LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Staunton, VA
Life often has its ups and downs. I provide a safe, affirming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where we can fully honor your experiences and personhood, and where you can take the steps toward self-exploration, discovery, self-compassion, and growth. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, grief, interpersonal concerns, relationship challenges, and depression. I frequently work with individuals on issues relating to multi-cultural diversity, LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences, and life transitions.
Life often has its ups and downs. I provide a safe, affirming, compassionate, and non-judgmental space, where we can fully honor your experiences and personhood, and where you can take the steps toward self-exploration, discovery, self-compassion, and growth. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, grief, interpersonal concerns, relationship challenges, and depression. I frequently work with individuals on issues relating to multi-cultural diversity, LGBTQIA+ identities and experiences, and life transitions.
Some of the concerns I help people deal with include depression, relationship issues, women's issues, sexuality, gender identity, loss/grief, negative feelings about oneself, life transitions, aging, and identity concerns (who am I; is this the life I really want to lead?).
I work with people who are struggling with a range of problems and wish to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behavior; they might be at a crossroads and want help thinking about the impact of a significant change on self and others. I am experienced working with people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm compassionate and non judgmental and tailor my work to each patient's needs. I received my PhD from Yale University and have worked in community clinics, hospitals and extensively with UVA students and faculty.
Some of the concerns I help people deal with include depression, relationship issues, women's issues, sexuality, gender identity, loss/grief, negative feelings about oneself, life transitions, aging, and identity concerns (who am I; is this the life I really want to lead?).
I work with people who are struggling with a range of problems and wish to better understand their thoughts, feelings and behavior; they might be at a crossroads and want help thinking about the impact of a significant change on self and others. I am experienced working with people from various ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as LGBTQ+ individuals. I'm compassionate and non judgmental and tailor my work to each patient's needs. I received my PhD from Yale University and have worked in community clinics, hospitals and extensively with UVA students and faculty.
Hello! My name is Stormi Nuckoles and I am a counselor based in Harrisonburg, VA. I am currently a student intern at Rocktown Counseling and in my final year of the Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Eastern Mennonite University. I provide therapeutic care that is trauma-informed and incorporates a multicultural lens. I am particularly focused on creating a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and those from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Hello! My name is Stormi Nuckoles and I am a counselor based in Harrisonburg, VA. I am currently a student intern at Rocktown Counseling and in my final year of the Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling program at Eastern Mennonite University. I provide therapeutic care that is trauma-informed and incorporates a multicultural lens. I am particularly focused on creating a safe space for LGBTQIA+ individuals and those from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Bethany Chupp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staunton, VA 24401
Waitlist for new clients
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming counselor, and am personally working to increase my anti-racist practices and understanding.
Currently anticipating several month wait for new clients.+ Office hours are M-Th, 8-5.+ As a counselor I work primarily with young adults, providing a therapeutic presence as you navigate challenging life transitions or past experiences. In your journey of self-discovery, I would be honored to walk alongside you. The world can feel big and scary at times, and it can feel so helpful to receive support from someone outside of your daily life. We can work together on identifying your needs, setting goals, developing coping skills, and building more positive relationships.
I am a LGBTQ+ affirming counselor, and am personally working to increase my anti-racist practices and understanding.
Currently anticipating several month wait for new clients.+ Office hours are M-Th, 8-5.+ As a counselor I work primarily with young adults, providing a therapeutic presence as you navigate challenging life transitions or past experiences. In your journey of self-discovery, I would be honored to walk alongside you. The world can feel big and scary at times, and it can feel so helpful to receive support from someone outside of your daily life. We can work together on identifying your needs, setting goals, developing coping skills, and building more positive relationships.
As a queer woman, am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
As a queer woman, am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
Cheri Lynn Greenfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Staunton, VA 24407
I have worked extensively with women, specifically around self esteem, identity, body image, and eating disorder recovery, and I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
My favorite part of this work is the relationship that I get to build with my clients. I provide a safe space to strengthen trust in yourself, practice acceptance and self-compassion, and begin to let go of what no longer serves you as you develop a deeper connection with yourself. We will work together to deepen intuition and self-understanding, creating shifts that allow for growth and healing. I have great respect for this work, and I consider it an honor to walk with my clients in this process.
