LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Kernersville, NC
Onward/Upward Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I offer services for clients during non-traditional hours for second/third shift workers and night owls; I see all of my clients from 7PM until midnight.
I offer evidence-based therapy specialized in treating adults with ADHD, Autism, PTSD (or even a combination), and more importantly, I'm here to be a compassionate, trauma-informed sounding board to help you on your journey to your best mental health. Self-compassion, resilience, and coping are skills that can be taught, no matter where your starting line is!
As a neurodivergent-affirming therapist, I offer services for clients during non-traditional hours for second/third shift workers and night owls; I see all of my clients from 7PM until midnight.
I offer evidence-based therapy specialized in treating adults with ADHD, Autism, PTSD (or even a combination), and more importantly, I'm here to be a compassionate, trauma-informed sounding board to help you on your journey to your best mental health. Self-compassion, resilience, and coping are skills that can be taught, no matter where your starting line is!
Pathways to Healing Counseling and Consulting PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, Erin, Callan, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
My name is Erin Callan, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC), working with Pathways to Healing Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. I believe in counseling with affirming compassionate care in individuals with unique needs, goals, and desires for their life. No two people are alike. Individuals should feel comfortable coming to a safe space, and allowed to be their authentic selves. They drive their own therapeutic process. I’m a flexible therapist, use simple inventories for discussion, use talk therapy, and explore areas collaboratively with each unique individual I see.
My name is Erin Callan, I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), National Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC), working with Pathways to Healing Counseling and Consulting, PLLC. I believe in counseling with affirming compassionate care in individuals with unique needs, goals, and desires for their life. No two people are alike. Individuals should feel comfortable coming to a safe space, and allowed to be their authentic selves. They drive their own therapeutic process. I’m a flexible therapist, use simple inventories for discussion, use talk therapy, and explore areas collaboratively with each unique individual I see.
I'm LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent affirming, and welcome clients of all backgrounds.
Are you someone who may be getting through school, work, and relationships, but things inside feel heavier than they look? Your mind replays conversations, worries how you came across, or expects something to go wrong even when things are okay. You might over-apologize, avoid conflict, or shut down emotionally, and pushing through hasn’t changed the pattern. Together, we can make sense of your reactions and behaviors, and help you feel more comfortable and confident in yourself.
I'm LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodivergent affirming, and welcome clients of all backgrounds.
Are you someone who may be getting through school, work, and relationships, but things inside feel heavier than they look? Your mind replays conversations, worries how you came across, or expects something to go wrong even when things are okay. You might over-apologize, avoid conflict, or shut down emotionally, and pushing through hasn’t changed the pattern. Together, we can make sense of your reactions and behaviors, and help you feel more comfortable and confident in yourself.
Laurel Keeling
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m a white, bisexual, spiritual, fat, able-bodied cisgender woman who is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space for individuals (14+).
My therapeutic style encompasses authenticity, empathy, honesty, patience, and warmth! I encourage clients to communicate and express themselves in a way that is authentic to them. Our work together will be collaborative and tailored to your needs. It would be an incredible honor to be invited in by you to see and explore your world!
I’m a white, bisexual, spiritual, fat, able-bodied cisgender woman who is passionate about creating a safe, supportive space for individuals (14+).
My therapeutic style encompasses authenticity, empathy, honesty, patience, and warmth! I encourage clients to communicate and express themselves in a way that is authentic to them. Our work together will be collaborative and tailored to your needs. It would be an incredible honor to be invited in by you to see and explore your world!
I specialize in the care of eating and body image concerns in adolescents and young adults. I also work well with supporting young people struggling through life transitions, mood and anxiety concerns, identity formation, and a variety of other life challenges.
I specialize in the care of eating and body image concerns in adolescents and young adults. I also work well with supporting young people struggling through life transitions, mood and anxiety concerns, identity formation, and a variety of other life challenges.
As an LGBTQIA2S+ affirming therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a restorative, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
As an LGBTQIA2S+ affirming therapist, I am comfortable working with individuals from diverse cultures, lifestyles, and religious/spiritual beliefs. Therapy can help you discover inner resources that align with your values and goals, and open you to a new way of being, bringing balance to your life. Together, we can navigate and explore what works best for YOU. As part of your healing process, I will meet you with compassion and acceptance, offering a restorative, supportive, and non-judgmental environment, allowing you to explore any obstacles or difficulties that you are facing.
