Lesbian Therapists in Amherst, NY

Rooted Hearts Counseling and Wellness Services
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14221
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
(716) 325-6034 View (716) 325-6034
Joseph Ciufo
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD, MSW-LP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I'm dedicated to providing inclusive, identity-affirming care for and offer a supportive space to heal, grow, and move forward.
I help individuals navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I'm dedicated to providing inclusive, identity-affirming care for and offer a supportive space to heal, grow, and move forward.
(631) 302-9870 View (631) 302-9870
Kari Beckel
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming and I’m glad you’re sticking with it. As a therapist, I specialize in working with ADHD, those who have experienced trauma, the queer community, medical professionals. I value honesty and collaboration in the therapeutic process. I feel it is important for you to know and be educated about your mental health. I want you to have a clear understanding every step of the way. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can feel empowered to explore your challenges, discover your strengths and build resiliency within yourself.
Finding a therapist can be overwhelming and I’m glad you’re sticking with it. As a therapist, I specialize in working with ADHD, those who have experienced trauma, the queer community, medical professionals. I value honesty and collaboration in the therapeutic process. I feel it is important for you to know and be educated about your mental health. I want you to have a clear understanding every step of the way. My goal is to create a supportive environment where you can feel empowered to explore your challenges, discover your strengths and build resiliency within yourself.
(716) 412-3324 View (716) 412-3324
Emily Moley
Counselor, LMHC-D
Online Only
Do you ever feel like you're stuck in old patterns, behaviors or situations? You want to change, you’re able to identify that what you’re doing isn’t working but you’re not sure what direction to take? If so, you’re in the right place!
Do you ever feel like you're stuck in old patterns, behaviors or situations? You want to change, you’re able to identify that what you’re doing isn’t working but you’re not sure what direction to take? If so, you’re in the right place!
(716) 708-4571 View (716) 708-4571
Meaghan Jewett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I’m so glad you’re here! Often, the most caring and compassionate people are the ones who forget to care for themselves. Choosing to attend to your own needs is a powerful act of self-compassion, not only for you, but for the people and communities you care about. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. I have extensive experience working with young adults from diverse backgrounds and strive to create a space that is safe, trauma-informed, and grounded in social justice. My work is affirming, collaborative, and centered on your lived experience.
I’m so glad you’re here! Often, the most caring and compassionate people are the ones who forget to care for themselves. Choosing to attend to your own needs is a powerful act of self-compassion, not only for you, but for the people and communities you care about. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. I have extensive experience working with young adults from diverse backgrounds and strive to create a space that is safe, trauma-informed, and grounded in social justice. My work is affirming, collaborative, and centered on your lived experience.
(716) 455-2804 View (716) 455-2804
Carolyn V. Kirkwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Finding a therapist is a major step toward healing, and I’m here to support you on your journey. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with individuals (ages 10 and up) and families navigating grief, trauma, addictions, anxiety, & depression. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need a space to process life’s challenges, I provide a safe, down-to-earth Telehealth environment where we can work together to create real change. I own a private practice and all of our clinicians are women of color.
Finding a therapist is a major step toward healing, and I’m here to support you on your journey. As a licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in working with individuals (ages 10 and up) and families navigating grief, trauma, addictions, anxiety, & depression. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply need a space to process life’s challenges, I provide a safe, down-to-earth Telehealth environment where we can work together to create real change. I own a private practice and all of our clinicians are women of color.
(716) 808-1730 View (716) 808-1730
Danielle Stoner Sampson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Amherst, NY 14226
Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
Licensed in NY and PA. Have you experienced trauma in childhood or adulthood? Are you having issues in your relationship, and you're not sure how to fix them? I am here to help. I provide inclusive, identity-affirming care to individuals and couples seeking help for trauma (individuals) or relationship stress (couples). I am experienced working with the LGBTQ+ population, and I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health.
(716) 287-6836 View (716) 287-6836
Explore What's Next
Psychologist, PhD
2 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life stressors? Do you take care of others before you care for yourself? Are you waking up in the middle of the night wondering "What happened to my dreams?" The therapists at Explore What's Next will help you feel in control of your life again. Together, we can create the life and relationships you want and deserve. Therapists at Explore What's Next are qualified, direct, non-judgmental, compassionate & easy to talk to.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life stressors? Do you take care of others before you care for yourself? Are you waking up in the middle of the night wondering "What happened to my dreams?" The therapists at Explore What's Next will help you feel in control of your life again. Together, we can create the life and relationships you want and deserve. Therapists at Explore What's Next are qualified, direct, non-judgmental, compassionate & easy to talk to.
(716) 245-4070 View (716) 245-4070
Kimberly L. S. Silla
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Online Only
Do you wonder if you'll ever be happy again? Do your thoughts race? Do you struggle to find meaningful relationships? If you're stuck, I can help. I am a licensed psychologist trained to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. Therapy can be a difficult journey for many, which is why I am committed to creating a safe environment where you can speak and heal without fear. When you work with me, you will learn coping skills to help you navigate life's challenges. You will also become empowered as you unapologetically develop your relationship with your self.
