LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Rogers, AR

Photo of Jason LeCompte, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Jason LeCompte
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
I'm a proud founding member of the Bentonville Counseling Collective, a one-of-a-kind counseling practice in NWA. We are individual counselors working together to provide excellent, affordable, and tailored therapy for a vast array of clients. For the past several years we have worked with individuals, couples, and families on many different issues including depression, anxiety, infidelity, trauma, grief, LGBTQ issues, and many others. Whatever the challenge, the Bentonville Counseling Collective can help you overcome it, and help you be happier and more fulfilled in your life.
(479) 431-2362 View (479) 431-2362
Photo of Lexi Madle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rogers, AR
Lexi Madle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where individuals feel seen, heard, accepted and supported. I consider myself to be an affirming therapist with an open and relaxed style that my clients tell me helps to feel at ease right away. I believe therapy is an invaluable space where you can begin to explore all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and flourish. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community, I have found a deep passion and empowerment in working with those alike. I specialize in treating teens and adults with anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self harming behaviors and trauma.
I am committed to building therapeutic relationships where individuals feel seen, heard, accepted and supported. I consider myself to be an affirming therapist with an open and relaxed style that my clients tell me helps to feel at ease right away. I believe therapy is an invaluable space where you can begin to explore all the parts of yourself and begin to heal and flourish. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Community, I have found a deep passion and empowerment in working with those alike. I specialize in treating teens and adults with anxiety, grief, mood disorders, self harming behaviors and trauma.
(479) 348-4461 View (479) 348-4461
Photo of Shelby Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Shelby Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
Taking in-person & telehealth clients - I’m happy you have made it here and can’t wait to see how therapy might improve your life. I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, and couples. While I work with the full spectrum of mental health difficulties, I have specific experience working with trauma, abuse, anxiety, attachment/relationship dynamics, identity development, and adjustment to life changes. Often people who are seeking therapy are hoping to find a sense of control in their life and assurance that they are not alone in their experiences. No matter what brings you to seek therapy, I am here for your journey.
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
Taking in-person & telehealth clients - I’m happy you have made it here and can’t wait to see how therapy might improve your life. I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, and couples. While I work with the full spectrum of mental health difficulties, I have specific experience working with trauma, abuse, anxiety, attachment/relationship dynamics, identity development, and adjustment to life changes. Often people who are seeking therapy are hoping to find a sense of control in their life and assurance that they are not alone in their experiences. No matter what brings you to seek therapy, I am here for your journey.
(479) 326-7803 View (479) 326-7803
Photo of Sean Millhouse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Sean Millhouse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
My areas of focus include helping clients through depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, relationship challenges, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
My areas of focus include helping clients through depression, anxiety, grief, life changes, relationship challenges, and LGBTQ+ issues.
I believe that we are the storytellers of our lives. Along the way, we may get lost due to hardship, trauma, loss, and the disconnection from our core values. In my work as a therapist, I am dedicated to helping you rewrite your story from a place of compassion, empowerment, curiosity, and acceptance. Sometimes we need to reset or rediscover our internal compass, and I would be honored to help you find your way on your path to healing and contentment.
(479) 239-9221 View (479) 239-9221
Photo of Kendyl Tinsley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Kendyl Tinsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, TAC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
With over a decade experience in a variety of settings, my passion lies in working a hybrid of school based and outpatient - working with teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ population. I most enjoy working through life transitions be it changes in circumstances, gender/sexuality, the natural ebbs and flows of life, or taking the next step (adulthood, career, marriage, etc). I am trained in EMDR & TF-CBT, thus I excel at working with trauma. I'm a GALAP pledge signer and take a no gatekeeping approach to serving trans and nonbinary clients. I enjoy helping families find common ground and mutual respect even around difficult subjects.
With over a decade experience in a variety of settings, my passion lies in working a hybrid of school based and outpatient - working with teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ population. I most enjoy working through life transitions be it changes in circumstances, gender/sexuality, the natural ebbs and flows of life, or taking the next step (adulthood, career, marriage, etc). I am trained in EMDR & TF-CBT, thus I excel at working with trauma. I'm a GALAP pledge signer and take a no gatekeeping approach to serving trans and nonbinary clients. I enjoy helping families find common ground and mutual respect even around difficult subjects.
