LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Pownal, VT

Photo of Elizabeth Fredland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Elizabeth Fredland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Compassionate, respectful and straightforward psychotherapy. I work with people who are struggling with decisions, feelings and situations that may feel unmanageable. This can look like renegotiating your relationship with substance use, exploring relationship stress, learning about boundaries, managing the demands of care-giving, coping with chronic pain and illness, grieving a loss or some combination of all of the above. I do a lot of listening. But therapy also looks like practicing grounding exercises to learn how to calm an anxiety attack, creating a family tree or gaining new insight on the story of your life.
Compassionate, respectful and straightforward psychotherapy. I work with people who are struggling with decisions, feelings and situations that may feel unmanageable. This can look like renegotiating your relationship with substance use, exploring relationship stress, learning about boundaries, managing the demands of care-giving, coping with chronic pain and illness, grieving a loss or some combination of all of the above. I do a lot of listening. But therapy also looks like practicing grounding exercises to learn how to calm an anxiety attack, creating a family tree or gaining new insight on the story of your life.
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Photo of Janie Wilkerson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC-S, LPCMHSP
Janie Wilkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC-S, LPCMHSP
3 Endorsed
Online Only
It can be a daunting process to find a therapist you can connect with, trust, and where you can experience real and lasting change. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating gender identity, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, relationship challenges, and other life issues. Using a variety of modalities, including EMDR and polyvagal therapy, we work together to design and implement a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. I am committed to my clients and care deeply about helping them achieve positive outcomes through therapy. Telehealth sessions available for residents of VT and TN.
It can be a daunting process to find a therapist you can connect with, trust, and where you can experience real and lasting change. I work with adolescents and adults who are navigating gender identity, complex trauma, anxiety, depression, climate anxiety, relationship challenges, and other life issues. Using a variety of modalities, including EMDR and polyvagal therapy, we work together to design and implement a treatment plan that is as unique as you are. I am committed to my clients and care deeply about helping them achieve positive outcomes through therapy. Telehealth sessions available for residents of VT and TN.
(615) 465-0163 View (615) 465-0163

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alexa Szotka, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Alexa Szotka
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor specializing in EMDR, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ adult individuals to help release the grip of trauma and the past.
I have 7+ years of experience specializing in working with women-identifying and LGBTQIA+ folks who have experienced trauma. I utilize evidence-based Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as my primary treatment modality. Let's work together to restore connection to your body, live in the present again, and let go of limiting beliefs.
As a licensed clinical mental health counselor specializing in EMDR, I work with women and LGBTQIA+ adult individuals to help release the grip of trauma and the past.
I have 7+ years of experience specializing in working with women-identifying and LGBTQIA+ folks who have experienced trauma. I utilize evidence-based Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as my primary treatment modality. Let's work together to restore connection to your body, live in the present again, and let go of limiting beliefs.
(802) 520-0825 View (802) 520-0825
Photo of Hilary Shepley, Counselor, LCMHC
Hilary Shepley
Counselor, LCMHC
1 Endorsed
Bennington, VT 05201
Whether we realize it or not, we're all carrying around a bag: some of us carry a suitcase, others a backpack, and some push around a luggage cart or two overflowing with their bags. Why not downsize a bit? Therapy is all about you. Yes, you'll talk about other people, most likely. But it's not an hour about how they feel; it's an hour about how you feel. It's an hour to be completely open and honest about your life without judgement or interruption. And you deserve it.
Whether we realize it or not, we're all carrying around a bag: some of us carry a suitcase, others a backpack, and some push around a luggage cart or two overflowing with their bags. Why not downsize a bit? Therapy is all about you. Yes, you'll talk about other people, most likely. But it's not an hour about how they feel; it's an hour about how you feel. It's an hour to be completely open and honest about your life without judgement or interruption. And you deserve it.
(802) 725-2977 View (802) 725-2977
Photo of Daria M Hoey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Daria M Hoey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Online Only
I work primarily with trans/gender-expansive and LGBTQIA+ individuals, and have extensive experience in sexual violence/assault survivor support.
Whether you're exploring your identity, recovering from trauma, or simply looking for support, my priority is to help you develop long-lasting, effective skills to get you there. Your existing strengths, resilience, and creativity are the most effective tools you have, and I want to help you access them to build a plan for lifelong results you can feel proud of! I also offer neurodivergent-affirming adult ADHD diagnostic testing.
I work primarily with trans/gender-expansive and LGBTQIA+ individuals, and have extensive experience in sexual violence/assault survivor support.
