LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Broadlands, VA

Photo of Ana Paula Goncalves, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MS
Ana Paula Goncalves
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA, MS
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
If you are experiencing stress and challenges in your life, dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, or depression, you don’t need to go through it alone. I am committed to supporting you in your journey toward healing and personal growth. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, creating a warm, non-judgmental space where we can work together to explore issues and create meaningful changes in your life by gaining insight and developing new coping strategies.
If you are experiencing stress and challenges in your life, dealing with trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, or depression, you don’t need to go through it alone. I am committed to supporting you in your journey toward healing and personal growth. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, creating a warm, non-judgmental space where we can work together to explore issues and create meaningful changes in your life by gaining insight and developing new coping strategies.
(571) 621-7013 View (571) 621-7013
Photo of Judy Valeski deBullet - Judy Valeski, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Judy Valeski, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in depression and anxiety, communication skills, couples counseling, grief and loss, single parenting, career counseling, and chronic illness. As a Resident in Counseling, I tend to use aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as we work together to help clients see immediate connections between their thoughts and their current actions. This often allows for acknowledgement and change to occur sooner, and clients can experience the satisfaction from the results of their hard work.
I specialize in depression and anxiety, communication skills, couples counseling, grief and loss, single parenting, career counseling, and chronic illness. As a Resident in Counseling, I tend to use aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as we work together to help clients see immediate connections between their thoughts and their current actions. This often allows for acknowledgement and change to occur sooner, and clients can experience the satisfaction from the results of their hard work.
(703) 291-0721 View (703) 291-0721
Photo of Suzanne Cooper, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Suzanne Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I help people who grew up in difficult or emotionally painful families untangle self-doubt, shame, and people-pleasing, so they can feel more comfortable being themselves. If you’ve spent your life taking care of others, feeling like you’re “too much” or “not enough,” or struggling to set boundaries, you’re not alone. The ways we learn to survive in childhood can follow us into adulthood in ways that leave us feeling stuck, anxious, or disconnected. With support, these patterns can be understood and changed. They don’t have to define us.
I help people who grew up in difficult or emotionally painful families untangle self-doubt, shame, and people-pleasing, so they can feel more comfortable being themselves. If you’ve spent your life taking care of others, feeling like you’re “too much” or “not enough,” or struggling to set boundaries, you’re not alone. The ways we learn to survive in childhood can follow us into adulthood in ways that leave us feeling stuck, anxious, or disconnected. With support, these patterns can be understood and changed. They don’t have to define us.
(571) 946-6740 View (571) 946-6740

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Emily Pitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSWC
Emily Pitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSWC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I cn help people who are trying to manage their anxiety, or who have experienced trauma in their lives, or who are having difficulty in their relationships and are trying to figure out why. I also focus on helping you to accept aspects of yourself, even if the rest of the world doesn't always seem to accept you. I can help you to understand yourself better by exploring the past and present with you, to determine what does and does not work in your life, and to understand (and fully claim) aspects of your identity.
I cn help people who are trying to manage their anxiety, or who have experienced trauma in their lives, or who are having difficulty in their relationships and are trying to figure out why. I also focus on helping you to accept aspects of yourself, even if the rest of the world doesn't always seem to accept you. I can help you to understand yourself better by exploring the past and present with you, to determine what does and does not work in your life, and to understand (and fully claim) aspects of your identity.
(301) 383-9717 View (301) 383-9717
Photo of Ashley Buckner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LIMHP
Ashley Buckner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LIMHP
Alexandria, VA 22314
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirming and gender-affirming care, and I intentionally incorporate this perspective into therapy, supervision, and consultation.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals, families, and communities in achieving emotional wellness and meaningful change. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, as well as navigating complex systems of care. This broad foundation allows me to bring a thoughtful, collaborative, and systems-informed perspective to every therapeutic relationship. I believe effective therapy begins with creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered.
I specialize in LGBTQIA+ affirming and gender-affirming care, and I intentionally incorporate this perspective into therapy, supervision, and consultation.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience in the behavioral health field, I am deeply committed to supporting individuals, families, and communities in achieving emotional wellness and meaningful change. My clinical experience includes working with children, adolescents, adults, and families, as well as navigating complex systems of care. This broad foundation allows me to bring a thoughtful, collaborative, and systems-informed perspective to every therapeutic relationship. I believe effective therapy begins with creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals feel seen, heard, and empowered.
(301) 392-7120 View (301) 392-7120
Photo of Dr. Lisa Clarke, Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPC
Dr. Lisa Clarke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPC
Online Only
I work with adult individuals 21 years and older from all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ communities.
