Therapists in New York
Angela Akinyemi
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10019 (Online Only)
Do you want to explore the identities and experiences that impact how you move through the world? I am a queer, Black-biracial, first-generation American living in Brooklyn, and I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, grounded and whole. In a society that capitalizes on passive acceptance, connection, laughter, tears, and authenticity are radical acts. I am particularly interested in working with clients who have felt othered: this could mean that you experience your identities as fluid and you feel the pressure of society trying to fit you into a box. I am a therapist because I want you to feel loved, just as you are.
Do you want to explore the identities and experiences that impact how you move through the world? I am a queer, Black-biracial, first-generation American living in Brooklyn, and I believe that everyone deserves to feel safe, grounded and whole. In a society that capitalizes on passive acceptance, connection, laughter, tears, and authenticity are radical acts. I am particularly interested in working with clients who have felt othered: this could mean that you experience your identities as fluid and you feel the pressure of society trying to fit you into a box. I am a therapist because I want you to feel loved, just as you are.
Jennifer Cruz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Long Island City, NY 11101 (Online Only)
My name is Jennifer and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York City committed to supporting the well-being of my clients. I provide online therapy to adults via Headway in both English and Spanish (please view my website for more information). I have past experience working with clients of all ages from children to adults in diverse settings including colleges, community mental health, private practice, and care management. My passion lies in supporting Women, the Latinx/Hispanic community, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
My name is Jennifer and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York City committed to supporting the well-being of my clients. I provide online therapy to adults via Headway in both English and Spanish (please view my website for more information). I have past experience working with clients of all ages from children to adults in diverse settings including colleges, community mental health, private practice, and care management. My passion lies in supporting Women, the Latinx/Hispanic community, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Prerna Menon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, SIFI
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Living in fear, & avoidance is much the same as not living at all. Although pain is a universal inevitability across all life forms, suffering is a uniquely human quality. But, does suffering have to be terminal? Is it always destined? I am confident in my ability to help folks navigate the entanglement & beauty of sexuality, gender, spirituality, race, culture, & identity. I specialize in depression, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, acculturation & race-based stress, sexual abuse, & interpersonal conflicts. My goal is to help you feel liberated in your body, unashamedly free, & excited for the future. So how do we do this together?
Living in fear, & avoidance is much the same as not living at all. Although pain is a universal inevitability across all life forms, suffering is a uniquely human quality. But, does suffering have to be terminal? Is it always destined? I am confident in my ability to help folks navigate the entanglement & beauty of sexuality, gender, spirituality, race, culture, & identity. I specialize in depression, complex trauma, LGBTQ+ concerns, acculturation & race-based stress, sexual abuse, & interpersonal conflicts. My goal is to help you feel liberated in your body, unashamedly free, & excited for the future. So how do we do this together?
JoAnna Randisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
When working with the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to provide affirmative therapy for individuals to explore their identities and navigate the unique challenges they may face.
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about creating a warm and safe environment without judgment for clients to express themselves and share their stories. I offer empathy and empowerment to cultivate positive change and promote overall emotional and mental wellness. Whether you are a child, a teenager, or an adult struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, and/or family dynamics, we will work together toward establishing your goals and equipping you with coping skills for your daily life. No matter what you are coming to therapy for, know that you are not alone.
When working with the LGBTQ+ community, I strive to provide affirmative therapy for individuals to explore their identities and navigate the unique challenges they may face.
As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I am passionate about creating a warm and safe environment without judgment for clients to express themselves and share their stories. I offer empathy and empowerment to cultivate positive change and promote overall emotional and mental wellness. Whether you are a child, a teenager, or an adult struggling with life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, relationship issues, and/or family dynamics, we will work together toward establishing your goals and equipping you with coping skills for your daily life. No matter what you are coming to therapy for, know that you are not alone.
Jenifer Foote
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001
Quite simply, I understand the radical value of therapy. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community with a background in the performing arts and a life devoted to mindfulness practice, I recognize how the healing tools cultivated in therapy can sustainably impact your resiliency. Just as you might strengthen and maintain your physical body through time devoted to exercise, consistent focus on your attitudinal muscles can strengthen your connection to yourself and others; this is the key to a holistic and balanced lifestyle.