Whether you're exploring your identity, recovering from trauma, or simply looking for support, my priority is to help you develop long-lasting, effective skills to get you there. Your existing strengths, resilience, and creativity are the most effective tools you have, and I want to help you access them to build a plan for lifelong results you can feel proud of! I also offer neurodivergent-affirming adult ADHD diagnostic testing.
(312) 345-6298 View (312) 345-6298
Photo of Joseph A Chan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Joseph A Chan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
49 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have specialized training and experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law, medical school), biracial/multiracial individuals, athletes, LGBTQ clients, survivors of sexual abuse and other trauma, law enforcement officers, chronic illness, and postpartum depression.
I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals cope with stress, loss, fear, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting and supportive relationship, set goals for therapy, build upon strengths to increase confidence and self-esteem, and work toward resolving issues.
I have specialized training and experience in working with healthcare professionals, students (college, graduate, law, medical school), biracial/multiracial individuals, athletes, LGBTQ clients, survivors of sexual abuse and other trauma, law enforcement officers, chronic illness, and postpartum depression.
I have over 20 years of experience helping individuals cope with stress, loss, fear, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and adjustment to life changes. I work collaboratively with clients to establish a trusting and supportive relationship, set goals for therapy, build upon strengths to increase confidence and self-esteem, and work toward resolving issues.
(973) 202-1421 View (973) 202-1421
Photo of Chad Allen Lazzari, Psychologist, MS, PsyD
Chad Allen Lazzari
Psychologist, MS, PsyD
1 Endorsed
Waitlist for new clients
I named my practice "Confluence Psychotherapy" because a confluence is the point when two rivers meet - a point when together what has been separate becomes fuller, deeper, more powerful together. Like a moment when you lose yourself in dance or play, the right connection can help us to find what we need in unexpected and surprising ways. Good therapy can be like that - at times difficult but in the end, exhilarating. I specialize in working through trauma of all forms with older teens and adults of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds.
I named my practice "Confluence Psychotherapy" because a confluence is the point when two rivers meet - a point when together what has been separate becomes fuller, deeper, more powerful together. Like a moment when you lose yourself in dance or play, the right connection can help us to find what we need in unexpected and surprising ways. Good therapy can be like that - at times difficult but in the end, exhilarating. I specialize in working through trauma of all forms with older teens and adults of all ages and from a variety of backgrounds.
(802) 454-3624 View (802) 454-3624
Malaika Puffer
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as mad, a psychiatric survivor, fat, queer, covid cautious and have experienced religious trauma and nihilistic crisis.
My practice is part time and available through telehealth only, with limited spots which I anticipate will fill quickly. If you think we might be a good match, I would encourage you not to wait to reach out.
I identify as mad, a psychiatric survivor, fat, queer, covid cautious and have experienced religious trauma and nihilistic crisis.
My practice is part time and available through telehealth only, with limited spots which I anticipate will fill quickly. If you think we might be a good match, I would encourage you not to wait to reach out.
(802) 341-9101 View (802) 341-9101
Photo of Michelle Michalkovic, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-R
Michelle Michalkovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-R
Online Only
Manchester Mental Health - Providing care in New York, Vermont, Virginia & overseas. For families and couples therapy is a place to slow down painful patterns, helping each person feel heard, rebuilding trust & connection. For young adults, therapy is a place to feel heard and understood, to safely voice what you truly need as you navigate life. For seniors, therapy offers support through life changes, loss, aging, and the search for meaning, while honoring a lifetime of experience. I provide psychotherapy to domestic and international clients, specializing in cross-cultural transitions and life changes. Free consult available.
Manchester Mental Health - Providing care in New York, Vermont, Virginia & overseas. For families and couples therapy is a place to slow down painful patterns, helping each person feel heard, rebuilding trust & connection. For young adults, therapy is a place to feel heard and understood, to safely voice what you truly need as you navigate life. For seniors, therapy offers support through life changes, loss, aging, and the search for meaning, while honoring a lifetime of experience. I provide psychotherapy to domestic and international clients, specializing in cross-cultural transitions and life changes. Free consult available.
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Photo of Beth Newman, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Beth Newman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Online Only
To be a compassionate companion in the process of healing is an honor I hold as sacred. Wherever you may find yourself on your journey, I will witness, listen, ask deep questions, and offer support without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe space that allows you to remember and know who you are. I will support you to understand your lived and embodied experience with a spacious sense of connectedness. Combining expressive and creative techniques with mindfulness-based practices, we will work together towards integration and wholeness based on your chosen goals.
