LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Brentwood, TN

Photo of Caitlin Coile, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Caitlin Coile
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
People start to heal the moment they feel heard. That is my goal in sitting with clients - to move towards healing by hearing their stories, strifes, and successes. I incorporate multiple modalities of treatment to give each client a unique experience that meets their specific needs. My hope is to join my clients in achieving meaningful and deep healing, identifying resources for continued growth, and developing secure attachments in their relationships. I am passionate about working with individuals and families of all ages who are processing through life transitions, identity, relationship issues, trauma, and grief and loss.
(615) 471-7684 View (615) 471-7684
Photo of Stephen Lockridge, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTS, LPC, MHSP
Stephen Lockridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MTS, LPC, MHSP
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
I particularly like working with those in the LGBTQ+ community dealing with issues of cultural or religious judgment and the potentially resulting shame.
Each of us has our own unique path and challenges to navigate in this life. Many of us struggle to find the freedom to live out our truth and to follow our hearts because we are bound by societal and/or familial conditioning and programming that pressures us to fit into a certain mold that may not align with who we are and what we find to be true. This binding can often show up as anxiety or unhappiness, and many of us have trauma that continues to live in our bodies influencing the ways in which we react to what we encounter in life. We can work together to understand and alleviate what is keeping you from being more free.
(615) 398-6645 View (615) 398-6645
Photo of Taylor Miller, Counselor, Intern
Taylor Miller
Counselor, Intern
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I work with children and adults who may experience the world differently, often due to factors such as autism, ADHD, identity, trauma, stage of life, mental health issues, or chronic illness. While I am an intern therapist with a lot to learn, I'm firm in my belief that everyone deserves and desires the chance to be seen, understood, and accepted, as part of their healing and growth. For many clients learning to reconnect with themselves, creativity, understanding, and empowerment may lend to self-awareness and grounding, positively impacting not only one's relationship with self, but with others.
I work with children and adults who may experience the world differently, often due to factors such as autism, ADHD, identity, trauma, stage of life, mental health issues, or chronic illness. While I am an intern therapist with a lot to learn, I'm firm in my belief that everyone deserves and desires the chance to be seen, understood, and accepted, as part of their healing and growth. For many clients learning to reconnect with themselves, creativity, understanding, and empowerment may lend to self-awareness and grounding, positively impacting not only one's relationship with self, but with others.
(629) 258-6515 View (629) 258-6515
Photo of Cara Allison, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Cara Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
9 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I work with clients 18+ and approach therapy from a neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens.
I believe that connecting with our bodies is a vital part of wellness and healing. I am certified in EMDR and have begun training in Somatic Experiencing. I borrow from other approaches including Internal Family Systems (Parts-Work) and Person-Centered Therapy.
I work with clients 18+ and approach therapy from a neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens.
I believe that connecting with our bodies is a vital part of wellness and healing. I am certified in EMDR and have begun training in Somatic Experiencing. I borrow from other approaches including Internal Family Systems (Parts-Work) and Person-Centered Therapy.
(615) 994-7096 View (615) 994-7096
Photo of Megan Graf Thomas, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA, SEP
Megan Graf Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MA, SEP
9 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in helping the LGBT community, people struggling with anxiety, and trauma survivors.
You know yourself best, and I hope to help guide you in the journey of improving your quality of life. We all need help from an outside perspective from time to time; I create a safe, non-judgmental, environment to help you with your goals. Battling anxiety? Wanting to grow into a more authentic you? Let's work together to meet these struggles head on.
I specialize in helping the LGBT community, people struggling with anxiety, and trauma survivors.
You know yourself best, and I hope to help guide you in the journey of improving your quality of life. We all need help from an outside perspective from time to time; I create a safe, non-judgmental, environment to help you with your goals. Battling anxiety? Wanting to grow into a more authentic you? Let's work together to meet these struggles head on.
