LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Madison, TN
I am an LGBTQIA affirming therapist and enjoy working with people from all walks of life.
I believe the therapeutic relationship heals and will keep good boundaries while also genuinely caring about your well-being. I am a warm, intelligent, down-to-earth person who snorts when she laughs. I am interactive and fun, compassionate and heart-centered, as well as grounded and practical. I welcome all people from all walks of life and will allow your therapy journey to unfold organically, at your pace and with your power. I also give feedback and homework and will give you gentle nudges from time to time, if needed. Therapy is hard and fun and beautiful and painful. I hold safe space.
I am an LGBTQIA affirming therapist and enjoy working with people from all walks of life.
I believe the therapeutic relationship heals and will keep good boundaries while also genuinely caring about your well-being. I am a warm, intelligent, down-to-earth person who snorts when she laughs. I am interactive and fun, compassionate and heart-centered, as well as grounded and practical. I welcome all people from all walks of life and will allow your therapy journey to unfold organically, at your pace and with your power. I also give feedback and homework and will give you gentle nudges from time to time, if needed. Therapy is hard and fun and beautiful and painful. I hold safe space.
Jordan Sanders
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, LPC, MHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37116
Together, we'll focus on moving you through "stuck points" in your life and build your self-awareness, self-confidence, personal boundaries, update outdated patterns that no longer serve you, and transform that disparaging voice in your head into YOUR voice; an authentic voice of self-compassion, truth, and love.
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you aren’t good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it doesn't reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are powerful, you are lovable, and you are worthy. In our time together, I will help you reconnect with your true Self by providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment.
Together, we'll focus on moving you through "stuck points" in your life and build your self-awareness, self-confidence, personal boundaries, update outdated patterns that no longer serve you, and transform that disparaging voice in your head into YOUR voice; an authentic voice of self-compassion, truth, and love.
Are you struggling against an internal voice that says you aren’t good enough or worthy of love and acceptance for who you are? You may have heard this voice from others in your home, school, or on TV growing up, which turned this voice into beliefs that leave parts of you feeling unseen, unheard, and unloved. This is a common story for many people, however, it doesn't reflect the authentic nature of who you are. You are powerful, you are lovable, and you are worthy. In our time together, I will help you reconnect with your true Self by providing a safe, accepting, and judgment-free environment.
I am an accomplished therapist and client advocate with over twenty years of counseling and supervisory experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated to serving individuals that have issues with mental illness, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and other emotional struggles. Clients report that my work as a therapist and advocate has helped them feel a sense of trust, compassion, and understanding. I strive to provide a safe space that helps clients nurture a different state of mind.
I am an accomplished therapist and client advocate with over twenty years of counseling and supervisory experience in the mental health field. I am dedicated to serving individuals that have issues with mental illness, addiction, relationship issues, trauma, and other emotional struggles. Clients report that my work as a therapist and advocate has helped them feel a sense of trust, compassion, and understanding. I strive to provide a safe space that helps clients nurture a different state of mind.
Tony A Halton
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MSW, LADAC, MAC, EAP, SAP
Verified Verified
Madison, TN 37115
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
I am a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor and have a Masters Social Work Degree. I offer individual therapy, couples and family counseling in addition to group counseling. I specialize in mood disorders, depression post-traumatic stress disorders (PTSD), marriage & family therapy, anxiety disorders, domestic violence, trauma issues, grief therapy and anger management.
Melisse Prusinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
You feel different than others and there’s so much going on inside. Perhaps your thoughts and emotions are just too much. The people, places and activities that may have been fulfilling and safe in the past, are now what you would prefer to avoid. Others appear happy, but that same happiness feels beyond your reach. Maybe you recognize the need for some change, but enacting change seems impossible. Are you ready for your mind and body to be at peace in this chaotic world and to find your true self again? It is possible to access the wonder and creative energy of youth and to have a new understanding of your life.
You feel different than others and there’s so much going on inside. Perhaps your thoughts and emotions are just too much. The people, places and activities that may have been fulfilling and safe in the past, are now what you would prefer to avoid. Others appear happy, but that same happiness feels beyond your reach. Maybe you recognize the need for some change, but enacting change seems impossible. Are you ready for your mind and body to be at peace in this chaotic world and to find your true self again? It is possible to access the wonder and creative energy of youth and to have a new understanding of your life.
Christa R Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
My focus is on helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, transitions, mood issues, ADHD, recovery and others.
I am a licensed clinical therapist and have practiced in the Nashville area for almost 20 years. I enjoy working in a career that allows me to help people through the challenges they are facing. My goal is to walk along-side my clients, partnering with them to find their own strengths and a balance that helps them live a more satisfying life. I do this by teaching new skills and using techniques to help people make changes, set goals and move forward toward greater fulfillment.
My focus is on helping people who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger, trauma, grief, transitions, mood issues, ADHD, recovery and others.
I am a licensed clinical therapist and have practiced in the Nashville area for almost 20 years. I enjoy working in a career that allows me to help people through the challenges they are facing. My goal is to walk along-side my clients, partnering with them to find their own strengths and a balance that helps them live a more satisfying life. I do this by teaching new skills and using techniques to help people make changes, set goals and move forward toward greater fulfillment.
