LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in New Jersey

Photo of Brian R. Bakes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Brian R. Bakes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raritan, NJ 08869  (Online Only)
My specialty areas include life transitions; anxiety/depression; LGBTQ+; identity issues (personal/sexual/gender); men's issues, and emerging adulthood.
Do you feel like you’re doing well overall - but for some reason you’re still feeling unfulfilled or unsatisfied? You work hard but never feel like you’re doing enough. You’re keeping it all together but feeling overwhelmed and exhausted in your free time. Maybe you're facing (or going thru) a significant transition in your life & feeling a bit unbalanced or shook-up as a result. My work centers around increasing self-awareness, developing strategies for coping with the natural stress of life, and learning to live more authentically. All it takes is motivation to work, courage to examine yourself, and a commitment to making changes.
My specialty areas include life transitions; anxiety/depression; LGBTQ+; identity issues (personal/sexual/gender); men's issues, and emerging adulthood.
Do you feel like you’re doing well overall - but for some reason you’re still feeling unfulfilled or unsatisfied? You work hard but never feel like you’re doing enough. You’re keeping it all together but feeling overwhelmed and exhausted in your free time. Maybe you're facing (or going thru) a significant transition in your life & feeling a bit unbalanced or shook-up as a result. My work centers around increasing self-awareness, developing strategies for coping with the natural stress of life, and learning to live more authentically. All it takes is motivation to work, courage to examine yourself, and a commitment to making changes.
(908) 360-2246 View (908) 360-2246
Photo of Amanda Hager, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Amanda Hager
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07043
I have substantial experience working with eating disorders, ADHD, and Queer and transgender clients.
I view therapy as an active and collaborative process that allows for flexibility and fluidity based on your individual needs over time. I take time to get to know you as an individual and how your lived experiences, including the influence of oppressive systems, transgenerational narratives, culture, community, family, and societal norms have had an impact on your holistic well-being. I stray away from Eurocentric practices that view people as a collection of symptoms that need to be 'fixed'. I view each client as a whole person with strengths they can utilize to build emotional foundations and achieve wellness.
I have substantial experience working with eating disorders, ADHD, and Queer and transgender clients.
I view therapy as an active and collaborative process that allows for flexibility and fluidity based on your individual needs over time. I take time to get to know you as an individual and how your lived experiences, including the influence of oppressive systems, transgenerational narratives, culture, community, family, and societal norms have had an impact on your holistic well-being. I stray away from Eurocentric practices that view people as a collection of symptoms that need to be 'fixed'. I view each client as a whole person with strengths they can utilize to build emotional foundations and achieve wellness.
(973) 834-0038 View (973) 834-0038
Photo of Joe Bioletti, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Joe Bioletti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042  (Online Only)
My name is Joe and I am a LPC committed to providing compassionate, explorative, and solution focused care to my clients. My specializations include; the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD), OCD, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQIA+ Issues. In treatment I utilize DBT, CBT, and Existential Therapy techniques to guide clients towards effectively regulating emotions, tolerating distress, improving interpersonal relationships, and observing/adjusting behaviors. I rely on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) protocols to help individuals with trauma or PTSD decrease related symptoms and move towards healing.
My name is Joe and I am a LPC committed to providing compassionate, explorative, and solution focused care to my clients. My specializations include; the treatment of Anxiety, Depression, Trauma (PTSD), OCD, Personality Disorders, and LGBTQIA+ Issues. In treatment I utilize DBT, CBT, and Existential Therapy techniques to guide clients towards effectively regulating emotions, tolerating distress, improving interpersonal relationships, and observing/adjusting behaviors. I rely on EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) protocols to help individuals with trauma or PTSD decrease related symptoms and move towards healing.
(973) 529-8570 View (973) 529-8570
Photo of Philip A Rutter, Psychologist in New Jersey
Philip A Rutter
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pitman, NJ 08071
Waitlist for new clients
My Areas of Expertise: Individual Therapy: Sexual orientation/identity issues, depression or anxiety issues, sexual abuse survivorship. Pitman Couples & Family Therapy, LLC offers Couples counseling, coparenting strategies for blended families, recovery from affairs, or pre-marital counseling (LGBT inclusive) using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Marriage Clinic strategies. Family therapy for conflict, estrangement, suicidal or self injurious behaviors, blended families/parenting using Structural Family Therapy.
My Areas of Expertise: Individual Therapy: Sexual orientation/identity issues, depression or anxiety issues, sexual abuse survivorship. Pitman Couples & Family Therapy, LLC offers Couples counseling, coparenting strategies for blended families, recovery from affairs, or pre-marital counseling (LGBT inclusive) using Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Gottman Marriage Clinic strategies. Family therapy for conflict, estrangement, suicidal or self injurious behaviors, blended families/parenting using Structural Family Therapy.