Do you wonder if you'll ever be happy again? Do your thoughts race? Do you struggle to find meaningful relationships? If you're stuck, I can help. I am a licensed psychologist trained to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. Therapy can be a difficult journey for many, which is why I am committed to creating a safe environment where you can speak and heal without fear. When you work with me, you will learn coping skills to help you navigate life's challenges. You will also become empowered as you unapologetically develop your relationship with your self.
(716) 698-7097 View (716) 698-7097
Barb Brontman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Amherst, NY 14228
If you are reading this, then you have already taken the first step! I believed that the person facing challenges also has the ability to find the answers. My role is to assist you in discovering your possibilities.
If you are reading this, then you have already taken the first step! I believed that the person facing challenges also has the ability to find the answers. My role is to assist you in discovering your possibilities.
(716) 899-1609 View (716) 899-1609
Evolving Roots Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14226
I believe that true healing can only begin when we finally feel safe. So much of our suffering comes from a world that feels unstable emotionally, physically, or mentally. My mission is to provide the sanctuary I once needed: a space where you are truly heard and protected. By prioritizing a sense of profound safety, we can create a foundation where you don't have to perform or protect yourself. Together, we move past the survival of the here and now to unpack who you really are and who you want to be.
I believe that true healing can only begin when we finally feel safe. So much of our suffering comes from a world that feels unstable emotionally, physically, or mentally. My mission is to provide the sanctuary I once needed: a space where you are truly heard and protected. By prioritizing a sense of profound safety, we can create a foundation where you don't have to perform or protect yourself. Together, we move past the survival of the here and now to unpack who you really are and who you want to be.
(716) 477-3787 View (716) 477-3787
Supportive Solutions Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC-D, MS
3 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14226
The NYS-licensed clinicians at Supportive Solutions Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, take a direct, goal‑focused approach to help clients feel and function better in their daily lives. We provide specialized treatment for anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, grief/loss, adverse childhood experiences, and child and adolescent concerns.
The NYS-licensed clinicians at Supportive Solutions Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, take a direct, goal‑focused approach to help clients feel and function better in their daily lives. We provide specialized treatment for anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, grief/loss, adverse childhood experiences, and child and adolescent concerns.
(716) 245-4415 View (716) 245-4415
Paige Schultze
Counselor, LMHC
3 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
Hello! And welcome to the first step in your healing journey. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I create a supportive space where you can safely explore your experiences, process adverse events, and move toward meaningful change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, or navigating difficult relationships, I’m here to help explore each in a safe and structured way.
Hello! And welcome to the first step in your healing journey. As a Clinical Mental Health Counselor, I create a supportive space where you can safely explore your experiences, process adverse events, and move toward meaningful change. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, or navigating difficult relationships, I’m here to help explore each in a safe and structured way.
(716) 398-7325 View (716) 398-7325
Nicole Cornell
Counselor, MS, LMHC-D
2 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14228
You don’t have to face it alone. Whether you're navigating the overwhelming waves of anxiety, the deep fog of depression, or the complex emotions that can arise during or after pregnancy, support is here. I specialize in helping women and teens find clarity, resilience, and hope during some of life’s most difficult moments. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe space where you can explore what you’re feeling, understand what’s beneath it, and begin to heal. Whether you're a teen feeling lost in the pressure to be “okay,” or a new mother struggling to recognize herself in the midst of postpartum changes,
You don’t have to face it alone. Whether you're navigating the overwhelming waves of anxiety, the deep fog of depression, or the complex emotions that can arise during or after pregnancy, support is here. I specialize in helping women and teens find clarity, resilience, and hope during some of life’s most difficult moments. With a compassionate and non-judgmental approach, I provide a safe space where you can explore what you’re feeling, understand what’s beneath it, and begin to heal. Whether you're a teen feeling lost in the pressure to be “okay,” or a new mother struggling to recognize herself in the midst of postpartum changes,
(716) 300-2366 View (716) 300-2366
Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Diebold
Licensed Master Social Worker, DSW, LMSW
Amherst, NY 14228
I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds to help them process past trauma, break unhelpful cycles, and move toward a greater sense of peace and clarity. I see my role as a guide—supporting you as you navigate your own unique path toward healing. I specialize in EMDR, an evidence-based approach that helps the brain reprocess traumatic experiences, so they no longer feel as overwhelming or stuck. In addition to evidence-based practices, I also believe in the importance of connection—bringing warmth, authenticity, and even humor into sessions when appropriate.
