Lesbian Therapists in South Riding, VA
I understand how difficult it can be to move through a world that is not designed for you, or is actively against you. Navigating the complexities of your identity, emotions, experiences, and behaviors doesn’t have to be something you do without support. Whether it's LGBTQIA+ concerns, anxiety and depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, or family conflict, I am ready to walk alongside you to address your needs and help you find healing and strength. As a Resident in Counseling, I work diligently to cultivate a space that is affirming and empowering for all clients, regardless of identity, expression, or background.
I understand how difficult it can be to move through a world that is not designed for you, or is actively against you. Navigating the complexities of your identity, emotions, experiences, and behaviors doesn’t have to be something you do without support. Whether it's LGBTQIA+ concerns, anxiety and depression, life transitions, relationship struggles, or family conflict, I am ready to walk alongside you to address your needs and help you find healing and strength. As a Resident in Counseling, I work diligently to cultivate a space that is affirming and empowering for all clients, regardless of identity, expression, or background.
I specialize in trauma therapy and gender-affirming therapy for teens (12+) and adults experiencing gender dysphoria, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. My work centers on trauma processing, particularly when trauma and identity-based stress overlap.
Trauma often results in patterns of chronic shame, people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, and difficulty setting boundaries — whether connected to childhood abuse, identity-based stress, military experiences, or the cumulative impact of living in environments that were not supportive.
I specialize in trauma therapy and gender-affirming therapy for teens (12+) and adults experiencing gender dysphoria, PTSD, anxiety, and depression. My work centers on trauma processing, particularly when trauma and identity-based stress overlap.
Trauma often results in patterns of chronic shame, people-pleasing, anxiety, depression, and difficulty setting boundaries — whether connected to childhood abuse, identity-based stress, military experiences, or the cumulative impact of living in environments that were not supportive.
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.
Nicholas Searle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
In my 15+ years of being a therapist I have found that the traditional face to face support works wonders for some, but is not a good fit for others. Some of my clients have found sitting in one place for 45 minutes a challenge, or feel too much pressure to truly open up and share what they are thinking and feeling. With this in mind, I hope that my practice will serve as a new space for people seeking support in a slightly different manner. I hope to use "walk and talk therapy" to give an outlet to those who would usually outright avoid counseling, or not fully invest as it doesn't work for them.
In my 15+ years of being a therapist I have found that the traditional face to face support works wonders for some, but is not a good fit for others. Some of my clients have found sitting in one place for 45 minutes a challenge, or feel too much pressure to truly open up and share what they are thinking and feeling. With this in mind, I hope that my practice will serve as a new space for people seeking support in a slightly different manner. I hope to use "walk and talk therapy" to give an outlet to those who would usually outright avoid counseling, or not fully invest as it doesn't work for them.
More Therapists Nearby
Many adults seek therapy when life no longer feels aligned — even when things appear “fine” on the surface. You may feel stuck, emotionally depleted, navigating a transition, or questioning long-held roles, relationships, or expectations. Therapy can provide a steady space to pause, reflect, and move forward with intention. My holistic approach examines the individual's presenting concern, emotional and physical health, social connections, and environmental/social circumstances. Please visit my website for additional information.
Many adults seek therapy when life no longer feels aligned — even when things appear “fine” on the surface. You may feel stuck, emotionally depleted, navigating a transition, or questioning long-held roles, relationships, or expectations. Therapy can provide a steady space to pause, reflect, and move forward with intention. My holistic approach examines the individual's presenting concern, emotional and physical health, social connections, and environmental/social circumstances. Please visit my website for additional information.
Brianna Knox | Trauma Therapy | EMDR Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety about the holidays? Dreading putting on a fake smile for toxic family members at Christmas dinner? Struggling with your choice to not even show up to the family function? I got you. I specialize in helping Millennials ditch the shame and guilt of childhood trauma and to build the confidence and self-esteem needed to kick toxic friends and family to the curb.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety about the holidays? Dreading putting on a fake smile for toxic family members at Christmas dinner? Struggling with your choice to not even show up to the family function? I got you. I specialize in helping Millennials ditch the shame and guilt of childhood trauma and to build the confidence and self-esteem needed to kick toxic friends and family to the curb.
