LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Milwaukee, WI

Photo of Valerie Wesp, Counselor, MS, LPC
Valerie Wesp
Counselor, MS, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53212
I am sex-positive and passionate about providing affirming care to the LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous communities, and hope to provide a shared understanding of what it is like to live with these identities.
I am an Internal Family Systems therapist (Level 1 Trained), and I emphasize somatic techniques in this approach to help you find healing. I will offer instruction on how to build self-compassion to move through old wounds and strengthen your internal and external relationships.
I am sex-positive and passionate about providing affirming care to the LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous communities, and hope to provide a shared understanding of what it is like to live with these identities.
I am an Internal Family Systems therapist (Level 1 Trained), and I emphasize somatic techniques in this approach to help you find healing. I will offer instruction on how to build self-compassion to move through old wounds and strengthen your internal and external relationships.
(414) 441-1658 View (414) 441-1658
Photo of Nathan Sheppard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nathan Sheppard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a gay man, I have a passion for supporting those with marginalized identities.
I will work hard to provide you with a safe and affirming space for authentic growth. I love to incorporate humor into my therapy practice and if you've lost your sense of humor, that's okay! We will work to find it again. I have a passion for working with young adults, early career professionals, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
As a gay man, I have a passion for supporting those with marginalized identities.
I will work hard to provide you with a safe and affirming space for authentic growth. I love to incorporate humor into my therapy practice and if you've lost your sense of humor, that's okay! We will work to find it again. I have a passion for working with young adults, early career professionals, college students, and the LGBTQ+ community.
(414) 877-5795 View (414) 877-5795
Photo of Sam Troemel, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Sam Troemel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Milwaukee, WI 53222
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQ+, trans and nonbinary, kink, and those in poly or non-monogamous relationships.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method, you can break free from painful cycles and create a relationship where you can turn toward each other with confidence, knowing you have each other’s back. I also specialize in sex therapy and can help couples who are struggling with desire discrepancies and a broad range of sexual challenges.
I specialize in working with individuals and couples who identify as LGBTQ+, trans and nonbinary, kink, and those in poly or non-monogamous relationships.
Using Emotionally Focused Therapy and the Gottman Method, you can break free from painful cycles and create a relationship where you can turn toward each other with confidence, knowing you have each other’s back. I also specialize in sex therapy and can help couples who are struggling with desire discrepancies and a broad range of sexual challenges.
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Photo of Elaina Meier, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Elaina Meier
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
For Trans and gender expansive folx, I use informed consent and self-determination models.
I enjoy working with individuals interested in experiencing a change in their life. Perhaps you want to have greater insight and understanding or perhaps you want to make some really focused changes in your life; I would love to join you in that process and offer support in the journey. I also recognize that pretty much everyone right now is working hard to stay afloat so I am eager to offer a wide array of hours including evenings and weekends as well as telehealth services. Please email to inquire about openings or establishing care.
For Trans and gender expansive folx, I use informed consent and self-determination models.
I enjoy working with individuals interested in experiencing a change in their life. Perhaps you want to have greater insight and understanding or perhaps you want to make some really focused changes in your life; I would love to join you in that process and offer support in the journey. I also recognize that pretty much everyone right now is working hard to stay afloat so I am eager to offer a wide array of hours including evenings and weekends as well as telehealth services. Please email to inquire about openings or establishing care.
(608) 200-2615 View (608) 200-2615
Photo of Dr. Love C Dialogos, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Dr. Love C Dialogos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD
Serves Area
I identify as a Queer Womxn.
Buddhist Psychological approaches. The phrasing I use, "Accelerated Experiential Psychotherapy." This process involves Biological, Psychological, Sociological, Anthropological, Historical, and Cultural context. Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Content (skills), Experiences (did how you thought about the experience match with your hypothesis), Process.
I identify as a Queer Womxn.
Buddhist Psychological approaches. The phrasing I use, "Accelerated Experiential Psychotherapy." This process involves Biological, Psychological, Sociological, Anthropological, Historical, and Cultural context. Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Content (skills), Experiences (did how you thought about the experience match with your hypothesis), Process.
(773) 389-2979 View (773) 389-2979
Photo of Danielle Falesnik, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAS
Danielle Falesnik
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAS
Online Only
I have over 14 years of experience supporting queer and neurodiverse individuals facing ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma, and more.
I support neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folks dealing with ADHD, OCD, ASD, and trauma. With 14+ years of experience, I blend traditional therapy with holistic practices like Reiki and tarot, creating a personalized path to connect mind, body, and spirit for true healing.