Antwon R Bailey
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CRADC, LADAC, QCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
I work with clients struggling with recovery from drugs and or alcohol. I see clients that have loved ones that have lost control over their use. Some clients are sober, but stuck in other areas and seek consultation for 2nd and 3rd stage recovery. My practice treats common issues related to substance-use disorder, including: gambling disorder, anxiety, cognitive distortions, shame, low self-esteem, guilt, fear and anger. Individuals, couples and families are all welcome. High-school, and college students that need counseling and case management to keep up or re-engage academics or sports will be right at home in my space.
I work with clients struggling with recovery from drugs and or alcohol. I see clients that have loved ones that have lost control over their use. Some clients are sober, but stuck in other areas and seek consultation for 2nd and 3rd stage recovery. My practice treats common issues related to substance-use disorder, including: gambling disorder, anxiety, cognitive distortions, shame, low self-esteem, guilt, fear and anger. Individuals, couples and families are all welcome. High-school, and college students that need counseling and case management to keep up or re-engage academics or sports will be right at home in my space.
Christina Rumbaugh
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
I believe everyone has the strength and potential needed to uncover their next steps, and it would be an honor to be your fellow traveler as you navigate the winding roads of grief, life stage transitions, trauma, anxiety, depression, or whatever stands in your path.
Do you feel like no one wants you to talk about your grief? Like they want you to “get over it” or “look on the brightside”? Or maybe you need support but don’t feel like you can burden others with the request? When others don’t know how to talk about or handle our grief, it can be isolating and lonely. The combination of emotions we feel at these times can be downright confusing. I want you to know this feeling won’t last forever. Whether you’re new to grief or feel stuck in it, whether you have lost a loved one or are grieving the loss of an anticipated life, I want to help you on your journey back to you.
Ashley Bearden Elmquist
Pre-Licensed Professional, EdS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37116
A major thread in Ashley’s work has been care for families. Having worked in volunteer and professional capacities with children and families for more than 17 years and as a mother of three young children, Ashley has found herself with a deep care for helping people find their own healing to stop cycles of toxic stress. When children or teens feel out of control or parents feel overwhelmed, working through issues that require learning how to emotionally regulate (i.e. trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADD, or OCD) can lead to healing that improves one’s ability to securely connect in relationships.
A major thread in Ashley’s work has been care for families. Having worked in volunteer and professional capacities with children and families for more than 17 years and as a mother of three young children, Ashley has found herself with a deep care for helping people find their own healing to stop cycles of toxic stress. When children or teens feel out of control or parents feel overwhelmed, working through issues that require learning how to emotionally regulate (i.e. trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, ADD, or OCD) can lead to healing that improves one’s ability to securely connect in relationships.
Stuck? Suffering? Unsure of what to do next? I live to serve those struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), and their families. If you or a family member is struggling with use of drugs an alcohol, I am here to help. In addition, those facing the challenges of ongoing recovery, including co-occurring disorders, family of origin issues, codependency, life stage issue, etc, will feel perfectly at home. I am ready to help you.
Stuck? Suffering? Unsure of what to do next? I live to serve those struggling with Substance Use Disorder (SUD), and their families. If you or a family member is struggling with use of drugs an alcohol, I am here to help. In addition, those facing the challenges of ongoing recovery, including co-occurring disorders, family of origin issues, codependency, life stage issue, etc, will feel perfectly at home. I am ready to help you.
Within each of us is an innate desire to be deeply known; to share our story; to be fully seen by another. It is in this vulnerable space where we experience acceptance; belonging; intimate connection. When our lived experiences hold unaddressed narratives of neglect, abuse, abandonment, rigid intolerance or profound loss, the natural longing for connection can become distorted or overridden. What emerges from our understandable aversion to risk and rejection is the imperative to channel all our energy towards managing or keeping hidden the unacceptable parts of ourselves and our story. If this resonates, you are not alone.
Within each of us is an innate desire to be deeply known; to share our story; to be fully seen by another. It is in this vulnerable space where we experience acceptance; belonging; intimate connection. When our lived experiences hold unaddressed narratives of neglect, abuse, abandonment, rigid intolerance or profound loss, the natural longing for connection can become distorted or overridden. What emerges from our understandable aversion to risk and rejection is the imperative to channel all our energy towards managing or keeping hidden the unacceptable parts of ourselves and our story. If this resonates, you are not alone.
Sarah Broyles Ledbetter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, TN 37115
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
My clients often refer to what I call 'blurry trauma,' early attachment experiences that were less than affirming but so ingrained, the client often doesn't recall outstanding events. They may not even remember much about their childhood at all. That kind of trauma leads to addiction, confusing, disorganized or unfulfilling relationships, and difficulty harnessing the resources needed to navigate change so the client can create their most authentic life and relationships. I use present moment, present location resources such as the client's own strengths, passions, and ability to make creative decisions to facilitate safe change.