I am a queer, bi-cultural, large bodied, first generation late college graduate with ADHD and a lot of experience overcoming obstacles.
Somewhere along the way you started feeling like a zombie. You are physically and emotionally exhausted. You're feeling burned out, overwhelmed, disconnected and on edge. Hopelessness is sinking in or has already sunken in. You're calling out to work or skipping classes. You are terrified that you can't handle life's demands or the needs of those who count on you. Your family and relationships are suffering. The words "self-care" elicits both a laugh and a sinking feeling in your stomach, but also, you know that at some point something has to give. You are tired of feeling guilty for having your own needs. It is time.
I am a queer, bi-cultural, large bodied, first generation late college graduate with ADHD and a lot of experience overcoming obstacles.
Somewhere along the way you started feeling like a zombie. You are physically and emotionally exhausted. You're feeling burned out, overwhelmed, disconnected and on edge. Hopelessness is sinking in or has already sunken in. You're calling out to work or skipping classes. You are terrified that you can't handle life's demands or the needs of those who count on you. Your family and relationships are suffering. The words "self-care" elicits both a laugh and a sinking feeling in your stomach, but also, you know that at some point something has to give. You are tired of feeling guilty for having your own needs. It is time.
Dr. Curtiss has a PhD in Exceptional Children. Most of her work is with people with Level 1 autism/Asperger’s Syndrome. She has been a teacher for over 20 years and has worked as an Autism Specialist for over 10 years. She owns Curtiss Specialized Consulting and offers the following services: ADOS-2 (autism testing), autism support, transition support (moving from school to adulthood or from school to school), independent living and daily living skills support, career life coaching, and academic support/tutoring high school and college. You do not need to have an official diagnosis to work with Dr. Curtiss.
Dr. Curtiss has a PhD in Exceptional Children. Most of her work is with people with Level 1 autism/Asperger’s Syndrome. She has been a teacher for over 20 years and has worked as an Autism Specialist for over 10 years. She owns Curtiss Specialized Consulting and offers the following services: ADOS-2 (autism testing), autism support, transition support (moving from school to adulthood or from school to school), independent living and daily living skills support, career life coaching, and academic support/tutoring high school and college. You do not need to have an official diagnosis to work with Dr. Curtiss.
I view therapy as a collaborative relationship grounded in trust, respect, and authenticity. Your lived experiences deserve to be affirmed, and I create a safe, inclusive space where you can show up fully as yourself, without fear of judgment. My approach is trauma-informed, empowering, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from many modalities, including CBT, ACT, somatic work, and motivational interviewing techniques. I like to add humor and can challenge you when appropriate.
I view therapy as a collaborative relationship grounded in trust, respect, and authenticity. Your lived experiences deserve to be affirmed, and I create a safe, inclusive space where you can show up fully as yourself, without fear of judgment. My approach is trauma-informed, empowering, and tailored to your unique needs. I draw from many modalities, including CBT, ACT, somatic work, and motivational interviewing techniques. I like to add humor and can challenge you when appropriate.
Combining research and lived experience, my areas of focus are ADHD, autism, anxiety, LGBTQ+, attachment, and development.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is a collaborative act of love, with you and your goals as the focus. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
Combining research and lived experience, my areas of focus are ADHD, autism, anxiety, LGBTQ+, attachment, and development.
Seeking therapeutic counseling can be challenging for any number of reasons, from being ready to take the first step on your mental health journey to finding a therapist that's right for you. Wherever you are on your path, I aim to provide a comforting, non-judgmental environment where you feel heard, valued, and comfortable being yourself. Therapy is a collaborative act of love, with you and your goals as the focus. No matter who you are, I will work with you to reach your next step and grow while you decide what we are working towards.
I specialize in complex trauma, self-esteem, anxiety and OCD, eating disorders, Autism and ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Feeling constantly at odds with yourself is exhausting. You're tired of the worried, self-critical thoughts running through your head, the energy you spend on trying to perfect or "fix" yourself, and the feelings of never being enough no matter how hard you try. You wish you could slow down and relax, but it's hard to feel deserving of rest and boundaries. You want to feel cared for, but sometimes shame gets in the way of expressing yourself authentically with others. You're ready to experience more peace, joy, and connection- it's wearing you out to feel like satisfaction in life is a moving target.
