Lesbian Therapists in Clifton, VA
I work with teens and adults with intercultural, LGBTQIA+, and/or neurodivergent identities who are trying to figure out life's challenges and want to feel seen and supported by a therapist who gets it. Whether it's processing early-life or recent traumatic experiences, managing stressful family dynamics, grieiving a loss, wanting to care for others without losing yourself, navigating the world as a sensitive or stressed out human, exploring patterns that show up in your relationships/daily life, or nurturing meaningful and joyful connection - I'm here to support you with compassion, authenticity, and humor.
I work with teens and adults with intercultural, LGBTQIA+, and/or neurodivergent identities who are trying to figure out life's challenges and want to feel seen and supported by a therapist who gets it. Whether it's processing early-life or recent traumatic experiences, managing stressful family dynamics, grieiving a loss, wanting to care for others without losing yourself, navigating the world as a sensitive or stressed out human, exploring patterns that show up in your relationships/daily life, or nurturing meaningful and joyful connection - I'm here to support you with compassion, authenticity, and humor.
Hello! I enjoy working with people navigating hard emotions, life transitions, and the ways the past shows up in the present. Sessions are flexible, and I often draw on parts-work — the idea that all our reactions (even ones that show up when we're stressed!) deserve a seat at the table. I identify as queer and have extensive experience working with trans and non-binary folks. I'm attuned to the particular stressors that come with our identities — whether that's the heart of our work or just knowing you're welcomed as you are. Clients often describe our work as collaborative, honest, and a space to hold whatever life brings.
Hello! I enjoy working with people navigating hard emotions, life transitions, and the ways the past shows up in the present. Sessions are flexible, and I often draw on parts-work — the idea that all our reactions (even ones that show up when we're stressed!) deserve a seat at the table. I identify as queer and have extensive experience working with trans and non-binary folks. I'm attuned to the particular stressors that come with our identities — whether that's the heart of our work or just knowing you're welcomed as you are. Clients often describe our work as collaborative, honest, and a space to hold whatever life brings.
It is not easy to ask for help, but in working with me you will find a safe, compassionate, and accepting space that fosters growth and personal development. My strengths-focused approach relies on mindfulness, insight and working to help get you unstuck. I take a holistic approach in working with issues of anxiety and depression, postpartum depression and anxiety, infertility, life transitions, parent coaching, and persistent relationship or family difficulties. I am a safe place where you can explore the past and we will work to build the future you choose from a place of love and compassion.
It is not easy to ask for help, but in working with me you will find a safe, compassionate, and accepting space that fosters growth and personal development. My strengths-focused approach relies on mindfulness, insight and working to help get you unstuck. I take a holistic approach in working with issues of anxiety and depression, postpartum depression and anxiety, infertility, life transitions, parent coaching, and persistent relationship or family difficulties. I am a safe place where you can explore the past and we will work to build the future you choose from a place of love and compassion.
Utilizing the most current research in neuroscience and attachment theory, I provide brain-based therapy for young adults and adults who need assistance navigating emotional pain and adjustment to life's challenges. The approach I use is strength-based, and the focus is to build resiliency by creating an environment of safety, flexibility, and humor. My goal is to support you as you resolve past hurts, identify and process present stressors and discover the power you need to live the life you dream.
Utilizing the most current research in neuroscience and attachment theory, I provide brain-based therapy for young adults and adults who need assistance navigating emotional pain and adjustment to life's challenges. The approach I use is strength-based, and the focus is to build resiliency by creating an environment of safety, flexibility, and humor. My goal is to support you as you resolve past hurts, identify and process present stressors and discover the power you need to live the life you dream.
More Therapists Nearby
Lori Zastrow - Queerness Neurodivergence Burnout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
McLean, VA 22102
Accepting new clients 8/7/26! Could you use some healing, but aren't sure where to start? Do you struggle with overthinking, people pleasing, or just feel burned out with life? Therapy can help you develop a new relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences so you can move through life easier. My approach is curious, insight-oriented, and grounded in compassion. Together, we will highlight your strengths, gently explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and make space to process your experiences in a way that brings clarity.
Accepting new clients 8/7/26! Could you use some healing, but aren't sure where to start? Do you struggle with overthinking, people pleasing, or just feel burned out with life? Therapy can help you develop a new relationship with your thoughts, emotions, and lived experiences so you can move through life easier. My approach is curious, insight-oriented, and grounded in compassion. Together, we will highlight your strengths, gently explore the patterns that may be keeping you stuck, and make space to process your experiences in a way that brings clarity.
At River Grove Therapy, we hold space for meaningful connection with our clients and their families. The clinicians at River Grove Therapy (RGT) specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, trauma and loss. We are a small, high quality psychotherapy practice in Old Town Alexandria. We are an anti-racist, anti-ableist, pro-LGBTQ+ practice. We meet each client's unique needs based on our therapists' experience and specialized training.