Quite simply, I understand the radical value of therapy. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community with a background in the performing arts and a life devoted to mindfulness practice, I recognize how the healing tools cultivated in therapy can sustainably impact your resiliency. Just as you might strengthen and maintain your physical body through time devoted to exercise, consistent focus on your attitudinal muscles can strengthen your connection to yourself and others; this is the key to a holistic and balanced lifestyle.
Kelda Nelson
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10001
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
Are you an artist in spirit? Do you identify as a creative, if not within practice within your dreams? If this resonates you are most likely someone who emotes beyond words and or speaks in metaphors. My therapeutic approach is creatively oriented within both verbal and the expressive arts. My practice assists in you accepting your true self, within live analytic, psychodynamic growth. I am relational, attentive, engaging and goal oriented. I want you to experience desired changes and growth overtime that we work towards collaboratively for ideally a year or more. I specialize within the LGBTQ community although treat all folk.
Emily Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11215 (Online Only)
I have worked with several LGBTQ+ organizations, and volunteered with crisis intervention organizations.
Hi there! I work with a diverse population of individuals, couples, and folx in various "non-traditional" relationships who are facing self-esteem problems, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, grief, body-image issues, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. As a fat, neurodiverse, and queer therapist, I know the importance of speaking with someone who is informed about your unique experiences and to feel connected to your therapist in a relational way, whether gay, big-bodied, or neurodiverse"
I have worked with several LGBTQ+ organizations, and volunteered with crisis intervention organizations.
Hi there! I work with a diverse population of individuals, couples, and folx in various "non-traditional" relationships who are facing self-esteem problems, gender identity, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, grief, body-image issues, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. As a fat, neurodiverse, and queer therapist, I know the importance of speaking with someone who is informed about your unique experiences and to feel connected to your therapist in a relational way, whether gay, big-bodied, or neurodiverse"
Erica Cartieri
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New York, NY 10018 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have significant experience assisting individuals with various types of anxiety, mood issues, trauma, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Sometimes even just the idea of change can be overwhelming. By nature as humans, we tend to gravitate towards what is familiar out of a sense of comfort, whether this supports personal growth or hinders it. For this reason, I recognize that change is a gradual process and respect the importance of meeting my clients wherever they currently may be in this process. It takes an admirable amount of courage to be willing to explore and uncover specific thoughts and behaviors that may be preventing us from attaining true happiness and fulfillment in our lives.
I have significant experience assisting individuals with various types of anxiety, mood issues, trauma, and LGBTQ+ concerns.
Sometimes even just the idea of change can be overwhelming. By nature as humans, we tend to gravitate towards what is familiar out of a sense of comfort, whether this supports personal growth or hinders it. For this reason, I recognize that change is a gradual process and respect the importance of meeting my clients wherever they currently may be in this process. It takes an admirable amount of courage to be willing to explore and uncover specific thoughts and behaviors that may be preventing us from attaining true happiness and fulfillment in our lives.
Spotted Rabbit Creative Arts Therapy
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
Spotted Rabbit therapists aren’t here to “fix” you. We live for empowering neurodivergents, LGBTQ+ folx, and adults who’ve experienced emotional neglect (trauma) to be their true selves and live a life aligned with their own personal values. We specialize in helping teens and adults relax their nervous systems, better regulate their emotions, and develop healthier relationships with others. We are also experienced in treating related conditions such as anxiety, eating disorders, and dissociative identity disorder (DID). We use trauma informed and culturally sensitive practices and believe in an intuitive eating/HAES approach.
Melissa Zola
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston, NY 12401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed mental health counselor who uses mindfulness, trauma informed therapy, CBT, and other modalities to provide each client with the treatment that best fits their needs. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, specializing in clients who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community. With a goal to improve overall well-being, I partner with clients to develop healthy boundaries, improve communication, and adopt effective grounding techniques. I approach each client with an openness to learn what values and beliefs hold the most importance for them, and strive to approach each session with respect and compassion.
I am a licensed mental health counselor who uses mindfulness, trauma informed therapy, CBT, and other modalities to provide each client with the treatment that best fits their needs. I work with clients from diverse backgrounds, specializing in clients who identify as members of the LGBTQ+ community. With a goal to improve overall well-being, I partner with clients to develop healthy boundaries, improve communication, and adopt effective grounding techniques. I approach each client with an openness to learn what values and beliefs hold the most importance for them, and strive to approach each session with respect and compassion.