(267) 820-9724 View (267) 820-9724
Photo of Yuval Freund, Psychologist in New Jersey
Yuval Freund
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Cresskill, NJ 07626
In these settings, I worked closely with the LGBTQ+ communities on campus by offering support, empowering individual students through their identities, and advocating on their behalf as they faced the difficulty of navigating their identities.
I am a compassionate and experienced clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, and adults on their journey to mental well-being. I believe in empowering my clients by supplying a supportive environment to build connections, gain insight, and challenge oneself when necessary. Together, by utilizing a safe space for exploration and growth, we'll work on exploring patterns in relationships, problem-solving to facilitate positive change, and promoting self-discovery.
In these settings, I worked closely with the LGBTQ+ communities on campus by offering support, empowering individual students through their identities, and advocating on their behalf as they faced the difficulty of navigating their identities.
I am a compassionate and experienced clinical psychologist dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, and adults on their journey to mental well-being. I believe in empowering my clients by supplying a supportive environment to build connections, gain insight, and challenge oneself when necessary. Together, by utilizing a safe space for exploration and growth, we'll work on exploring patterns in relationships, problem-solving to facilitate positive change, and promoting self-discovery.
(201) 802-8030 x707 View (201) 802-8030 x707
Photo of Shalin J. Bhatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey
Shalin J. Bhatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Edgewater, NJ 07020  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to Shifa Therapy LLC, a space for healing. I offer trauma-focused psychotherapy centering BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks in NJ. My goal as your therapist is for you to be seen and understood as you are. No code-switching necessary. Throughout the process, I will invite you with patience and compassion, going at your pace as you build new adaptations towards thriving. At times, we may draw upon the past to increase awareness, overcome unresolved issues, and regain a sense of feeling whole.
Welcome to Shifa Therapy LLC, a space for healing. I offer trauma-focused psychotherapy centering BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ folks in NJ. My goal as your therapist is for you to be seen and understood as you are. No code-switching necessary. Throughout the process, I will invite you with patience and compassion, going at your pace as you build new adaptations towards thriving. At times, we may draw upon the past to increase awareness, overcome unresolved issues, and regain a sense of feeling whole.
View
Photo of Russell Healy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Russell Healy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648  (Online Only)
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
After 37 years of clinical experience, I have limited my practice to transgender-identified minors, their parents and transgender adults. Because transgender experience is not a psychopathology, my approach emphasizes assessment, case management, referrals to medical providers, education, and counseling related to transgender experience. If you want help for a minor, please know that I follow the current standards of the World Professional Association of Transgender Health. I work in a thorough, time effective manner. If the minor is seeing a therapist for a co-occurring condition I will collaborate with that provider.
(908) 349-1179 View (908) 349-1179
Photo of Justine Ashlee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Justine Ashlee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
While I work with individuals from various backgrounds and life experiences, those who identify as people of color, are adopted, LGBTQ+, parents, or those with confirmed or suspected ADHD find working with me particularly helpful.
Congratulations on taking another step on your journey of wellness. Deciding to find a therapist can be challenging, and I encourage you to make that next step and reach out. My role as a therapist can be described as an advocate and guide as clients navigate the space of healing. I aim to help clients dismantle the thought patterns and beliefs that have been limiting. Our work together will help you learn new concepts and tools and make space for personal growth. The ultimate goal is to help you discover and align with your true self.
While I work with individuals from various backgrounds and life experiences, those who identify as people of color, are adopted, LGBTQ+, parents, or those with confirmed or suspected ADHD find working with me particularly helpful.
Congratulations on taking another step on your journey of wellness. Deciding to find a therapist can be challenging, and I encourage you to make that next step and reach out. My role as a therapist can be described as an advocate and guide as clients navigate the space of healing. I aim to help clients dismantle the thought patterns and beliefs that have been limiting. Our work together will help you learn new concepts and tools and make space for personal growth. The ultimate goal is to help you discover and align with your true self.
(973) 221-9401 View (973) 221-9401
Photo of Randy Robert Radd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Randy Robert Radd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Each individual has the ability to make healthy changes to address areas they find of concern. Dealing with these life challenges on your own can be very difficult. Fortunately, counseling can help. My specialties include but are not limited to, depression, addiction, anxiety, codependency, and anger management. I have much experience with the gay and lesbian population. I work from a client centered, eclectic and humanistic model to address your individual needs. We will collaborate and develop a treatment approach that will best address your needs.
Each individual has the ability to make healthy changes to address areas they find of concern. Dealing with these life challenges on your own can be very difficult. Fortunately, counseling can help. My specialties include but are not limited to, depression, addiction, anxiety, codependency, and anger management. I have much experience with the gay and lesbian population. I work from a client centered, eclectic and humanistic model to address your individual needs. We will collaborate and develop a treatment approach that will best address your needs.