At River Grove Therapy, we hold space for meaningful connection with our clients and their families. The clinicians at River Grove Therapy (RGT) specialize in working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, life adjustments, trauma and loss. We are a small, high quality psychotherapy practice in Old Town Alexandria. We are an anti-racist, anti-ableist, pro-LGBTQ+ practice. We meet each client's unique needs based on our therapists' experience and specialized training.
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you come to explore your identities, your relationships, a life-changing event, or just the feeling that something is “off,” I believe powerful change can happen in the context of a supportive therapeutic relationship. It can be so difficult to seek out a therapist and I understand you may have had negative experiences with therapy in the past. I appreciate the resilience that led you to this page.
I believe everyone can benefit from therapy. Whether you come to explore your identities, your relationships, a life-changing event, or just the feeling that something is “off,” I believe powerful change can happen in the context of a supportive therapeutic relationship. It can be so difficult to seek out a therapist and I understand you may have had negative experiences with therapy in the past. I appreciate the resilience that led you to this page.
Do you find yourself reaching out for support about the same things, over and over? Frustrated with the same people, the same dynamics, the same outcomes – and not sure why nothing ever shifts? Maybe you're craving some relief, some quiet, some peace, but it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you're not even sure what you need, only that what you're doing isn't working. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone – and there are real reasons why you keep ending up in the same place.
Do you find yourself reaching out for support about the same things, over and over? Frustrated with the same people, the same dynamics, the same outcomes – and not sure why nothing ever shifts? Maybe you're craving some relief, some quiet, some peace, but it always feels just out of reach. Maybe you're not even sure what you need, only that what you're doing isn't working. If any of this sounds familiar, you're not alone – and there are real reasons why you keep ending up in the same place.
If you feel like you “have it all,” but you can’t shake this nagging feeling that something is missing or feel overwhelmed trying to manage your multiple roles (parent, spouse, partner, friend, co-worker), I can help. I don't practice one-size-fits-all therapy. I’ll follow your lead and use the creative process as a guide to connect with your thoughts and feelings. I work with adults seeking support for ADHD, autistic life experiences, trauma, and overall wellbeing with LGBTQIA+ affirming art therapy and counseling. My work also includes neurodiverse couples therapy, supporting Autistic adults and ADHDers in their relationship.
If you feel like you “have it all,” but you can’t shake this nagging feeling that something is missing or feel overwhelmed trying to manage your multiple roles (parent, spouse, partner, friend, co-worker), I can help. I don't practice one-size-fits-all therapy. I’ll follow your lead and use the creative process as a guide to connect with your thoughts and feelings. I work with adults seeking support for ADHD, autistic life experiences, trauma, and overall wellbeing with LGBTQIA+ affirming art therapy and counseling. My work also includes neurodiverse couples therapy, supporting Autistic adults and ADHDers in their relationship.
I'm glad you're here. Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage to ask for the help you need. I am passionate about my work with clients and find great meaning and value in being part of this chapter of your life. I primarily have experience working with anxiety, and depression, as well as relational, religious, and childhood traumas. I have specialized training in the integration of spirituality and psychological concerns including crisis of faith and/or navigating sexuality. I have also completed training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
I'm glad you're here. Making the decision to begin therapy takes courage to ask for the help you need. I am passionate about my work with clients and find great meaning and value in being part of this chapter of your life. I primarily have experience working with anxiety, and depression, as well as relational, religious, and childhood traumas. I have specialized training in the integration of spirituality and psychological concerns including crisis of faith and/or navigating sexuality. I have also completed training in psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
Accepting New Clients (6/2/2026)! Overwhelmed by intense emotions, impulsive urges, or self-harm? Are you a parent worried about a teen who feels stuck in depression, anxiety, or destructive behaviors? If this sounds familiar, you're in the right place! I specialize in full-model Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a proven approach for borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidality, depression, eating disorders, and anxiety. Comprehensive DBT includes individual therapy, DBT skills training group, and 24/7 phone coaching (to implement DBT skills in your real life)! This treatment brightens and saves lives.
Accepting New Clients (6/2/2026)! Overwhelmed by intense emotions, impulsive urges, or self-harm? Are you a parent worried about a teen who feels stuck in depression, anxiety, or destructive behaviors? If this sounds familiar, you're in the right place! I specialize in full-model Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), a proven approach for borderline personality disorder, self-harm, suicidality, depression, eating disorders, and anxiety. Comprehensive DBT includes individual therapy, DBT skills training group, and 24/7 phone coaching (to implement DBT skills in your real life)! This treatment brightens and saves lives.