Shannon McCormick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brighton, NY 14620
People seek therapy for many different needs: to develop skills and resources, to have space to process and unpack, and to receive support with navigating life transitions and challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support you with whatever you may be carrying. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process and I trust that you ultimately have the answers. Focus areas of my work include trauma recovery, work with neurodivergent folks, and the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with people in process of exploring and embracing sense of identity.
People seek therapy for many different needs: to develop skills and resources, to have space to process and unpack, and to receive support with navigating life transitions and challenges. My goal as a therapist is to support you with whatever you may be carrying. I believe that therapy should be a collaborative process and I trust that you ultimately have the answers. Focus areas of my work include trauma recovery, work with neurodivergent folks, and the LGBTQIA+ community. I enjoy working with people in process of exploring and embracing sense of identity.
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Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
New York, NY 10016
Are you struggling to understand and manage the challenges you are facing? By providing a space in which you can explore root causes and develop healthy thoughts and effective coping mechanisms, I can help. Together we can identify beliefs that contribute to your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, with a goal of increased self understanding and less emotional distress. I am deeply committed to helping you understand how your feelings and thoughts impact your perceptions of yourself, your life, and your relationships. I specialize in LGBTQ-related concerns; all gender identities, gender expressions, and sexualities are welcome.
Are you struggling to understand and manage the challenges you are facing? By providing a space in which you can explore root causes and develop healthy thoughts and effective coping mechanisms, I can help. Together we can identify beliefs that contribute to your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, with a goal of increased self understanding and less emotional distress. I am deeply committed to helping you understand how your feelings and thoughts impact your perceptions of yourself, your life, and your relationships. I specialize in LGBTQ-related concerns; all gender identities, gender expressions, and sexualities are welcome.
Jessica Tufo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sayville, NY 11782
I have 13 years of experience working with people in diverse settings with a focus on anxiety, addiction, depression, stress management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+.
Looking for a therapist can be daunting. It can be difficult to reach out for support and it can be even more challenging to put our trust into someone who we don't know yet. I will provide you with a safe, warm, and supportive space so that you can feel comfortable to take the first steps in therapy. I will assist you in developing a plan for treatment that is tailored to your individual needs and I will make the commitment to accompany you throughout your journey.
I have 13 years of experience working with people in diverse settings with a focus on anxiety, addiction, depression, stress management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+.
Looking for a therapist can be daunting. It can be difficult to reach out for support and it can be even more challenging to put our trust into someone who we don't know yet. I will provide you with a safe, warm, and supportive space so that you can feel comfortable to take the first steps in therapy. I will assist you in developing a plan for treatment that is tailored to your individual needs and I will make the commitment to accompany you throughout your journey.
Erika Broad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10002
I utilize an integrative approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic theory. Treatment is tailored to the best fit for the individual or couple. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, relationship and marital issues, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed therapy. I practice from a sex-positive, direct and non-judgmental perspective. I have helped clients with a range of struggles, including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, sexuality and gender identity, gender transition, body image, navigating polyamory, and finding clarity around life decisions.
I utilize an integrative approach with an emphasis on psychodynamic theory. Treatment is tailored to the best fit for the individual or couple. I specialize in LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, relationship and marital issues, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed therapy. I practice from a sex-positive, direct and non-judgmental perspective. I have helped clients with a range of struggles, including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, sexuality and gender identity, gender transition, body image, navigating polyamory, and finding clarity around life decisions.
Elise Cote-Milnor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10019 (Online Only)
Do you want to gain insight into your emotions and life history? I am a queer, white, cisgender woman living in Brooklyn, and I firmly believe that therapy is a place to feel safe and understood. I strive to meet my clients with warmth, openness, and curiosity. I approach therapy as a collaborative process for you to explore challenges, set goals, define boundaries, and welcome pleasure into your life. In this safe, therapeutic setting, you can experience emotional healing and chart your path forward.
Do you want to gain insight into your emotions and life history? I am a queer, white, cisgender woman living in Brooklyn, and I firmly believe that therapy is a place to feel safe and understood. I strive to meet my clients with warmth, openness, and curiosity. I approach therapy as a collaborative process for you to explore challenges, set goals, define boundaries, and welcome pleasure into your life. In this safe, therapeutic setting, you can experience emotional healing and chart your path forward.