(615) 488-8736 View (615) 488-8736
Photo of Gabriel Starner, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Gabriel Starner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
My areas of special clinical interest include working with LGBTQIA+ clients, existential distress, religious trauma and abuse, ethical non-monogamy/non-traditional relationships, couple conflict, sex therapy, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I am a caring and empathetic person who has a heart for helping people. As a therapist I seek to work collaboratively with clients in establishing treatment goals. My hope is that clients will learn new and healthier ways of living and gain a greater ability to treat both themselves and others with compassion. It takes courage to step into the therapy room, so I work to provide a disarming and open space for clients to share. My curiosity guides me as I get to know people for who they are and I enjoy helping clients learn to think, feel, and act in new, productive ways to become the people they want to be.
(615) 471-6433 View (615) 471-6433
Photo of Michelle Stafford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Michelle Stafford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in helping LGBTQIA+, entertainment industry folks, creatives, & adults with trauma cultivate a life they love.
In working together you’ll reconnect to yourself & reclaim your agency in life. In our sessions you’ll find me to be warm & grounding. I take an active role, so you don’t need to feel the pressure of filling every minute. We’ll get to the root of the real stuff & laugh some along the way. You’ll leave sessions with hope, feedback, & tangible next steps.
I specialize in helping LGBTQIA+, entertainment industry folks, creatives, & adults with trauma cultivate a life they love.
In working together you’ll reconnect to yourself & reclaim your agency in life. In our sessions you’ll find me to be warm & grounding. I take an active role, so you don’t need to feel the pressure of filling every minute. We’ll get to the root of the real stuff & laugh some along the way. You’ll leave sessions with hope, feedback, & tangible next steps.
(615) 437-3731 View (615) 437-3731
Photo of Chelsea Nixon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Chelsea Nixon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
As a proud member of both communities, I deeply enjoy working with LGBTQIA and polyamorous individuals.
Most people I work with want more than someone to listen—they want a therapist who engages, reflects what’s unseen, and helps them change patterns in the relationships that matter. I show up as a real person, not an expert behind a screen, because healing happens in relationship. Together, we’ll explore what gets in the way of connection—and practice doing something different.
As a proud member of both communities, I deeply enjoy working with LGBTQIA and polyamorous individuals.
Most people I work with want more than someone to listen—they want a therapist who engages, reflects what’s unseen, and helps them change patterns in the relationships that matter. I show up as a real person, not an expert behind a screen, because healing happens in relationship. Together, we’ll explore what gets in the way of connection—and practice doing something different.
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Photo of Marguerite Flynn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Marguerite Flynn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of expertise include: depression, trauma recovery, eating disorders, teens, and LGBTQ+.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in drawing from several different modalities including CBT, DBT, and solution focused interventions. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space, we'll explore concerns, set goals, and foster resilience for lasting change. No one-size-fits-all approach; we'll customize a treatment plan that suits you best.
Areas of expertise include: depression, trauma recovery, eating disorders, teens, and LGBTQ+.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in drawing from several different modalities including CBT, DBT, and solution focused interventions. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space, we'll explore concerns, set goals, and foster resilience for lasting change. No one-size-fits-all approach; we'll customize a treatment plan that suits you best.
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Photo of Jennifer McFarland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Jennifer McFarland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Online Only
I have been in private practice for 20+ years. I specialize in offering comprehensive psychological services for individuals, families, and children. I routinely consult with physicians and other specialists concerning treatment plans and will amend as needed.I offer a place where the client can feel welcome, seen, heard, and valued.
I have been in private practice for 20+ years. I specialize in offering comprehensive psychological services for individuals, families, and children. I routinely consult with physicians and other specialists concerning treatment plans and will amend as needed.I offer a place where the client can feel welcome, seen, heard, and valued.