Greetings, Dr. Clarke here! Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or the pain of relationship maintenance? It can feel lonely and frightening. Please know, you don't have to do do this alone You can navigate these challenges with my support. I’m a Counseling Psychologist (LMFT, LPC) specializing in: • Anxiety & Depression • Personal Development and Self Worth • Relationship Recovery Additionally, I provide support for Active Duty, Veterans, and Military Families. My military background provides me with an ability to understand the stresses unique to the transitions, and unspoken expectations that come with military life.
I work with adult individuals 21 years and older from all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ communities.
Greetings, Dr. Clarke here! Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, or the pain of relationship maintenance? It can feel lonely and frightening. Please know, you don't have to do do this alone You can navigate these challenges with my support. I’m a Counseling Psychologist (LMFT, LPC) specializing in: • Anxiety & Depression • Personal Development and Self Worth • Relationship Recovery Additionally, I provide support for Active Duty, Veterans, and Military Families. My military background provides me with an ability to understand the stresses unique to the transitions, and unspoken expectations that come with military life.
(757) 919-3601 View (757) 919-3601
Photo of Hilda Dwumfuor - Ayaresa Therapy LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS
Ayaresa Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, MSW, MS
Online Only
Our ideal clients are individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions who feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their next steps. They’re seeking a supportive, culturally responsive space to process their emotions, build self-awareness, and strengthen their resilience. Whether facing stress, identity concerns, or relationship challenges, they’re looking for authentic therapists who truly understand their lived experiences. With the right support and guidance, they’re ready to heal, grow, and create meaningful, lasting change.
Our ideal clients are individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, or major life transitions who feel overwhelmed and uncertain about their next steps. They’re seeking a supportive, culturally responsive space to process their emotions, build self-awareness, and strengthen their resilience. Whether facing stress, identity concerns, or relationship challenges, they’re looking for authentic therapists who truly understand their lived experiences. With the right support and guidance, they’re ready to heal, grow, and create meaningful, lasting change.
(470) 354-1524 View (470) 354-1524
Photo of Reebha Aggarwal, Licensed Social Worker, MSW
Reebha Aggarwal
Licensed Social Worker, MSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Reebha— a queer South Asian, first-generation immigrant therapist passionate about helping people rewrite their stories through healing, self-discovery, and connection.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness & Somatic Awareness, and use a trauma informed, attachment based lens. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and sometimes a little messy (in the best way).
Hi, I’m Reebha— a queer South Asian, first-generation immigrant therapist passionate about helping people rewrite their stories through healing, self-discovery, and connection.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness & Somatic Awareness, and use a trauma informed, attachment based lens. Therapy with me is collaborative, compassionate, and sometimes a little messy (in the best way).
(804) 567-7313 View (804) 567-7313
Photo of Adele Stuckey, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Adele Stuckey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR-BC
Alexandria, VA 22314
I work with adults seeking support for ADHD, autistic life experiences, trauma, and overall wellbeing with LGBTQIA+ affirming art therapy and counseling.
I offer individual therapy and neurodiverse couples therapy for Autistic adults and ADHDers who are interested in building strategies that actually work for their support needs. I also work with individuals who are navigating fertility treatment, pregnancy, and parenthood as a queer person.
I work with adults seeking support for ADHD, autistic life experiences, trauma, and overall wellbeing with LGBTQIA+ affirming art therapy and counseling.
I offer individual therapy and neurodiverse couples therapy for Autistic adults and ADHDers who are interested in building strategies that actually work for their support needs. I also work with individuals who are navigating fertility treatment, pregnancy, and parenthood as a queer person.
(571) 601-3139 View (571) 601-3139
Photo of Ellison Spencer-Helms, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ellison Spencer-Helms
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike.
I offer body-based, trauma-informed therapy to help you reconnect with yourself, regulate your nervous system, and build the resilience needed to move through life with more ease and self-trust. Strategies include CBT, DBT, and somatic techniques. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and deeply affirming of who you are and where you've been.
As a queer and nonbinary therapist, I both specialize in and relate to these issues, and I have several years of experience with children and adults alike.
I offer body-based, trauma-informed therapy to help you reconnect with yourself, regulate your nervous system, and build the resilience needed to move through life with more ease and self-trust. Strategies include CBT, DBT, and somatic techniques. My approach is grounded, compassionate, and deeply affirming of who you are and where you've been.
(804) 376-8492 View (804) 376-8492
Photo of Molly Blemker, Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Molly Blemker
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience working with mental health, substance use, and trauma-related issues, as well as those struggling with adjustment challenges, nervous system regulation, relational conflict, LGBTQ+ issues, and identity exploration.
I am passionate about helping clients return home to themselves to live more present, authentic, and embodied lives. I believe in everyone’s capacity to heal and meet all the parts of ourselves with greater compassion and curiosity. My work is rooted in the belief that our bodies hold profound wisdom and that healing comes from understanding and integrating all aspects of ourselves.