I believe we heal through relationships. They can positively rewire our brains and facilitate growth. In our sessions, we will enter into a therapeutic relationship through conversation. Together we will create a safe space and explore the things that are troubling you. We will learn more about your thoughts, your feelings, and your beliefs. We will examine how those things influence your behaviors. The more you know, the more control you have in the way you move through life. The key to transformational change is awareness. Our focus will be on the present-what is happening now, and how you want to be.
I believe we heal through relationships. They can positively rewire our brains and facilitate growth. In our sessions, we will enter into a therapeutic relationship through conversation. Together we will create a safe space and explore the things that are troubling you. We will learn more about your thoughts, your feelings, and your beliefs. We will examine how those things influence your behaviors. The more you know, the more control you have in the way you move through life. The key to transformational change is awareness. Our focus will be on the present-what is happening now, and how you want to be.
You may be newly diagnosed with autism or ADHD, struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or OCD, navigating disability/chronic illness and the impacts of ableism, or just looking for new ways to cope with life’s challenges. Therapy provides a supportive space to explore how your mind works, build self-understanding and acceptance, and work towards your personal goals. Together we can find ways to navigate uncertainty and live a life aligned with your values.
You may be newly diagnosed with autism or ADHD, struggling with anxiety, intrusive thoughts, or OCD, navigating disability/chronic illness and the impacts of ableism, or just looking for new ways to cope with life’s challenges. Therapy provides a supportive space to explore how your mind works, build self-understanding and acceptance, and work towards your personal goals. Together we can find ways to navigate uncertainty and live a life aligned with your values.
I am a licensed psychologist in VA and a pre-licensed professional in GA.
I work with autistic people who are navigating isolation, depression, and anxiety. I also work with disordered eating and gender dysphoria. At the heart of my work is a commitment to practicing psychological flexibility, the ability to stay present, connect with what matters most, and take action aligned with your values, even when it’s difficult. This allows us to shift from rigid patterns of coping into more empowering ways of engaging.
I am a licensed psychologist in VA and a pre-licensed professional in GA.
I work with autistic people who are navigating isolation, depression, and anxiety. I also work with disordered eating and gender dysphoria. At the heart of my work is a commitment to practicing psychological flexibility, the ability to stay present, connect with what matters most, and take action aligned with your values, even when it’s difficult. This allows us to shift from rigid patterns of coping into more empowering ways of engaging.
Is your child struggling in school, shutting down at home, or carrying more than they should at their age? You don’t have to figure this out alone. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults work through anxiety, trauma, grief, and the pressures of growing up — in a space where they actually feel safe to be themselves.
As a Virginia-licensed school counselor and Resident in Counseling with Inner Tranquility Counseling Group, I provide compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity exploration.
Is your child struggling in school, shutting down at home, or carrying more than they should at their age? You don’t have to figure this out alone. I specialize in helping children, teens, and young adults work through anxiety, trauma, grief, and the pressures of growing up — in a space where they actually feel safe to be themselves.
As a Virginia-licensed school counselor and Resident in Counseling with Inner Tranquility Counseling Group, I provide compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for children, teens, and adults navigating anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationship challenges, and identity exploration.
As a therapist, I hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients
1. to explore their inner lives and
2. to learn how to make their day-to-day lives better, one step at a time.
I use a variety of evidenced-based approaches to help you gain clarity about your thoughts and feelings. We will also spend time figuring out what coping skills help you feel and function better.
At the end of the day, I want our work together to support you in being more at home in your mind and body and to empower you as you take action on your goals.
As a therapist, I hold a compassionate, non-judgmental space for clients
1. to explore their inner lives and
2. to learn how to make their day-to-day lives better, one step at a time.
I use a variety of evidenced-based approaches to help you gain clarity about your thoughts and feelings. We will also spend time figuring out what coping skills help you feel and function better.
At the end of the day, I want our work together to support you in being more at home in your mind and body and to empower you as you take action on your goals.
Life can quickly become overwhelming and difficult to manage at times. Thankfully, you never have to be alone in navigating these experiences. Through the therapeutic process, we can work together to explore the challenges you're facing. Whether you're unsure about your career, who you are in the world, or how to manage daily stress - we'll tackle it together. During our time, I will work to understand you in the present and where you'd like to be in the future. Through the therapeutic relationship we can work towards your goals, develop a better understanding of self, and how to appropriately cope with life stressors.
Life can quickly become overwhelming and difficult to manage at times. Thankfully, you never have to be alone in navigating these experiences. Through the therapeutic process, we can work together to explore the challenges you're facing. Whether you're unsure about your career, who you are in the world, or how to manage daily stress - we'll tackle it together. During our time, I will work to understand you in the present and where you'd like to be in the future. Through the therapeutic relationship we can work towards your goals, develop a better understanding of self, and how to appropriately cope with life stressors.
