LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Bellevue, TN
Sarah Hulsey
Pre-Licensed Professional, MMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
You may feel like you’re looking for a unicorn when finding the right clinician for you. Whether you are looking for someone who is well-versed in working with those who are neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or have experienced trauma - my hope is that you find a supportive space to grow and heal. I enjoy helping clients work towards goals of self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment. I hope to offer understanding and validation of your experiences in life as you work towards a better understanding of yourself in the world and of the world around you.
You may feel like you’re looking for a unicorn when finding the right clinician for you. Whether you are looking for someone who is well-versed in working with those who are neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, or have experienced trauma - my hope is that you find a supportive space to grow and heal. I enjoy helping clients work towards goals of self-acceptance, resilience, and empowerment. I hope to offer understanding and validation of your experiences in life as you work towards a better understanding of yourself in the world and of the world around you.
Elliott Dombrosky
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellevue, TN 37221
Hey there, great job at taking the time to focus on your self-care! I know this process can be scary but let’s see if we can walk through it together. I work with a wide variety of clients that have been affected by substance use & addiction(individual struggling themselves or their support systems & those affected by their use). Whether you’re not sure about this whole therapy thing or you know it’s time to make a change, you don’t have to figure out your next steps alone. I have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community in providing gender & trauma informed care while working towards a happy and fulfilled life.
Hey there, great job at taking the time to focus on your self-care! I know this process can be scary but let’s see if we can walk through it together. I work with a wide variety of clients that have been affected by substance use & addiction(individual struggling themselves or their support systems & those affected by their use). Whether you’re not sure about this whole therapy thing or you know it’s time to make a change, you don’t have to figure out your next steps alone. I have experience in working with the LGBTQ+ community in providing gender & trauma informed care while working towards a happy and fulfilled life.
Raekenya Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW , LSSW
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
Have you ever been told you are "too much" but you constantly feel like you aren't enough? Or have you ever been depressed but felt guilty because outside looking in you "have it all together"? I've been there and I know how it feels. As a therapist, I offer empathy and help you develop healthy strategies to mute those negative thoughts. I give you the tools to ask for what you need in personal and professional relationships. I remind you that anxiety, depression, and past traumas do not make you broken or flawed. Your brain just works differently and I show you ways to manage that. I believe in you!
Deborah E Doineau
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
My clientele consists of children, adolescents, and adults. I use a variety of approaches in working with my clients in an attempt to find the most efficacious approach to meet the particular client's needs. As a psychologist, I also perform psychological evaluations for diagnostic purposes. For example, I evaluate cognitive ability, learning disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and many other issues. Finding oneself can be a daunting task in our complex society. I aspire to help my clients achieve self understanding, a sense of efficacy, and develop tools to assist them in navigating life's challenges on their own.
Sherrie E. McKinney
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, BS, LADACII, NCAC II, PRI
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, TN 37221 (Online Only)
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
I work with clients who have some desire to move toward abstinence and/or recovery. Many of my clients have experienced negative consequences due to alcohol or drug use, including contact with the criminal justice system, loss of their driver's license, job, children, etc. I provide substance abuse counseling, drug education and an Alcohol and Drug Assessment that will satisfy most state requirements.
Anita L Hauenstein
Psychologist, MDiv, PhD
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
My desire is to create safe, supportive space to help you feel comfortable and fully supported in the work that you would like to do. I enjoy assisting with transitions through all kinds of life circumstances - grief and loss, relationship issues, career changes and soul questions or crises, to name a few. I welcome working with you to help you release what is not working in your life and to help you make room for the "new" -- for transformation, deep peace and, most of all, for joy.
My desire is to create safe, supportive space to help you feel comfortable and fully supported in the work that you would like to do. I enjoy assisting with transitions through all kinds of life circumstances - grief and loss, relationship issues, career changes and soul questions or crises, to name a few. I welcome working with you to help you release what is not working in your life and to help you make room for the "new" -- for transformation, deep peace and, most of all, for joy.
Frances M Bledsoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFAAMFT
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Life can be difficult at times. Perhaps you are wanting to make some changes in your life, or relationship. I believe that most of us CAN make the changes we deeply want to, particularly if we have a kind and knowledgeable advocate to that process. You may have reservations about asking for support. Know that when you do, you are bravely moving yourself forward to a better tomorrow. I strive to be a compassionate, trustworthy, and enthusiastic partner to my clients' growth processes.
Irena Stjepic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellevue, TN 37221
I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, a body-mind approach to help you heal from current and past pain and discomfort. Additionally, I incorporate the Safe and Sound Protocol in my practice. My expertise lies in supporting young adults aged 16 and above, as well as adults who have experienced recent traumatic events or have Complex PTSD as a result of unhealed childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, and other areas of focus, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and performance enhancement.