I have over 14 years of experience supporting queer and neurodiverse individuals facing ADHD, OCD, ASD, trauma, and more.
I support neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ folks dealing with ADHD, OCD, ASD, and trauma. With 14+ years of experience, I blend traditional therapy with holistic practices like Reiki and tarot, creating a personalized path to connect mind, body, and spirit for true healing.
(920) 315-6054 View (920) 315-6054
Photo of Kate Sayers, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kate Sayers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
With 11+ years of experience, I specialize in working with my peers in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Additionally, I specialize in working with survivors of trauma. This includes sexual trauma, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, intimate partner violence & abuse, race-based trauma, suicide, and complex grief. I obtained my trauma counseling certificates (I & II) from UW-Milwaukee. I am licensed to supervise clinicians & enjoy working with other therapists.
With 11+ years of experience, I specialize in working with my peers in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Additionally, I specialize in working with survivors of trauma. This includes sexual trauma, childhood trauma, emotional abuse, intimate partner violence & abuse, race-based trauma, suicide, and complex grief. I obtained my trauma counseling certificates (I & II) from UW-Milwaukee. I am licensed to supervise clinicians & enjoy working with other therapists.
(262) 218-4779 View (262) 218-4779
Photo of Eric Lovan, Counselor, LPC-IT, QTT
Eric Lovan
Counselor, LPC-IT, QTT
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in work with LGBTQIA+ individuals but work with all adults and adolescence.
I am an LPC-IT who works with individuals navigating interpersonal conflict, life transitions, and accompanying anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My training includes IOP/PHP and individual outpatient settings. If you have been feeling stuck, I am here to help. We will work together using trauma informed approaches to help you approach patterns and problems you want to change. I want you to feel understood. From there, we can work towards making effective changes. If this sounds like the right kind of environment for you, I encourage you to reach out and inquire further.
I specialize in work with LGBTQIA+ individuals but work with all adults and adolescence.
I am an LPC-IT who works with individuals navigating interpersonal conflict, life transitions, and accompanying anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and more. My training includes IOP/PHP and individual outpatient settings. If you have been feeling stuck, I am here to help. We will work together using trauma informed approaches to help you approach patterns and problems you want to change. I want you to feel understood. From there, we can work towards making effective changes. If this sounds like the right kind of environment for you, I encourage you to reach out and inquire further.
(414) 946-6143 View (414) 946-6143
Photo of Jacob A Sandoval, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Jacob A Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Additionally, I specialize in working with Queer and Trans clients and I provide sex therapy and sex education, when requested.
Mental health therapy is a type of healthcare that should be available to everyone. It should also be provided in such a way that you can feel comfortable, safe, and supported, even when being challenged. As a therapist, I offer services to clients from diverse backgrounds and identities. With my own identities as a neurodiverse, genderqueer (he/they), pansexual, Hispanic/white person, I strive to create and maintain an inclusive environment for all my clients. To this end, my approach to therapy is best described as collaborative, creating a therapeutic experience that is relevant to your life and experiences.
Additionally, I specialize in working with Queer and Trans clients and I provide sex therapy and sex education, when requested.
Mental health therapy is a type of healthcare that should be available to everyone. It should also be provided in such a way that you can feel comfortable, safe, and supported, even when being challenged. As a therapist, I offer services to clients from diverse backgrounds and identities. With my own identities as a neurodiverse, genderqueer (he/they), pansexual, Hispanic/white person, I strive to create and maintain an inclusive environment for all my clients. To this end, my approach to therapy is best described as collaborative, creating a therapeutic experience that is relevant to your life and experiences.
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Photo of Kate Valente, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Kate Valente
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Milwaukee, WI 53202
I specialize in working with kids (6 years and up) & teens, young adults (18-30), and the LGBTQ+ community.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult life transitions, PTSD, ADHD, and behavioral issues. I enjoy combining different techniques with my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and mindfulness.
I specialize in working with kids (6 years and up) & teens, young adults (18-30), and the LGBTQ+ community.
I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, difficult life transitions, PTSD, ADHD, and behavioral issues. I enjoy combining different techniques with my clients, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavioral therapy (DBT), person-centered therapy, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy, and mindfulness.
(414) 420-1632 View (414) 420-1632
Photo of Betsy Meinecke, Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT, LMT
Betsy Meinecke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT, LMT
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53212
My work is also influenced by my 17+ years of experience as a bodyworker, as well as the principles of intersectional feminism, anti-racism, and queer philosophy.
