LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Sanford, NC

Photo of Kim Elaine Knoeller - Counseling Connections Clinical Group, PLLC
Counseling Connections Clinical Group, PLLC
Verified Verified
Online Only
Whether you just want to connect for support in navigating general life or you have a more serious or deep rooted diagnosis, we can help. Having a professional to assist in processing things differently than you have before will feel like a weight has been lifted. At Counseling Connections, we offer individual therapy, couples/family therapy, adolescent therapy. Our diverse team provides personalized virtual care to individuals, couples, and families across North Carolina.
Whether you just want to connect for support in navigating general life or you have a more serious or deep rooted diagnosis, we can help. Having a professional to assist in processing things differently than you have before will feel like a weight has been lifted. At Counseling Connections, we offer individual therapy, couples/family therapy, adolescent therapy. Our diverse team provides personalized virtual care to individuals, couples, and families across North Carolina.
(910) 996-5484 View (910) 996-5484
Photo of David Z Pfeffer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR
David Z Pfeffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, PTSD, EMDR
Serves Area
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
I believe balance is the key to leading a happy, successful life. The focus of my practice is helping individuals, couples, & families in overcoming life's difficulties. I believe in a proactive, collaborative approach to counseling, where you are actively engaged in making real changes in your life. We will develop develop a plan of action to turn these goals into a reality. Whether you're young or old, an individual, a couple, or a family, call me today and take the first step to living a positive, balanced life.
(954) 251-0779 View (954) 251-0779
Photo of Kim Elaine Knoeller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kim Elaine Knoeller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Forming a connection with my clients is the first thing that others will say is strong about my work. Building a trusting relationship in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation is at the core of good therapy and is my strength. My interventions are soft and leave each of my clients feeling they have authority in their own lives, they can love and respect and care about themselves, showing themselves compassion at every turn. Your goals are my goals always.
Forming a connection with my clients is the first thing that others will say is strong about my work. Building a trusting relationship in which there is safety, genuine care, interest, and validation is at the core of good therapy and is my strength. My interventions are soft and leave each of my clients feeling they have authority in their own lives, they can love and respect and care about themselves, showing themselves compassion at every turn. Your goals are my goals always.
(910) 597-1362 View (910) 597-1362
Photo of Bri Garcia, LCSW Associate, LCSWA, MSW
Bri Garcia
LCSW Associate, LCSWA, MSW
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am passionately serving people of color, LGBTQIA+, and politically active to provide affirming care.
I frame my DBT practice within liberation psychology to reframe life narratives, understand locus' of control, and build felt autonomy. I utilize behavioral and cognitive modifications, emotional experiencing, exposure, narrative strategies, existentialism, mindfulness, and somatic techniques in my practice. I aim to be collaborative and accommodating.
I am passionately serving people of color, LGBTQIA+, and politically active to provide affirming care.
I frame my DBT practice within liberation psychology to reframe life narratives, understand locus' of control, and build felt autonomy. I utilize behavioral and cognitive modifications, emotional experiencing, exposure, narrative strategies, existentialism, mindfulness, and somatic techniques in my practice. I aim to be collaborative and accommodating.
(336) 891-9010 View (336) 891-9010
Photo of Ruth Eslinger, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA C, MALS
Ruth Eslinger
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA C, MALS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I love working with a client who has come to counseling because they know it is time to try something different. They have past trauma they haven't dealt with and want it to stop interfering with their daily life so much. Their work will require learning layered skills. Grounding techniques are needed for the short term to bring calm and tamp down anxiety interference from trauma. Once that is in place we can determine what types of interventions are actually needed so we can set proper goals. Then the client can begin to know that their trauma doesn't control them. It is not their fault. It is possible to heal. They'll grow.
I love working with a client who has come to counseling because they know it is time to try something different. They have past trauma they haven't dealt with and want it to stop interfering with their daily life so much. Their work will require learning layered skills. Grounding techniques are needed for the short term to bring calm and tamp down anxiety interference from trauma. Once that is in place we can determine what types of interventions are actually needed so we can set proper goals. Then the client can begin to know that their trauma doesn't control them. It is not their fault. It is possible to heal. They'll grow.