I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, a body-mind approach to help you heal from current and past pain and discomfort. Additionally, I incorporate the Safe and Sound Protocol in my practice. My expertise lies in supporting young adults aged 16 and above, as well as adults who have experienced recent traumatic events or have Complex PTSD as a result of unhealed childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, and other areas of focus, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorder, and performance enhancement.
The Sweatshirt Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA
Verified Verified
Bellevue, TN 37221
Have you ever thought, I’ll feel better when (fill in the blank) happens. However, every time you think about it the (fill in the blank) never seems to come or has come but you still feel unsettled. Moving through transitions can seem uncomfortable or chaotic at times but so can seeing a therapist. I’ll help you walk through the journey of your transition or current issue usually while wearing one of my many comfortable sweatshirts.
Have you ever thought, I’ll feel better when (fill in the blank) happens. However, every time you think about it the (fill in the blank) never seems to come or has come but you still feel unsettled. Moving through transitions can seem uncomfortable or chaotic at times but so can seeing a therapist. I’ll help you walk through the journey of your transition or current issue usually while wearing one of my many comfortable sweatshirts.
Sami Wary
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MEd
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bellevue, TN 37221
Does it feel like you’re drowning in the riptide of life? Being a human can be overwhelming and complicated. It is not unusual to be bombarded with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings that you aren't sure how to cope with. This can lead to low self-worth, perfectionism, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, bullying or trouble with peers, destructive behaviors, and difficulty communicating (or even just acknowledging) needs. I want to help you face these struggles head on and move from just keeping your head above water to thriving.
Does it feel like you’re drowning in the riptide of life? Being a human can be overwhelming and complicated. It is not unusual to be bombarded with uncomfortable thoughts and feelings that you aren't sure how to cope with. This can lead to low self-worth, perfectionism, thoughts of suicide or self-harm, bullying or trouble with peers, destructive behaviors, and difficulty communicating (or even just acknowledging) needs. I want to help you face these struggles head on and move from just keeping your head above water to thriving.
More Therapists Nearby
Mallorie Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
I love working with clients who have a readiness to gain greater self awareness, and those who have a deep desire to know and accept themselves. I have a heart for working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, as a member of the community myself, and deeply value the healing power of trauma work. I also love working with individuals who might benefit from a more experiential approach. I find so much value in the power of creative activities that help engage the client in effective and meaningful ways.
I love working with clients who have a readiness to gain greater self awareness, and those who have a deep desire to know and accept themselves. I have a heart for working with individuals from the LGBTQIA+ community, as a member of the community myself, and deeply value the healing power of trauma work. I also love working with individuals who might benefit from a more experiential approach. I find so much value in the power of creative activities that help engage the client in effective and meaningful ways.
Kori Meyers
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach is client-centered and integrative in nature, while being deeply influenced by attachment theory and emotions. I welcome and celebrate all people in all bodies. I am an LGBTQIA+ advocate and ally.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered and integrative in nature, while being deeply influenced by attachment theory and emotions. I welcome and celebrate all people in all bodies. I am an LGBTQIA+ advocate and ally.
Jeannie Ingram
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MHS, CIRT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
Life, especially relational life, can be confusing and overwhelmingly painful.. These difficult conditions often have a purpose, which is healing and positive change. My speciality is relationships, and with an extensive background in crisis intervention, I help couples unpack conflict, reduce anxiety by finding the path forward, learning the tools to achieve desired change, especially connection. As deeply painful and uncertain as difficulties may be, it is also a time of opportunity, growth, healing and wisdom.
Life, especially relational life, can be confusing and overwhelmingly painful.. These difficult conditions often have a purpose, which is healing and positive change. My speciality is relationships, and with an extensive background in crisis intervention, I help couples unpack conflict, reduce anxiety by finding the path forward, learning the tools to achieve desired change, especially connection. As deeply painful and uncertain as difficulties may be, it is also a time of opportunity, growth, healing and wisdom.
Hannah Pipher
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about working with teens and adolescents as they navigate the stressors that come with growing up. This could present in a multitude of ways consisting of emotional regulation, exploring sexuality/identity, navigating transitions in school, conflicts with family and peers, high acuity depression or self-harm, or living through parents divorce/separation. Additionally, young adults exhibiting symptoms of PTSD and complex trauma who are ready to process and return to their life before the trauma are another sweet spot of mine.
I am passionate about working with teens and adolescents as they navigate the stressors that come with growing up. This could present in a multitude of ways consisting of emotional regulation, exploring sexuality/identity, navigating transitions in school, conflicts with family and peers, high acuity depression or self-harm, or living through parents divorce/separation. Additionally, young adults exhibiting symptoms of PTSD and complex trauma who are ready to process and return to their life before the trauma are another sweet spot of mine.
Transcending Turbulence
PhD, CHLC, CGS
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221
CLARITY, PEACE of MIND, CONFIDENCE, JOY and a SKILL SET by which to create and sustain a happier, healthier life, sound good? Let's face it, despite our best efforts life gets crazy at times. We can ride the slow gradual wave of disconnectedness until one day we wake up wondering "How the heck did I get here?!" Without warning we find ourselves in what I call an "uncomfortable comfortable." This turbulence is a result of life unfolding in ways we never imagined. Situations we've tried our best to "deal with" because "that's just life."