More Therapists Nearby
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
I specialize in individual counseling for those struggling with anxiety, relationship, work, and school stress, negative thoughts, mood disorders, and LGBTQ+ concerns including gender and sexual identity. My goal is to make the therapeutic process as stress-free as possible for my clients by providing an open, welcoming environment where you can express yourself freely while we work together to meet your needs.
Melissa E Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216
Where nothing is set in stone and anything is possible by transforming what may seem lost and useless into something valuable and vibrant.
I find many individuals reaching out with depression, anxiety, grief, and family of origin issues in addition to a specialized population of creative clients, those going through significant life transitions, LGBTQA clients, and individuals reconstructing their beliefs and sense of self from unhealthy family systems and harmful religious/spiritual beliefs. I work with adult individuals, couples, and groups. In addition, I offer uniquely tailored intensives and ecotherapy sessions and healing religious trauma groups for clients desiring an alternative to traditional, office based talk therapy.
Where nothing is set in stone and anything is possible by transforming what may seem lost and useless into something valuable and vibrant.
I find many individuals reaching out with depression, anxiety, grief, and family of origin issues in addition to a specialized population of creative clients, those going through significant life transitions, LGBTQA clients, and individuals reconstructing their beliefs and sense of self from unhealthy family systems and harmful religious/spiritual beliefs. I work with adult individuals, couples, and groups. In addition, I offer uniquely tailored intensives and ecotherapy sessions and healing religious trauma groups for clients desiring an alternative to traditional, office based talk therapy.
Jess Costaldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37216
Waitlist for new clients
As a systems-focused narrative therapist, I help my clients explore the personal, relational and societal stories (both useful and problematic) that shape and give meaning to their lives. My collaborative sessions highlight and emphasize clients' strengths and innate ability to "re-write" difficult chapters of their stories so that new pathways to empowered, inspired living can emerge.
As a systems-focused narrative therapist, I help my clients explore the personal, relational and societal stories (both useful and problematic) that shape and give meaning to their lives. My collaborative sessions highlight and emphasize clients' strengths and innate ability to "re-write" difficult chapters of their stories so that new pathways to empowered, inspired living can emerge.
Amanda Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37216 (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients. Do you feel like you're treading water, barely keeping your head above? Are you having a difficult time being present? "Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it a life?" -Mary Oliver
Accepting New Clients. Do you feel like you're treading water, barely keeping your head above? Are you having a difficult time being present? "Listen, are you breathing just a little, and calling it a life?" -Mary Oliver
Lauren Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37206
I invite all parts of your story into the room. I most often hear that what is wanted from therapy is hope and relief. Relief from anxiety, hope for your relationship. I believe you can achieve self-esteem, hope, and healing. I've seen it happen many times. Trusting this process is the first step. You don't have to do this alone. I can stand with you and guide you towards a safe and secure self within life's ups and downs. You can learn how to regain a sense of self, heal from the past, come home to your body, and create a life you find worth in living.
I invite all parts of your story into the room. I most often hear that what is wanted from therapy is hope and relief. Relief from anxiety, hope for your relationship. I believe you can achieve self-esteem, hope, and healing. I've seen it happen many times. Trusting this process is the first step. You don't have to do this alone. I can stand with you and guide you towards a safe and secure self within life's ups and downs. You can learn how to regain a sense of self, heal from the past, come home to your body, and create a life you find worth in living.
Jae Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Goodlettsville, TN 37072
Our lives and ways of doing things have definitely changed in 2020. You are trying to balance homeschooling, working from home, or being an essential worker. It's tough! If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or a combination of both, I am here for you. Having a therapist means having someone to sit with you where you are and journey with you as you heal, grow, and release emotions and beliefs that are no longer serving you. Whether it's you, your child, or your life partner, IT'S TIME TO TAKE STEPS TOWARDS HEALING.
Our lives and ways of doing things have definitely changed in 2020. You are trying to balance homeschooling, working from home, or being an essential worker. It's tough! If you are feeling overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, or a combination of both, I am here for you. Having a therapist means having someone to sit with you where you are and journey with you as you heal, grow, and release emotions and beliefs that are no longer serving you. Whether it's you, your child, or your life partner, IT'S TIME TO TAKE STEPS TOWARDS HEALING.
My ideal clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, work life balance, codependency, interpersonal issues, and/or phase of life stressors. For many clients, it can be difficult to identify their wants and needs, especially those who identify as high achieving, perfectionists, creatives and/or professionals. It's my job to help clients recognize and establish trust of themselves so that they can start achieving their goals.
My ideal clients are struggling with anxiety, depression, work life balance, codependency, interpersonal issues, and/or phase of life stressors. For many clients, it can be difficult to identify their wants and needs, especially those who identify as high achieving, perfectionists, creatives and/or professionals. It's my job to help clients recognize and establish trust of themselves so that they can start achieving their goals.
See more therapy options for Madison
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Madison
- Antioch
- Berry Hill
- Brentwood
- Cottontown
- Gallatin
- Goodlettsville
- Hendersonville
- Hermitage
- Mount Juliet
- Nashville
- Old Hickory
- White House
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.