LGBTQ+ Therapists in Salt Lake City, UT

My PhD training as a counseling psychologist affords me flexibility to support multiple life concerns, and at the root of my work is the belief that relationships are capable of healing. I build strong alliances with those whom I serve in order to best meet client directed goals and foster sustained change. I adhere to evidence-based practices in psychology, and research evidence strongly supports the importance of building a strong therapeutic alliance. Everyone has a unique lens through which they see the world and I strive to see the world as my clients do to provide the best care.

I am passionate about helping gay , lesbian , bisexual , transgender , and queer clients in a variety of areas. I often help clients build and maintain healthy relationships, work through depression, stress, or anxiety, navigate relationships with less accepting family or friends, deal with difficulties surrounding coming out, overcome sexual challenges, and manage shame, discrimination and stigma. I frequently write letters of support for transgender or gender non-conforming individuals who wish to gain access to hormone replacement therapy or surgeries.

I work with clients on a variety of issues, though my primary focus has been in the areas of LGBT and disability therapy. During my time at the Utah Pride Center and with Alliance Counseling, I have utilized a solution-focused, shame-free approach to gender and sexuality to help my clients navigate the complex issues that accompany membership in these communities.

I welcome individuals experiencing depression, anxiety and need a place to discuss their sexuality and gender identities who want to work from a strengths based perspective. Using compassion and mindfulness practice, and a feminist multi-cultural lens, I encourage people to work in a focused and positive way in order to find authenticity. In the past several years I have worked extensively with gay , lesbian and transgender people and am open, affirming and inclusive. In my experience, everyone has a creative spark that nourishes positivity and engagement.

I am a certified social worker with a belief in a holistic approach to wellness and mental health. I graduated with both a Bachelors and Masters of Social Work from the University of Utah. I completed a clinical internship with the Utah Pride Center where I worked primarily with LGBTQ + individuals. Prior to that, I worked with adolescents, young adults, and families as a DCFS caseworker, mentor for Big Brothers Big Sisters, and co-director of the Teens’ Night Out Program at the Road Home.

"What you seek is seeking you..." (Rumi). I feel profoundly honored to journey with you as we work together to transform the painful aspects of your life into insights that will heal you. I believe we - all of us - have an innate desire to be seen, heard...and challenged! Whether its the traumatic experience of abuse and addiction, the challenges of LGBTQ life, or depression and overall anxiety your life is meaningful and you are wired to heal! I will be your witness and your guide as we walk together to discover hidden strengths.

We all face challenges in life, and sometimes our challenges can make it difficult to know how to move forward. Therapy can provide a space for addressing such challenges, regaining focus, and finding a new or renewed direction to move forward. I have helped clients through anxiety, depression, crisis, grief, multicultural concerns, life transitions, and family conflict. I specialize with LGBTQIA individuals, couples, and families and often work with adolescents and young adults.

I believe that we can solve problems by creating new solutions and coping strategies to promote positive change and growth. My goal is to assist you in your personal growth by creating a safe, non-judgmental, and affirming space. I specialize in working with kids, teenagers, and young adults experiencing life-transitions, depression/mood disorders, personal stressors/emotional regulation, relationship issues, and those who identify as LGBTQIA +.

A clinical social worker with 17 years experience, Chad Anderson has successfully helped children, adolescents, and adults from all races, faiths, and sexual orientations work on individualized goals ranging from improving relationships, alleviating depression, reconciling faith with sexuality, managing addiction to avoid relapse, living with difficult mental health conditions, managing life change, and more. Chad wants to make sure you leave every session with something concrete to work on so you can notice changes in your life now, and recognize progress over time. Each client is given an individual treatment plan.

Have you ever felt judged or pressured by a previous therapist that did not share your values? Do you search for a tattoo or a piercing to make sure a therapist is "safe"? Finding a therapist in Utah can be so difficult if you don't fall into the dominant religious culture. The last few years has been painful and traumatic for so many. It is no surprise that many of us feel isolated and paralyzed by social anxiety, while potentially facing a recent loss of community. If you are going through a faith transition, are LGBTQ , or want help in learning new coping skills, I'd love to work with you.

I enjoy working with clients of all ages, especially related to anxiety, depression, OCD, identity exploration, suicidal ideation, and trauma processing. I am passionate about LGBTQIA + individuals receiving queer -affirming therapy that empowers them to find a community who will support and celebrate all aspects of their identity. I use an eclectic, trauma-informed approach drawing from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), psychodynamic therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, and principles of mindfulness and self-compassion.

Life is a challenging adventure. I work best with people who are curious about getting unstuck and pursuing their goals. Whether it is stagnation in your career, challenges in your relationship, or anxiety about the many "what ifs" we face each day, asking questions and exploring possibilities provides a way forward. Learning more useful strategies to cope and engage with challenges will be a cornerstone of our work together.

Do you have anxiety or stress that is crippling your life? Depression that keeps you from connecting with others or thriving in your career? Anger that gets in the way of relationships? Or perhaps your marriage or relationship seems to be crumbling. If any of these hit home with you, therapy will help you.

Mountain Pediatric Psychology provides mental health services to children and adolescents who are medically complex and their families. MPP also serves LGBTQIA + youth seeking support along their medical journey.