LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Raleigh, NC

Photo of Faith Surface, LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Faith Surface
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
With an MSW from the top-ranked University of Michigan and specialized training in eating disorders, trauma, and queer-affirming care, I’m here to support you with the highest quality of care.
I use a personalized, eclectic approach, blending therapies like CBT, DBT, MI, SFBT, ACT, and more to fit your needs. My goal is to equip you with practical tools and empower you to do this work on your own. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, depression, and couples therapy, providing a supportive space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
With an MSW from the top-ranked University of Michigan and specialized training in eating disorders, trauma, and queer-affirming care, I’m here to support you with the highest quality of care.
I use a personalized, eclectic approach, blending therapies like CBT, DBT, MI, SFBT, ACT, and more to fit your needs. My goal is to equip you with practical tools and empower you to do this work on your own. I specialize in anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, depression, and couples therapy, providing a supportive space for growth, healing, and lasting change.
(984) 374-1002 View (984) 374-1002
Photo of Sharifa Ahrendsen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Sharifa Ahrendsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I wear a lot of hats as a healer, mom, queer Black woman, community advocate, immigrant and more.
Currently accepting clients. My ideal client is curious about their human experience. They may suffer from depression and anxiety symptoms, which is not uncommon in 2025. Most people are suffering not only from mental health but social impacts on overall health as well. Their goals are to build self compassion for their symptoms which leads to better coping better relationships and a more clear understanding of their authentic self.
I wear a lot of hats as a healer, mom, queer Black woman, community advocate, immigrant and more.
Currently accepting clients. My ideal client is curious about their human experience. They may suffer from depression and anxiety symptoms, which is not uncommon in 2025. Most people are suffering not only from mental health but social impacts on overall health as well. Their goals are to build self compassion for their symptoms which leads to better coping better relationships and a more clear understanding of their authentic self.
(984) 538-9298 View (984) 538-9298
Photo of Lindley Cherry, Licensed Professional Counselor, QS, LCAS, NCC
Lindley Cherry
Licensed Professional Counselor, QS, LCAS, NCC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
If you are looking for someone who specializes in Neurodivergent Adults (including Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments), EMDR/Trauma, Professionals in High Stress Careers, Couples & Poly/Kink Relationships, or LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling, then schedule a free 20 minute consultation and let’s figure this shit out!
I am neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, and EMDR trained. I offer sessions for individuals, couples/poly-relationships, and provide adult-specific ADHD and Autism assessments. You get what you pay for with me. Sessions are purposeful and solution-focused, removing the need for worksheets and other "homework." We do the work together.
If you are looking for someone who specializes in Neurodivergent Adults (including Adult ADHD and Autism Assessments), EMDR/Trauma, Professionals in High Stress Careers, Couples & Poly/Kink Relationships, or LGBTQIA+ Affirmative Counseling, then schedule a free 20 minute consultation and let’s figure this shit out!
I am neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, and EMDR trained. I offer sessions for individuals, couples/poly-relationships, and provide adult-specific ADHD and Autism assessments. You get what you pay for with me. Sessions are purposeful and solution-focused, removing the need for worksheets and other "homework." We do the work together.
(984) 985-2598 View (984) 985-2598
Photo of Hillary Whitlock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Hillary Whitlock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Neuro, cultural, and LGBTQIA affirming care is essential in my practice.
I'm Hillary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have several years of experience in work with children & teens as well as with parents and families. I strive to bring a style of therapy that is authentic & relatable to my clients. I take a personal approach when working with each client which allows me to greater understand the struggles they experience. I provide support & education to parents to nurture the therapeutic process. I also enjoy working with young adults & offer therapy services to those seeking support & guidance through the transition of adulthood that can often be accompanied by stress and tribulations.
Neuro, cultural, and LGBTQIA affirming care is essential in my practice.
