LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Jonathan Bell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jonathan Bell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Do you feel that there is a disconnect between who you are and who you present to the world? Perhaps your relationships with others, with substances, with your religion, beliefs, or culture are not what you want them to be. Maybe you're in the midst of a life transition and asking yourself hard questions about the world around you. Whatever the reason may be, my clients bravely come to therapy, seeking ways to live a more authentic life, and I join them as we find ways to do so. I believe that we all deserve to live a life that is true to who we are, and that therapy can help us to achieve that.
Do you feel that there is a disconnect between who you are and who you present to the world? Perhaps your relationships with others, with substances, with your religion, beliefs, or culture are not what you want them to be. Maybe you're in the midst of a life transition and asking yourself hard questions about the world around you. Whatever the reason may be, my clients bravely come to therapy, seeking ways to live a more authentic life, and I join them as we find ways to do so. I believe that we all deserve to live a life that is true to who we are, and that therapy can help us to achieve that.
(919) 648-0594 View (919) 648-0594
Photo of Andrew Shaw, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Andrew Shaw
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Meeting clients virtually and in-person at Banyan Tree Counseling and Wellness in Winston-Salem, North Carolina! You work hard to do the right thing, put in extra hours to meet deadlines at work, and show up for other people. But showing up for yourself is harder. Some of the people who look up to you probably think your life is easy: "You make it seem effortless." But they don't see how much work goes into holding it all together. You take pride in how well you tolerate stress, and caring for others can certainly be a wonderful thing. But everyone deserves support, including you.
Meeting clients virtually and in-person at Banyan Tree Counseling and Wellness in Winston-Salem, North Carolina! You work hard to do the right thing, put in extra hours to meet deadlines at work, and show up for other people. But showing up for yourself is harder. Some of the people who look up to you probably think your life is easy: "You make it seem effortless." But they don't see how much work goes into holding it all together. You take pride in how well you tolerate stress, and caring for others can certainly be a wonderful thing. But everyone deserves support, including you.
(984) 223-4012 View (984) 223-4012
Photo of Matthew McGibney, LCMHC
Matthew McGibney
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I strive to provide a compassionate and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Many of my clients have a deep yearning to understand themselves better, to explore the roots of their struggles, and to gain insight into their patterns. Through a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration, my aim is to provide the support, guidance, and therapeutic tools necessary for them to achieve their goals and lead a more meaningful and satisfying life.
I strive to provide a compassionate and supportive space for individuals and couples to explore their thoughts, emotions, and relationships. Many of my clients have a deep yearning to understand themselves better, to explore the roots of their struggles, and to gain insight into their patterns. Through a therapeutic relationship built on trust and collaboration, my aim is to provide the support, guidance, and therapeutic tools necessary for them to achieve their goals and lead a more meaningful and satisfying life.
(919) 899-2168 View (919) 899-2168
Photo of Jason Walker - Walker Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC
Walker Behavioral Healthcare, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC
Serves Area
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
Creating lasting change starts with coming to understand each individual client and formulating a plan of care together while drawing from tools such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Motivational Interviewing Play Therapy Family & Couples Therapy Assertiveness & Social Skills & Confidence Building
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I find great joy in working towards change and growth for not only members of the community but our allies as well.
Creating lasting change starts with coming to understand each individual client and formulating a plan of care together while drawing from tools such as: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Motivational Interviewing Play Therapy Family & Couples Therapy Assertiveness & Social Skills & Confidence Building
(980) 351-7572 View (980) 351-7572
Photo of Isaiah Foote, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Isaiah Foote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Do you feel unworthy, invisible, or disconnected from others? Do you find it hard to navigate strong emotions? Every journey begins with that first step, and congratulations on taking just that! My name is Isaiah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina. I am honored to provide the confidential and safe space to support you on your mental health journey.