(479) 397-3645 View (479) 397-3645
Photo of Tori Francis, Counselor in Rogers, AR
Tori Francis
Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, TA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72756
479 Counseling is trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and welcoming to people of all spiritualities.
Identity exploration is the heart of transformative therapy. You absolutely deserve to feel grounded in who you are, and it is my privilege to help clients explore the patterns or hardships causing inner turmoil. People often come to me with histories of emotional abuse, difficult upbringings, or toxic romantic relationships. Some feel stuck or alone in their current circumstances, and they want help navigating a tender transition. The introspective nature of therapy can be vulnerable, but the healing is often profound. Wherever you are on your journey, I will strive to help you build a more authentic and meaningful life.
479 Counseling is trauma-informed, LGBTQIA+ affirming, and welcoming to people of all spiritualities.
Identity exploration is the heart of transformative therapy. You absolutely deserve to feel grounded in who you are, and it is my privilege to help clients explore the patterns or hardships causing inner turmoil. People often come to me with histories of emotional abuse, difficult upbringings, or toxic romantic relationships. Some feel stuck or alone in their current circumstances, and they want help navigating a tender transition. The introspective nature of therapy can be vulnerable, but the healing is often profound. Wherever you are on your journey, I will strive to help you build a more authentic and meaningful life.
(479) 349-4614 View (479) 349-4614
Photo of Daisy Bonilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rogers, AR
Daisy Bonilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756
Waitlist for new clients
While much of my experience has been centered on work with the immigrant and LGBTQIA+ community, I strive to create an open and affirmative space for all and work with adults, young adults, families, and couples.
Life’s journey can be really challenging sometimes. Hardships, relationships, and emotions can be difficult to overcome. While people come to treatment for a variety of reasons, therapy can serve as a critical anchor when you are feeling lost, broken, or stuck. I view therapy as a safe, explorative space to help you work through the problems you're experiencing as well as learn more about the relationships affecting your life.
While much of my experience has been centered on work with the immigrant and LGBTQIA+ community, I strive to create an open and affirmative space for all and work with adults, young adults, families, and couples.
Life’s journey can be really challenging sometimes. Hardships, relationships, and emotions can be difficult to overcome. While people come to treatment for a variety of reasons, therapy can serve as a critical anchor when you are feeling lost, broken, or stuck. I view therapy as a safe, explorative space to help you work through the problems you're experiencing as well as learn more about the relationships affecting your life.
(479) 239-9257 View (479) 239-9257
Photo of Daveeda 'leanne' Collins, Counselor in Rogers, AR
Daveeda 'leanne' Collins
Counselor, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
My passion is helping those struggling with LGBTQIA+, relational, and sexual concerns.
What is your greatest desire? Take a moment to really think about it. What stands in your way? You may be struggling to answer these questions. You may feel lost, confused, helpless, and overwhelmed. Maybe you feel alone or too embarrassed to talk to someone, but you don't have to brave the journey alone. Life is full of twists and turns, obstacles, and roadblocks that create a need to adjust the route to your destination. You may need help navigating the journey, and therapy is not “one size fits all.”
My passion is helping those struggling with LGBTQIA+, relational, and sexual concerns.
What is your greatest desire? Take a moment to really think about it. What stands in your way? You may be struggling to answer these questions. You may feel lost, confused, helpless, and overwhelmed. Maybe you feel alone or too embarrassed to talk to someone, but you don't have to brave the journey alone. Life is full of twists and turns, obstacles, and roadblocks that create a need to adjust the route to your destination. You may need help navigating the journey, and therapy is not “one size fits all.”
(479) 342-4595 View (479) 342-4595
Photo of Cathy Campbell, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Cathy Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756
One aspect of my practice is that I work with transgender individuals, both children and adults, and their families.
My approach to counseling is holistic because of the relationships between our minds, emotions, physical bodies, and spirits. Stress and stress management involve all aspects of our being. New research shows the connection between chronic stress in childhood and chronic physical and emotional illness in adults, and mind-body approaches that can help with healing. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ clients and their families. I am challenged and inspired by the difficulties that LGBTQ people face as they embrace their identities. Always, I want to support my clients in becoming their best, most authentic selves.
One aspect of my practice is that I work with transgender individuals, both children and adults, and their families.
My approach to counseling is holistic because of the relationships between our minds, emotions, physical bodies, and spirits. Stress and stress management involve all aspects of our being. New research shows the connection between chronic stress in childhood and chronic physical and emotional illness in adults, and mind-body approaches that can help with healing. I also specialize in working with LGBTQ clients and their families. I am challenged and inspired by the difficulties that LGBTQ people face as they embrace their identities. Always, I want to support my clients in becoming their best, most authentic selves.