I'm Hillary, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have several years of experience in work with children & teens as well as with parents and families. I strive to bring a style of therapy that is authentic & relatable to my clients. I take a personal approach when working with each client which allows me to greater understand the struggles they experience. I provide support & education to parents to nurture the therapeutic process. I also enjoy working with young adults & offer therapy services to those seeking support & guidance through the transition of adulthood that can often be accompanied by stress and tribulations.
(919) 336-0148 View (919) 336-0148
Photo of Corey Myrick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Corey Myrick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
My clientele includes teens (16 and up), young adults, men, women, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
My integrative approach to therapy combines interventions from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Conduct Problems (MATCH), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
My clientele includes teens (16 and up), young adults, men, women, and those who identify as LGBTQ+.
My integrative approach to therapy combines interventions from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Modular Approach to Therapy for Children with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma or Conduct Problems (MATCH), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
(919) 762-6849 View (919) 762-6849
Photo of Christina Franke, MSW, LCASA, LCSWA
Christina Franke
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome individuals from all walks of life that are ready to work towards creating positive changes.
I recognize that everyone’s path is unique, and that healing is a deeply personal experience. Whether you are working to sustain recovery from alcohol or other drugs, struggling with self-worth, coping with symptoms of ADHD, or navigating a lifetime of avoiding difficult emotions, I am dedicated to providing you a safe space to support your healing journey.
I am LGBTQ+ affirming and welcome individuals from all walks of life that are ready to work towards creating positive changes.
I recognize that everyone’s path is unique, and that healing is a deeply personal experience. Whether you are working to sustain recovery from alcohol or other drugs, struggling with self-worth, coping with symptoms of ADHD, or navigating a lifetime of avoiding difficult emotions, I am dedicated to providing you a safe space to support your healing journey.
(984) 223-9347 View (984) 223-9347
Photo of Madi Blais, Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Madi Blais
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I enjoy working with all ages, those who identify as women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the neurodivergent community.
Life is a journey filled with ups, downs, twists, and turns. It can be fun and exhilarating, challenging and scary, and anything in between. Everyone has a different life experience, and we are all navigating our own paths. This can be especially difficult if you are experiencing mental health conditions or concerns such as anxiety and depression or overcoming past trauma. Oftentimes, we tell ourselves to push through and manage, but with a little help you could learn tools and techniques to help you thrive. You are not alone in this journey, and I would love to walk beside you!
I enjoy working with all ages, those who identify as women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and the neurodivergent community.
Life is a journey filled with ups, downs, twists, and turns. It can be fun and exhilarating, challenging and scary, and anything in between. Everyone has a different life experience, and we are all navigating our own paths. This can be especially difficult if you are experiencing mental health conditions or concerns such as anxiety and depression or overcoming past trauma. Oftentimes, we tell ourselves to push through and manage, but with a little help you could learn tools and techniques to help you thrive. You are not alone in this journey, and I would love to walk beside you!
(984) 985-2036 View (984) 985-2036
Photo of Padma Doobay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Padma Doobay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I'm culturally responsive, LGBTQ affirming, and I'm continuously doing my own work.
Hey there, I’m Padma. I’m so glad you’re here. I specialize in working with wounded mothers, BIPOC womxn, mixed-family parents, and othered folx—those who’ve carried emotional pain, cultural disconnection, and invisible labor for far too long. You might be navigating generational trauma, struggling with feeling “too much” or “not enough,” or holding parts of yourself you’ve never had space to fully honor or heal. Many of my clients are deeply nurturing, highly aware, and exhausted from always having to be strong. You may long for connection and ease but find yourself stuck in cycles of survival, self-doubt, or silence.
I'm culturally responsive, LGBTQ affirming, and I'm continuously doing my own work.
Hey there, I’m Padma. I’m so glad you’re here. I specialize in working with wounded mothers, BIPOC womxn, mixed-family parents, and othered folx—those who’ve carried emotional pain, cultural disconnection, and invisible labor for far too long. You might be navigating generational trauma, struggling with feeling “too much” or “not enough,” or holding parts of yourself you’ve never had space to fully honor or heal. Many of my clients are deeply nurturing, highly aware, and exhausted from always having to be strong. You may long for connection and ease but find yourself stuck in cycles of survival, self-doubt, or silence.