I have worked extensively with women, specifically around self esteem, identity, body image, and eating disorder recovery, and I am an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.
My favorite part of this work is the relationship that I get to build with my clients. I provide a safe space to strengthen trust in yourself, practice acceptance and self-compassion, and begin to let go of what no longer serves you as you develop a deeper connection with yourself. We will work together to deepen intuition and self-understanding, creating shifts that allow for growth and healing. I have great respect for this work, and I consider it an honor to walk with my clients in this process.
I have 30 years experience working as a counselor for children, adolescents, families, and adults. I work with people who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, trauma, self-image, and any stresses related to race or sexual identity/orientation. I also work with couples of all backgrounds on improving communication, problem solving, and intimacy issues.
I have 30 years experience working as a counselor for children, adolescents, families, and adults. I work with people who are dealing with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss, trauma, self-image, and any stresses related to race or sexual identity/orientation. I also work with couples of all backgrounds on improving communication, problem solving, and intimacy issues.
Laryssa Carden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401 (Online Only)
All things considered…How have you been lately? Are you being kind to yourself, or is that starting to feel impossible these days? Have you felt moments of loneliness or has it become crushing waves? Do you often feel misunderstood and tired of figuring out things on your own? You don’t have to do it alone. I help individuals navigating various difficult life transitions such as: Career/Academic shifts, Identity Exploration, Divorce, loss of a significant relationship(s), Military-focused challenges, etc. I provide a non-judgmental, warm, and conversational space that allows you to safely process your complex thoughts and feelings.
All things considered…How have you been lately? Are you being kind to yourself, or is that starting to feel impossible these days? Have you felt moments of loneliness or has it become crushing waves? Do you often feel misunderstood and tired of figuring out things on your own? You don’t have to do it alone. I help individuals navigating various difficult life transitions such as: Career/Academic shifts, Identity Exploration, Divorce, loss of a significant relationship(s), Military-focused challenges, etc. I provide a non-judgmental, warm, and conversational space that allows you to safely process your complex thoughts and feelings.
Janet Mizzi Balser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401 (Online Only)
Janet Mizzi Balser graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from Hollins University and received her Masters in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University. She has over 30 years experience of working with child abuse victims and other victims of trauma. She has a facility dog, Murph, who works with her. Murph is a graduate of Canine Companions for Independence. He assists his handler by making everyone feel comfortable so they can tell their story in a non-judgmental setting.
Janet Mizzi Balser graduated with a Bachelors in Psychology from Hollins University and received her Masters in Counseling from Eastern Mennonite University. She has over 30 years experience of working with child abuse victims and other victims of trauma. She has a facility dog, Murph, who works with her. Murph is a graduate of Canine Companions for Independence. He assists his handler by making everyone feel comfortable so they can tell their story in a non-judgmental setting.
Monica Quarles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401 (Online Only)
My mission is to accompany clients on their journey towards holistic well-being, by providing compassionate support to empower you to unlock your fullest potential. As a Black, female therapist, I got into this work to help people of all walks of life, especially women, children, and minorities. The world is hard enough and at times, it can be difficult to figure out our identity, wants, needs, boundaries, as well as how we operate in the various spaces of life. I also provide clinical supervision to those seeking their LCSW.
My mission is to accompany clients on their journey towards holistic well-being, by providing compassionate support to empower you to unlock your fullest potential. As a Black, female therapist, I got into this work to help people of all walks of life, especially women, children, and minorities. The world is hard enough and at times, it can be difficult to figure out our identity, wants, needs, boundaries, as well as how we operate in the various spaces of life. I also provide clinical supervision to those seeking their LCSW.
Garika Williams (Soulful Garden Llc)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hey! My name is Garika and I'm a licensed professional therapist out of Virginia along with licensing in Indiana and South Carolina. I spent the first 7 years post-grad working in a residential facility and last 3 years proving care through telehealth therapy to people from many walks of life. Over the years, I have worked with various diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, severe trauma, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and personality disorders; along with areas like family issues and grief/loss.
Hey! My name is Garika and I'm a licensed professional therapist out of Virginia along with licensing in Indiana and South Carolina. I spent the first 7 years post-grad working in a residential facility and last 3 years proving care through telehealth therapy to people from many walks of life. Over the years, I have worked with various diagnoses including depression, anxiety, ADHD, severe trauma, PTSD, dual diagnosis, and personality disorders; along with areas like family issues and grief/loss.
