LGBTQ+ Therapists in Fairfax, VA
See all therapists in Fairfax
Shannon Graves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
My expertise is in working with the
LGBTQ
+ community, adults who live with addiction, anxiety, trauma, and family-of-origin and boundary-setting exploration.
Do you often feel anxious or negative toward yourself? Do you want to create better relationships or feel more confident? Are there parts of yourself that you haven't explored and you're nervous about diving in? If any of these experiences resonate with you, I am here to support you. We all need validation and a space to be completely authentic and unedited, but also to be challenged to dig deeper and grow. I can offer you that space to create a stronger, healthier relationship with yourself. My experience has allowed me to work with a wide variety of therapeutic issues and I enjoy guiding individuals toward healing.

Jacob Clark
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Therapy is a relational process of contact that often results in incredible transformation. I have seen this while working with U.S. service members returning home from deployment, as an
LGBT
affirming counselor and primarily from within a framework of empathy and care. In my care, I will incorporate across modalities, including EMDR to enhance practical components of your life while simultaneously working in collaboration with you to create a life of meaning.

Rebecca Fleischer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
Verified
As a licensed clinical psychologist since 1997, I understand that the relationship and "fit" between client and therapist is paramount. I am a generalist, meaning that I work with clients from childhood to adulthood, in individual, family, couple's, and group therapy. I see clients dealing with issues including anxiety, conflict, depression, and relationship difficulties. In addition, I have an interest working with
gay
and
lesbian
clients. If you feel I can be helpful to you or someone you know, please feel free to contact me. I would be happy to discuss your unique situation in more detail.

Jenna Cataldi
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC
Verified
Verified
I also have additional expertise working with anxiety disorders, mood disorders,
LGBTQIA
+, addiction, and specialty training in risk assessment and sand tray therapy.
Therapy can be scary. It takes a lot of courage to seek support. As a therapist, I believe art making provides another language to communicate and process life experiences that are difficult to verbalize. Mark making represents evidence of our existence, and having a witness to your story is a powerful first step.

Laila Cooper
Psychologist, PhD
3 Endorsed
3 Endorsed
My work is focused on sex and gender issues (including
transgender
issues), sexual orientation, kink/BDSM, and interpersonal relationships (including couples, polyamory, family dyads).
Congratulations on making it this far; searching for a therapist can be an overwhelming process, and the first step is often the hardest! Many individuals struggle with depression, anxiety, struggles with sex, or simply the desire to understand themselves more thoroughly. Whether to improve mood and functioning, improve relationships, or work on issues with sex/sexuality, therapy can be reparative, strengthening, and play a role in maximizing enjoyment of life! I work from an affirming and social justice approach with people who identify as
LGBTQIA
and people of color, and I am kink- and non-monogamy informed and affirming.

Juliette Levchenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified
Verified
Additionally, I am openly
queer
, and passionate about working with folks in the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
I am a Supervisee in Social Work at Fairfax Place Therapy, where I practice under the supervision of Rachel Rosenberg, LCSW, RPT-S. As a social worker, I prioritize a strengths-based approach, and I deeply value the importance of human relationships. I believe the therapeutic relationship is essential in cultivating a brave space to facilitate connection and healing. To best fit you or your child’s needs, I aim to pull from different therapeutic approaches including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, and play therapy modalities.
Waitlist for new clients

Janette Brown Engelhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified
Verified
I have experience working with
LGBTQ
+/Gender Non Binary clients, the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, parents of children struggling with emotional regulation, and clients who have been diagnosed with mood disorders.
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.

Keystone Therapy Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCs, LMFTs, MA, MS, MEd
Verified
Verified
We are BIPOC and
LGBTQIA
+ allies.
We are accepting new clients! Keystone Therapy Group was founded to provide support and guidance to clients who are struggling to be who they want to be. We believe that anxiety, depression, stress, etc. occur as a symptom of a client experiencing thoughts or behaviors which are in conflict with who they want to be. When therapists provide a safe space for reflections, clients are able to understand the root of their symptoms and learn to make healthy changes in themselves or their relationships to pursue their ideal self. We enjoy working with clients who have an open mind and willingness to self-reflect.
Fairfax, VA 22030
& Online

Nicole Joseph
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
With my experience, I have become a specialist in several different areas: Anxiety; Parent Guidance; Life Transitions; Difficulty with Medical Diagnoses; Gender Dysphoria/Questioning,
LGBTQ
, and Eating Disorders.
What do YOU need? This is the deceptively simple question which I ask my clients almost every session. What would change if you asked yourself that simple question more often? This is an example of some of the foundational work which I'll infuse into our sessions. I LOVE what I do and am so honored to be a part of your life! My goal as your therapist is to encourage, support, empower, and listen. I view therapy as a true partnership where you're not alone while you navigate the 'messy middle' of life in these uncertain times. I work solely virtually after getting positive feedback from busy clients who appreciate this convenience.

Emily Claus
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified
Verified
I am a license eligible clinical psychologist who specializes in working with children, adolescents and adults. I'm trained in play and individual therapy for issues ranging from anxiety and mood disorders to ADHD, autism spectrum and other behavioral disorders. Some of specialties include psychological trauma (sexual/physical abuse, neglect) and
LGBT
issues. I also conducts psychological evaluations and assessments to help develop a more clear mental health diagnosis. I earned my doctoral degree in Clinical Psychology from Nova Southeastern University and completed her clinical internship at Pennsylvania Counseling Services.