To be a compassionate companion in the process of healing is an honor I hold as sacred. Wherever you may find yourself on your journey, I will witness, listen, ask deep questions, and offer support without judgement. My goal is to provide a safe space that allows you to remember and know who you are. I will support you to understand your lived and embodied experience with a spacious sense of connectedness. Combining expressive and creative techniques with mindfulness-based practices, we will work together towards integration and wholeness based on your chosen goals.
(802) 779-0371 View (802) 779-0371
Photo of Kristin Belmonte, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kristin Belmonte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Online Only
When life looks fine on the outside but doesn’t feel that way inside, this is a place for you to land it honestly. Many of the people I work with are high-functioning but feel like they’re going through the motions, stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by self-doubt. Sometimes this shows up during life transitions like starting college, career changes, relationship shifts, or periods of uncertainty where things feel unclear or emotionally flat. Whatever the case, my first priority is earning your trust and building a real human connection. Because real change happens when you stop performing and start speaking honestly.
When life looks fine on the outside but doesn’t feel that way inside, this is a place for you to land it honestly. Many of the people I work with are high-functioning but feel like they’re going through the motions, stuck, disconnected, or weighed down by self-doubt. Sometimes this shows up during life transitions like starting college, career changes, relationship shifts, or periods of uncertainty where things feel unclear or emotionally flat. Whatever the case, my first priority is earning your trust and building a real human connection. Because real change happens when you stop performing and start speaking honestly.
(802) 278-6500 View (802) 278-6500
Photo of Dr. Ellen Bronder, Psychologist, PhD
Dr. Ellen Bronder
Psychologist, PhD
Online Only
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, stress & burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive & high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship distress, trauma, stress & burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive & high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
(216) 299-3810 View (216) 299-3810
Photo of Katherine Jordan, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Katherine Jordan
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
I welcome clients of LGBTQ+ , BIPOC, and marginalized identities.
In addition to traditional evidence-based practices such as CBT, my work is informed by depth psychology, eco-psychology, and a variety of spiritual and wisdom traditions. My work involves deep listening, intuition, and empathy. I offer sessions online as well as walking in nature. Please visit my website for more information.
I welcome clients of LGBTQ+ , BIPOC, and marginalized identities.
In addition to traditional evidence-based practices such as CBT, my work is informed by depth psychology, eco-psychology, and a variety of spiritual and wisdom traditions. My work involves deep listening, intuition, and empathy. I offer sessions online as well as walking in nature. Please visit my website for more information.
(802) 487-8001 View (802) 487-8001
Photo of Leslie A Reed - Leslie A Reed, PhD LLC, Psychologist, PhD
Leslie A Reed, PhD LLC
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
I offer clients a calm, compassionate presence, providing practical tools to navigate life's inevitable challenges. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and discovery. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, attachment theory, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I customize treatment according to your goals. Enhanced happiness is not just a wishful goal. Current research concludes that 40 percent of an individual's happiness is based on choices, attitudes and ways of thinking/behaving. My intention is to enhance your well-being, freedom and capacity to be present for your life.
I offer clients a calm, compassionate presence, providing practical tools to navigate life's inevitable challenges. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and discovery. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, attachment theory, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I customize treatment according to your goals. Enhanced happiness is not just a wishful goal. Current research concludes that 40 percent of an individual's happiness is based on choices, attitudes and ways of thinking/behaving. My intention is to enhance your well-being, freedom and capacity to be present for your life.
(802) 277-7078 View (802) 277-7078
Photo of Loni Myran, Registered Psychotherapist, MA
Loni Myran
Registered Psychotherapist, MA
North Bennington, VT 05257
My goal is to provide a compassionate, affirming, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel safe exploring your experiences and moving toward meaningful change. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, heal, and reconnect with yourself. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges, identity development, and major life transitions.
My goal is to provide a compassionate, affirming, and nonjudgmental environment where you feel safe exploring your experiences and moving toward meaningful change. Therapy offers a space to pause, reflect, heal, and reconnect with yourself. I work with adults navigating anxiety, depression, complex trauma, ADHD, ASD, relationship challenges, identity development, and major life transitions.
(802) 520-3637 View (802) 520-3637
Photo of Alicia Perez, Counselor, LMHC, CEDS
Alicia Perez
Counselor, LMHC, CEDS
Online Only
I am a compassionate and direct psychotherapist dedicated to helping people heal and change emotional, behavioral and relational patterns that are keeping them stuck. I have extensive experience in the treatment on Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD and Eating Disorders. Through a collaborative process, I work with clients to identify their goals and work toward meeting them. I regularly incorporate; Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy into my work.