(984) 231-8892 View (984) 231-8892
Photo of Julie Heustis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Julie Heustis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
If you're struggling to cope with painful emotions or events you have been through I provide a validating space to talk. I specialize in evidence based treatments to support people with: PTSD/Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
If you're struggling to cope with painful emotions or events you have been through I provide a validating space to talk. I specialize in evidence based treatments to support people with: PTSD/Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship Concerns, Substance Abuse and Addiction.
(919) 948-2723 View (919) 948-2723
Photo of Ashlin McGuinn, LCSW Associate, LCSWA
Ashlin McGuinn
LCSW Associate, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I’m passionate about helping those with chronic illness, the LGBTQ+ community, and reproductive planning.
Your thoughts feel sticky. Once you get stuck on a distressing thought, it cycles and feels as though it controls you. You've noticed this affecting you, your day, and even your relationships. You feel the anxiety, OCD, or trauma in your bones and want to explore the impacts. Ready for change but not sure where to start? Together, we can work on escaping the quicksand of your mind. I work with individuals who are motivated to fight for their happiness and retrain their minds. It's time to take steps toward the life you want by honoring your needs, feeling your emotions, and turning down the volume on fear. Let's find your peace.
I’m passionate about helping those with chronic illness, the LGBTQ+ community, and reproductive planning.
Your thoughts feel sticky. Once you get stuck on a distressing thought, it cycles and feels as though it controls you. You've noticed this affecting you, your day, and even your relationships. You feel the anxiety, OCD, or trauma in your bones and want to explore the impacts. Ready for change but not sure where to start? Together, we can work on escaping the quicksand of your mind. I work with individuals who are motivated to fight for their happiness and retrain their minds. It's time to take steps toward the life you want by honoring your needs, feeling your emotions, and turning down the volume on fear. Let's find your peace.
(984) 342-2631 View (984) 342-2631
Photo of Sue Cole, Counselor, LCMHCA
Sue Cole
Counselor, LCMHCA
Raleigh, NC 27615
My areas of interest include trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, Academic Struggles, Depression, Anxiety, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+, Parenting and Family Issues.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and found my page. If you’re here, my guess is that you are seeking help with healing, growth, or wanting to wade through something that has been on your mind for yourself, your child or family. I provide an open, non-judgemental, relaxed, collaborative environment and believe that a strong relationship with your therapist helps with growth, healing and reflection. I specialize in working with children ages 7-18, young adults, adults and families facing a variety of challenges.
My areas of interest include trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, Academic Struggles, Depression, Anxiety, Women’s Issues, LGBTQIA+, Parenting and Family Issues.
Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and found my page. If you’re here, my guess is that you are seeking help with healing, growth, or wanting to wade through something that has been on your mind for yourself, your child or family. I provide an open, non-judgemental, relaxed, collaborative environment and believe that a strong relationship with your therapist helps with growth, healing and reflection. I specialize in working with children ages 7-18, young adults, adults and families facing a variety of challenges.
(984) 279-7625 View (984) 279-7625
Photo of Caitlin Eckert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Caitlin Eckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice is welcoming and open to sex workers, people who use substances, people with HIV, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Creating a safe, supportive space for therapy has always been my top priority throughout my 10+ years of experience. Whether you're returning to therapy after working with another therapist, switching to someone new, or considering therapy for the first time, I’m here to help. Many of my clients are navigating the effects of past trauma—both childhood and adulthood—or working through the complexities of loss. I also work with individuals from marginalized communities. Some find long-term therapy helpful, while others seek shorter sessions to get back on track toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Wherever you are, welcome!
My practice is welcoming and open to sex workers, people who use substances, people with HIV, and the LGBTQIA+ community.