(984) 305-3019 View (984) 305-3019
Photo of Kiyoka Watkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kiyoka Watkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations—including veterans, children, and women—each of whom has shaped my understanding of resilience and healing.
Welcome! I'm so glad you're here. I'm a licensed clinical social worker with over twenty years of experience supporting individuals through life’s challenges. Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse populations—including veterans, children, and women—each of whom has shaped my understanding of resilience and healing.
(984) 464-8409 View (984) 464-8409
Photo of Tim Wooten, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Tim Wooten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
As a counselor, I work from a person-centered approach to therapy, partnering with you to meet you where you are, leverage individual strengths, and identify areas of growth and resilience. I enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety and panic disorders as well as those working to heal from past trauma. If you experience feelings of dread, difficulty sleeping, worries about health, your loved ones or yourself, lack of motivation or loss of interest in activities, therapy can be a place to process these concerns and develop ways to ease your symptoms.
As a counselor, I work from a person-centered approach to therapy, partnering with you to meet you where you are, leverage individual strengths, and identify areas of growth and resilience. I enjoy working with people experiencing anxiety and panic disorders as well as those working to heal from past trauma. If you experience feelings of dread, difficulty sleeping, worries about health, your loved ones or yourself, lack of motivation or loss of interest in activities, therapy can be a place to process these concerns and develop ways to ease your symptoms.
(984) 223-4754 View (984) 223-4754
Photo of Leah Showalter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Leah Showalter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
I am passionate about working with teens, young adults, and the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Leah Showalter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. Seeking help for yourself or for your teen? If you are an individual struggling with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, women's issues, life transitions, stress, and more, I would love to partner with you on your journey to healing. My treatment approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy. I also enjoy using Holistic approaches such as Mindfulness-based techniques.
(919) 746-7689 View (919) 746-7689
Photo of LaMiya Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
LaMiya Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
You’ve spent so much of your life showing up for everyone else — the strong one, the fixer, the one who holds it all together. But deep down, you’re tired, anxious, and wondering when it will finally feel like your turn. Whether it’s navigating family pressure, carrying childhood roles into adulthood, or constantly worrying about losing the people you care about, you deserve a safe space to be seen and supported.
You’ve spent so much of your life showing up for everyone else — the strong one, the fixer, the one who holds it all together. But deep down, you’re tired, anxious, and wondering when it will finally feel like your turn. Whether it’s navigating family pressure, carrying childhood roles into adulthood, or constantly worrying about losing the people you care about, you deserve a safe space to be seen and supported.
(910) 983-8266 View (910) 983-8266
Photo of Yulai Alvarez-Rodriguez - A Life Line Counseling and Wellness PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
A Life Line Counseling and Wellness PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
5 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I know how heavy life can get when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve been carrying too much for too long. Let's untangle those knots — whether that’s stress from work, struggles in relationships, or just that quiet feeling of ‘I’m not myself anymore. "In our sessions, we don’t just talk — we get creative. That might mean art, storytelling, or even turning your favorite hobbies into tools for healing. It’s not about forcing you into a box. It’s about building a process that fits you." "If you’ve been waiting for the ‘right time’ to start, this is your sign. Let’s create a space where you feel seen, heard, supported.
I know how heavy life can get when you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or like you’ve been carrying too much for too long. Let's untangle those knots — whether that’s stress from work, struggles in relationships, or just that quiet feeling of ‘I’m not myself anymore. "In our sessions, we don’t just talk — we get creative. That might mean art, storytelling, or even turning your favorite hobbies into tools for healing. It’s not about forcing you into a box. It’s about building a process that fits you." "If you’ve been waiting for the ‘right time’ to start, this is your sign. Let’s create a space where you feel seen, heard, supported.