(731) 318-4521 View (731) 318-4521
Photo of Evan Clark Richardson, Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MS, NCC
Evan Clark Richardson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MDiv, MS, NCC
6 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you overthinking the joys of life? Anxious thoughts may stunt connection with those you most care about. What if you could find relief from the rumination? When we are able to re-shape our relationship with our thoughts and emotions, we have the possibility to enjoy what we most value. Counseling can provide the space for you to try out new techniques to respond to disturbing thoughts and overwhelming emotions. Change can be scary. Staging the same can be more terrifying. Are you ready for newness and relief?
Are you overthinking the joys of life? Anxious thoughts may stunt connection with those you most care about. What if you could find relief from the rumination? When we are able to re-shape our relationship with our thoughts and emotions, we have the possibility to enjoy what we most value. Counseling can provide the space for you to try out new techniques to respond to disturbing thoughts and overwhelming emotions. Change can be scary. Staging the same can be more terrifying. Are you ready for newness and relief?
(629) 299-2523 View (629) 299-2523
Photo of Heather Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Heather Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Brentwood, TN 37027
I also have 10 years experience supporting transgender folx- providing a safe, affirming space.
I use curiosity and open mindedness to support in uncovering your unique healing journey. If struggling with anxiety or depression, we'll create goals for managing it in a gentle and effective way. I use a combination of modatlities- Somatics, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, and Humanistic approaches.
I also have 10 years experience supporting transgender folx- providing a safe, affirming space.
I use curiosity and open mindedness to support in uncovering your unique healing journey. If struggling with anxiety or depression, we'll create goals for managing it in a gentle and effective way. I use a combination of modatlities- Somatics, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), CBT, and Humanistic approaches.
(423) 427-2838 View (423) 427-2838
Photo of Pamela K Haga - Pamela K Haga Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Pamela K Haga Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
6 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
"The Wound is the Place Where the Light Enters You." ~ Rumi~ In one way or another, our souls have been bruised. Depression, anxiety, divorce/relationship issues, trauma, family crisis, & many other issues can slowly chip away at our self-worth, our sense of belonging, our hope. Do you seek a true, raw connection with yourself & others? Are you tired of fighting the "uphill battle" & seek peace in your life? I have no magic wand. I cannot make troubles disappear. I can, however, walk with you & give you the tools to find inner peace & love in the midst of chaos.
"The Wound is the Place Where the Light Enters You." ~ Rumi~ In one way or another, our souls have been bruised. Depression, anxiety, divorce/relationship issues, trauma, family crisis, & many other issues can slowly chip away at our self-worth, our sense of belonging, our hope. Do you seek a true, raw connection with yourself & others? Are you tired of fighting the "uphill battle" & seek peace in your life? I have no magic wand. I cannot make troubles disappear. I can, however, walk with you & give you the tools to find inner peace & love in the midst of chaos.
(615) 610-1454 View (615) 610-1454
Photo of Angelique Horace, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-TN
Angelique Horace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-TN
Online Only
My goal is to assist young adults, women, BIPOC, marginalized individuals, and couples reach their goals of wellness and healing. Open to clients looking to work through traumatic events, relational issues, self discovery, and coping with life stressors.
My goal is to assist young adults, women, BIPOC, marginalized individuals, and couples reach their goals of wellness and healing. Open to clients looking to work through traumatic events, relational issues, self discovery, and coping with life stressors.
(205) 206-5508 View (205) 206-5508
Photo of Marjorie Rice, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Marjorie Rice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ challenges or an unhealthy family dynamic.
Hello, my name is Marjorie Rice. Are you looking for a dedicated therapist with a background working with individuals of all ages? Then I may be the right fit for your needs. I've been a social worker in Nashville, TN for eight years and am the mother of two adult children. My practice is open, diverse, and focused on meeting my clients where they are.
Whether you suffer from anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, LGBTQIA+ challenges or an unhealthy family dynamic.
Hello, my name is Marjorie Rice. Are you looking for a dedicated therapist with a background working with individuals of all ages? Then I may be the right fit for your needs. I've been a social worker in Nashville, TN for eight years and am the mother of two adult children. My practice is open, diverse, and focused on meeting my clients where they are.
