LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Harpers Ferry, WV
The process of asking for help can be truly challenging. Sometimes it’s difficult asking a simple request, and even more difficult to ask someone to listen to you when you’re stressed, scared, angry, or sad. Therapy can be a step in improving relationships with yourself, and to help you know your feelings and experiences are valid. A lot of life is adapting to our environments, often to keep ourselves safe, but sometimes those learned behaviors have long-term effects on our ability to understand our needs and others.
The process of asking for help can be truly challenging. Sometimes it’s difficult asking a simple request, and even more difficult to ask someone to listen to you when you’re stressed, scared, angry, or sad. Therapy can be a step in improving relationships with yourself, and to help you know your feelings and experiences are valid. A lot of life is adapting to our environments, often to keep ourselves safe, but sometimes those learned behaviors have long-term effects on our ability to understand our needs and others.
I am an immigrant, LGBTQIA+ ally, trauma-informed, and anti-racist.
Do you want to feel empowered and connected, having more joy and pleasure in your life, after a challenging life experience? Are finding yourself or your relationship unable to break challenging patterns? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
Now offering clinical supervision for LGPCs in Maryland!
I am an immigrant, LGBTQIA+ ally, trauma-informed, and anti-racist.
Do you want to feel empowered and connected, having more joy and pleasure in your life, after a challenging life experience? Are finding yourself or your relationship unable to break challenging patterns? Are you struggling with how to reconnect sexually and regain the intimacy you once shared? Working from a strengths based & holistic perspective, I am skilled at creating a warm, open space to help individuals and couples increase intimacy, enhance understanding, navigate changing roles, set boundaries, resolve conflicts, heal trauma, and create satisfying relationships.
Now offering clinical supervision for LGPCs in Maryland!
Kate MacShane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, MSW, LCSW-C
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am the founder and clinical director of the Maryland Center for Gender and Intimacy. As a psychotherapist, I specialize in gender, sex, and affirming treatment of LGBTQIA2+ people. I provide compassionate, skilled therapy to clients seeking to heal, connect with their authentic selves, and strengthen relationships. I support gender-diverse individuals as they pursue gender congruence. I help families to better understand their transgender loved ones and navigate gender transition together. I also provide free assessments to those seeking letters of support for gender-affirming medical care.
I am the founder and clinical director of the Maryland Center for Gender and Intimacy. As a psychotherapist, I specialize in gender, sex, and affirming treatment of LGBTQIA2+ people. I provide compassionate, skilled therapy to clients seeking to heal, connect with their authentic selves, and strengthen relationships. I support gender-diverse individuals as they pursue gender congruence. I help families to better understand their transgender loved ones and navigate gender transition together. I also provide free assessments to those seeking letters of support for gender-affirming medical care.
More Therapists Nearby
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I value creating an affirming, inclusive and safe therapeutic space.
Hi, I'm a therapist with 15 years of experience and I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood and never judged. I believe therapy works best when you can show up as your real self, talk openly and feel supported while working through challenges, healing and personal growth together.
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I value creating an affirming, inclusive and safe therapeutic space.
Hi, I'm a therapist with 15 years of experience and I know life can feel overwhelming sometimes. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood and never judged. I believe therapy works best when you can show up as your real self, talk openly and feel supported while working through challenges, healing and personal growth together.
I work with women in early adulthood who are navigating major life transitions while developing a clearer sense of self. Many notice a constant hum of anxiety, getting stuck in looping thoughts, or having intense reactions to seemingly small events, leaving themselves tense, restless, or unsure how to respond. Anxiety, perfectionism, attentional or executive function differences, and early childhood experiences can all add to these overwhelming feelings; we can work together to manage them.
I work with women in early adulthood who are navigating major life transitions while developing a clearer sense of self. Many notice a constant hum of anxiety, getting stuck in looping thoughts, or having intense reactions to seemingly small events, leaving themselves tense, restless, or unsure how to respond. Anxiety, perfectionism, attentional or executive function differences, and early childhood experiences can all add to these overwhelming feelings; we can work together to manage them.
I also have expertise working with clients who are experiencing depression, grief/loss, the unique challenges faced by the queer community, as well as distinct issues encountered by men in general.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, and frequently use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. ERP is the top-tier, evidence-based approach for the majority of anxiety disorders. With ERP, I help clients lean into their anxiety and distress in order to help clients learn how to better manage and cope with anxiety and discomfort.
I also have expertise working with clients who are experiencing depression, grief/loss, the unique challenges faced by the queer community, as well as distinct issues encountered by men in general.
I take an integrative approach to therapy, and frequently use Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy. ERP is the top-tier, evidence-based approach for the majority of anxiety disorders. With ERP, I help clients lean into their anxiety and distress in order to help clients learn how to better manage and cope with anxiety and discomfort.
