LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Swanton, VT
I believe that meaningful change begins with an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and honest therapeutic relationship. My role as a therapist is to meet each person where they are- allowing them to feel heard and supported while navigating life's challenges. With over 15 years of experience (including 10 yrs as a School Counselor), I have worked extensively with children, teens, college students, adults and parents from diverse backgrounds. I'm passionate about helping clients manage emotions, reduce anxiety and depression ,build social skills and develop effective coping strategies.
I believe that meaningful change begins with an empathetic, nonjudgmental, and honest therapeutic relationship. My role as a therapist is to meet each person where they are- allowing them to feel heard and supported while navigating life's challenges. With over 15 years of experience (including 10 yrs as a School Counselor), I have worked extensively with children, teens, college students, adults and parents from diverse backgrounds. I'm passionate about helping clients manage emotions, reduce anxiety and depression ,build social skills and develop effective coping strategies.
Accepting Virtual Clients
Welcome! My approach to working with adolescents and adults centers around compassionate interactions to empower individuals to move and grow beyond their current situations. I believe that it is important for everyone to feel responded to and heard. Through the continued development of a strong sense of self, I believe that people possess the skills needed to change their situations. I look forward to sharing my therapeutic philosophy and guiding you to achieve your greatest potential.
Accepting Virtual Clients
Welcome! My approach to working with adolescents and adults centers around compassionate interactions to empower individuals to move and grow beyond their current situations. I believe that it is important for everyone to feel responded to and heard. Through the continued development of a strong sense of self, I believe that people possess the skills needed to change their situations. I look forward to sharing my therapeutic philosophy and guiding you to achieve your greatest potential.
Thomas Mock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, BCD
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
Choosing a therapist for yourself or loved one can be a difficult task. A true "Master" of the healing arts is one who has spent years learning, practicing, and refining their skills as a healer. Individuals, couples and families first entering into the therapeutic relationship often feel overwhelmed, confused, anxious and vulnerable. They need to feel safe by knowing that they are truly being heard and respected. They also need to trust that their therapist has sufficient experience to patiently guide them thru the process of self discovery on their path to wellness and feeling whole, perhaps for the first time in their life.
More Therapists Nearby
My name is Hilary, and I am a clinical therapist licensed in VT and FL with over 20 years of experience in clinical and community settings. I work best with clients ready to heal from what feels unbearable—especially grief or experiences that have left them feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I have a deep passion for supporting people through grief in all its forms and have specialized training in working with those affected by intimate partner violence, incarceration, and extreme emotional states. My approach helps clients find grounding, self-understanding, and the capacity to hold both pain and possibility.
My name is Hilary, and I am a clinical therapist licensed in VT and FL with over 20 years of experience in clinical and community settings. I work best with clients ready to heal from what feels unbearable—especially grief or experiences that have left them feeling disconnected from themselves or others. I have a deep passion for supporting people through grief in all its forms and have specialized training in working with those affected by intimate partner violence, incarceration, and extreme emotional states. My approach helps clients find grounding, self-understanding, and the capacity to hold both pain and possibility.
Women are incredible, and yet, I don’t know a single woman who hasn’t held deep pain and shame about herself at some point; somehow feeling like she is both too much and not enough. Shrinking herself, fighting imposter syndrome, avoiding conflict, feeling guilty for having needs and choosing to care for herself... Maybe you know that feeling too, and maybe that’s why you’re here. It doesn’t have to be this way. You can learn how to move from self-criticism to compassion, rebuild your confidence, and let go of the insecurities that make it so hard for you to see your worth. You can learn how to love yourself and your life again.
Women are incredible, and yet, I don’t know a single woman who hasn’t held deep pain and shame about herself at some point; somehow feeling like she is both too much and not enough. Shrinking herself, fighting imposter syndrome, avoiding conflict, feeling guilty for having needs and choosing to care for herself... Maybe you know that feeling too, and maybe that’s why you’re here. It doesn’t have to be this way. You can learn how to move from self-criticism to compassion, rebuild your confidence, and let go of the insecurities that make it so hard for you to see your worth. You can learn how to love yourself and your life again.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed alcohol and drug counselor with a graduate certificate in resiliency-based approaches. My online practice is focused on interpersonal and systemic trauma, substance use, and the importance of community and collectivism in the lives of the folks I serve. I have professional experience working with adults of all ages who are seeking support with a variety of challenges. I use traditional talk therapy and a humanistic, strengths-based approach to create a neutral space focused on empowerment and healing.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a licensed alcohol and drug counselor with a graduate certificate in resiliency-based approaches. My online practice is focused on interpersonal and systemic trauma, substance use, and the importance of community and collectivism in the lives of the folks I serve. I have professional experience working with adults of all ages who are seeking support with a variety of challenges. I use traditional talk therapy and a humanistic, strengths-based approach to create a neutral space focused on empowerment and healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I am passionate about providing strengths-based, trauma-informed counseling for adolescents and adults in a virtual private practice setting in Vermont. My goal as your counselor is to help you feel valued and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor who has been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I am passionate about providing strengths-based, trauma-informed counseling for adolescents and adults in a virtual private practice setting in Vermont. My goal as your counselor is to help you feel valued and empowered to navigate life’s challenges.