Thomas I Knedler
Psychologist, PsyD, MA
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am especially skilled in working with persons of diverse identities including cultural and
LGBTQIA
+.
Are you tired of not living up to your potential? Are situations from your past not allowing you to live in the moment or prepare for your future? Do you feel misunderstood and unappreciated? Do you want to learn to value "you"? You are an unique individual, and you deserve therapy that is tailored to your specific needs. I will work with you to try to help you achieve your goals and address your concerns in a manner that is effective for you within a warm and nonjudgmental atmosphere. We will work as a team as you are the expert on you!

Sandhya Sharma
Counselor, LPC, CAC II, EMDR
Verified
2 Endorsed
Verified
2 Endorsed
Sandhya Sharma is a South Asian Indian LPC and certified addictions specialist who works with: Adults, Teens,
LGBTQ
community, and International Communities. Sandhya will help create a safe and supportive therapy environment and work with you collaboratively to both accurately assess your strengths as well as areas of struggle. She will develop a treatment plan with you to help you facilitate behavioral changes that more successfully meet your goals. Sandhya will help you look at the ways you have been currently coping with life’s problems and help you to develop new strategies from a strengths-based perspective.

Michelle Golob-Birjandian
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NBCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
Current openings, appointments available within a week. Whether or not you have been in counseling before, I will provide an environment that will foster trust and growth. I have experience working with individuals of diverse backgrounds, addressing various issues including but not limited to depression, anxiety,
LGBTQ
+ related issues (whether you identify or are struggling with the new norm), trouble coping with current events (the oh so ever-present bad/horrific news), career counseling, ...
Not accepting new clients

Tara Soligan
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LPC, MAC, NCC
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
"Life isn't about finding yourself. Life's about creating yourself," George Bernard Shaw. I provide a safe, supportive and encouraging environment to help you tackle life's challenges. I have worked with individuals battling addiction, navigating life transitions, and coping with trauma. I enjoy helping individuals confronting addiction, addressing
LGBT
issues and sexual identity questions, and teenagers emerging into adults. While much of therapy analyzes problems, I create a positive environment that will emphasize your strengths and accomplishments so that you can attain your goals.

Michael Schaub, Ph.D., PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified
Verified
I have experience working with partners who identify as
LGBTQ
+ and I always strive to create a safe and supportive therapeutic environment for everyone who walks through my door.
Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts, self-esteem, or career concerns? Do these issues keep you from reaching your full potential? Together, we will create a path to wellness so that you can focus on the aspects of your life that bring meaning and fulfillment. I am a licensed clinical psychologist who works with adults, adolescents, and couples to overcome life's challenges, improve mental health, develop strategies to manage careers, and have satisfying relationships. I am holistic in my work and I am able to integrate both mental health and career counseling if this approach fits your needs.

Caren Ann Appel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, MA
I am passionate about guiding
LGBTQ
+ people and their families (I am a proud mama & ally myself) towards authentic healing, and an adept in grief counseling, women's issues, and marital therapy.
Finding the right therapeutic "fit" is one of the most important decisions you will undertake. You often can't waste time because you or your family needs help now, which is why I offer a compassionate, solution-oriented approach to clients. Hi, my name is Caren Ann Appel & I'm a Clinician, working toward licensure in clinical social work. I have a master's in clinical & macro social work from The Catholic University of America & another master's degree in Gender History from San Francisco State University.

Azaria Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified
Verified
A
queer
- and kink-informed space where you don’t have to worry about “teaching” your therapist and a deep understanding that gender, sexuality, and relationships are unique, and your therapy process should be too.
Together will create a therapeutic space for you and your partner(s) to break through insecurities and establish healthy boundaries that allow you to break free of patterns and beliefs that kept you and your relationships stuck. Understanding how your family of origin and previous relationship impact how you are showing up in your current relationships. Exploring how cultural/religious attitudes shape your relationship with your body, impacting your sexual desire and responsiveness for connection. Together, we will identify healthy ways to shift learned behaviors that block you from growing and having relationships and sexual.

In View Counseling Services, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified
Verified
We are a practice serving all age groups and specialize in working with men /male identifying clients, teens, and
LGBTQIA
+ populations. If you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, or ADHD symptoms management, we may be able to help. Our clinicians offer services including CBT, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, and Person Centered Therapy.
Not accepting new clients

Barry McNinch
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified
Verified
My goal in counseling is to help clients embrace their authentic selves, foster meaningful relationships, and improve their quality of life. As a Licensed Resident in Counseling, I specialize in helping young and mature adults navigate challenges related to eating disorders, substance use disorders, personality disorders, and mood disorders. I take pride in working with the
LGBTQIA
+ community. I understand the need to create a space for those navigating the very complex process of connecting to our own identities.

Melissa Callahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified
1 Endorsed
Verified
1 Endorsed
I am an
LGBTQ
, non-monogamy-affirming, culturally humble therapist.
If you take the courageous step of starting counseling, for yourself or your relationship, it is important your therapist feels like a good fit. To help you in your search - my style is curious, empathic, collaborative, and warm with a touch of humor. I specialize in relationship issues between couples and teen families, in addition to general issues like anxiety, depression, self-worth, and healing from past pain or trauma. Using your inherent strengths, I'll guide you in unearthing buried pain to facilitate healing. Together, we create a path towards more satisfying relationships, effective communication, and emotional connection.
See more therapy options for Fairfax
How can I find a therapist in Fairfax?
Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.
Learn more about how to find a therapist.
Learn more about how to find a therapist.
Is online therapy a good option?
Therapy conducted online or over the phone can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.
What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?
Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the United States, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.
What type of therapist is right for me?
Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist, psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors. Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
What type of therapy is right for me?
The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.
Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?
Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.