Asking for help can be hard and I am here to help guide your path towards healing. No matter where you are at in your journey towards healing we will find the best approach for you. Let's get started tackling anxiety, panic and life stressors. We can also work on depressive disorders, trauma and grief. If you are having major life transition and need help navigating through change than schedule with me. Together we can work on your coping skills, thinking patterns, communication skills, and your relationships/ family needs. I am an LGBTQI affirming therapist and advocate and love working with member of the community.
Asking for help can be hard and I am here to help guide your path towards healing. No matter where you are at in your journey towards healing we will find the best approach for you. Let's get started tackling anxiety, panic and life stressors. We can also work on depressive disorders, trauma and grief. If you are having major life transition and need help navigating through change than schedule with me. Together we can work on your coping skills, thinking patterns, communication skills, and your relationships/ family needs. I am an LGBTQI affirming therapist and advocate and love working with member of the community.
I believe that clients are the expert in their lives who may need an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing without feeling judged. The clinical process is not an easy path - it takes time to gain a greater awareness of ourselves and develop healthier coping strategies.
I believe that clients are the expert in their lives who may need an opportunity to talk about what they are experiencing without feeling judged. The clinical process is not an easy path - it takes time to gain a greater awareness of ourselves and develop healthier coping strategies.
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.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation & divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical & surgical weight loss, and career & family balance. I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been working in the mental health field for over 20 years. I view therapy as a collaborative process that enables clients to gain perspective on their emotions, beliefs, relationships and behaviors. My approach is empathic, authentic and warm. I practice with adults facing depression, anxiety, relationship issues, separation & divorce, fertility, pregnancy & infant loss, self esteem, grief, trauma, emotional aspects of illness and disease, medical & surgical weight loss, and career & family balance. I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Lori Zastrow - Queerness Neurodivergence Burnout
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
McLean, VA 22102
Accepting new clients 7/1/26! 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 7/1/26! 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.
Hope+Wellness is a psychotherapy practice based on our philosophy that hope can be found even in the most difficult seasons of life. We believe that people need hope and resilience to set goals and affect change, to persevere in the face of life challenges and thrive. Our approach is simple — to provide exceptional psychotherapy services to empower people to live happier, healthier lives.
Hope+Wellness is a psychotherapy practice based on our philosophy that hope can be found even in the most difficult seasons of life. We believe that people need hope and resilience to set goals and affect change, to persevere in the face of life challenges and thrive. Our approach is simple — to provide exceptional psychotherapy services to empower people to live happier, healthier lives.
You may be here because your child is struggling, your teen feels overwhelmed, or perhaps you've spent years carrying the weight of experiences that still impact you today. Whatever the reason, I want you to know that healing, growth, and meaningful changes are possible.
I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens, and adults whose current challenges are often rooted in earlier life experiences. Whether you're navigating autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or you just feel stuck, I provide a supportive, affirming space where you can feel understood, valued, and empowered.
You may be here because your child is struggling, your teen feels overwhelmed, or perhaps you've spent years carrying the weight of experiences that still impact you today. Whatever the reason, I want you to know that healing, growth, and meaningful changes are possible.
I specialize in working with children, tweens, teens, and adults whose current challenges are often rooted in earlier life experiences. Whether you're navigating autism, ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, trauma, or you just feel stuck, I provide a supportive, affirming space where you can feel understood, valued, and empowered.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in your head?
Maybe you’ve just moved to D.C., started a new job, or are trying to find your footing in a new phase of life. If you’re struggling with anxiety, OCD, or depression, you don’t have to face it alone.
At DC Talk Therapy, our 10 therapists specialize in helping young adults and professionals reduce anxiety, build confidence, and feel more grounded. We provide in-person therapy in Washington, D.C., and online therapy across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Since opening our doors in 2012, we’ve helped more than 2,000 clients make meaningful, lasting changes.
Feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in your head?
Maybe you’ve just moved to D.C., started a new job, or are trying to find your footing in a new phase of life. If you’re struggling with anxiety, OCD, or depression, you don’t have to face it alone.
At DC Talk Therapy, our 10 therapists specialize in helping young adults and professionals reduce anxiety, build confidence, and feel more grounded. We provide in-person therapy in Washington, D.C., and online therapy across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.