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and healing from trauma, stress, and emotional regulation issues. They need a safe, empathetic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goals include improving mental health, enhancing relationships, and gaining coping strategies. They want to feel empowered and resilient, driven by a desire for self-discovery and meaningful change.
My ideal client is seeking personal growth and healing from trauma, stress, and emotional regulation issues. They need a safe, empathetic environment to explore their thoughts and feelings. Their goals include improving mental health, enhancing relationships, and gaining coping strategies. They want to feel empowered and resilient, driven by a desire for self-discovery and meaningful change.
I specialize in working with those who may feel overlooked or invisible—whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, or life transitions that leave you feeling disconnected. My goal is to help you find your voice, your power, and your peace.
I specialize in working with those who may feel overlooked or invisible—whether it's trauma, anxiety, depression, or life transitions that leave you feeling disconnected. My goal is to help you find your voice, your power, and your peace.
I passionately serve folks on the autism spectrum, and in the LGBTQ+ and aging populations.
I work to dismantle the power dynamics that interfere with the therapeutic process. I am at my best when working with those who need elevated levels of support and those experiencing persistent mental health needs. My person-centered, strength-based approach to therapy includes a focus on anti-oppressive empowerment, grounded in partnership.
I passionately serve folks on the autism spectrum, and in the LGBTQ+ and aging populations.
I work to dismantle the power dynamics that interfere with the therapeutic process. I am at my best when working with those who need elevated levels of support and those experiencing persistent mental health needs. My person-centered, strength-based approach to therapy includes a focus on anti-oppressive empowerment, grounded in partnership.
My ideal clients are adults navigating complex emotional, behavioral, or high-stress situations impacting daily functioning, relationships, or decision-making. Many experience anxiety, trauma-related responses, emotional overwhelm, or difficulty managing major life stressors. I provide a structured, clinically grounded approach focused on understanding behavioral patterns, emotional functioning, and stress responses. Through assessment, consultation, and supportive clinical insight, I help clients gain clarity, improve functioning, and move forward with greater stability and self-understanding.
My ideal clients are adults navigating complex emotional, behavioral, or high-stress situations impacting daily functioning, relationships, or decision-making. Many experience anxiety, trauma-related responses, emotional overwhelm, or difficulty managing major life stressors. I provide a structured, clinically grounded approach focused on understanding behavioral patterns, emotional functioning, and stress responses. Through assessment, consultation, and supportive clinical insight, I help clients gain clarity, improve functioning, and move forward with greater stability and self-understanding.
I am currently accepting new clients. When your own mind feels like a chaotic place to live—whether from racing anxiety, deep-rooted trauma, or the exhausting cycle of substance use—finding a way out can feel impossible. You don't have to untangle this knot alone. I partner with individuals and couples ready to break free from panic or family struggles. In our sessions, we focus on what is already strong within you, using our time to discover practical tools that bring lasting relief. Together, we will help you regain your footing, heal at your own pace, and build a more grounded, peaceful future.
I am currently accepting new clients. When your own mind feels like a chaotic place to live—whether from racing anxiety, deep-rooted trauma, or the exhausting cycle of substance use—finding a way out can feel impossible. You don't have to untangle this knot alone. I partner with individuals and couples ready to break free from panic or family struggles. In our sessions, we focus on what is already strong within you, using our time to discover practical tools that bring lasting relief. Together, we will help you regain your footing, heal at your own pace, and build a more grounded, peaceful future.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. and I'm licensed in Virginia and West Virginia. I have worked with children, adults, and elderly people for many years. The treatment modalities I use are DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed care. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and strength-based. I have a great deal of experience in working with improving communication skills, conflict resolution, anger management, and assisting in improving parent/child relationships. I also work with clients to help them cope with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, and trauma.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. and I'm licensed in Virginia and West Virginia. I have worked with children, adults, and elderly people for many years. The treatment modalities I use are DBT, CBT, and trauma-informed care. My therapeutic approach is person-centered and strength-based. I have a great deal of experience in working with improving communication skills, conflict resolution, anger management, and assisting in improving parent/child relationships. I also work with clients to help them cope with such issues as anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, and trauma.
As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental relationship to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are seeking therapy to heal past wounds or address current issues, my approach is a collaborative one, building upon your personal strengths and resilience. I provide individual, family, and/or couples therapy to address a variety of mental health symptoms, behavioral disorders, and relationship problems.
As a therapist, my primary goal is to provide a supportive, nonjudgmental relationship to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are seeking therapy to heal past wounds or address current issues, my approach is a collaborative one, building upon your personal strengths and resilience. I provide individual, family, and/or couples therapy to address a variety of mental health symptoms, behavioral disorders, and relationship problems.
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
Hi, I'm Heather Cheshire, LCSW-C. I have been a clinical social worker for 13 years. I aim to utilize talk therapy to help support the emotional growth desired by my clients. I believe in building strong relationships to help clients meet their goals. Most of my experience providing therapy has been with middle school, high school, and college aged youth and young adults. I have experience working with multiple mental health diagnoses, such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, as well as situational challenges like major life changes and family and relationship issues.