(910) 519-8729 View (910) 519-8729
Photo of Nejla deLambert, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Nejla deLambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Sanford, NC 27330
I provide trauma therapy in a warm, engaging way. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe & heard. I invite you to show up just as you are - express your real unfiltered thoughts & feelings. You've experienced trauma and despite what happened to you, you just kept moving forward. Maybe you're exhausted from masking & saying, "I'm fine" when you're really not. You may be ready for a deeper understanding of how certain experiences continue to impact your life. I'll get to know all those parts and offer genuinely effective strategies to support your journey towards healing.
I provide trauma therapy in a warm, engaging way. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe & heard. I invite you to show up just as you are - express your real unfiltered thoughts & feelings. You've experienced trauma and despite what happened to you, you just kept moving forward. Maybe you're exhausted from masking & saying, "I'm fine" when you're really not. You may be ready for a deeper understanding of how certain experiences continue to impact your life. I'll get to know all those parts and offer genuinely effective strategies to support your journey towards healing.
(984) 400-9208 View (984) 400-9208
Photo of Julia Hergenrother, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMBT
Julia Hergenrother
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LMBT
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and valued. Rooted in trauma-informed care and unconditional positive regard, I support preteens, young adults, adults, and individuals who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate life’s challenges. I work with a range of concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, eating disorders, grief, OCD, relationship issues, self-esteem, substance use, women’s issues, and mood disorders. My approach is strengths-based, empathetic, and grounded in collaboration and authenticity.
I am a compassionate, client-centered therapist committed to creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard and valued. Rooted in trauma-informed care and unconditional positive regard, I support preteens, young adults, adults, and individuals who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community as they navigate life’s challenges. I work with a range of concerns, including ADHD, anxiety, chronic illness, depression, eating disorders, grief, OCD, relationship issues, self-esteem, substance use, women’s issues, and mood disorders. My approach is strengths-based, empathetic, and grounded in collaboration and authenticity.
(919) 355-9844 View (919) 355-9844
Photo of Reagan Courliss, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Reagan Courliss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, NCC, LCMHC
Sanford, NC 27330
Evolve Counseling is culture, identity & LGBTQ affirming.
Hey, I’m Reagan. I work with older teens and adults trying to figure out what’s happened, who they are in this moment, and where they want to go from here. I offer a safe space to work through things your own way, and support that meets you where you are and evolves on your terms. With a warm, straightforward, and affirming approach, I can help you work toward goals focused on you and getting to a place where 'being' just feels better. If you are looking for someone who is real and something a little different from your last therapy experience, let's talk! (Morning & afternoon availability only at this time.)
Evolve Counseling is culture, identity & LGBTQ affirming.
Hey, I’m Reagan. I work with older teens and adults trying to figure out what’s happened, who they are in this moment, and where they want to go from here. I offer a safe space to work through things your own way, and support that meets you where you are and evolves on your terms. With a warm, straightforward, and affirming approach, I can help you work toward goals focused on you and getting to a place where 'being' just feels better. If you are looking for someone who is real and something a little different from your last therapy experience, let's talk! (Morning & afternoon availability only at this time.)
(919) 213-1746 View (919) 213-1746
Photo of Laureen Belle Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Laureen Belle Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sanford, NC 27330
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
Welcome. Are you experiencing difficulties with relationships, children, spirituality, sex, or work? It often happens that many of us need a little help now and then. In my years of practice, I've seen how depression and anxiety can affect people's lives and can cause a great deal of guilt and frustration. Life is a journey, both joyous and painful. I believe that no one purposely tries to mess up their life, however, once caught up in our own situations we often cannot see the "forest for the trees", making it difficult to see things any differently during stressfull times.
(919) 794-8245 View (919) 794-8245
Photo of Verna Dority - Carolina Counseling Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Carolina Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sanford, NC 27330
Therapy and medication management can help you to be the best version of yourself. If you are feeling held back by intrusive symptoms, life changes, depression, anxiety, extreme worry, mood changes, trauma or grief to name a few, let us help.