I have experience working with mental health, substance use, and trauma-related issues, as well as those struggling with adjustment challenges, nervous system regulation, relational conflict, LGBTQ+ issues, and identity exploration.
I am passionate about helping clients return home to themselves to live more present, authentic, and embodied lives. I believe in everyone’s capacity to heal and meet all the parts of ourselves with greater compassion and curiosity. My work is rooted in the belief that our bodies hold profound wisdom and that healing comes from understanding and integrating all aspects of ourselves.
(804) 589-5725 View (804) 589-5725
Photo of CJ Mooney, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, CCTP-II
CJ Mooney
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, CCTP-II
Serves Area
I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
As an eclectic systemic therapist, I pull what works for you from many different therapy models to create a client-centered, tailored experience. Above all, my work values emotional honesty, self-care, mindfulness, and humor. I hope to create an environment that is warm, affirming, inclusive, and celebratory of all the things that are uniquely "you".
I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
As an eclectic systemic therapist, I pull what works for you from many different therapy models to create a client-centered, tailored experience. Above all, my work values emotional honesty, self-care, mindfulness, and humor. I hope to create an environment that is warm, affirming, inclusive, and celebratory of all the things that are uniquely "you".
(484) 214-2810 View (484) 214-2810
Photo of Phalande Jean, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LGPC, CCTP
Phalande Jean
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LGPC, CCTP
Online Only
I work with the LGBTQ, BIPOC, neurodivergent, immigrants, kink/BDSM community, polyamorous or nonmonogamous folks, and survivors who are done with shrinking, burning out, or wondering if they’re "too much
Whether you're navigating complex relationships, unlearning survival patterns, or healing in the aftermath of harm, therapy with me is collaborative, tender, and rooted in dignity. I offer therapy that honors your cultural, spiritual, and erotic truths, no need to filter or censor. We’ll go at your pace, together.
I work with the LGBTQ, BIPOC, neurodivergent, immigrants, kink/BDSM community, polyamorous or nonmonogamous folks, and survivors who are done with shrinking, burning out, or wondering if they’re "too much
Whether you're navigating complex relationships, unlearning survival patterns, or healing in the aftermath of harm, therapy with me is collaborative, tender, and rooted in dignity. I offer therapy that honors your cultural, spiritual, and erotic truths, no need to filter or censor. We’ll go at your pace, together.
(202) 831-7967 View (202) 831-7967
Photo of Thomas D. Williams, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CAC II, NCC
Thomas D. Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CAC II, NCC
Serves Area
A number of things can get in the way of us having the life that we want. My role in therapy is to help clients think through strategies to better enable themselves to navigate the transitions and the difficult circumstances they encounter to ultimately become the person they want to be. Therapy is about living an authentic life by taking action on the things that matter most to us, living in the direction of what we see as valuable, and engaging fully in what we do. Let me help you become "unstuck" from old patterns and develop the tools to live a more satisfying life. You do not have to figure this out on your own.
A number of things can get in the way of us having the life that we want. My role in therapy is to help clients think through strategies to better enable themselves to navigate the transitions and the difficult circumstances they encounter to ultimately become the person they want to be. Therapy is about living an authentic life by taking action on the things that matter most to us, living in the direction of what we see as valuable, and engaging fully in what we do. Let me help you become "unstuck" from old patterns and develop the tools to live a more satisfying life. You do not have to figure this out on your own.
(202) 953-6357 View (202) 953-6357
Photo of Petey Horton, Pre-Licensed Professional
Petey Horton
Pre-Licensed Professional
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Hey badasses and tenderhearts. I’m Petey, a sex educator and therapy intern making the taboo feel totally normal. I create inclusive, shame free spaces where you can show up as your full, messy, beautiful self. I work mostly with adults on sexual wellness, intimacy, identity, and unlearning sexual shame. I also support couples. I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling. If you are curious, questioning, healing, or just want to talk about the stuff no one else will, I am here for it. Let’s talk!
Hey badasses and tenderhearts. I’m Petey, a sex educator and therapy intern making the taboo feel totally normal. I create inclusive, shame free spaces where you can show up as your full, messy, beautiful self. I work mostly with adults on sexual wellness, intimacy, identity, and unlearning sexual shame. I also support couples. I bring a mix of art and science to the therapy room with a background in bioethics, studio art, and counseling. If you are curious, questioning, healing, or just want to talk about the stuff no one else will, I am here for it. Let’s talk!