My approach is highly strengths-based and relational; driven by the belief that a strong, engaging, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential in supporting people to move towards their personal goals. Whether goals are met quickly or over a longer span of time, treatment is focused and goal-oriented. Particular attention is given to naming and enhancing each individual's inherent skills and self-care abilities. I work to build each person's confidence that they have the strengths necessary to reach whatever state they choose for their self.
My approach is highly strengths-based and relational; driven by the belief that a strong, engaging, trusting therapeutic relationship is essential in supporting people to move towards their personal goals. Whether goals are met quickly or over a longer span of time, treatment is focused and goal-oriented. Particular attention is given to naming and enhancing each individual's inherent skills and self-care abilities. I work to build each person's confidence that they have the strengths necessary to reach whatever state they choose for their self.
In my work with individuals and partners, I bring a warm and grounding presence to each relationship. I trust in the innate capacity of each of us to heal and grow; this belief guides my work in supporting folks navigating complex trauma, grief, chronic illness, and relationship issues. Feeling understood and valued within a supportive, nurturing environment allows us to access deeper exploration and healing, emotional release, & the integration of new mind-body connections. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic your patterns might be, and how stuck you might feel, a more peaceful life is possible.
In my work with individuals and partners, I bring a warm and grounding presence to each relationship. I trust in the innate capacity of each of us to heal and grow; this belief guides my work in supporting folks navigating complex trauma, grief, chronic illness, and relationship issues. Feeling understood and valued within a supportive, nurturing environment allows us to access deeper exploration and healing, emotional release, & the integration of new mind-body connections. Regardless of how ingrained and automatic your patterns might be, and how stuck you might feel, a more peaceful life is possible.
Practical Support for Anxiety, Depression, and Life’s Challenges.
Living with anxiety or depression can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. You may feel stuck in negative thought patterns, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating or endless it can be focused, practical, and supportive. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and stress related to life transitions. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or frustrated by symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Practical Support for Anxiety, Depression, and Life’s Challenges.
Living with anxiety or depression can make even simple tasks feel overwhelming. You may feel stuck in negative thought patterns, emotionally drained, or unsure how to move forward. Therapy doesn’t have to be intimidating or endless it can be focused, practical, and supportive. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and stress related to life transitions. Many clients come to therapy feeling overwhelmed or frustrated by symptoms that interfere with daily life.
Merrick Fahrenwald
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
7 Endorsed
Colchester, VT 05446
Waitlist for new clients
One of my primary areas of interest is in working with queer and trans clients through healing and identity exploration.
I believe that everyone is an expert at their own life and seek to foster a sense of agency and empowerment. I emphasize the importance of warmth and human connection. My practice is trauma-informed and grounded in DBT and feminist therapy principles.
One of my primary areas of interest is in working with queer and trans clients through healing and identity exploration.
I believe that everyone is an expert at their own life and seek to foster a sense of agency and empowerment. I emphasize the importance of warmth and human connection. My practice is trauma-informed and grounded in DBT and feminist therapy principles.
Available for individual and couples therapy. As a compassionate and client-centered therapist, I am committed to creating a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Whether you’re navigating identity, relationships, or self-acceptance, I am here to support you unconditionally. Together, we’ll uncover practical strategies and empower you to overcome challenges. Let’s focus on solutions, resilience, and growth. Your well-being is my priority.
Available for individual and couples therapy. As a compassionate and client-centered therapist, I am committed to creating a safe space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and aspirations. Whether you’re navigating identity, relationships, or self-acceptance, I am here to support you unconditionally. Together, we’ll uncover practical strategies and empower you to overcome challenges. Let’s focus on solutions, resilience, and growth. Your well-being is my priority.
As a queer and trans person myself, I have a particular passion for working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
My practice is grounded in a person-centered and trauma-informed approach that draws upon various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution Based Therapy. A guiding principle of my practice is that each client already possesses the inner drive and ability to create the life that they want.
As a queer and trans person myself, I have a particular passion for working with LGBTQ+ individuals.
My practice is grounded in a person-centered and trauma-informed approach that draws upon various modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Solution Based Therapy. A guiding principle of my practice is that each client already possesses the inner drive and ability to create the life that they want.
Each person experiences mental distress uniquely. My aim is to partner with my client to ensure their safety in our shared space, create a bond of trust, and then dive into problems and solutions. Whether one experiences identity- or event-based problems and whether those are caused by individual development or social conditions, I strongly believe in the innate ability of trusting partnerships to overcome the troubles in our lives. If I'm not the right therapist for a person, I will work hard to keep them safe until they decide how to move forward.
