Lesbian Therapists in Cheektowaga, NY

Ava M Lockwood
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
1 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
Healing from adversity can feel scary, unfamiliar, and daunting. In my therapy practice, I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive space for individuals to heal and grow. Oftentimes, when we experience trauma and other life changes, we develop coping skills that aid in our survival, but that may presently pose barriers. In embarking on this journey to healing and breaking difficult patterns, we can work together to help you develop self-compassion, improve relationships, and transform your pain into power.
Healing from adversity can feel scary, unfamiliar, and daunting. In my therapy practice, I strive to provide a safe, non-judgmental, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive space for individuals to heal and grow. Oftentimes, when we experience trauma and other life changes, we develop coping skills that aid in our survival, but that may presently pose barriers. In embarking on this journey to healing and breaking difficult patterns, we can work together to help you develop self-compassion, improve relationships, and transform your pain into power.
(716) 641-3230 View (716) 641-3230
Rooted Hearts Counseling and Wellness Services
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14227
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) 338-7577 View (716) 338-7577
Tessa Bechtold-Brown
Counselor, LMHC-D, MINT, MS
6 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
Life is stressful and distracting enough without putting others needs above your own. But that’s what we tend to do! As a result we are left feeling drained. Relationships are complicated – whether it be with yourself or others. Throughout our lifetime relationships are often the most neglected and yet one of the most important. It is through the relationship with yourself and others that personal growth and change develops. This requires looking inward to discover what you need, want, and desire.
Life is stressful and distracting enough without putting others needs above your own. But that’s what we tend to do! As a result we are left feeling drained. Relationships are complicated – whether it be with yourself or others. Throughout our lifetime relationships are often the most neglected and yet one of the most important. It is through the relationship with yourself and others that personal growth and change develops. This requires looking inward to discover what you need, want, and desire.
(716) 229-5912 View (716) 229-5912
Stephanie Massara-Polyachenko
Verified Verified
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
Life can throw you sudden and unexpected challenges. Stéphanie understands that this can be met with difficulties surrounding change and the anxiety that occurs over an unknown future. The process of grief can be associated with any kind of loss: a job, relationship, the loss of a pet, or a loved one. Stéphanie offers a compassionate and empathetic approach to support your healing journey. Grief counseling is a complex and unique to each individual. It can often be an isolating and overwhelming experience. Stéphanies goal is to create a safe space for you to navigate your emotions freely and move through your grief process.
Life can throw you sudden and unexpected challenges. Stéphanie understands that this can be met with difficulties surrounding change and the anxiety that occurs over an unknown future. The process of grief can be associated with any kind of loss: a job, relationship, the loss of a pet, or a loved one. Stéphanie offers a compassionate and empathetic approach to support your healing journey. Grief counseling is a complex and unique to each individual. It can often be an isolating and overwhelming experience. Stéphanies goal is to create a safe space for you to navigate your emotions freely and move through your grief process.
(716) 281-5674 View (716) 281-5674
Rebecca E Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
Finding a space where you don’t have to explain or defend your identity is the first step toward healing. Perhaps you’re navigating the complexities of coming out, managing the weight of minority stress, or trying to process past traumas that still feel 'loud' in your daily life. You deserve a therapist who truly 'gets it' and provides a soft place to land. My style is collaborative, direct, and deeply affirming. I believe therapy is a partnership where your lived experience is respected and your goals are the priority. We’ll work together to build the resilience you already possess and create the peace of mind you deserve.
Finding a space where you don’t have to explain or defend your identity is the first step toward healing. Perhaps you’re navigating the complexities of coming out, managing the weight of minority stress, or trying to process past traumas that still feel 'loud' in your daily life. You deserve a therapist who truly 'gets it' and provides a soft place to land. My style is collaborative, direct, and deeply affirming. I believe therapy is a partnership where your lived experience is respected and your goals are the priority. We’ll work together to build the resilience you already possess and create the peace of mind you deserve.
(716) 869-6083 View (716) 869-6083
Juliana Corsaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Online Only
For over 30 years, I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings. For the majority of those years, I have been providing mental health therapy to individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders, to name a few. I feel that I have a unique way of using everyday language to help people better understand how to cope with life's challenges. I am diverse in my treatment approach, which I feel is necessary in treating the unique challenges in today's world.