Our therapists at Breakthrough Counseling see clients for a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sexuality, ADHD, and so many more. We are here to help you through your struggles and to assist you in meeting your goals. Our therapists are diversified, licensed and experienced professionals.
Our therapists at Breakthrough Counseling see clients for a wide range of issues including but not limited to anxiety, depression, eating disorders, sexuality, ADHD, and so many more. We are here to help you through your struggles and to assist you in meeting your goals. Our therapists are diversified, licensed and experienced professionals.
Therapy is an incredibly vulnerable process that involves stripping down the emotional armor we have collected over years of struggle, insecurity, or fear. For some the idea of therapy feels like the sweetest release and for others this idea feels incredibly intimidating. Often times, individuals present for their first sessions after an acute stressor, a period of prolonged distress, or even a previously failed treatment. Regardless of the precipitating factor, people often enter therapy when they feel hurt and alone. Many come with bruised hearts and tired souls, uncertain of what their struggles mean about their ability to heal.
Therapy is an incredibly vulnerable process that involves stripping down the emotional armor we have collected over years of struggle, insecurity, or fear. For some the idea of therapy feels like the sweetest release and for others this idea feels incredibly intimidating. Often times, individuals present for their first sessions after an acute stressor, a period of prolonged distress, or even a previously failed treatment. Regardless of the precipitating factor, people often enter therapy when they feel hurt and alone. Many come with bruised hearts and tired souls, uncertain of what their struggles mean about their ability to heal.
Do you have hope that it can get better? It can! While creating a safe place, therapy can help you learn to practice taking care of yourself. You are important and you deserve to be happy, healthy, and have hope in life. Through empowerment, encouragement, and education we can help to ease some of your burden.
Do you have hope that it can get better? It can! While creating a safe place, therapy can help you learn to practice taking care of yourself. You are important and you deserve to be happy, healthy, and have hope in life. Through empowerment, encouragement, and education we can help to ease some of your burden.
Many of my clients are LGBTQ+ or have learned to shape-shift or stay hyper-aware just to stay safe.
A lot of what gets called mental illness makes more sense when you look at how someone had to survive. If your internal system learned to disconnect or protect you in ways that don’t fit your life anymore, it’s not broken. It adapted.
I specialize in trauma, dissociation, and embodiment work, using IFS (parts work), EMDR, and practical skills for healing.
Many of my clients are LGBTQ+ or have learned to shape-shift or stay hyper-aware just to stay safe.
A lot of what gets called mental illness makes more sense when you look at how someone had to survive. If your internal system learned to disconnect or protect you in ways that don’t fit your life anymore, it’s not broken. It adapted.
I specialize in trauma, dissociation, and embodiment work, using IFS (parts work), EMDR, and practical skills for healing.
Sometimes it feels like our mind won’t shut off. One thought turns into 10, and before we know it we’ve spent more time than we wanted going down the mental rabbit hole. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety, and Phobias often take up space rent free in our mind making us act or behave a certain way to feel better. This tiring upkeep can make it feel like we're dragging through life, carrying a heavy weight, out of control, or that we're wearing a mask. In moments like these a helping hand is sometimes all we need to regain control over our lives.
Sometimes it feels like our mind won’t shut off. One thought turns into 10, and before we know it we’ve spent more time than we wanted going down the mental rabbit hole. Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Anxiety, and Phobias often take up space rent free in our mind making us act or behave a certain way to feel better. This tiring upkeep can make it feel like we're dragging through life, carrying a heavy weight, out of control, or that we're wearing a mask. In moments like these a helping hand is sometimes all we need to regain control over our lives.
I have a passion for helping others and I am committed to the therapeutic journey. I can be your guide in the journey of self improvement. I have experience in treating mental health disorders from a humanistic perspective. With years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I use an eclectic approach and I trained in various therapeutic techniques. I work with people suffering from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, and other acute disorders, including substance use disorder. I'm currently taking clients and I can be contacted through phone or email.
I have a passion for helping others and I am committed to the therapeutic journey. I can be your guide in the journey of self improvement. I have experience in treating mental health disorders from a humanistic perspective. With years of experience in mental health and substance use treatment, I use an eclectic approach and I trained in various therapeutic techniques. I work with people suffering from depressive disorders, anxiety, trauma, and other acute disorders, including substance use disorder. I'm currently taking clients and I can be contacted through phone or email.
See more therapy options for Harpers Ferry
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Harpers Ferry
See More LGBTQ+ TherapistsNearby Searches for Harpers Ferry
- Berkeley Springs
- Charles Town
- Falling Waters
- Hedgesville
- Inwood
- Kearneysville
- Martinsburg
- Shenandoah Junction
- Shepherdstown
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.