Each person experiences mental distress uniquely. My aim is to partner with my client to ensure their safety in our shared space, create a bond of trust, and then dive into problems and solutions. Whether one experiences identity- or event-based problems and whether those are caused by individual development or social conditions, I strongly believe in the innate ability of trusting partnerships to overcome the troubles in our lives. If I'm not the right therapist for a person, I will work hard to keep them safe until they decide how to move forward.
Seeking therapy is one of the most radical acts of self-love you can take. I'm here to make sure it's worth it. Maybe you're carrying trauma that has changed how you move through the world. Maybe OCD is running the show — the cycle of intrusion, compulsion, relief, repeat — and you're exhausted. Maybe anxiety is quietly shrinking your life. Or maybe you're navigating grief, a life transition, cultural stress, perfectionism, relationship issues, an identity shift, ADHD, or something else entirely.
Seeking therapy is one of the most radical acts of self-love you can take. I'm here to make sure it's worth it. Maybe you're carrying trauma that has changed how you move through the world. Maybe OCD is running the show — the cycle of intrusion, compulsion, relief, repeat — and you're exhausted. Maybe anxiety is quietly shrinking your life. Or maybe you're navigating grief, a life transition, cultural stress, perfectionism, relationship issues, an identity shift, ADHD, or something else entirely.
As a queer, non-monogamous, South Asian, neurodivergent woman, my lived experience informs my clinical approach.
Are you the one who holds it together while feeling stretched thin? You might be carrying grief from loss, transition, or systemic harm. I offer an affirming space where you don’t have to overexplain yourself and your full humanity is welcome. Together, we move at your pace toward deeper self-understanding, steadier relationships, and a life that feels more like yours. Our work can include reconnecting with your body, desire, boundaries, and voice in ways that feel safe and empowering. You deserve support that honors your complexity, not shrinks it. You don’t have to carry it alone anymore.
As a queer, non-monogamous, South Asian, neurodivergent woman, my lived experience informs my clinical approach.
Are you the one who holds it together while feeling stretched thin? You might be carrying grief from loss, transition, or systemic harm. I offer an affirming space where you don’t have to overexplain yourself and your full humanity is welcome. Together, we move at your pace toward deeper self-understanding, steadier relationships, and a life that feels more like yours. Our work can include reconnecting with your body, desire, boundaries, and voice in ways that feel safe and empowering. You deserve support that honors your complexity, not shrinks it. You don’t have to carry it alone anymore.
I currently have openings for couples/intimate partners.
I work with teens, adults, and couples/intimate partners navigating anxiety, conflict, depression, disconnection, life transitions, or painful experiences. Whether folx are looking to improve communication, rebuild trust, or make sense of what’s unfolding, I offer a space to slow down, explore, and find a path forward.
In our work together, you remain the expert of your experience. I offer curiosity, collaboration, and a non-judgmental space to build insight, expand capacity, and create more choice in how you respond and relate.
I currently have openings for couples/intimate partners.
I work with teens, adults, and couples/intimate partners navigating anxiety, conflict, depression, disconnection, life transitions, or painful experiences. Whether folx are looking to improve communication, rebuild trust, or make sense of what’s unfolding, I offer a space to slow down, explore, and find a path forward.
In our work together, you remain the expert of your experience. I offer curiosity, collaboration, and a non-judgmental space to build insight, expand capacity, and create more choice in how you respond and relate.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients, and my practice is kink-affirming, poly-friendly, and trauma-informed.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, or challenges in relationships, I offer a compassionate and affirming space to support your healing and growth. My work is grounded in a deep respect for your lived experience, and I strive to meet each client with authenticity, care, and curiosity.
I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ clients, and my practice is kink-affirming, poly-friendly, and trauma-informed.
Whether you're navigating anxiety, life transitions, identity exploration, or challenges in relationships, I offer a compassionate and affirming space to support your healing and growth. My work is grounded in a deep respect for your lived experience, and I strive to meet each client with authenticity, care, and curiosity.
You might be queer, neurodivergent, an artist, someone whose inner world runs deeper and stranger than most spaces have allowed.
My work lives at the intersection of expanded states and deep identity work for LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent people, and artists. I offer support in finding the core self through Internal Family Systems, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and Somatic therapy
You might be queer, neurodivergent, an artist, someone whose inner world runs deeper and stranger than most spaces have allowed.
My work lives at the intersection of expanded states and deep identity work for LGBTQIA+ folks, neurodivergent people, and artists. I offer support in finding the core self through Internal Family Systems, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and Somatic therapy
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Swanton
- Colchester
- Essex
- Essex Junction
- Jericho
- Milton
- Morrisville
- Richmond
- Saint Albans
- Shelburne
- South Burlington
- Williston
- Winooski
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.