For over 30 years, I've had the privilege of working with individuals, couples, and families in a variety of settings. For the majority of those years, I have been providing mental health therapy to individuals suffering from depression, anxiety and mood disorders, to name a few. I feel that I have a unique way of using everyday language to help people better understand how to cope with life's challenges. I am diverse in my treatment approach, which I feel is necessary in treating the unique challenges in today's world.
(716) 265-4301 View (716) 265-4301
Donna Abram-Cioppa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, -R
Serves Area
Hello, and thank you so much for stopping to explore my profile, welcome. Reaching out for support is the first step in your journey of healing. The impact of traumatic events on our minds, bodies and spirits is real and supremely significant. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective using empirically based interventions combined with approaches that are designed to nurture the spiritual being in us all. I welcome any and all perspectives on spirituality. My focus is based in cultural literacy and most importantly cultural humility. I am very in tune with the fact that you know yourself better than anyone.
Hello, and thank you so much for stopping to explore my profile, welcome. Reaching out for support is the first step in your journey of healing. The impact of traumatic events on our minds, bodies and spirits is real and supremely significant. I approach therapy from a holistic perspective using empirically based interventions combined with approaches that are designed to nurture the spiritual being in us all. I welcome any and all perspectives on spirituality. My focus is based in cultural literacy and most importantly cultural humility. I am very in tune with the fact that you know yourself better than anyone.
(716) 291-0059 View (716) 291-0059
Andriana Lozier
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA, LMHC
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Andriana, Trauma Therapist, certified in EMDR Therapy. Who I Help: individuals who are motivated to overcome their depression & anxiety, but have not been able to achieve results with traditional talk therapy; survivors of childhood abuse, complex trauma & dissociative disorders; frustrated parents who want to end the cycle of generational trauma to improve their relationship with their child; first responders, active duty and military veterans who need a safe place to work through uncomfortable emotions
Hi! I'm Andriana, Trauma Therapist, certified in EMDR Therapy. Who I Help: individuals who are motivated to overcome their depression & anxiety, but have not been able to achieve results with traditional talk therapy; survivors of childhood abuse, complex trauma & dissociative disorders; frustrated parents who want to end the cycle of generational trauma to improve their relationship with their child; first responders, active duty and military veterans who need a safe place to work through uncomfortable emotions
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Tammy Lyn Davis, LMHC
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My approach includes being that "someone" that can assist you on your journey toward a happier and mentally healthier future; including realizing your own potential, coping with life's many stressors, and working productively toward contributing to relationships and your community. In a safe and respectful environment we can journey together to identify and work through past and present experiences that cause distress, irrational thinking, and unstable mood. Together we can work to develop awareness and insight to promote healing.
My approach includes being that "someone" that can assist you on your journey toward a happier and mentally healthier future; including realizing your own potential, coping with life's many stressors, and working productively toward contributing to relationships and your community. In a safe and respectful environment we can journey together to identify and work through past and present experiences that cause distress, irrational thinking, and unstable mood. Together we can work to develop awareness and insight to promote healing.
(716) 261-2413 View (716) 261-2413
Kim Leiker,LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Serves Area
For several years, a whirlwind of events have altered the normalities of life and challenged one’s sense of safe, stable, and secure. I've dedicated the past 20 years to helping people achieve overall wellness and evolve as individuals. People learn how to navigate through the twists and turns of their wellness journey. With self-awareness, self-acceptance, and inner control over our lives, we can attain inner freedom, growth, and the tools to continue on our paths. Your situation can't change unless you choose to change it.
For several years, a whirlwind of events have altered the normalities of life and challenged one’s sense of safe, stable, and secure. I've dedicated the past 20 years to helping people achieve overall wellness and evolve as individuals. People learn how to navigate through the twists and turns of their wellness journey. With self-awareness, self-acceptance, and inner control over our lives, we can attain inner freedom, growth, and the tools to continue on our paths. Your situation can't change unless you choose to change it.