Creating a safe, supportive space for therapy has always been my top priority throughout my 10+ years of experience. Whether you're returning to therapy after working with another therapist, switching to someone new, or considering therapy for the first time, I’m here to help. Many of my clients are navigating the effects of past trauma—both childhood and adulthood—or working through the complexities of loss. I also work with individuals from marginalized communities. Some find long-term therapy helpful, while others seek shorter sessions to get back on track toward a healthier, more fulfilling life. Wherever you are, welcome!
(984) 464-4597 View (984) 464-4597
Photo of Marquise Mazyck-Wright, Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, LCSWA
Marquise Mazyck-Wright
Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate, LCSWA
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
I enjoy working with clients from different backgrounds, especially individuals of color belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello There! Speaking with a therapist can be overwhelming for many individuals. As someone who has dealt with anxious feelings myself, I understand how challenging it can be to work through anxiety, depression, and fear altogether. My goal is to help guide clients as they navigate processing and addressing their fears and anxiety-driven thoughts. It is my belief that every client has the ability to obtain more sustainable coping mechanisms with the appropriate guidance. Seeking assistance is the first step and scary for many, but overcoming that challenge is the gateway to conquering the many roadblocks life can present.
I enjoy working with clients from different backgrounds, especially individuals of color belonging to the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello There! Speaking with a therapist can be overwhelming for many individuals. As someone who has dealt with anxious feelings myself, I understand how challenging it can be to work through anxiety, depression, and fear altogether. My goal is to help guide clients as they navigate processing and addressing their fears and anxiety-driven thoughts. It is my belief that every client has the ability to obtain more sustainable coping mechanisms with the appropriate guidance. Seeking assistance is the first step and scary for many, but overcoming that challenge is the gateway to conquering the many roadblocks life can present.
(984) 299-9778 View (984) 299-9778
Photo of Mack Kirsch, LCMHC Associate, LCMHCA
Mack Kirsch
LCMHC Associate, LCMHCA
Raleigh, NC 27603
My passion and drive comes from working with the queer community in navigating their identity, building confidence and self-esteem, and thriving in a world that is filled with oppression.
I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can feel truly heard, seen, and respected. I specialize in helping folx heal attachment wounds, process childhood and religious trauma, embrace their identities in all their forms, and navigate challenging life transitions. I am trained in writing gender-affirming care letters as well.
My passion and drive comes from working with the queer community in navigating their identity, building confidence and self-esteem, and thriving in a world that is filled with oppression.
I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming space where you can feel truly heard, seen, and respected. I specialize in helping folx heal attachment wounds, process childhood and religious trauma, embrace their identities in all their forms, and navigate challenging life transitions. I am trained in writing gender-affirming care letters as well.
(984) 646-5259 View (984) 646-5259
Photo of Patrick T. Hefferan, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Patrick T. Hefferan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, NCC
Online Only
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety, LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
I am passionate about combining diverse resources and therapeutic tools in working with clients with Marriage and Family Issues, ADHD, Impulse Control (related to internet and video games), Depression,Anxiety, LGBT Issues, Stress Reduction, Grief, and Life Transitions.
My clients consider me to be an empathic listener, a keen observer, and a calming presence. I bring a warm smile, a curious, gentle, friendly manner, a ready laugh, and a healthy self into my therapy sessions every day. I sincerely care about the people I work with and work hard to create a warm and trusting environment for clients of all ages. Forming and nurturing relationships is my strength. It's within the context of a healthy relationship that emotional and mental healing occurs. I'm trained to facilitate treatment for internet and technology compulsions and addictions including gaming, online pornography, and related issues.
(919) 913-8323 View (919) 913-8323
Photo of Alison York, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Alison York
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with couples from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse partnerships, and create a safe, affirming space to unpack the pain, rebuild trust, and reconnect on a deeper level.
Wheather you're in the aftermath of infidelity, navigating recovery from substance abuse or simply feel stuck in a cycle of hurt and disconnection - I'm here to help. Together, we'll explore the patterns keeping you apart and build new ways of relating that foster security, understanding, and real emotional closeness.
I work with couples from all walks of life, including LGBTQ+ and gender-diverse partnerships, and create a safe, affirming space to unpack the pain, rebuild trust, and reconnect on a deeper level.