(479) 226-8942 View (479) 226-8942
Photo of Allie Wakefield in Rogers, AR
Allie Wakefield
MS, LPE-I
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
When times get tough, we all need compassionate support and lots of coping skills! Allow me to help you through the hard times while teaching effective strategies to calm the inner chaos. By learning to care for yourself and understand your struggles you will find true stability and control that can be sustained, no matter the circumstances. Teens, especially need to learn these skills in order to successfully launch into adulthood. I strive to equip each of my clients with a coping skills set early on in treatment. I am trained in EMDR for treating trauma. I am an ally and member of the LGBTQ+ community.
(417) 815-0738 View (417) 815-0738
Photo of Corinna Dranow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Corinna Dranow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
I’m LGBTQ+ affirming, trained and experienced.
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
I’m LGBTQ+ affirming, trained and experienced.
Welcome to my webpage! I’m a family systems oriented therapist and my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life.
(479) 282-0629 View (479) 282-0629
Photo of Kara Willis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rogers, AR
Kara Willis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756
I want to offer an inclusive space for the unique concerns of people of color, women, and members of the LGBTQA+ community.
People consider therapy for a variety of reasons & I'm here to help through NWA Therapy's team. My experience working in a hospice setting has helped me learn so much to support and counsel someone as they journey through grief and loss. My work in dialysis has informed me on strategies to help patients manage the emotional stress of chronic illness & medical concerns. Work in a psychiatric hospital exposed me to patients struggling with significant mental health problems. I want to partner with you as we work together through the struggles of life including depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
I want to offer an inclusive space for the unique concerns of people of color, women, and members of the LGBTQA+ community.
People consider therapy for a variety of reasons & I'm here to help through NWA Therapy's team. My experience working in a hospice setting has helped me learn so much to support and counsel someone as they journey through grief and loss. My work in dialysis has informed me on strategies to help patients manage the emotional stress of chronic illness & medical concerns. Work in a psychiatric hospital exposed me to patients struggling with significant mental health problems. I want to partner with you as we work together through the struggles of life including depression, grief, loss, anxiety, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
(479) 239-9024 View (479) 239-9024
Photo of Lauren McCoy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rogers, AR
Lauren McCoy
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72757  (Online Only)
I have experience with clients seeking therapy for: couple/family counseling, infidelity, co-parenting, miscommunication, teens/children, grief, adjustment issues, stress/anxiety, depression, self esteem, LGBTQIA issues, sexuality, and more.
I focus on relationship/couples work. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, & families overcome obstacles and hardships that are throwing life off course. I believe that the most successful therapy occurs when you are truly ready for change and I applaud you for being brave enough to take the first steps towards that change. Therapy can seem scary , but the right connection with the right therapist will make it a rewarding experience. I offer nonjudgemental and safe therapy. I believe that trust between therapist and client is the foundation of a good therapeutic experience. Follow me on IG @therapylauren.
I have experience with clients seeking therapy for: couple/family counseling, infidelity, co-parenting, miscommunication, teens/children, grief, adjustment issues, stress/anxiety, depression, self esteem, LGBTQIA issues, sexuality, and more.
I focus on relationship/couples work. I am passionate about helping individuals, couples, & families overcome obstacles and hardships that are throwing life off course. I believe that the most successful therapy occurs when you are truly ready for change and I applaud you for being brave enough to take the first steps towards that change. Therapy can seem scary , but the right connection with the right therapist will make it a rewarding experience. I offer nonjudgemental and safe therapy. I believe that trust between therapist and client is the foundation of a good therapeutic experience. Follow me on IG @therapylauren.
(479) 239-8940 View (479) 239-8940
Photo of Danell Will, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Danell Will
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
Waitlist for new clients
Danell is passionate about guiding individuals to recognize their worth, strengths, and resiliency, so they may step into their full potential. She believes that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for change and works hard at creating a safe and authentic space for people to explore their life experiences while working towards achieving their personal goals. Danell strives to make all clients feel seen, heard, and genuinely known. She adamantly believes that all people are deserving of affirming and inclusive care and is a proud LGBTQ+ ally and advocate.
Danell is passionate about guiding individuals to recognize their worth, strengths, and resiliency, so they may step into their full potential. She believes that the therapeutic relationship is the foundation for change and works hard at creating a safe and authentic space for people to explore their life experiences while working towards achieving their personal goals. Danell strives to make all clients feel seen, heard, and genuinely known. She adamantly believes that all people are deserving of affirming and inclusive care and is a proud LGBTQ+ ally and advocate.