(732) 820-0937 View (732) 820-0937
Photo of Israel Martinez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Israel Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montclair, NJ 07042
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
I am a certified sex therapist (AASECT) and trained relationship therapist (The Couples Institute) who has been working with LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM individuals on a professional basis for over fifteen years, including clinical positions at the NYC LGBT Community Center and Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC).
My practice specializes in work with the LGBTQ+, consensually non-monogamous, and kink/BDSM communities. Are you worried that most therapists will not truly understand you or that you will have to censor yourself in therapy because of your sexual and/or gender minority status? I had these same concerns and they motivated me to become a psychotherapist who could help others like me. We will work together in a safe and relaxing environment to discover and actualize the solutions you need in order to live a more fulfilling life.
(973) 587-8475 View (973) 587-8475
Photo of Eric Mercado, Counselor in New Jersey
Eric Mercado
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07307  (Online Only)
As a gay man, I bring my own lived experience and an intimate knowledge of the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community to my work with queer clients.
You know yourself best, and I see myself as a partner to help you dig into what’s weighing on you. My goal is to meet you with compassion and care—and some tough questions—to better understand your experience and needs. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, focused on creating a supportive environment to empower growth and change. We can address topics like life transitions, anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity and exploration, and sex and relationships.
As a gay man, I bring my own lived experience and an intimate knowledge of the issues faced by the LGBTQ+ community to my work with queer clients.
You know yourself best, and I see myself as a partner to help you dig into what’s weighing on you. My goal is to meet you with compassion and care—and some tough questions—to better understand your experience and needs. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, focused on creating a supportive environment to empower growth and change. We can address topics like life transitions, anxiety, self-esteem, gender identity and exploration, and sex and relationships.
(551) 261-7241 View (551) 261-7241
Photo of James Vincent Mahon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
James Vincent Mahon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, MSW
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships. With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition. The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
I have specialized in treatment with gay and lesbian clients for the past 36 years.
Contemporary life causes emotional/ mental conflict and stress. As your therapist, I will assist you in achieving authentic self-knowledge. "Knowledge Is Power". Through mirroring, I will reflect YOU to yourself; that knowledge can empower you in your life to resolve conflicts, mitigate anxieties/ depressive states and enhance/ maximize productive relationships. With 36 years of clinical practice especially serving the GLBT community, this work has enhanced my ability to be sensitive and insightful into the general human condition. The curative aspect of treatment is relational. I assist the client in developing a therapeutic alliance with me to promote mental and emotional health.
(973) 797-9039 View (973) 797-9039
Photo of Pierce Bourget: Adults Couples Teens, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Pierce Bourget: Adults Couples Teens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LSW
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07306
Guided by my experiences as a gay and nonbinary person, I assist couples, adults and teens navigate LGBTQIA community issues. I have also helped clients with managing anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, and relationship issues. I make therapy as collaborative as possible, while utilizing techniques from Narrative Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method. We will work together to gain insight by understanding your experiences and your larger societal context and environment. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
Guided by my experiences as a gay and nonbinary person, I assist couples, adults and teens navigate LGBTQIA community issues. I have also helped clients with managing anxiety, depression, addiction and recovery, and relationship issues. I make therapy as collaborative as possible, while utilizing techniques from Narrative Therapy, Emotionally-Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method. We will work together to gain insight by understanding your experiences and your larger societal context and environment. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(201) 389-9820 View (201) 389-9820
Photo of Lori Fink, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Jersey
Lori Fink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, NJ 07040
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
I am a queer identifying therapist and I like to think of therapy as a big exploration that allows the feelings and emotions you are having to come in fully without judgement. And you gotta feel it to heal it. We get curious together about what is happening for you and explore. Once you become aware of unconscious patterns, you make them conscious. That awareness can help to create change and make a huge difference in your life. I am also a big proponent of self-compassion work and can't stress enough how important it is to give ourselves just as much kindness as we give our loved ones.
(201) 645-5101 View (201) 645-5101
Photo of Diante Jordan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in New Jersey
Diante Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MEd, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652
Diante has had experience working with clients presenting with various issues including but not limited to depression, sexual identity concerns (LGBTQIA+), gender identity issues, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage issues, familial issues and behavioral issues.
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
Diante has had experience working with clients presenting with various issues including but not limited to depression, sexual identity concerns (LGBTQIA+), gender identity issues, anxiety, grief, trauma, relationships, marriage issues, familial issues and behavioral issues.
Diante Jordan, is a licensed associate marriage and family therapist (LAMFT) in New Jersey. He has experience working with children, adolescents and adults from a variety of populations and settings. Diante operates from the point of view that the client is the expert on themselves and through collaboration can overcome their personal challenges and become empowered to continue growing.