Our worldviews are made up of stories: about ourselves, others, the ways we engage with people, and the ways we move through the world. I'm fascinated by the mutual influence of individual perspective and shared experience, as well as the ways societal norms both limit and support individuals and relationships. How are you influencing and being influenced by others? What aspects of your story do you wish were different? How do you want to be known, and move through the world? "I don't know" is a perfectly acceptable answer! Let's explore and see what we discover.
My work is also influenced by my 17+ years of experience as a bodyworker, as well as the principles of intersectional feminism, anti-racism, and queer philosophy.
Our worldviews are made up of stories: about ourselves, others, the ways we engage with people, and the ways we move through the world. I'm fascinated by the mutual influence of individual perspective and shared experience, as well as the ways societal norms both limit and support individuals and relationships. How are you influencing and being influenced by others? What aspects of your story do you wish were different? How do you want to be known, and move through the world? "I don't know" is a perfectly acceptable answer! Let's explore and see what we discover.
(414) 251-1549 View (414) 251-1549
Photo of Katt Cochran, Psychologist, PhD
Katt Cochran
Psychologist, PhD
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53211
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed psychologist and non-binary, queer, liberation-focused therapist, I am dedicated to providing a transformative therapeutic experience that centers on your journey toward self-empowerment and joy.
I practice from an interpersonal, feminist, and liberation-focused framework. I see clients as experts on themselves, and see my role as supporting individuals in identifying ways to enact change within their lives. My therapeutic style is rooted in collaboration and empowerment, with analysis of systems of oppression and how they impact lived experience.
As a licensed psychologist and non-binary, queer, liberation-focused therapist, I am dedicated to providing a transformative therapeutic experience that centers on your journey toward self-empowerment and joy.
I practice from an interpersonal, feminist, and liberation-focused framework. I see clients as experts on themselves, and see my role as supporting individuals in identifying ways to enact change within their lives. My therapeutic style is rooted in collaboration and empowerment, with analysis of systems of oppression and how they impact lived experience.
(414) 895-0025 View (414) 895-0025
Photo of Susan C Bhuiyan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Susan C Bhuiyan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
3 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients, those who have experienced trauma and those impacted by the immigration experience I offer a safe and affirming space to explore identity, build resilience, and heal.
I offer compassionate, culturally attuned therapy for individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and the unique challenges that come with navigating the LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. I specialize in helping LGBTQ+ clients explore and affirm their identity in a safe, non-judgmental space, while also supporting immigrants.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ clients, those who have experienced trauma and those impacted by the immigration experience I offer a safe and affirming space to explore identity, build resilience, and heal.
I offer compassionate, culturally attuned therapy for individuals facing anxiety, depression, trauma, and the unique challenges that come with navigating the LGBTQ+ and immigrant experiences. I specialize in helping LGBTQ+ clients explore and affirm their identity in a safe, non-judgmental space, while also supporting immigrants.
(414) 710-8604 View (414) 710-8604
Photo of Amanda Mathy, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Amanda Mathy
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53207
Waitlist for new clients
I provide Queer and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy.
My goal as a therapist is to meet the client where they're at and provide a safe, open, and curious space for clients to explore all aspects of themselves. Working with the neurodivergent community, I also offer a variety of out-of-the box and non-traditional therapy styles. Your ideas are welcome to make the process as comfortable as possible!
I provide Queer and Neurodivergent affirming and informed therapy.
My goal as a therapist is to meet the client where they're at and provide a safe, open, and curious space for clients to explore all aspects of themselves. Working with the neurodivergent community, I also offer a variety of out-of-the box and non-traditional therapy styles. Your ideas are welcome to make the process as comfortable as possible!
(414) 246-8286 View (414) 246-8286
Photo of Emma Smith-Knapp, Counselor, LPC, MS
Emma Smith-Knapp
Counselor, LPC, MS
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatments including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play therapy. My goal is to collaborate on an individualized treatment approach to meet your unique needs.
I am also a LGBTQIA+ affirming and multiculturally sensitive practitioner.
I utilize an integrative approach combining evidenced-based treatments including person-centered, cognitive-behavioral, family systems and play therapy. My goal is to collaborate on an individualized treatment approach to meet your unique needs.
(414) 291-9487 x507 View (414) 291-9487 x507
Photo of Sam Giles, Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
Sam Giles
Counselor, MS, LPC-IT
2 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53233
I have experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including but not limited to: anxiety, trauma, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationship challenges, mood disorders, work/school/life stress, and self-esteem.