Do you feel unworthy, invisible, or disconnected from others? Do you find it hard to navigate strong emotions? Every journey begins with that first step, and congratulations on taking just that! My name is Isaiah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina. I am honored to provide the confidential and safe space to support you on your mental health journey.
(980) 217-0082 View (980) 217-0082
Photo of Abri Gross, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Abri Gross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I utilize a person-centered, LGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist approach to therapy, recognizing the various systems impacting the lives of children and families in today’s world.
I integrate aspects of trauma-informed practice, child-centered play therapy, expressive arts therapy, bibliotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my work with clients. I also practice Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy under the supervision of Sara Bagramian, LCSW, RPT-S.
I utilize a person-centered, LGBTQ+ affirming, anti-racist approach to therapy, recognizing the various systems impacting the lives of children and families in today’s world.
I integrate aspects of trauma-informed practice, child-centered play therapy, expressive arts therapy, bibliotherapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in my work with clients. I also practice Child-Centered Play Therapy and Synergetic Play Therapy under the supervision of Sara Bagramian, LCSW, RPT-S.
(984) 207-1462 View (984) 207-1462
Photo of Sherri Ford-Jacobs, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QS, LCMHC, LPC(SC), LCAS
Sherri Ford-Jacobs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, QS, LCMHC, LPC(SC), LCAS
Online Only
I take an individualized approach in working with my clients by providing a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where growth, self-exploration and positive change can occur. I strongly believe you have the skills needed to fulfill life goals and overcome challenges; but sometimes a guide is needed to address patterns of behaviors and problematic thinking that may serve as barriers. Therapy isn't just for moments of crisis—it’s about finding balance and thriving. In addition to individual counseling in North Carolina and South Carolina; I am also licensed to offer clinical supervision to associate counselors in North Carolina.
I take an individualized approach in working with my clients by providing a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where growth, self-exploration and positive change can occur. I strongly believe you have the skills needed to fulfill life goals and overcome challenges; but sometimes a guide is needed to address patterns of behaviors and problematic thinking that may serve as barriers. Therapy isn't just for moments of crisis—it’s about finding balance and thriving. In addition to individual counseling in North Carolina and South Carolina; I am also licensed to offer clinical supervision to associate counselors in North Carolina.
(984) 468-6908 View (984) 468-6908
Photo of Dr. Megan Wilson, EdD, MS
Dr. Megan Wilson
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, injury, self-esteem, or life/career transitions? You are not alone! My speciality is working with performance-based populations: military, athletes, and performers. The pressure to maintain peak physical and mental readiness to achieve high levels of success, whether through operational missions, winning competitions, or delivering flawless performances can lead to emotional distress. These mental health struggles are often compounded by a culture that prioritizes physical achievements over mental health, making it difficult for these populations to seek help.
Are you struggling with anxiety, burnout, injury, self-esteem, or life/career transitions? You are not alone! My speciality is working with performance-based populations: military, athletes, and performers. The pressure to maintain peak physical and mental readiness to achieve high levels of success, whether through operational missions, winning competitions, or delivering flawless performances can lead to emotional distress. These mental health struggles are often compounded by a culture that prioritizes physical achievements over mental health, making it difficult for these populations to seek help.
(984) 367-9465 View (984) 367-9465
Photo of Dr. Jamie L Pettus, Psychologist, PsyD, ASDCS, CCTP
Dr. Jamie L Pettus
Psychologist, PsyD, ASDCS, CCTP
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I also specialize in working with the neurodivergent community and with the LGBTQIA+ population.
NOTE: I am no longer accepting clients due to a change in position. Hopefully you're here because you want something to be different. Sometimes talking to someone who isn't involved in your life can help put things in perspective,help you see things in a new light, or find solutions to the things that get in the way of your finding meaning and purpose. Maybe you just need a listening ear. My goal is to be real and approachable, and to empower you to find healing in your own way. You won't typically find me telling you what to and how to do it because I don't think that works for most.
I also specialize in working with the neurodivergent community and with the LGBTQIA+ population.