Welcome! I'm Sylvia Lawson-Cook, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With over 25 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and heal from trauma. I am part of the LGBTQIA+ community and have lived experience with trauma, which allows me to connect deeply with my clients.
Welcome! I'm Sylvia Lawson-Cook, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. With over 25 years of experience, I am dedicated to helping individuals navigate life's challenges and heal from trauma. I am part of the LGBTQIA+ community and have lived experience with trauma, which allows me to connect deeply with my clients.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Emotional challenges and mental illness do not discriminate. No matter your race, orientation, gender, or religion, you matter. Open Mind Health offers a diverse group of providers who specialize in helping others find relief from a full spectrum of challenges. We offer 21 customized Wellness Tracks that address core symptoms, core life domains, & diverse populations to get the roots of emotional challenges – no one-size fits all or band aid approaches. We assess and advance your Personal Evolution so that you can become your best self. 96% of our clients rate their experience with Open Mind Health as Excellent or Very Good.
Thank you for prioritizing your health. At this time I am only accepting clients for Video sessions and Telehealth with availability on Tuesdays, Thursday or Friday . There is no need to wait for a return phone call. You have the option of scheduling an appointment today and viewing my schedule by using this link below. Copy and paste the link into your browser to schedule your first appointment and complete initial paperwork. https://visionhopeandhealing.clientsecure.me
Thank you for prioritizing your health. At this time I am only accepting clients for Video sessions and Telehealth with availability on Tuesdays, Thursday or Friday . There is no need to wait for a return phone call. You have the option of scheduling an appointment today and viewing my schedule by using this link below. Copy and paste the link into your browser to schedule your first appointment and complete initial paperwork. https://visionhopeandhealing.clientsecure.me
See more therapy options for Clifton
Nearby Lesbian Therapists Searches for Clifton
- Burke
- Centreville
- Chantilly
- Fairfax
- Fairfax Station
- Manassas
- Manassas Park
- Oakton
- South Riding
- Springfield
- Sudley Springs
- West Springfield
Lesbian Therapists
What is lesbian-affirming therapy?
Lesbian-affirming therapy is a type of mental health support that fully affirms and reflects a client's lesbian identity. It is rooted in acceptance and does not attempt to change or question an individual's sexual orientation. In this type of therapy, clients work with a therapist who understands the unique experiences of lesbian women. This support is especially important, as research shows that lesbian individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges compared to heterosexual populations. Lesbian-affirming therapy acknowledges that lesbian individuals may encounter specific stressors—such as coming out challenges, family rejection, workplace discrimination, and minority stress—that require specialized understanding and intervention. Lesbian-affirming therapists often work with clients across all age groups, from adolescents navigating their emerging identity to adults and older individuals addressing life transitions and relationship concerns. Many therapists also provide couples therapy for lesbian partners, helping them navigate relationship dynamics, communication challenges, or external stressors that may impact their relationship. It is important to note that therapists provide talk therapy and counseling services but do not prescribe medication—if medication is needed for conditions like depression or anxiety, they will coordinate care with a psychiatrist or primary care physician who can provide psychiatric medication management alongside therapeutic support.
Why should I see a lesbian therapist?
Some clients prefer to work with lesbian therapists who may bring personal lived experience to the therapeutic relationship. Choosing to work with a lesbian therapist can offer a deeper sense of connection, comfort, and shared understanding. A therapist who identifies as lesbian may require clients to give less background explanation—whether it’s about navigating romantic relationships, feeling unseen in certain spaces, or processing the impact of past relationship challenges. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. However, a non-lesbian therapist with strong training and a sincere commitment to LGBTQ+ affirmation can be equally effective. The most important factor is finding a therapist who respects your identity and fosters trust, safety, and understanding. Additionally, many lesbian-affirming therapists can connect clients to other providers or community-based resources—such as bisexual support groups or LGBTQ+ organizations—that offer additional affirming spaces for connection.
How do I find a lesbian therapist?
The Psychology Today online directory is a helpful tool for finding lesbian-affirming therapists. You can use search filters to identify therapists who specialize in LGBTQ+ care and work specifically with bisexual clients. You can also filter by clinical specialties, therapeutic approaches, accepted insurance, session costs, and languages spoken to find the right fit. Look for profiles where therapists explicitly mention working with lesbian clients, or where they describe their approach as identity-affirming, inclusive, or trauma-informed. Many providers will also list their own identities, which may help you find someone with shared lived experience if that is important to you. You can also look for credentials or continuing education in areas such as LGBTQ+ mental health, trauma-informed care, and intersectionality.