LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Raleigh, NC
Ellie Mental Health Raleigh Blue Ridge Rd
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
We are trans/ queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed.
Ellie Mental Health in Raleigh, North Carolina isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services.
We are trans/ queer inclusive, culturally sensitive, and trauma informed.
Ellie Mental Health in Raleigh, North Carolina isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folx, as well as survivors of conversion therapy, therapeutic abuse, and the Troubled Teen Industry.
My name is Adria Goulet (they/them/theirs) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. During sessions, I strive to meet clients where they are at in their healing process, empowering them to navigate uncomfortable emotions, maladaptive coping skills, or intrusive thoughts. I recognize that during crisis situations, harmful or self-destructive behaviors can be necessary for survival. As a therapist, my goal is to help you find new coping skills, process traumatic events, navigate oppressive systems, cultivate healthier beliefs about yourself, and build more effective interpersonal skills.
I am passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent folx, as well as survivors of conversion therapy, therapeutic abuse, and the Troubled Teen Industry.
My name is Adria Goulet (they/them/theirs) and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate. During sessions, I strive to meet clients where they are at in their healing process, empowering them to navigate uncomfortable emotions, maladaptive coping skills, or intrusive thoughts. I recognize that during crisis situations, harmful or self-destructive behaviors can be necessary for survival. As a therapist, my goal is to help you find new coping skills, process traumatic events, navigate oppressive systems, cultivate healthier beliefs about yourself, and build more effective interpersonal skills.
Dr. Sam Simon
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer and trans inclusive, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, sex positive, poly-positive, pro-BLM, and fat-positive clinician who honors each intersectional identity of my client.
I have extensive experience supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress related to life changes. Additionally, I specialize in assisting individuals exploring their gender and sexual identities, values, and relationships. My approach is trauma-informed, focusing on collaboratively developing a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Together, we establish clear, achievable goals to enhance your overall well-being and self-awareness.
I am a queer and trans inclusive, culturally sensitive, trauma-informed, sex positive, poly-positive, pro-BLM, and fat-positive clinician who honors each intersectional identity of my client.
I have extensive experience supporting clients dealing with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress related to life changes. Additionally, I specialize in assisting individuals exploring their gender and sexual identities, values, and relationships. My approach is trauma-informed, focusing on collaboratively developing a personalized treatment plan that meets your specific needs. Together, we establish clear, achievable goals to enhance your overall well-being and self-awareness.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, emerging adults (18+), and those in "helping" professions (education, medicine, mental health).
If you are at a crossroads between who you've been (or been told to be), and who you long to become, I am here for you. My clients come to me because the old narratives they've been living by no longer fit, and it's time to write a new story of wholeness and fulfillment. Together we explore concerns related to sexual and gender identity, religious or spiritual concerns, life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, and more. My approach is laid back, collaborative, and insight-driven; designed to give you space to be heard, understood, and affirmed as we explore your unique needs and goals.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, emerging adults (18+), and those in "helping" professions (education, medicine, mental health).
If you are at a crossroads between who you've been (or been told to be), and who you long to become, I am here for you. My clients come to me because the old narratives they've been living by no longer fit, and it's time to write a new story of wholeness and fulfillment. Together we explore concerns related to sexual and gender identity, religious or spiritual concerns, life transitions, relationship concerns, depression, anxiety, stress, burnout, and more. My approach is laid back, collaborative, and insight-driven; designed to give you space to be heard, understood, and affirmed as we explore your unique needs and goals.
Emily Ann Dew-Adorno
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community.
I use a wide variety of techniques and theories in order to create the best treatment for the individuals. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychoeducation, Mindfulness, and Feminist Theory.
I have worked very closely with the LGBTQIA+ community, Latinx community, and the disabled community.
I use a wide variety of techniques and theories in order to create the best treatment for the individuals. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Psychoeducation, Mindfulness, and Feminist Theory.
My specialties are PTSD, LGBTQ+ and African American therapy/advocacy as well as depression.