(716) 608-3956 View (716) 608-3956
Richard Jimenez
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC
Serves Area
Feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or trapped in patterns you want to change? Are you struggling to shake feelings of depression, anxiety, unreasonable anger, negative self-talk, trauma, or difficult life transitions? Perhaps you're feeling disconnected from yourself or others, facing relationship or family conflicts, battling low self-esteem, or overwhelming stress and burnout. Maybe you've achieved many of the things you thought would bring happiness, yet still find yourself searching for purpose, meaning, and direction. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am committed to helping you gain insight and move towards a more meaningful life.
Feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or trapped in patterns you want to change? Are you struggling to shake feelings of depression, anxiety, unreasonable anger, negative self-talk, trauma, or difficult life transitions? Perhaps you're feeling disconnected from yourself or others, facing relationship or family conflicts, battling low self-esteem, or overwhelming stress and burnout. Maybe you've achieved many of the things you thought would bring happiness, yet still find yourself searching for purpose, meaning, and direction. Whatever brings you to therapy, I am committed to helping you gain insight and move towards a more meaningful life.
(716) 357-0100 View (716) 357-0100
Kathleen Calabrese
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, BCN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Hi, this is Dr. Kathy Calabrese. Perhaps you have found your way to me because you know that the symptoms you are experiencing CAN improve. The combination of therapy, neurofeedback and interaction with a number of technology driven interventions will support your brain-body's ability to move from a state of dysregulation to balance. Symptoms resolve without the use of pharmaceuticals. Pain is reduced without pharmaceuticals. My overall focus includes consideration of the integration of mind/body and spirit, and a deep commitment to partnering with my clients as they embark on their healing journey.
Hi, this is Dr. Kathy Calabrese. Perhaps you have found your way to me because you know that the symptoms you are experiencing CAN improve. The combination of therapy, neurofeedback and interaction with a number of technology driven interventions will support your brain-body's ability to move from a state of dysregulation to balance. Symptoms resolve without the use of pharmaceuticals. Pain is reduced without pharmaceuticals. My overall focus includes consideration of the integration of mind/body and spirit, and a deep commitment to partnering with my clients as they embark on their healing journey.
(716) 335-9850 View (716) 335-9850
Alicia Kohlhagen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a firm believer that our mental and emotional health are just as important as our physical health and wellness. More often than not, we put ourselves on the back burner, taking care of others needs and then ignoring our own. In the world we live in, it’s also easy to push our emotions to the side and tell ourselves we "shouldn't" feel this way. Living well doesn't have to mean sacrificing your needs for others, it might just mean, we chose to intentionally put our energy into things that fill us up and allow us to feel more centered.
I am a firm believer that our mental and emotional health are just as important as our physical health and wellness. More often than not, we put ourselves on the back burner, taking care of others needs and then ignoring our own. In the world we live in, it’s also easy to push our emotions to the side and tell ourselves we "shouldn't" feel this way. Living well doesn't have to mean sacrificing your needs for others, it might just mean, we chose to intentionally put our energy into things that fill us up and allow us to feel more centered.
(716) 324-3747 View (716) 324-3747
Ott Counseling, LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Feel free to check out our website to read bios and schedule an appointment. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
Feel free to check out our website to read bios and schedule an appointment. Evening and weekend appointments are available.
(716) 687-0490 View (716) 687-0490
Jacob D Cole
Counselor, MS, LMHC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Thank you for taking the time to visit my page on Psychology today and possible interest in supportive counseling services. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Buffalo, NY. I have 8 years of clinical experience with evidence based approaches shared with empathy, connection and respect. Working with adults (18 years old and up), I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy within an integrated model of care. I received my Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from St. Bonaventure University and licensed to practice mental health treatment in the state of New York.
Thank you for taking the time to visit my page on Psychology today and possible interest in supportive counseling services. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Buffalo, NY. I have 8 years of clinical experience with evidence based approaches shared with empathy, connection and respect. Working with adults (18 years old and up), I provide individual, couple and family psychotherapy within an integrated model of care. I received my Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling from St. Bonaventure University and licensed to practice mental health treatment in the state of New York.
(716) 281-1520 View (716) 281-1520
Essence Porter-McDowell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Not accepting new clients
Healing doesn’t have to be lonely. You weren’t meant to do this alone. Beneath anxiety, stress, depression, and exhaustion, there’s still you: worthy of care and healing. Together, we’ll untangle what hurts, break unhealthy patterns, set boundaries, and lessen emotional pain. With deep respect and tender regard, I will help you draw on your strengths, deepen self-awareness, and reshape your identity to live the life you envision for yourself. With my guidance, you'll identify barriers/cycles that keep you stuck, release heavy emotions, and make empowering choices that free you from the past, and create a promising new future.