(973) 620-7073 View (973) 620-7073
Photo of Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Max Laffend: Couples, Adults, LGBTQ
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jersey City, NJ 07306
As a Queer/LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
As a Queer/LGBTQ individual who has worked extensively within my community, I have learned that everyone has their own idea of what it means to suffer, but we need not approach it alone nor without help. First and foremost, I believe that individual needs and each relationship is unique; this informs the work I do with clients. If you are not feeling seen or heard in your relationships with others, be they romantic or otherwise, we can work together to build the needed skills for you or you and your partner to better navigate needs. See if I'm accepting new clients and book online at www.resolutioncc.com/team
(551) 226-8361 View (551) 226-8361
Photo of Tim Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Tim Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
As a member of the LGBTQ or kink community you worry that your therapist might not “get it.” You are wondering if you can talk openly about your life and experiences. Maybe, you work in a setting (law enforcement, military, religious community...etc), or are part of a family where coming out or expressing your true self is scary as hell. I’ve been there and can relate! I am a gay man, served on Active Duty, and worked with adolescents and first responders for over nine years. I am a therapist AND I go to therapy. I believe in the power of therapy but I know the vulnerability required to reach out and schedule that first visit!
As a member of the LGBTQ or kink community you worry that your therapist might not “get it.” You are wondering if you can talk openly about your life and experiences. Maybe, you work in a setting (law enforcement, military, religious community...etc), or are part of a family where coming out or expressing your true self is scary as hell. I’ve been there and can relate! I am a gay man, served on Active Duty, and worked with adolescents and first responders for over nine years. I am a therapist AND I go to therapy. I believe in the power of therapy but I know the vulnerability required to reach out and schedule that first visit!
(856) 501-5890 View (856) 501-5890
Photo of Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in New Jersey
Tri-Meta Counseling & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Montclair, NJ 07042
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
meaning we are qualified to treat individuals, adolescents, couples, and families for all manner of needs and areSome specializations include: Marital and Family Therapy, LGBTQ+ Concerns, Gender Identity, Depression & Anxiety, Trauma, Chronic Illness, Grief Counseling, Couples' Counseling, Immigration and Acculturation Trauma, Sexual Assault, Racial Concerns.
Tri-Meta proudly offers individual therapy, marital/couples' counseling, and family therapy. We believe that your story extends beyond the problems and issues you’re facing right now. We know how important it is to take your entire life experience and identity into account when helping you navigate through present struggles. We have worked to build a team of diverse, experienced, and dedicated therapists who are passionate about providing support to all individuals and communities. Each of our therapists has extensive training in systemic psychotherapy –
(973) 447-1493 View (973) 447-1493
Photo of Lara Dubowchik, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Lara Dubowchik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Highland Park, NJ 08904
In private practice, I work with these as well as everyday worries, difficulties with relationships, trans issues, spiritual exploration, and healing trauma.
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker trained by the IFS institute. I take an integrative approach to therapy, emphasizing healing mind, body, and soul. I believe that therapy should be enjoyable and non-judgmental. I am told that I create a collaborative and compassionate environment where my clients and I are able to tap into deep inner wisdom, provide insight, and apply concrete methods to heal and move forward. The result? Becoming brave enough to build a deep connection to your truest self and live authentically. Spirituality is incorporated, as desired.
In private practice, I work with these as well as everyday worries, difficulties with relationships, trans issues, spiritual exploration, and healing trauma.
I am an experienced licensed clinical social worker trained by the IFS institute. I take an integrative approach to therapy, emphasizing healing mind, body, and soul. I believe that therapy should be enjoyable and non-judgmental. I am told that I create a collaborative and compassionate environment where my clients and I are able to tap into deep inner wisdom, provide insight, and apply concrete methods to heal and move forward. The result? Becoming brave enough to build a deep connection to your truest self and live authentically. Spirituality is incorporated, as desired.
(732) 537-8766 View (732) 537-8766
Photo of Matthew Sidler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in New Jersey
Matthew Sidler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, NJ 07003
While I enjoy working with all couples and individuals, I am especially invested in providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients.
Is shame or discomfort around vulnerability getting in the way of connection? Have you been feeling stuck and wondering what’s next? My couples and individuals want to see meaningful change in their lives and they are ready to put in the work. With that, I often describe my style as "caringly confrontational." I provide a validating and nonjudgmental space while calling clients in if something is getting in the way of connection or personal growth.
While I enjoy working with all couples and individuals, I am especially invested in providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients.
Is shame or discomfort around vulnerability getting in the way of connection? Have you been feeling stuck and wondering what’s next? My couples and individuals want to see meaningful change in their lives and they are ready to put in the work. With that, I often describe my style as "caringly confrontational." I provide a validating and nonjudgmental space while calling clients in if something is getting in the way of connection or personal growth.
(973) 791-7344 View (973) 791-7344
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.