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy with many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles often presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and helps you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
My specialties are PTSD, LGBTQ+ and African American therapy/advocacy as well as depression.
NEW Clients Accepted! Welcome to the beginning of your journey through change and fulfillment. Clients often come to therapy with many challenges. These can be longstanding emotional battles with depression, anxiety and traumatic experiences. Life can be difficult to face with multiple obstacles often presenting at the same time. Engaging in a purposeful plan with guidance from an experienced therapist can help you to create a life that is more satisfying and helps you meet personal goals. Let's begin!
I work with adults from varying background and experiences: including but not limited to topics such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, sexuality, life transitions, LGBTQ+, communication, family dynamics, the enneagram, and acceptance of self.
Welcome! My name is Tommy Hibbs and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. It is a chance for one to better explore their identity, wants and needs, goals, and so much more. My objective within sessions is to create a space for further self-discovery and self-acceptance. Clients deserve to be heard, validated, seen, and affirmed. My deepest desire in therapy is for my clients to feel at peace with who they are and who they are becoming.
I work with adults from varying background and experiences: including but not limited to topics such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, identity, sexuality, life transitions, LGBTQ+, communication, family dynamics, the enneagram, and acceptance of self.
Welcome! My name is Tommy Hibbs and I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in North Carolina. I believe therapy is for anyone and everyone. It is a chance for one to better explore their identity, wants and needs, goals, and so much more. My objective within sessions is to create a space for further self-discovery and self-acceptance. Clients deserve to be heard, validated, seen, and affirmed. My deepest desire in therapy is for my clients to feel at peace with who they are and who they are becoming.
Mel Johnson-Norwood
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, EdD, CRC, NCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Online Only
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students.
I firmly believe that you're the expert of your own life and place a high value on creating a therapeutic relationship that helps you achieve your goals. I also understand the critical role of cultural centeredness. Creating a unique experience, I employ a mix of approaches designed to assist you in reclaiming and owning your power.
I work with adults of all ages, especially Black and brown men, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and college students.
I firmly believe that you're the expert of your own life and place a high value on creating a therapeutic relationship that helps you achieve your goals. I also understand the critical role of cultural centeredness. Creating a unique experience, I employ a mix of approaches designed to assist you in reclaiming and owning your power.
Brianna Hicks
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ adults exploring their gender, sexuality, or relationship structure later in life.
Therapy with me is an active, dynamic process—not just talking in circles. We’ll explore what’s holding you back, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and practice setting boundaries (yes, even with your mother). Some days, it’s skill-building. Other days, it’s deep processing. Every session is tailored to you and what you need in the moment.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ adults exploring their gender, sexuality, or relationship structure later in life.
Therapy with me is an active, dynamic process—not just talking in circles. We’ll explore what’s holding you back, challenge unhelpful thought patterns, and practice setting boundaries (yes, even with your mother). Some days, it’s skill-building. Other days, it’s deep processing. Every session is tailored to you and what you need in the moment.
Working with many individuals and couples in the LGBTQ+ community, my passion lies in helping clients confront the complexities of being human in a world that often pushes us into rigid molds of how we should live, feel, and act.
I approach this work with a strong belief that our lives are shaped by the systems we’re part of, from family dynamics to cultural influences. Together, we’ll explore how these factors influence your experiences, relationships, and self-perception, uncovering patterns and discovering ways to move forward in alignment with your values.
Working with many individuals and couples in the LGBTQ+ community, my passion lies in helping clients confront the complexities of being human in a world that often pushes us into rigid molds of how we should live, feel, and act.
I approach this work with a strong belief that our lives are shaped by the systems we’re part of, from family dynamics to cultural influences. Together, we’ll explore how these factors influence your experiences, relationships, and self-perception, uncovering patterns and discovering ways to move forward in alignment with your values.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and strive to be affirming of all identities, cultures, religious beliefs, body sizes, and abilities.