Keeya Prairie
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New York, NY 10001 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a queer therapist, and prioritize creative safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals.
I work with individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), individuals with early childhood trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression), and LGBTIA+ individuals. You're here because you imagine a future version of you that feels liberated. Future You worries less, spends more time doing the things you used to enjoy, and feels connected with yourself and others. You want to stop ruminating, escape the the cycle of people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, and have more fulfilling relationships. You're here because you're ready for change, and I'm here to help!
I am a queer therapist, and prioritize creative safe spaces for LGBTQIA+ and gender nonconforming individuals.
I work with individuals with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), individuals with early childhood trauma (PTSD, anxiety, depression), and LGBTIA+ individuals. You're here because you imagine a future version of you that feels liberated. Future You worries less, spends more time doing the things you used to enjoy, and feels connected with yourself and others. You want to stop ruminating, escape the the cycle of people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, and have more fulfilling relationships. You're here because you're ready for change, and I'm here to help!
Elizabeth Jillian Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, MA
Verified Verified
Astoria, NY 11103 (Online Only)
I believe in an eclectic and individualized approach to helping folks achieve their unique goals and objectives, and to cultivate an optimal quality of life. I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those recovering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I've helped my peers and allies explore identities, navigate relationships, etc.
I believe in an eclectic and individualized approach to helping folks achieve their unique goals and objectives, and to cultivate an optimal quality of life. I've worked with people who have experienced breast cancer, those recovering from complex post-traumatic stress disorder, individuals who’ve experienced intimate partner violence, people struggling with or recovering from alcohol use disorder, as well as those managing day-to-day anxieties and periods of depression. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, I've helped my peers and allies explore identities, navigate relationships, etc.
Shelagh Patricia Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217 (Online Only)
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self- acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; though as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
Supporting individuals in their personal evolution, assisting them in developing healthier coping mechanisms, and enhancing self-awareness and self- acceptance is my calling. I enjoy collaborating with anyone who is committed to personal growth and open communication; though as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I particularly enjoy working with others in the queer community. I have 12 years of experience providing support to individuals and families facing a broad range of challenges including depression, anxiety, medical issues, end-of-life care/hospice, recovery from abusive situations, trauma, and significant life changes.
Rivka Polisky
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Rochester, NY 14618
As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and grew up in a conservative community, I know how living inauthentically can weigh on you. Pleasing others at the expense of yourself can have some challenging and long-term consequences. What starts as suppressing your emotions ends up as ongoing depression and anxiety as you continually make choices to minimize conflict rather than truly meet your own needs. While the path forward can feel confusing, there is hope for finding a sense of clarity and relief, and awakening to a life that you genuinely want to engage with and thrive in.
As someone who is LGBTQIA+ and grew up in a conservative community, I know how living inauthentically can weigh on you. Pleasing others at the expense of yourself can have some challenging and long-term consequences. What starts as suppressing your emotions ends up as ongoing depression and anxiety as you continually make choices to minimize conflict rather than truly meet your own needs. While the path forward can feel confusing, there is hope for finding a sense of clarity and relief, and awakening to a life that you genuinely want to engage with and thrive in.
Julia Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
New York, NY 10023
I am particularly attuned LGBTQ+ and women's issues.
Life today can create a chronic sense of overwhelm resulting from constant stimulation and expectations. It may feel difficult to keep up with the pressure to maintain productivity, composure, and a steady sense of self. The therapeutic space can serve as a place to explore these anxieties and release yourself from external pressures. Our symptoms can arise out of the conflict between what we feel we are expected to be vs. who we really are. I work with children, teens, and adults and I am dedicated to hearing my clients in way that can alleviate suffering and promote long-lasting change.
I am particularly attuned LGBTQ+ and women's issues.
Life today can create a chronic sense of overwhelm resulting from constant stimulation and expectations. It may feel difficult to keep up with the pressure to maintain productivity, composure, and a steady sense of self. The therapeutic space can serve as a place to explore these anxieties and release yourself from external pressures. Our symptoms can arise out of the conflict between what we feel we are expected to be vs. who we really are. I work with children, teens, and adults and I am dedicated to hearing my clients in way that can alleviate suffering and promote long-lasting change.
See more therapy options for New York
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.