I specialize in complex trauma, self-esteem, anxiety and OCD, eating disorders, Autism and ADHD, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
Feeling constantly at odds with yourself is exhausting. You're tired of the worried, self-critical thoughts running through your head, the energy you spend on trying to perfect or "fix" yourself, and the feelings of never being enough no matter how hard you try. You wish you could slow down and relax, but it's hard to feel deserving of rest and boundaries. You want to feel cared for, but sometimes shame gets in the way of expressing yourself authentically with others. You're ready to experience more peace, joy, and connection- it's wearing you out to feel like satisfaction in life is a moving target.
Emil Davis Eichelberger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinical social worker, I am passionate about aiding clients in the healing and empowerment process. Whether it is difficulties with life's transitions or ongoing issues related to mood disorders, I take a holistic, intersectional approach with all of my clients in order to find the intervention(s) that best suit their individual needs and strengths. In particular, I focus on being an accepting and affirming environment for LGBTQi+ individuals. In general, my ultimate goal in treatment is to provide anyone and everyone a safe, stable environment where healing can occur.
As a clinical social worker, I am passionate about aiding clients in the healing and empowerment process. Whether it is difficulties with life's transitions or ongoing issues related to mood disorders, I take a holistic, intersectional approach with all of my clients in order to find the intervention(s) that best suit their individual needs and strengths. In particular, I focus on being an accepting and affirming environment for LGBTQi+ individuals. In general, my ultimate goal in treatment is to provide anyone and everyone a safe, stable environment where healing can occur.
Feeling stuck or misunderstood despite appearing successful to others? You're not alone. Whether you're navigating life transitions, trauma recovery, neurodivergence, or embracing your authentic gender identity and sexuality—all of this demands both safety and courage.
I create a space where your unique journey becomes a source of strength and empowerment. My practice combines evidence-based techniques with deep appreciation for neurodiversity and exploration. Together, we'll transform survival strategies into authentic living and discover how your distinctive way of experiencing the world can lead to profound self-understanding.
Feeling stuck or misunderstood despite appearing successful to others? You're not alone. Whether you're navigating life transitions, trauma recovery, neurodivergence, or embracing your authentic gender identity and sexuality—all of this demands both safety and courage.
I create a space where your unique journey becomes a source of strength and empowerment. My practice combines evidence-based techniques with deep appreciation for neurodiversity and exploration. Together, we'll transform survival strategies into authentic living and discover how your distinctive way of experiencing the world can lead to profound self-understanding.
I specialize in Trauma-integration, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, relationships, and goal-focus.
I am diagnosed with depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and ADHD, so I understand addiction & mental health first-hand. I have also dealt with active PTSD symptoms, and I know none of us have to live that way ongoing. Though I am a therapist, I see us as collaborators. I have 10 yrs experience working with diagnoses from Depression to Schizophrenia.
I specialize in Trauma-integration, LGBTQIA+ affirming therapy, relationships, and goal-focus.
I am diagnosed with depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, and ADHD, so I understand addiction & mental health first-hand. I have also dealt with active PTSD symptoms, and I know none of us have to live that way ongoing. Though I am a therapist, I see us as collaborators. I have 10 yrs experience working with diagnoses from Depression to Schizophrenia.
I work especially well with women, as well as queer, trans, and nonbinary folks, who struggle with perfectionism, overthinking, people-pleasing, and feeling responsible for others’ emotions.
I offer talk therapy that helps you slow down, understand your emotional patterns, soften your inner critic, and build more self-trust. Together we explore how you think, feel, and relate to others so life feels clearer, less overwhelming, and more grounded in who you are.
I work especially well with women, as well as queer, trans, and nonbinary folks, who struggle with perfectionism, overthinking, people-pleasing, and feeling responsible for others’ emotions.
I offer talk therapy that helps you slow down, understand your emotional patterns, soften your inner critic, and build more self-trust. Together we explore how you think, feel, and relate to others so life feels clearer, less overwhelming, and more grounded in who you are.
You are overwhelmed. You don't know how to keep up with the demands of life. You wonder, "how'd I get here?" You are sick and tired of being sick and tired. You want to laugh again and enjoy life again. You need a restart, a refocus but don't know where to begin. My clients are compassionate, kind, and motivated to help everyone else in their lives but have lost touch with themselves. They have spent so long saying yes to everyone else the idea of saying no and possibly disappointing others is crippling. You can work on finding yourself again. You don't have to do it alone.
