therapy. She has experience with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, stress management, and severe and persistent mental illness.
Jessica Lynn Drennen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
At the end of the day, relationships matter & I believe they are at the core of our success. How we interact with one another in every setting & how we treat ourselves is crucial to navigating through life. When we love ourselves, we are able to think positively, create & reach goals, take responsibility, understand things we can & cannot control, treat ourselves with compassion & have confidence. When one of these relationships if lacking or does not exist, we are suseptible to a plethora of mental health & life struggles.
At the end of the day, relationships matter & I believe they are at the core of our success. How we interact with one another in every setting & how we treat ourselves is crucial to navigating through life. When we love ourselves, we are able to think positively, create & reach goals, take responsibility, understand things we can & cannot control, treat ourselves with compassion & have confidence. When one of these relationships if lacking or does not exist, we are suseptible to a plethora of mental health & life struggles.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
Do you have something you need to talk about? Trudging through life with stress, grief, anxiety, or other burdens can feel lonely and exhausting. Address your mental health needs through conversation and engage in therapeutic interventions to bring positive change in your life. Exploring how your mental health has negative impacts on your body and your daily life will improve your well-being.
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
It’s easy to overthink or become overwhelmed reading descriptions of therapists. Trust your gut and schedule a free consultation to guide you. I'm Meredith Jones and I have over a decade of clinical experience helping others with anxiety, relationship issues, substance use, trauma and grief. Unexpected changes or uncertainty around career, home life, or health can be isolating and create feelings of instability. If you need help connecting to your motivation for change, want to look at patterns no longer serving you well, desire to strengthen your coping skills or need help stilling your mind to live in the moment I've got you.
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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.