Healing doesn’t have to be lonely. You weren’t meant to do this alone. Beneath anxiety, stress, depression, and exhaustion, there’s still you: worthy of care and healing. Together, we’ll untangle what hurts, break unhealthy patterns, set boundaries, and lessen emotional pain. With deep respect and tender regard, I will help you draw on your strengths, deepen self-awareness, and reshape your identity to live the life you envision for yourself. With my guidance, you'll identify barriers/cycles that keep you stuck, release heavy emotions, and make empowering choices that free you from the past, and create a promising new future.
(716) 271-2794 View (716) 271-2794
Carey Michelle Burnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Cheektowaga, NY 14227
Not accepting new clients
Whether you’re new here or this isn’t your first time around, the hardest part is always getting started and finding a therapist who is the right fit. I do my best to offer an accepting, empathetic, honest, and collaborative partnership – usually paired with a level of humor and humility.
Whether you’re new here or this isn’t your first time around, the hardest part is always getting started and finding a therapist who is the right fit. I do my best to offer an accepting, empathetic, honest, and collaborative partnership – usually paired with a level of humor and humility.
(716) 454-3711 x30 View (716) 454-3711 x30
Ashley (Gorny) Higgins
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Cheektowaga, NY 14215
Not accepting new clients
You viewing my profile right now means you took a very vulnerable first step to reach out for help and I applaud you for that. Being vulnerable can feel scary, but I am a believer in "great things never came from comfort zones". I have worked with a variety of populations ranging from children-adults and including things such as anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, substance use and addiction, behavioral disorders and other stress and conflict. Whether this is your first experience with therapy or a new attempt, I would love to be able to assist you in your journey!
You viewing my profile right now means you took a very vulnerable first step to reach out for help and I applaud you for that. Being vulnerable can feel scary, but I am a believer in "great things never came from comfort zones". I have worked with a variety of populations ranging from children-adults and including things such as anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship issues, substance use and addiction, behavioral disorders and other stress and conflict. Whether this is your first experience with therapy or a new attempt, I would love to be able to assist you in your journey!
(716) 272-0518 View (716) 272-0518

More Therapists Nearby

Whole Stories Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
6 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14213
Looking for couples therapy that honors your story and safeguards your privacy? Whole Stories Therapy is a woman-owned practice in Buffalo offering inclusive, trauma-informed care to couples and individuals across New York. We specialize in relationship counseling, communication support, and healing from relational trauma. Our sliding-scale, identity-affirming services are available both in person and via telehealth, making it easy for couples + individuals to access compassionate care that fits their lives. Rooted in community care, we host a free book library and regularly collect donations for local food banks.
Looking for couples therapy that honors your story and safeguards your privacy? Whole Stories Therapy is a woman-owned practice in Buffalo offering inclusive, trauma-informed care to couples and individuals across New York. We specialize in relationship counseling, communication support, and healing from relational trauma. Our sliding-scale, identity-affirming services are available both in person and via telehealth, making it easy for couples + individuals to access compassionate care that fits their lives. Rooted in community care, we host a free book library and regularly collect donations for local food banks.
(716) 466-5509 View (716) 466-5509
Lisa Marek
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
Currently accepting new clients! You may be seeking support for trauma, chronic pain, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or dissatisfaction in areas such as relationships, spirituality, work, or finances. I believe mental health is as important as physical health and will meet you where you are by listening closely and seeking to understand your needs. Together, we will build a trusting therapeutic relationship, identify meaningful goals, and work toward greater balance, peace, and satisfaction in your life.
Currently accepting new clients! You may be seeking support for trauma, chronic pain, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or dissatisfaction in areas such as relationships, spirituality, work, or finances. I believe mental health is as important as physical health and will meet you where you are by listening closely and seeking to understand your needs. Together, we will build a trusting therapeutic relationship, identify meaningful goals, and work toward greater balance, peace, and satisfaction in your life.
(716) 217-0010 View (716) 217-0010

See more therapy options for Cheektowaga

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.