CLARITY, PEACE of MIND, CONFIDENCE, JOY and a SKILL SET by which to create and sustain a happier, healthier life, sound good? Let's face it, despite our best efforts life gets crazy at times. We can ride the slow gradual wave of disconnectedness until one day we wake up wondering "How the heck did I get here?!" Without warning we find ourselves in what I call an "uncomfortable comfortable." This turbulence is a result of life unfolding in ways we never imagined. Situations we've tried our best to "deal with" because "that's just life."
Elena G Hearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are looking for a very experienced therapist, I have had more than 40 years in the Mental Health field. I worked at the VA Women's Clinic for over 7 years. I started the Eating Disorders program at the Ranch in 2004. I worked at the Student Counseling Center at Vanderbilt for 14 years. I have also worked at several Addictions Treatment Centers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, recovering from an addiction or having problems balancing work, family and self care, I can help you to get back on track. I have availability and would be happy to be a part of your healing process!
If you are looking for a very experienced therapist, I have had more than 40 years in the Mental Health field. I worked at the VA Women's Clinic for over 7 years. I started the Eating Disorders program at the Ranch in 2004. I worked at the Student Counseling Center at Vanderbilt for 14 years. I have also worked at several Addictions Treatment Centers. If you are struggling with an eating disorder, recovering from an addiction or having problems balancing work, family and self care, I can help you to get back on track. I have availability and would be happy to be a part of your healing process!
Janet Weismark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221
Counseling provides you the opportunity to improve your life and derive more enjoyment from it. I can help you work through childhood issues or deal with problems that are occurring in your life at the present time. Sadness, anxiety and anger are feelings which I can help you effectively learn to deal with.
Counseling provides you the opportunity to improve your life and derive more enjoyment from it. I can help you work through childhood issues or deal with problems that are occurring in your life at the present time. Sadness, anxiety and anger are feelings which I can help you effectively learn to deal with.
Angelique Howington Works
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
Do you struggle with fear, anxiety, worry or depression? Do you avoid situations because of difficult emotions? Does your anxiety and avoidance interfere with your quality of life? Or do you feel everything in your life needs to be perfect? I am passionate about helping individuals learn to thrive again by using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). I use an integrative approach to create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment in which individuals can explore and grow.
Do you struggle with fear, anxiety, worry or depression? Do you avoid situations because of difficult emotions? Does your anxiety and avoidance interfere with your quality of life? Or do you feel everything in your life needs to be perfect? I am passionate about helping individuals learn to thrive again by using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Exposure-Response Prevention Therapy (ERP). I use an integrative approach to create a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate environment in which individuals can explore and grow.
Dr. Tyler Toledo
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37221 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With specialized expertise in helping folks with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, I understand that finding a therapist that fits YOUR needs can be an exhausting process. In my therapy practice, we're not just talking about your experiences – we'll explore your personal story, inner compass, and innate strengths to guide us toward rediscovered meaning and direction. If what I offer doesn't quite click for you, we'll figure out together what might work better. Because no matter what, you deserve care that feels right for you.
With specialized expertise in helping folks with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic illness, I understand that finding a therapist that fits YOUR needs can be an exhausting process. In my therapy practice, we're not just talking about your experiences – we'll explore your personal story, inner compass, and innate strengths to guide us toward rediscovered meaning and direction. If what I offer doesn't quite click for you, we'll figure out together what might work better. Because no matter what, you deserve care that feels right for you.
The Positive Living Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-EMDR, CCTP, C-SOTP, CFTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221
"I provide a safe, warm, nonjudgmental environment that embraces change. I provide an empathic and supportive approach which integrates psychodynamic and psychoanalytic techniques in order to help clients not only reduce symptoms, but to also explore and understand the unmet needs that have driven the behavior. I help clients build upon their strengths to help empower them. Clients need to understand that they are not having a breakdown, but a break through. The symptoms your are experiencing are normal based on a abnormal experiences. Through assessments and sessions I create a specialized treatment plan.
"I provide a safe, warm, nonjudgmental environment that embraces change. I provide an empathic and supportive approach which integrates psychodynamic and psychoanalytic techniques in order to help clients not only reduce symptoms, but to also explore and understand the unmet needs that have driven the behavior. I help clients build upon their strengths to help empower them. Clients need to understand that they are not having a breakdown, but a break through. The symptoms your are experiencing are normal based on a abnormal experiences. Through assessments and sessions I create a specialized treatment plan.
See more therapy options for Bellevue
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Bellevue
- Antioch
- Berry Hill
- Brentwood
- Franklin
- Goodlettsville
- Hermitage
- La Vergne
- Madison
- Nashville
- Nolensville
- Old Hickory
- Thompsons Station
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.