You may be keeping it together on the outside—getting good grades or promotions, making friends, remembering to feed your cat—but underneath, you’re wondering why everything feels so much harder for you than it seems to be for everyone else. Maybe you’re processing a new diagnosis, questioning your identity, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes. You’re looking for someone who understands that thinking differently isn’t something to cure or fix—it’s something to embrace.
I am a member of the LGBTQIA+ community and strive to be affirming of all identities, cultures, religious beliefs, body sizes, and abilities.
You may be keeping it together on the outside—getting good grades or promotions, making friends, remembering to feed your cat—but underneath, you’re wondering why everything feels so much harder for you than it seems to be for everyone else. Maybe you’re processing a new diagnosis, questioning your identity, or feeling overwhelmed by life changes. You’re looking for someone who understands that thinking differently isn’t something to cure or fix—it’s something to embrace.
Meet Our LGBTQ+ Therapists
John A Cooper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with both individuals and groups, and have particular interest in issues affecting men, survivors of religious oppression, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, helping professionals and small business owners in developing healthy, vibrant careers, and supporting gay men and lesbians in their quest for maximum fulfillment in their lives.
Freud is credited with stating that two things really matter in life: love and work. I help people find greater satisfaction with a) their relationships with themselves and others, and b) what they do to make meaning in their lives. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you maximize your spiritual, physical, and emotional potential. Operating from an orientation which draws primarily on a combination of contemporary psychoanalytic, attachment, and neurobiological perspectives, I am fully committed to walking with you on your journey toward greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
I work with both individuals and groups, and have particular interest in issues affecting men, survivors of religious oppression, trauma, addictions, grief and loss, helping professionals and small business owners in developing healthy, vibrant careers, and supporting gay men and lesbians in their quest for maximum fulfillment in their lives.
Freud is credited with stating that two things really matter in life: love and work. I help people find greater satisfaction with a) their relationships with themselves and others, and b) what they do to make meaning in their lives. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship to help you maximize your spiritual, physical, and emotional potential. Operating from an orientation which draws primarily on a combination of contemporary psychoanalytic, attachment, and neurobiological perspectives, I am fully committed to walking with you on your journey toward greater satisfaction and fulfillment.
I’m a queer therapist committed to creating an inclusive, affirming space where all clients feel safe and supported.
Pulling on my background in LGBTQIA+ and mental health advocacy, as well as lived experiences, I know the intricacies that come with complex intersecting identities in today's society. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities based on your needs and wants, and rely on communication and feedback from you to ensure we meet your goals.
I’m a queer therapist committed to creating an inclusive, affirming space where all clients feel safe and supported.
Pulling on my background in LGBTQIA+ and mental health advocacy, as well as lived experiences, I know the intricacies that come with complex intersecting identities in today's society. I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities based on your needs and wants, and rely on communication and feedback from you to ensure we meet your goals.
Dr. Michael Eason
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
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.
InclusiFlora Counseling PLLC
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, LMSW, LPC, ADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Online Only
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied).
Our therapists incorporate familiar techniques like CPT, DBT, CBT, and EMDR, but instead of overwhelming you with acronyms, we emphasize our passion for using therapy as a way to manage emotions, process trauma, and address the challenges in your life. We aim to help you embrace your neurodivergence in a way that works for you, rather than against you.
We are LGBTQIA+ affirmative, trauma-informed, neuroaffirmative, and culturally competent for all (BIPOC affirmative and allied).
Our therapists incorporate familiar techniques like CPT, DBT, CBT, and EMDR, but instead of overwhelming you with acronyms, we emphasize our passion for using therapy as a way to manage emotions, process trauma, and address the challenges in your life. We aim to help you embrace your neurodivergence in a way that works for you, rather than against you.
![Photo of Hannah M. [Lbgtq+ Expert], Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/610c70fb-54f8-41a2-81a4-e6b97ef9bd07/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hannah M. [Lbgtq+ Expert]
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
You haven’t had the space to safely explore the true vision of who you are, but I’m here to remind you that every part of you, every identity— LGBTQ+, transgender, sex/kink-positive—is worthy of being seen, loved, and respected.