Therapy and medication management can help you to be the best version of yourself. If you are feeling held back by intrusive symptoms, life changes, depression, anxiety, extreme worry, mood changes, trauma or grief to name a few, let us help.
(919) 897-5111 View (919) 897-5111
Photo of Laura Wooten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Laura Wooten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am LGBTQIA affirming, weight inclusive, and welcoming of clients of all cultural, racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Welcome! Therapy is a collaborative process where together we identify areas for personal growth and develop skills that can support you in finding balance and reaching your goals. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression and finding it hard to get through each day? Having difficulty sleeping or navigating emotional ups and downs? Are you going through a life transition, such as college or grad school, divorce, a new partnership or parenthood? Are you dealing with the impact of past trauma? Rediscover your inner strength, with practical tools, support, and encouragement every step of the way.
I am LGBTQIA affirming, weight inclusive, and welcoming of clients of all cultural, racial, ethnic, and religious backgrounds.
Welcome! Therapy is a collaborative process where together we identify areas for personal growth and develop skills that can support you in finding balance and reaching your goals. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression and finding it hard to get through each day? Having difficulty sleeping or navigating emotional ups and downs? Are you going through a life transition, such as college or grad school, divorce, a new partnership or parenthood? Are you dealing with the impact of past trauma? Rediscover your inner strength, with practical tools, support, and encouragement every step of the way.
(919) 642-1262 View (919) 642-1262
Photo of Anna May, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Anna May
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My practice is LGBTQ+ and ENM affirming, offering a space where you can show up fully and create more clarity, confidence, and connection in your life and relationships.
I help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface so you can stop repeating patterns and start respond in new ways. Using IFS, CBT and somatic work, we build insight, emotional regulation, and communication skills so you can feel more in control, connected, and confident.
My practice is LGBTQ+ and ENM affirming, offering a space where you can show up fully and create more clarity, confidence, and connection in your life and relationships.
I help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface so you can stop repeating patterns and start respond in new ways. Using IFS, CBT and somatic work, we build insight, emotional regulation, and communication skills so you can feel more in control, connected, and confident.
(984) 309-3937 View (984) 309-3937
Photo of Rose Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Rose Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS
Sanford, NC 27330
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
I have immediate openings and I welcome the opportunity to assist you in resolving your life's challenges and concerns. I am happy to provide counseling services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples. I specialize in working with people struggling through any type of difficulties where it be childhood trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic, unanticipated life events, family and marital problems and substance use.
(910) 716-8006 View (910) 716-8006
Photo of Amy Trousdale, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amy Trousdale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27330
I currently have openings Monday-Friday from 8:00am-1:00pm. Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
I currently have openings Monday-Friday from 8:00am-1:00pm. Let’s sit down together and start changing your narrative to reflect the best version of you. Navigating through life can be stressful and difficult however you do not have to walk this path alone. Through identifying negative thought patterns or learning how old behavior patterns have not always served you well, I am confident we can get you on a path to a brighter future.
(919) 759-5291 View (919) 759-5291
Photo of Jolynn Campbell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, LCSW
Jolynn Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPA, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Sanford, NC 27332
If life's challenges have made it difficult to find joy or maintain a positive outlook, therapy can help. The pressures of daily responsibilities, relationships, and concerns about your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Many people find it hard to connect with others, communicate their needs, or experience the sense of fulfillment they're looking for. Together, we can explore what's contributing to these struggles and develop practical tools to help you move forward.
If life's challenges have made it difficult to find joy or maintain a positive outlook, therapy can help. The pressures of daily responsibilities, relationships, and concerns about your mental, physical, and spiritual well-being can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed. Many people find it hard to connect with others, communicate their needs, or experience the sense of fulfillment they're looking for. Together, we can explore what's contributing to these struggles and develop practical tools to help you move forward.
(910) 720-6643 View (910) 720-6643

See more therapy options for Sanford

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.