(615) 709-6154 View (615) 709-6154
Photo of Pam Nuchols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Pam Nuchols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Have you ever wondered if you will always feel this way? Maybe you feel alone or like no one understands who you are. Perhaps you struggle with relationships, jobs, family dynamics and anxiety about all of these struggles. You do not have to do this alone and unsupported. If you want someone to accompany you on your path to recognizing your strengths and using them, I would be honored to walk with you.
Have you ever wondered if you will always feel this way? Maybe you feel alone or like no one understands who you are. Perhaps you struggle with relationships, jobs, family dynamics and anxiety about all of these struggles. You do not have to do this alone and unsupported. If you want someone to accompany you on your path to recognizing your strengths and using them, I would be honored to walk with you.
(865) 674-9138 View (865) 674-9138
Photo of Lauren Shuler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lauren Shuler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I provide affirming care to members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Each session is tailored to you. We may explore your life story, clarify your values, or get to know the different parts of you. We might create a plan for taking exquisite care of yourself, including skills for daily life. Sometimes, we’ll focus on the therapy relationship itself—what patterns are showing up, and what we notice in the here and now.
I provide affirming care to members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Each session is tailored to you. We may explore your life story, clarify your values, or get to know the different parts of you. We might create a plan for taking exquisite care of yourself, including skills for daily life. Sometimes, we’ll focus on the therapy relationship itself—what patterns are showing up, and what we notice in the here and now.
(615) 205-9361 View (615) 205-9361
Photo of Nora R. Balint, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Nora R. Balint
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Some of my areas of focus include chronic illness, parenting, relationship issues, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, gender identity, life transitions, hoarding, and peer relationships.
I love working with clients who are ready to explore who they are, where they came from, and where they would like to be going. For some people, this means exploring past traumas or processing struggles from childhood. For others it means learning to recognize and improve the communication and intimacy patterns in their current romantic relationships. For others it means working through anxiety or depression that is keeping them from experiencing the life they would like to have. In all cases, I love walking side by side with my clients, supporting and celebrating with them as they achieve their goals.
Some of my areas of focus include chronic illness, parenting, relationship issues, grief and loss, stress, anxiety, LGBTQIA+, gender identity, life transitions, hoarding, and peer relationships.
I love working with clients who are ready to explore who they are, where they came from, and where they would like to be going. For some people, this means exploring past traumas or processing struggles from childhood. For others it means learning to recognize and improve the communication and intimacy patterns in their current romantic relationships. For others it means working through anxiety or depression that is keeping them from experiencing the life they would like to have. In all cases, I love walking side by side with my clients, supporting and celebrating with them as they achieve their goals.
(629) 299-3021 View (629) 299-3021
Photo of Sarah Hulsey, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sarah Hulsey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
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 utilize person centered approaches with clients to encourage those that I work with to see the strength and insight that they hold in themselves. I am trained in brainspotting and utilize this tool with clients to address various issues. My experiences in the mental health field allow me to walk alongside you as you explore what is impacting you the most.
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 utilize person centered approaches with clients to encourage those that I work with to see the strength and insight that they hold in themselves. I am trained in brainspotting and utilize this tool with clients to address various issues. My experiences in the mental health field allow me to walk alongside you as you explore what is impacting you the most.
(629) 276-6765 View (629) 276-6765
Photo of Abby Coakley, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Abby Coakley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe there is nothing more significant and worth honoring than being heard and unconditionally accepted. My goal in therapy is to be focused on creating space and time for each person to be just that- heard and unconditionally accepted. Although the human experience is full of events and emotions that can create hazes, I believe we know ourselves more deeply and more truly than anyone else.
I believe there is nothing more significant and worth honoring than being heard and unconditionally accepted. My goal in therapy is to be focused on creating space and time for each person to be just that- heard and unconditionally accepted. Although the human experience is full of events and emotions that can create hazes, I believe we know ourselves more deeply and more truly than anyone else.
(615) 619-4253 View (615) 619-4253

See more therapy options for Brentwood

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.