You are overwhelmed. You don't know how to keep up with the demands of life. You wonder, "how'd I get here?" You are sick and tired of being sick and tired. You want to laugh again and enjoy life again. You need a restart, a refocus but don't know where to begin. My clients are compassionate, kind, and motivated to help everyone else in their lives but have lost touch with themselves. They have spent so long saying yes to everyone else the idea of saying no and possibly disappointing others is crippling. You can work on finding yourself again. You don't have to do it alone.
Loving Reconnections Behavioral Health PA
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BA, Psy
Kernersville, NC 27284
I wholeheartedly believe in the resilience of the human spirit and that each of us are imbued with the desire to achieve, to connect and have peace. Change is usually associated with stress and we are not fond of it; we find comfort in our routine even when that routine is allowing us to feel overwhelmed, underappreciated and at its worst, neglected or abused. Change is what inspires and produces growth. Without growth, we whither and shrink away becoming someone whom we barely recognize. We are life forces and energy that need growth in order to realize our fullest potential
I wholeheartedly believe in the resilience of the human spirit and that each of us are imbued with the desire to achieve, to connect and have peace. Change is usually associated with stress and we are not fond of it; we find comfort in our routine even when that routine is allowing us to feel overwhelmed, underappreciated and at its worst, neglected or abused. Change is what inspires and produces growth. Without growth, we whither and shrink away becoming someone whom we barely recognize. We are life forces and energy that need growth in order to realize our fullest potential
Life is full of challenges, but what happens when those challenges are harder to overcome than you expect? Whether we find ourselves with a mental illness that makes coping harder, or in extreme situations we never thought we'd face, there comes a point where we need a little help. Counseling and therapy can provide that help and get you to the place and person you want to be. It is my goal to help you meet your goals, whether that's overcoming a difficult past, surviving a difficult present, or being able to envision an easier future. We'll get there together!
Life is full of challenges, but what happens when those challenges are harder to overcome than you expect? Whether we find ourselves with a mental illness that makes coping harder, or in extreme situations we never thought we'd face, there comes a point where we need a little help. Counseling and therapy can provide that help and get you to the place and person you want to be. It is my goal to help you meet your goals, whether that's overcoming a difficult past, surviving a difficult present, or being able to envision an easier future. We'll get there together!
It is anxiety-provoking to put ourselves in a position of vulnerability and open up about our struggles. I believe taking this risk can be well worth it if you connect with the right person. As a therapist I am someone who will listen to you with respect and provide validation of your emotional experiences. I will also encourage you to consider alternative ways of interpreting your experiences. I am someone who has had her own challenges with anxiety and depression and grew up in a family with their own mental health issues.
It is anxiety-provoking to put ourselves in a position of vulnerability and open up about our struggles. I believe taking this risk can be well worth it if you connect with the right person. As a therapist I am someone who will listen to you with respect and provide validation of your emotional experiences. I will also encourage you to consider alternative ways of interpreting your experiences. I am someone who has had her own challenges with anxiety and depression and grew up in a family with their own mental health issues.
John Adkins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Kernersville, NC 27284
You’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck trying to hold everything together. Maybe you’ve tried to fix things on your own or even tried therapy before, but left feeling misunderstood or like nothing really changed. I work with people struggling with anxiety, stress, and life transitions who are ready for something more honest and meaningful in therapy. Together we slow things down, make sense of what you’ve been carrying, and begin creating real change. You don’t have to carry this alone. Therapy can be a place to feel understood and start moving forward.
You’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck trying to hold everything together. Maybe you’ve tried to fix things on your own or even tried therapy before, but left feeling misunderstood or like nothing really changed. I work with people struggling with anxiety, stress, and life transitions who are ready for something more honest and meaningful in therapy. Together we slow things down, make sense of what you’ve been carrying, and begin creating real change. You don’t have to carry this alone. Therapy can be a place to feel understood and start moving forward.
See more therapy options for Kernersville
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Kernersville
- Browns Summit
- Clemmons
- Greensboro
- High Point
- Jamestown
- King
- Lewisville
- Oak Ridge
- Summerfield
- Thomasville
- Walkertown
- Winston Salem
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.