NOTE: I am no longer accepting clients due to a change in position. Hopefully you're here because you want something to be different. Sometimes talking to someone who isn't involved in your life can help put things in perspective,help you see things in a new light, or find solutions to the things that get in the way of your finding meaning and purpose. Maybe you just need a listening ear. My goal is to be real and approachable, and to empower you to find healing in your own way. You won't typically find me telling you what to and how to do it because I don't think that works for most.
(919) 586-8336 View (919) 586-8336
Photo of Alice Novinte, Counselor, MEd
Alice Novinte
Counselor, MEd
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a Black, queer, neurodivergent woman, I understand that simply surviving the day can feel like a battle.
In therapy, I use a person-centered approach that allows you to let down your walls and finally be yourself while finding ways to navigate systemic constraints. In this affirming space, we will work together to unlearn negative messages you may have internalized throughout your life and make changes to feel empowered, balanced, and secure.
As a Black, queer, neurodivergent woman, I understand that simply surviving the day can feel like a battle.
In therapy, I use a person-centered approach that allows you to let down your walls and finally be yourself while finding ways to navigate systemic constraints. In this affirming space, we will work together to unlearn negative messages you may have internalized throughout your life and make changes to feel empowered, balanced, and secure.
(828) 809-4180 View (828) 809-4180
Photo of Chandler Smith, LMCHA
Chandler Smith
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Do you ever feel that you have too much on your plate or that your emotions overwhelm you or not as secure as you want to be in relationships? It can feel like there is no way to escape these feelings, and that things will never change. It can be challenging to go through these issues on your own, but therapy can be a space where these issues can be addressed. It can provide you the opportunity to explore who you are and make the changes that you want to see in your life. In therapy we will address the issue that you see as obstacles from achieving your goals and having a better understanding of yourself.
Do you ever feel that you have too much on your plate or that your emotions overwhelm you or not as secure as you want to be in relationships? It can feel like there is no way to escape these feelings, and that things will never change. It can be challenging to go through these issues on your own, but therapy can be a space where these issues can be addressed. It can provide you the opportunity to explore who you are and make the changes that you want to see in your life. In therapy we will address the issue that you see as obstacles from achieving your goals and having a better understanding of yourself.
(919) 823-2653 View (919) 823-2653
Photo of Kaitlin Duren, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Kaitlin Duren
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer-identified person, I am committed to working with clients to address personal, emotional, professional, environmental, systematic, and relational stressors.
I provide an inclusive and affirming environment that is specific to your needs using a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in neurodivergence, trauma, and relationships, including LGBTQIA+, kink/non-monogamy, and Attachment. I utilize Attachment-Based and neuro-affirming approaches when working with individuals and couples.
As a queer-identified person, I am committed to working with clients to address personal, emotional, professional, environmental, systematic, and relational stressors.
I provide an inclusive and affirming environment that is specific to your needs using a trauma-informed approach. I specialize in neurodivergence, trauma, and relationships, including LGBTQIA+, kink/non-monogamy, and Attachment. I utilize Attachment-Based and neuro-affirming approaches when working with individuals and couples.
(984) 201-7959 x716 View (984) 201-7959 x716
Photo of Susan Clifton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Susan Clifton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Are you looking for a highly experienced therapist, seasoned in life, that uses an integrated and personalized approach to help you create the life you want? Most clients I work with KNOW what they need to do and WHY - it just does not stick. Together we can untangle the blocks, shore up your skills and develop a sustainable strategy to get you moving forward. I specialize in women's issues and chronic/complex trauma offering traditional psychotherapy, including in-person groups, and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (solo, groups and retreats). If we are not a fit, I'm sure one of my colleagues will be and I will help connect you.