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Alistaire McKemy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps adults with developmental/relational trauma to overcome anxiety, depression, and fear of connection by utilizing a combination of cognitive and somatic therapy modalities to achieve higher quality of life. Do you want to trust yourself or others but feel your "picker" is broken? Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns and routines that you know don't serve you, but aren't sure where to get started with changing your life? I'm here to help! Together, we'll explore the roots of your patterns and unlock new ways of seeing the world around you.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who helps adults with developmental/relational trauma to overcome anxiety, depression, and fear of connection by utilizing a combination of cognitive and somatic therapy modalities to achieve higher quality of life. Do you want to trust yourself or others but feel your "picker" is broken? Are you feeling stuck in the same patterns and routines that you know don't serve you, but aren't sure where to get started with changing your life? I'm here to help! Together, we'll explore the roots of your patterns and unlock new ways of seeing the world around you.
I recognize and respect the courage it takes to begin counseling. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate environment in order to work on identified issues and bring about hope, peace and well-being. Common concerns addressed in counseling include: play therapy, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, anger and attachment, and mood disorders. I work holistically, focusing on emotional, relational, spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Counseling theories utilized include cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal process, and mindfulness.
I recognize and respect the courage it takes to begin counseling. My goal is to provide a safe, compassionate environment in order to work on identified issues and bring about hope, peace and well-being. Common concerns addressed in counseling include: play therapy, stress management, relationship issues, life transitions, grief, anger and attachment, and mood disorders. I work holistically, focusing on emotional, relational, spiritual, physical, and mental well-being. Counseling theories utilized include cognitive-behavioral, interpersonal process, and mindfulness.
Spiral Roots LLC ~ Melissa Deaton Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401
Hi! Hola! I specialize in child and teen therapy. I am bilingual. All are welcome at Spiral Roots LLC. You know that your teen or child is struggling. You can see it in their behaviors, hear it in their voice, feel it in their attitude. You may or may not know the cause of their anger or pain. You just know they need help. The weight of the situation is heavy on you. They will not respond to your advice. You are not sure if they will talk to someone. Maybe in the past they blew off other therapists. Maybe your teen is actively asking for counseling. Wherever you are in this journey, I understand. I can help you and your family.
Hi! Hola! I specialize in child and teen therapy. I am bilingual. All are welcome at Spiral Roots LLC. You know that your teen or child is struggling. You can see it in their behaviors, hear it in their voice, feel it in their attitude. You may or may not know the cause of their anger or pain. You just know they need help. The weight of the situation is heavy on you. They will not respond to your advice. You are not sure if they will talk to someone. Maybe in the past they blew off other therapists. Maybe your teen is actively asking for counseling. Wherever you are in this journey, I understand. I can help you and your family.
Laura Anne Copley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CTS
Verified Verified
Staunton, VA 24401
I offer integrative counseling focusing on somatic experiencing, parts work, brainspotting, transpersonal psychology, and Reiki/energy work.
3 spots OPEN for new clients... As a trauma survivor, you can feel emotionally torn and mentally defeated. It seems like every relationship you find becomes painful and toxic, and every moment you're reminded of your trauma. You just want to feel safe in your body, connected in your relationships, and inspired in your life. Maybe you're cautious about getting help because revisiting painful memories seems scary and vulnerable. As the only PhD Certified Trauma Counselor in the Shenandoah Valley, I will help you identify your emotional and relationship blocks, and develop new ways to overcome and experience Post-Traumatic Growth.
I offer integrative counseling focusing on somatic experiencing, parts work, brainspotting, transpersonal psychology, and Reiki/energy work.
3 spots OPEN for new clients... As a trauma survivor, you can feel emotionally torn and mentally defeated. It seems like every relationship you find becomes painful and toxic, and every moment you're reminded of your trauma. You just want to feel safe in your body, connected in your relationships, and inspired in your life. Maybe you're cautious about getting help because revisiting painful memories seems scary and vulnerable. As the only PhD Certified Trauma Counselor in the Shenandoah Valley, I will help you identify your emotional and relationship blocks, and develop new ways to overcome and experience Post-Traumatic Growth.