I work with individuals from diverse backgrounds to help them process past trauma, break unhelpful cycles, and move toward a greater sense of peace and clarity. I see my role as a guide—supporting you as you navigate your own unique path toward healing. I specialize in EMDR, an evidence-based approach that helps the brain reprocess traumatic experiences, so they no longer feel as overwhelming or stuck. In addition to evidence-based practices, I also believe in the importance of connection—bringing warmth, authenticity, and even humor into sessions when appropriate.
(716) 321-5392 x101 View (716) 321-5392 x101
Alissa DeFini
Counselor, LMHC-D
Online Only
Do you find it difficult to control your worry and anxiety or do you find that you are worried all the time? Do you experience thoughts that you find are difficult to control? Are you often overwhelmed by intense emotions and feel like you’re on a roller coaster? Do you find yourself feeling depressed and having a hard time enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? You are not alone and therapy can help.
Do you find it difficult to control your worry and anxiety or do you find that you are worried all the time? Do you experience thoughts that you find are difficult to control? Are you often overwhelmed by intense emotions and feel like you’re on a roller coaster? Do you find yourself feeling depressed and having a hard time enjoying the things that you once enjoyed? You are not alone and therapy can help.
(716) 245-6378 View (716) 245-6378
Ashley Brooks
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14221
Welcome! Seeking therapy can be a difficult but courageous first step. I commend you for recognizing your struggles and your willingness to seek help along the way. Are you having challenges with your emotional health pre or post pregnancy? Has pregnancy, childbirth, infertility, perinatal loss or parenting brought change, shame, stress, anxiety, depression, feelings of inadequacy or uncertainty in your life? Is this something your partner is experiencing and you are looking for additional support?
Welcome! Seeking therapy can be a difficult but courageous first step. I commend you for recognizing your struggles and your willingness to seek help along the way. Are you having challenges with your emotional health pre or post pregnancy? Has pregnancy, childbirth, infertility, perinatal loss or parenting brought change, shame, stress, anxiety, depression, feelings of inadequacy or uncertainty in your life? Is this something your partner is experiencing and you are looking for additional support?
(716) 496-3096 View (716) 496-3096
Madeline Kolesar
Counselor, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14226
I believe that at any age, any person can benefit from having an intentional space to reflect on their goals and challenges in life in order to heal and grow into a more self-compassionate and authentic version of themselves. I am passionate about creating a space where clients feel validated and empowered to meet their goals. I use a collaborative approach where the client and I both contribute to the nature and direction of our sessions, going at the client’s pace and figuring out what challenges or concerns that take priority each session.
I believe that at any age, any person can benefit from having an intentional space to reflect on their goals and challenges in life in order to heal and grow into a more self-compassionate and authentic version of themselves. I am passionate about creating a space where clients feel validated and empowered to meet their goals. I use a collaborative approach where the client and I both contribute to the nature and direction of our sessions, going at the client’s pace and figuring out what challenges or concerns that take priority each session.
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Rene A Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MSEd
1 Endorsed
Amherst, NY 14226
Hello - I have been practicing relationship therapy since 1999 and opened my practice in 2001. In my years of working with couples and individuals, I have learned that change is possible even when it seems hopeless. I understand the courage it takes to share your personal life with a stranger. I am honored to assist couples and individuals who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual concerns, sexual identity and chronic illness. My goal is to assist client(s) in attaining their goals in a healthy way. I invite you to browse my web site: www.couplescounseling.biz
Hello - I have been practicing relationship therapy since 1999 and opened my practice in 2001. In my years of working with couples and individuals, I have learned that change is possible even when it seems hopeless. I understand the courage it takes to share your personal life with a stranger. I am honored to assist couples and individuals who are struggling with relationship issues, sexual concerns, sexual identity and chronic illness. My goal is to assist client(s) in attaining their goals in a healthy way. I invite you to browse my web site: www.couplescounseling.biz
(716) 703-8969 View (716) 703-8969
Couple & Relationship Therapy: An MFT Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Amherst, NY 14226
Making the decision to come to therapy is a difficult & courageous one. We understand this & make every effort to create safety while challenging our clients to create the life they want. We specializing in treating couples who are struggling with communication challenges, sexual concerns, sexual dysfunction, parenting, recovering from affairs (emotional & physical). We have therapists who specialize in kink, nonmonogamy, sexual addiction, eating disorders, and healing from trauma/grief. We know how chaotic people's lives are, so we have availabity seven days a week & have evening hours. We look forward to helping you.
Making the decision to come to therapy is a difficult & courageous one. We understand this & make every effort to create safety while challenging our clients to create the life they want. We specializing in treating couples who are struggling with communication challenges, sexual concerns, sexual dysfunction, parenting, recovering from affairs (emotional & physical). We have therapists who specialize in kink, nonmonogamy, sexual addiction, eating disorders, and healing from trauma/grief. We know how chaotic people's lives are, so we have availabity seven days a week & have evening hours. We look forward to helping you.
(716) 462-5869 View (716) 462-5869

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Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.

Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.

How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.