Are you looking for a highly experienced therapist, seasoned in life, that uses an integrated and personalized approach to help you create the life you want? Most clients I work with KNOW what they need to do and WHY - it just does not stick. Together we can untangle the blocks, shore up your skills and develop a sustainable strategy to get you moving forward. I specialize in women's issues and chronic/complex trauma offering traditional psychotherapy, including in-person groups, and ketamine assisted psychotherapy (solo, groups and retreats). If we are not a fit, I'm sure one of my colleagues will be and I will help connect you.
(919) 335-4028 View (919) 335-4028
Photo of Caroline Rusk, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Caroline Rusk
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA
Online Only
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges.
My counseling approach integrates various frameworks to meet your unique needs. Grounded in Person-Centered and Narrative Therapy, I create a supportive and empathetic environment where you're encouraged to tell your stories and find your voice. As a culturally responsive therapist, I approach with humility and inclusion to support your identity development.
I work with individuals (12+) on topics of LGBTQ+ concerns, anxiety, depression, emotional trauma, and family/relationship challenges.
My counseling approach integrates various frameworks to meet your unique needs. Grounded in Person-Centered and Narrative Therapy, I create a supportive and empathetic environment where you're encouraged to tell your stories and find your voice. As a culturally responsive therapist, I approach with humility and inclusion to support your identity development.
(984) 310-8707 View (984) 310-8707
Photo of Tiffany Harvey, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Tiffany Harvey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Online Only
I work best with high-functioning, neurodivergent folks carrying an invisible load of mental labor—keeping everything afloat while quietly running on fumes. On the outside, it works. On the inside, it’s 47 tabs open and a brain that won’t pause. Many have ADHD, trauma, or other neurodivergence, and are ready for something that actually fits. They come for clarity, relief, and a way forward that feels doable. Together, we untangle the noise, lighten the load, and build brain-friendly systems—so life feels steadier, softer, and genuinely theirs.
I work best with high-functioning, neurodivergent folks carrying an invisible load of mental labor—keeping everything afloat while quietly running on fumes. On the outside, it works. On the inside, it’s 47 tabs open and a brain that won’t pause. Many have ADHD, trauma, or other neurodivergence, and are ready for something that actually fits. They come for clarity, relief, and a way forward that feels doable. Together, we untangle the noise, lighten the load, and build brain-friendly systems—so life feels steadier, softer, and genuinely theirs.
(984) 646-0277 View (984) 646-0277
Photo of Mack Kirsch, LCMHC Associate, LCMHCA
Mack Kirsch
LCMHC Associate, LCMHCA
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27604
I’m passionate about working with the queer community.
Life has a way of shaping you into who you had to be to survive, not necessarily who you actually are. If you’ve spent years shrinking, masking, caretaking, or being “the self-aware one,” you might be exhausted. Maybe you’re questioning your identity, untangling attachment wounds, or stuck in relationship patterns that feel frustratingly familiar. You can see it but just can’t seem to shift it. I'm here to help you dismantle the survival strategies that once kept you safe but now keep you small. We slow things down. We get curious about the roles you learned to play.
I’m passionate about working with the queer community.
Life has a way of shaping you into who you had to be to survive, not necessarily who you actually are. If you’ve spent years shrinking, masking, caretaking, or being “the self-aware one,” you might be exhausted. Maybe you’re questioning your identity, untangling attachment wounds, or stuck in relationship patterns that feel frustratingly familiar. You can see it but just can’t seem to shift it. I'm here to help you dismantle the survival strategies that once kept you safe but now keep you small. We slow things down. We get curious about the roles you learned to play.
(984) 646-5259 View (984) 646-5259
Photo of Dr. Michelle Joshua, Psychologist, PhD, CMPC
Dr. Michelle Joshua
Psychologist, PhD, CMPC
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
Are you looking for a performance edge, to find your lost edge, or better support someone in pursuit of their goals? Whether you are an athlete, coach, high-performer, or sport parent, my clients are often looking to feel better about their performances, more self-confident, more comfortable with transitions up or down, better at navigating competition and organizational pressures, overcome/manage injury, separate identity from outcome, solidify motivation, and better support their athletes. Whether it is life affecting performance or vice-versa, you can optimize your mindset, overcome challenges, and learn skills for a lifetime.