I am a compassionate and direct psychotherapist dedicated to helping people heal and change emotional, behavioral and relational patterns that are keeping them stuck. I have extensive experience in the treatment on Anxiety, Depression, Trauma/PTSD and Eating Disorders. Through a collaborative process, I work with clients to identify their goals and work toward meeting them. I regularly incorporate; Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy into my work.
(646) 982-1214 View (646) 982-1214
Photo of Jennifer A Tattersall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP, CBIS
Jennifer A Tattersall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCDP, CBIS
2 Endorsed
West Dover, VT 05356
Only accepting intensives and Ketamine Assisted tx. Despite difficulties in life, I believe people have an amazing amount of resilience and strength. I work to enhance their strength that gets lost when overwhelmed by challenges. Using multiple modalities, individuals move beyond their old story and into the life they desire. I hear from clients that "therapy has never helped me" and clients of mine have achieved their goals. I have specialty training with trauma which, by definition is "a deeply distressing or disturbing experience". I assist people in trusting their innate abilities to make decisions from a healthy perspective.
Only accepting intensives and Ketamine Assisted tx. Despite difficulties in life, I believe people have an amazing amount of resilience and strength. I work to enhance their strength that gets lost when overwhelmed by challenges. Using multiple modalities, individuals move beyond their old story and into the life they desire. I hear from clients that "therapy has never helped me" and clients of mine have achieved their goals. I have specialty training with trauma which, by definition is "a deeply distressing or disturbing experience". I assist people in trusting their innate abilities to make decisions from a healthy perspective.
(860) 946-4120 View (860) 946-4120
Photo of Dr. Jimmy G Bridges, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Dr. Jimmy G Bridges
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CFLE
Online Only
I'm a gender- queer polyamorous therapist.
If you and your partner(s) are wanting to start relationship therapy, communicate more effectively, resolve conflict, manage tension, increase intimacy, establish solid boundaries, better navigate non-monogamy, commit to self-growth in the process, reach out. I also offer coaching and consulting services. Check out other services at polyamory-coach dot com.
I'm a gender- queer polyamorous therapist.
If you and your partner(s) are wanting to start relationship therapy, communicate more effectively, resolve conflict, manage tension, increase intimacy, establish solid boundaries, better navigate non-monogamy, commit to self-growth in the process, reach out. I also offer coaching and consulting services. Check out other services at polyamory-coach dot com.
(802) 327-8459 View (802) 327-8459
Photo of Rose Mylott - Rose Mylott, Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Rose Mylott
Counselor, LCMHC, LADC
Online Only
I am a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Vermont licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed alcohol and drug counselor. I work with adults 18 years and older. I will work hard to support you in developing skills to face the world with calmness and to strengthen your ability to regulate your emotions. We will work together to help you overcome obstacles that are getting in the way of you achieving your goals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a central factor in helping people to heal from trauma. I am committed to helping you find relief.
I am a strong advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.
I am a Vermont licensed clinical mental health counselor and licensed alcohol and drug counselor. I work with adults 18 years and older. I will work hard to support you in developing skills to face the world with calmness and to strengthen your ability to regulate your emotions. We will work together to help you overcome obstacles that are getting in the way of you achieving your goals. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is a central factor in helping people to heal from trauma. I am committed to helping you find relief.
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Photo of Amy Allison, Counselor, LCMHC, MS, CEDS
Amy Allison
Counselor, LCMHC, MS, CEDS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Being in the throes of an eating disorder can make you feel all alone. It can feel like you are trapped in a prison that you want to escape from so badly and stay in at the same time. The idea of life without your eating disorder can feel terrifying, unsafe and unprotected. At the same time the idea of a lifetime with it can feel crushing. I am a certified eating disorder specialist. Who has worked at both higher levels of care and lower levels of care treating eating disorders for the last 12 years.
Being in the throes of an eating disorder can make you feel all alone. It can feel like you are trapped in a prison that you want to escape from so badly and stay in at the same time. The idea of life without your eating disorder can feel terrifying, unsafe and unprotected. At the same time the idea of a lifetime with it can feel crushing. I am a certified eating disorder specialist. Who has worked at both higher levels of care and lower levels of care treating eating disorders for the last 12 years.
(802) 821-8866 View (802) 821-8866
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.