I regard much of 'psychopathology' as well-intended (but ineffective) efforts to contend with pain and fear, and to pursue needs and wants. So, in psychotherapy, I invite my clients to explore, identify, and take guidance from their emotional experiences, honoring their depression, anxiety, and other symptoms while finding more effective ways of living well. I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments.
I regard much of 'psychopathology' as well-intended (but ineffective) efforts to contend with pain and fear, and to pursue needs and wants. So, in psychotherapy, I invite my clients to explore, identify, and take guidance from their emotional experiences, honoring their depression, anxiety, and other symptoms while finding more effective ways of living well. I also provide psychological and neuropsychological assessments.
Dana Blauch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Staunton, VA 24401
My practice focuses on providing a safe, secure space to explore personal healing and growth with individuals. I work with a wide variety of issues and challenges with an overall focus on transforming the wounds of life so that the core self can flourish. Experiences of trauma, relational hurts and beliefs about the self can leave us stuck in pain and disconnection. Together we will explore and restore your birthright of love and connection.
My practice focuses on providing a safe, secure space to explore personal healing and growth with individuals. I work with a wide variety of issues and challenges with an overall focus on transforming the wounds of life so that the core self can flourish. Experiences of trauma, relational hurts and beliefs about the self can leave us stuck in pain and disconnection. Together we will explore and restore your birthright of love and connection.
I bring extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family concerns, sexuality, academic underachievement, creative blocks, work dissatisfaction, grief, trauma &life transitions.
As a seasoned clinician (25+yrs experience) I find the work deeply rewarding. My primary focus is relational but can integrate other techniques. Good therapy helps people to develop a stronger sense of identity, self worth and agency. We can explore strengths, longings, disappointments, stuck places, self defeating behaviors, caregiver strain and coping tools. We can work to deepen relationships and focus on greater satisfaction in both your personal & professional life. Prefer initial contact via text (or email) telling me about yourself and what you are looking to work on in therapy.
I bring extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, relationship issues, family concerns, sexuality, academic underachievement, creative blocks, work dissatisfaction, grief, trauma &life transitions.
As a seasoned clinician (25+yrs experience) I find the work deeply rewarding. My primary focus is relational but can integrate other techniques. Good therapy helps people to develop a stronger sense of identity, self worth and agency. We can explore strengths, longings, disappointments, stuck places, self defeating behaviors, caregiver strain and coping tools. We can work to deepen relationships and focus on greater satisfaction in both your personal & professional life. Prefer initial contact via text (or email) telling me about yourself and what you are looking to work on in therapy.
Dr. Glen Bowman is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with more than 30 years of experience providing counseling services in a variety of settings, including college and university counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinics, and inpatient psychiatric centers. His work with adults, children, couples, and families has focused on issues related to stress and coping, transition and identity-related issues, communication skills, anger management, grief, loss, perfectionism, social anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, and substance abuse.
Dr. Glen Bowman is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with more than 30 years of experience providing counseling services in a variety of settings, including college and university counseling centers, outpatient mental health clinics, and inpatient psychiatric centers. His work with adults, children, couples, and families has focused on issues related to stress and coping, transition and identity-related issues, communication skills, anger management, grief, loss, perfectionism, social anxiety, panic disorders, OCD, depression, and substance abuse.
It is important to provide a supportive, attuned presence to help my patients work through the struggles, problems, and difficulties that have brought them into treatment. I build a relationship of trust with my patients in order to help them feel the support and care I have for them. I believe that diligent exploration of a patient's negative emotions and problematic relationships leads to healing. Through the use of simple challenges, highlighting of interpersonal and emotional patterns, encouragement, and honest feedback, my objective is to help the patient feel the love and support needed to heal and change.
It is important to provide a supportive, attuned presence to help my patients work through the struggles, problems, and difficulties that have brought them into treatment. I build a relationship of trust with my patients in order to help them feel the support and care I have for them. I believe that diligent exploration of a patient's negative emotions and problematic relationships leads to healing. Through the use of simple challenges, highlighting of interpersonal and emotional patterns, encouragement, and honest feedback, my objective is to help the patient feel the love and support needed to heal and change.
See more therapy options for Staunton
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Staunton
- Bridgewater
- Broadway
- Charlottesville
- Crozet
- Harrisonburg
- Keswick
- Lexington
- Ruckersville
- University
- Waynesboro
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.