Are you looking for a performance edge, to find your lost edge, or better support someone in pursuit of their goals? Whether you are an athlete, coach, high-performer, or sport parent, my clients are often looking to feel better about their performances, more self-confident, more comfortable with transitions up or down, better at navigating competition and organizational pressures, overcome/manage injury, separate identity from outcome, solidify motivation, and better support their athletes. Whether it is life affecting performance or vice-versa, you can optimize your mindset, overcome challenges, and learn skills for a lifetime.
(984) 464-7745 View (984) 464-7745
Photo of Michelle Topal, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
As a cis queer woman, I have been committed to helping adults, parents, families, couples and the LGBTQ+ community be authentic and open for over 25 yrs.
My life has been focused on valuing and celebrating uniqueness; supporting those of all identities explore who they are. I help individuals and relationships figure out who they are, what they want and continue to grow towards that vision. Raised with a commitment to advocacy and the importance of community, I welcome those who advocate for social justice.
As a cis queer woman, I have been committed to helping adults, parents, families, couples and the LGBTQ+ community be authentic and open for over 25 yrs.
My life has been focused on valuing and celebrating uniqueness; supporting those of all identities explore who they are. I help individuals and relationships figure out who they are, what they want and continue to grow towards that vision. Raised with a commitment to advocacy and the importance of community, I welcome those who advocate for social justice.
(919) 885-1200 View (919) 885-1200
Photo of Cheri Coats, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Cheri Coats
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
I am also passionate about helping the LGBTQ community, as well as those navigating grief, academic concerns, and personal growth.
If you're an adolescent or adult going through a significant life change, coping with difficult struggles, or simply needing a little extra support, I am here for you. I see therapy as a team effort, where we work together to explore your unique strengths, challenges, and goals. My goal is to help you discover the tools you already possess so you can create the life you want. My clients often tell me they appreciate my balance of compassion and directness.
I am also passionate about helping the LGBTQ community, as well as those navigating grief, academic concerns, and personal growth.
If you're an adolescent or adult going through a significant life change, coping with difficult struggles, or simply needing a little extra support, I am here for you. I see therapy as a team effort, where we work together to explore your unique strengths, challenges, and goals. My goal is to help you discover the tools you already possess so you can create the life you want. My clients often tell me they appreciate my balance of compassion and directness.
(919) 694-6889 View (919) 694-6889
Photo of Cassandra Calin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cassandra Calin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Raleigh, NC 27604
Waitlist for new clients
I have 10 years of experience supporting predominantly queer and trans clients and people of color, and as an Afro-cuban queer femme, I consider it a gift when I get to do this work with my own communities.
Over the course of our lives, we are told stories about ourselves. Oftentimes those stories aren't true. Sometimes they're harmful. Usually they get in the way of us being able to truly understand ourselves and grow in the ways we want to. I work with clients to explore the stories they hold about themselves, their own definition of mental wellness, and the tools that might help them to move toward it. I am excited to offer individuals, partners, families, and friends a sacred, therapeutic space to sift through those stories, where they come from, and whether they serve you or block you from a fuller taste of joy.
I have 10 years of experience supporting predominantly queer and trans clients and people of color, and as an Afro-cuban queer femme, I consider it a gift when I get to do this work with my own communities.
Over the course of our lives, we are told stories about ourselves. Oftentimes those stories aren't true. Sometimes they're harmful. Usually they get in the way of us being able to truly understand ourselves and grow in the ways we want to. I work with clients to explore the stories they hold about themselves, their own definition of mental wellness, and the tools that might help them to move toward it. I am excited to offer individuals, partners, families, and friends a sacred, therapeutic space to sift through those stories, where they come from, and whether they serve you or block you from a fuller taste of joy.
(984) 265-8303 View (984) 265-8303

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