Empathic. Easygoing. Humorist. You’re the one who brings joy and laughter to others, always ready with a joke or a kind word. But beneath the surface, you find yourself struggling to connect with your own happiness. You’ve carried the role of the supportive, cheerful friend for so long that it’s hard to admit how exhausting it’s become. Always lifting others up is leaving you drained and unseen. You deserve more than just being the one who holds space for everyone else. Your joy, needs, and identity matter. In a world that tells you to shrink or perform, let's work on you taking up space and embracing every part of who YOU are!
You haven’t had the space to safely explore the true vision of who you are, but I’m here to remind you that every part of you, every identity— LGBTQ+, transgender, sex/kink-positive—is worthy of being seen, loved, and respected.
Empathic. Easygoing. Humorist. You’re the one who brings joy and laughter to others, always ready with a joke or a kind word. But beneath the surface, you find yourself struggling to connect with your own happiness. You’ve carried the role of the supportive, cheerful friend for so long that it’s hard to admit how exhausting it’s become. Always lifting others up is leaving you drained and unseen. You deserve more than just being the one who holds space for everyone else. Your joy, needs, and identity matter. In a world that tells you to shrink or perform, let's work on you taking up space and embracing every part of who YOU are!
I'm passionate about working with ADHD, chronic health, and LGBTQ+ issues because I fall under all three of those categories myself.
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
I'm passionate about working with ADHD, chronic health, and LGBTQ+ issues because I fall under all three of those categories myself.
For me, therapy is about creating a nonjudgemental space where you feel comfortable to express whatever it is that you took time out of your week to talk about. In our sessions, we will work together to identify your goals and develop strategies to achieve them. My goal is to help you discover the tools and insights needed to navigate life with greater ease and confidence. I have extensive experience working with the 2SLGBTQ+ community, neurodivergence, chronic pain, HIV, and other chronic health issues.
I work with young adults, college students, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, transgender and nonbinary folx, and neurodivergent adults with ADHD or autism.
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 autism.
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 am a white, queer, non-binary therapist.
One of the most incredible gifts we can offer ourselves is the curiosity and courage to look inward. However, this is often so much easier said than done. We live in a world where it’s easy to internalize shame and misinformation about sex and sexuality and talking about it can feel taboo. As your therapist, my goal is to build a supportive, safe environment to explore notions of sexuality and intimacy with curiosity rather than judgment or shame. In our space together, vulnerability, trust, and self-compassion will be nurtured – and celebrated!
I am a white, queer, non-binary therapist.
One of the most incredible gifts we can offer ourselves is the curiosity and courage to look inward. However, this is often so much easier said than done. We live in a world where it’s easy to internalize shame and misinformation about sex and sexuality and talking about it can feel taboo. As your therapist, my goal is to build a supportive, safe environment to explore notions of sexuality and intimacy with curiosity rather than judgment or shame. In our space together, vulnerability, trust, and self-compassion will be nurtured – and celebrated!
I am passionate about working with marginalized persons, including the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities.
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
I am passionate about working with marginalized persons, including the LGBTQ and BIPOC communities.
Life is a funny thing. And often terribly complicated. During our journey in this world, we often face challenges that can feel too big or ongoing. Whether it’s with chronic feelings of anxiousness, depression, emptiness, issues about sexual orientation, gender, or ethnicity, relationship conflict, sleep disturbances, substance misuse, school or work issues, or any combination of those, many of us struggle silently. But you don't have to. It can help to work with a therapist with a deep understanding of what it’s like with some of those struggles and who is passionate about helping others learn to thrive despite these adversities.
See more therapy options for Raleigh
Nearby Gay Therapists Searches for Raleigh
- Apex
- Cary
- Clayton
- Fuquay Varina
- Garner
- Holly Springs
- Knightdale
- Morrisville
- Rolesville
- Wake Forest
- Wendell
- Willow Spring
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.