(703) 457-8665 x1 View (703) 457-8665 x1
Photo of Amelia McKinney, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Amelia McKinney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lorton, VA 22079
My ideal clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, school difficulties, ADHD, and Autism. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, acting out, shutting down, or having difficulty coping with everyday stress. Some may also be experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts. In my practice, I help children build emotional regulation, confidence, and healthier ways to express themselves. I also support them in developing coping skills to increase distress tolerance, while working collaboratively with parents to create meaningful and lasting progress.
My ideal clients are children and adolescents who are struggling with anxiety, behavioral challenges, depression, school difficulties, ADHD, and Autism. Many come to therapy feeling overwhelmed, acting out, shutting down, or having difficulty coping with everyday stress. Some may also be experiencing self-harm or suicidal thoughts. In my practice, I help children build emotional regulation, confidence, and healthier ways to express themselves. I also support them in developing coping skills to increase distress tolerance, while working collaboratively with parents to create meaningful and lasting progress.
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Photo of Katheryne Schmidt, Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Katheryne Schmidt
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
7 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with individuals navigating chronic illness who may be struggling with grief, isolation, shame, loss of identity, changes in relationships, and the emotional impact of limitations that feel outside of their control. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing a condition for many years, therapy can provide a space to process the challenges that come with adapting to ongoing changes and uncertainty. Together, we work toward building practical coping strategies, increasing emotional resilience, improving communication and boundaries, and creating a life that feels meaningful despite ongoing challenges.
I work with individuals navigating chronic illness who may be struggling with grief, isolation, shame, loss of identity, changes in relationships, and the emotional impact of limitations that feel outside of their control. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been managing a condition for many years, therapy can provide a space to process the challenges that come with adapting to ongoing changes and uncertainty. Together, we work toward building practical coping strategies, increasing emotional resilience, improving communication and boundaries, and creating a life that feels meaningful despite ongoing challenges.
(540) 426-1824 View (540) 426-1824
Photo of Kelsey Smith Crowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Kelsey Smith Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Often that means exploring identity, coming out later in life, or building genuine connections inside polyamorous, ENM, queer, and other expansive relationship structures.
“Tell me, what is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” –Mary Oliver (I am NC, SC and VA licensed). I want my clients to do more than survive what's hard- I want them to thrive and genuinely fall in love with their lives. There's nothing quite like helping someone find their way back to themselves, especially in the middle of big life changes or shifts. I believe the answers we're looking for are already within us; it's really about learning to trust them. Change is our one guarantee in life. I'm committed to a space where your experience and identity aren't just accepted... they are fully celebrated!
Often that means exploring identity, coming out later in life, or building genuine connections inside polyamorous, ENM, queer, and other expansive relationship structures.
“Tell me, what is it that you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” –Mary Oliver (I am NC, SC and VA licensed). I want my clients to do more than survive what's hard- I want them to thrive and genuinely fall in love with their lives. There's nothing quite like helping someone find their way back to themselves, especially in the middle of big life changes or shifts. I believe the answers we're looking for are already within us; it's really about learning to trust them. Change is our one guarantee in life. I'm committed to a space where your experience and identity aren't just accepted... they are fully celebrated!
(704) 469-4105 View (704) 469-4105
Photo of Brittni Dash - SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
SMYAL's LGBTQ+ Clinical Therapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Serves Area
Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience.
Our Mental health services are open to LGBTQIA+ youth ages 6-24. If you are interested in getting connected to SMYAL’s mental health services, please fill out a referral form from our website smyal.org/clinicalservices or call 202-617-5645. You can fill out the form yourself or have another healthcare provider refer you. We also offer Parent Group.
Our team of therapists are well-versed in the challenges that LGBTQ+ youth face, and we are here to help you navigate those challenges with confidence and resilience.
Our Mental health services are open to LGBTQIA+ youth ages 6-24. If you are interested in getting connected to SMYAL’s mental health services, please fill out a referral form from our website smyal.org/clinicalservices or call 202-617-5645. You can fill out the form yourself or have another healthcare provider refer you. We also offer Parent Group.
(202) 804-0992 View (202) 804-0992
Photo of Niti Patel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Niti Patel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
Other areas of interest include working with LGBTQIA communities, 1st and 2nd generation immigrants, as well as exploring the impact of generational trauma, identity development, and grief and loss.
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based and is also informed by a systems framework that explores one's environment, community, and systems of oppression. I draw from several trauma-informed approaches depending on goals and needs, including EMDR and IFS, and also integrate mind-body approaches.
Other areas of interest include working with LGBTQIA communities, 1st and 2nd generation immigrants, as well as exploring the impact of generational trauma, identity development, and grief and loss.
My approach is person-centered and strengths-based and is also informed by a systems framework that explores one's environment, community, and systems of oppression. I draw from several trauma-informed approaches depending on goals and needs, including EMDR and IFS, and also integrate mind-body approaches.
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See more therapy options for Broadlands

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.