I take a pragmatic, multi-modal, and humanistic approach to therapy, which includes integrating person-centered, attachment-based, CBT, and family-systems perspectives. Recognizing that every individual is the expert on their own life, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs with openness, respect, and adaptability. I work with adults and teens (14+).
I have experience working with a wide range of presenting concerns, including but not limited to: anxiety, trauma, ADHD, LGBTQIA+ issues, relationship challenges, mood disorders, work/school/life stress, and self-esteem.
I take a pragmatic, multi-modal, and humanistic approach to therapy, which includes integrating person-centered, attachment-based, CBT, and family-systems perspectives. Recognizing that every individual is the expert on their own life, I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs with openness, respect, and adaptability. I work with adults and teens (14+).
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Photo of Yolanda Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
Yolanda Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LPC
1 Endorsed
Milwaukee, WI 53217
In addition to her focus on trauma, anxiety, and depression, Yolanda is committed to supporting the LGBTQ community, creating a safe and inclusive space for all her clients.
Yolanda Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor LPC serving adults across Wisconsin, offering compassionate and professional mental health care. With a focus on helping individuals aged 22 and older, Yolanda specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship challenges. She provides both individual and couples therapy, working collaboratively with her clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Yolanda is particularly passionate about supporting those facing trauma and PTSD, as she is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
In addition to her focus on trauma, anxiety, and depression, Yolanda is committed to supporting the LGBTQ community, creating a safe and inclusive space for all her clients.
Yolanda Thomas is a Licensed Professional Counselor LPC serving adults across Wisconsin, offering compassionate and professional mental health care. With a focus on helping individuals aged 22 and older, Yolanda specializes in treating anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and relationship challenges. She provides both individual and couples therapy, working collaboratively with her clients to develop personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. Yolanda is particularly passionate about supporting those facing trauma and PTSD, as she is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(414) 348-8165 View (414) 348-8165
Photo of Amber Greuel, Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Amber Greuel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I support adults, adolescents, couples, and families of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, including LGBTQIA+ and kink communities.
I specialize in marriage and family therapy, parenting/co-parenting, blended families, trauma-informed care, schema-focused therapy, and treating behavioral and substance use disorders. I also support individuals in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, helping them navigate life's challenges with compassion and understanding.
I support adults, adolescents, couples, and families of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences, including LGBTQIA+ and kink communities.
I specialize in marriage and family therapy, parenting/co-parenting, blended families, trauma-informed care, schema-focused therapy, and treating behavioral and substance use disorders. I also support individuals in managing stress, anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, helping them navigate life's challenges with compassion and understanding.
(920) 781-3923 View (920) 781-3923
Photo of Anna Kraft, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Anna Kraft
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
9 Endorsed
Serves Area
As a queer person, I also know the stressors of navigating a cis-het normative culture.
As we develop a plan tailored to your goals, we will explore your history that led you to where you are now and your unique strengths that will help you take your next turn. I integrate elements of psychodynamic theory, feminist theory, and person-centered theory. For couples counseling, I incorporate elements of Imago Therapy and Attachment Theory.
As a queer person, I also know the stressors of navigating a cis-het normative culture.
As we develop a plan tailored to your goals, we will explore your history that led you to where you are now and your unique strengths that will help you take your next turn. I integrate elements of psychodynamic theory, feminist theory, and person-centered theory. For couples counseling, I incorporate elements of Imago Therapy and Attachment Theory.
(262) 205-6934 View (262) 205-6934
Photo of Kristi Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW , CDVP
Kristi Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, APSW , CDVP
Serves Area
I am also passionate about working with various diverse populations, including, kids, LGBTQIA and seniors.
I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating and even a bit overwhelming. It’s also natural to be unsure about finding the right therapist for you. I strongly believe in self-advocacy, and it’s important to get to know your therapist to see if they’re the right fit—there’s no "one size fits all" in healing. Everyone’s journey is unique and happens at their own pace. By being here, you've already taken the first step. If you think I could be a good fit for your path, don't hesitate to reach out.
I am also passionate about working with various diverse populations, including, kids, LGBTQIA and seniors.
I understand that starting therapy can feel intimidating and even a bit overwhelming. It’s also natural to be unsure about finding the right therapist for you. I strongly believe in self-advocacy, and it’s important to get to know your therapist to see if they’re the right fit—there’s no "one size fits all" in healing. Everyone’s journey is unique and happens at their own pace. By being here, you've already taken the first step. If you think I could be a good fit for your path, don't hesitate to reach out.
(608) 470-8969 View (608) 470-8969

See more therapy options for Milwaukee

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.