Wheather you're in the aftermath of infidelity, navigating recovery from substance abuse or simply feel stuck in a cycle of hurt and disconnection - I'm here to help. Together, we'll explore the patterns keeping you apart and build new ways of relating that foster security, understanding, and real emotional closeness.
(919) 670-5075 View (919) 670-5075
Photo of Tempe Lampe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Tempe Lampe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27607
I find it important to acknowledge the value I place on approaching therapy from an intersectional frame of mind, as well as my role as a safe space for LGBTQ+ clients.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other sources of emotional pain such as relational concerns, life transitions, and compulsive sexual behavior. My approach to therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual client. I provide a safe, supportive, and empathic environment to help clients develop emotional resilience and obtain valuable insight into their own minds. My aim is to facilitate the development of clients’ potentialities so that they can see themselves as agents of their their own lives while acknowledging the systems we exist within that are beyond our control.
I find it important to acknowledge the value I place on approaching therapy from an intersectional frame of mind, as well as my role as a safe space for LGBTQ+ clients.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with depression, anxiety, and other sources of emotional pain such as relational concerns, life transitions, and compulsive sexual behavior. My approach to therapy is tailored to the needs of each individual client. I provide a safe, supportive, and empathic environment to help clients develop emotional resilience and obtain valuable insight into their own minds. My aim is to facilitate the development of clients’ potentialities so that they can see themselves as agents of their their own lives while acknowledging the systems we exist within that are beyond our control.
(984) 231-9784 View (984) 231-9784
Photo of Brooke Owens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Brooke Owens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27617
Waitlist for new clients
I work with the adult and older adult population, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist as well as a Certified Clinical Supervisor. I believe the therapeutic rapport is important in facilitating change and forward movement in therapy, and I feel it is important to create a non-judgmental therapeutic space. I take a person centered, strengths-based approach in working with clients. My goal as a therapist is to help clients overcome behavioral challenges, develop coping skills, and realize their full potential. I specialize in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma/ PTSD, grief, and SPMI.
I work with the adult and older adult population, and I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist as well as a Certified Clinical Supervisor. I believe the therapeutic rapport is important in facilitating change and forward movement in therapy, and I feel it is important to create a non-judgmental therapeutic space. I take a person centered, strengths-based approach in working with clients. My goal as a therapist is to help clients overcome behavioral challenges, develop coping skills, and realize their full potential. I specialize in the treatment of addiction, anxiety, depression, trauma/ PTSD, grief, and SPMI.
(984) 203-7513 View (984) 203-7513
Photo of Zacc Adams, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LCPC
Zacc Adams
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LCPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My main areas of focus are: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues, and men's issues.
I am a non-judgmental person both professionally and personally. I understand that everyone has an experience that may be challenging which brings you to therapy. I practice through a person centered approach to understand your experiences through your perspective. I then incorporate a number of modalities based on my clients’ needs.
My main areas of focus are: anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships, sexuality, LGBTQ+ issues, and men's issues.
I am a non-judgmental person both professionally and personally. I understand that everyone has an experience that may be challenging which brings you to therapy. I practice through a person centered approach to understand your experiences through your perspective. I then incorporate a number of modalities based on my clients’ needs.
(301) 635-4496 View (301) 635-4496
Photo of Devin Malik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Devin Malik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Waitlist for new clients
I have a particular passion for working with neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) and queer individuals with trauma.
My approach to therapy can best be described as person-centered, existential, and eclectic. I pull from depth and liberation psychology together with several other interventions including EMDR therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, CPT, and narrative therapy. I use parts work and mindfulness concepts too.
I have a particular passion for working with neurodivergent (Autism/ADHD) and queer individuals with trauma.
My approach to therapy can best be described as person-centered, existential, and eclectic. I pull from depth and liberation psychology together with several other interventions including EMDR therapy, DBT, ACT, CBT, CPT, and narrative therapy. I use parts work and mindfulness concepts too.
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