Since opening our doors in 2012, we’ve helped more than 2,000 clients make meaningful, lasting changes.
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.
I'm a married lesbian mom of three and I've centered my fifteen years of mental health experience with the LGBTQ+ community helping individuals, groups and families through challenges such as these.
I primarily use trauma-informed, narrative and attachment modalities. I implement CBT when appropriate and I'm always looking through a multicultural, feminist and intersectional lens. In the counseling room, you will find me to be warm, explorative and insightful. I believe that you are the author of your narrative and I, your trusty passenger.
I'm a married lesbian mom of three and I've centered my fifteen years of mental health experience with the LGBTQ+ community helping individuals, groups and families through challenges such as these.
I primarily use trauma-informed, narrative and attachment modalities. I implement CBT when appropriate and I'm always looking through a multicultural, feminist and intersectional lens. In the counseling room, you will find me to be warm, explorative and insightful. I believe that you are the author of your narrative and I, your trusty passenger.
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've been taught that your thoughts can't be trusted, your emotions are dangerous, or your body is shameful, you may be carrying the impact of high-control religious systems—whether you recognize it as religious trauma or not. Maybe you're navigating family estrangement, struggling with anxiety over the state of the world, or feeling disconnected from your intuition.These patterns often made sense in the environments you were in—but they don’t have to continue organizing how you relate to yourself. Therapy offers a space to untangle these beliefs, reconnect with yourself, and move toward a more grounded, authentic way of being.
If you've been taught that your thoughts can't be trusted, your emotions are dangerous, or your body is shameful, you may be carrying the impact of high-control religious systems—whether you recognize it as religious trauma or not. Maybe you're navigating family estrangement, struggling with anxiety over the state of the world, or feeling disconnected from your intuition.These patterns often made sense in the environments you were in—but they don’t have to continue organizing how you relate to yourself. Therapy offers a space to untangle these beliefs, reconnect with yourself, and move toward a more grounded, authentic way of being.
Mixed Orientation Marriages in VA FL and VT
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
McLean, VA 22101
Has your spouse come out as LGBT? Or are you married and living a closeted LGBT life? It's an extremely painful & challenging situation on either side of the equation. Here's the good news--I can help. I'm Kim Mazella, and I work with people every day who find themselves in mixed-orientation marriages and are navigating their new reality. Having experienced a MOM myself many years ago gives me a unique understanding, with compassion for both partners who find themselves in this difficult space. Whether you decide to make it work or go your separate ways, I can help you traverse the journey and come out on the other side.
Has your spouse come out as LGBT? Or are you married and living a closeted LGBT life? It's an extremely painful & challenging situation on either side of the equation. Here's the good news--I can help. I'm Kim Mazella, and I work with people every day who find themselves in mixed-orientation marriages and are navigating their new reality. Having experienced a MOM myself many years ago gives me a unique understanding, with compassion for both partners who find themselves in this difficult space. Whether you decide to make it work or go your separate ways, I can help you traverse the journey and come out on the other side.
Therapy is about relationships. Whether we are creating personal healing through the therapeutic relationship, changing the way we interact in romantic partnerships, at work, or with family, or shifting our relationship with trauma and other past wounds, we are creating a new space where empathy and compassion can grow. When you make the choice to begin work in therapy, it is a radical act of love, both for the self and for others, and you can expect our work together to reflect this. I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
Therapy is about relationships. Whether we are creating personal healing through the therapeutic relationship, changing the way we interact in romantic partnerships, at work, or with family, or shifting our relationship with trauma and other past wounds, we are creating a new space where empathy and compassion can grow. When you make the choice to begin work in therapy, it is a radical act of love, both for the self and for others, and you can expect our work together to reflect this. I work with clients from all backgrounds, but have particular connection to the LGBTQ+, polyam/CNM, kink, artistic, & neurodiverse communities.
See more therapy options for South Riding
Nearby Lesbian Therapists Searches for South Riding
- Aldie
- Ashburn
- Centreville
- Chantilly
- Clifton
- Gainesville
- Haymarket
- Herndon
- Manassas
- Reston
- Sterling
- Sudley Springs
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.