(479) 689-4997 View (479) 689-4997
Photo of Leah Richter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rogers, AR
Leah Richter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756  (Online Only)
I am passionate about supporting people in their mental health journeys. I have a special interest in working alongside women, and also have experience and a passion for working with military personnel and veterans. My practice is inclusive of the LGBTQA+ community. I respect your experience & identity. Trauma is life changing, but healing is possible. I want to help you develop and maintain peace in your life through the use of trauma focused therapy interventions including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognititve Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
I am passionate about supporting people in their mental health journeys. I have a special interest in working alongside women, and also have experience and a passion for working with military personnel and veterans. My practice is inclusive of the LGBTQA+ community. I respect your experience & identity. Trauma is life changing, but healing is possible. I want to help you develop and maintain peace in your life through the use of trauma focused therapy interventions including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma Focused-Cognititve Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR).
(479) 349-4423 View (479) 349-4423
Photo of Jeff Williams, Counselor in Rogers, AR
Jeff Williams
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756
It feels like your life has been violently torn apart. Like there’s a hole in your world that’s impossible to fill. You can’t believe she’s really gone. How are you supposed to move on? Your emotions are wild and out of control. From one moment to the next, you never know if you’ll be overwhelmed by sadness, anger, or a dull numbness. You lay in bed at night, wondering if there’s anything you could have done differently. You think about how all the work you put into meticulously crafting your future together was for nothing. Friends and family assure you that time will heal this pain, but you don’t see how that’s possible.
It feels like your life has been violently torn apart. Like there’s a hole in your world that’s impossible to fill. You can’t believe she’s really gone. How are you supposed to move on? Your emotions are wild and out of control. From one moment to the next, you never know if you’ll be overwhelmed by sadness, anger, or a dull numbness. You lay in bed at night, wondering if there’s anything you could have done differently. You think about how all the work you put into meticulously crafting your future together was for nothing. Friends and family assure you that time will heal this pain, but you don’t see how that’s possible.
(479) 662-0207 View (479) 662-0207
Photo of Freeman-Burchfield Institute for Cognitive Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Freeman-Burchfield Institute for Cognitive Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BICBTCC, A-CBT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
Are you suffering from anxiety, panic, OCD or depression? If so, we want you to know that at FBCBT hope starts at hello! We are here to listen sincerely so we can work with you to create a plan to get you right where you want to be. We can help you find a therapist that fits your individual needs. At FBCBT we teach and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because CBT is the most researched and scientifically tested therapy model. However, we value all evidence-based therapy models and use what is needed to best help you. Please feel free to reach out today to learn more about us.
Are you suffering from anxiety, panic, OCD or depression? If so, we want you to know that at FBCBT hope starts at hello! We are here to listen sincerely so we can work with you to create a plan to get you right where you want to be. We can help you find a therapist that fits your individual needs. At FBCBT we teach and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) because CBT is the most researched and scientifically tested therapy model. However, we value all evidence-based therapy models and use what is needed to best help you. Please feel free to reach out today to learn more about us.
(479) 226-8910 View (479) 226-8910
Photo of Sean McDonald, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Sean McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rogers, AR 72758
Sean McDonald, Owner and Clinical Director of Waterstone Counseling Center, believes each person has a unique story. His desire is to help guide you in living out a balanced and healthy lifestyle - emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Sean helps people from all backgrounds, including religious and non-religious belief systems. He strives to create a safe and confidential atmosphere to work with individuals who struggle with sexual addiction, porn addiction, shame, marital infidelity, and other intimacy related disorders. He also work with spouses/partners and families of sex addicts as well as individuals who struggle with anxiety, anger, trauma, and depression.
Sean McDonald, Owner and Clinical Director of Waterstone Counseling Center, believes each person has a unique story. His desire is to help guide you in living out a balanced and healthy lifestyle - emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Sean helps people from all backgrounds, including religious and non-religious belief systems. He strives to create a safe and confidential atmosphere to work with individuals who struggle with sexual addiction, porn addiction, shame, marital infidelity, and other intimacy related disorders. He also work with spouses/partners and families of sex addicts as well as individuals who struggle with anxiety, anger, trauma, and depression.
(479) 239-5011 View (479) 239-5011
Photo of Lindsey Hart, Counselor in Rogers, AR
Lindsey Hart
Counselor, MS, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
You long for more out of life. Most days you wake up and think, “How did I get here? I’m not where I want to be.” You exhaust yourself with the monotonous tasks of everyday work. You have trouble focusing on new information. You never have the energy left to do anything you truly enjoy. It’s not just work that has you exhausted either. You’re plagued by intrusive memories. Life seems to no longer be within your control. You tend to lose sight of good things and people in front of you. However, there is hope for healing and transformation. You can still build a fulfilling life. A life where each day brings happiness and excitement.
You long for more out of life. Most days you wake up and think, “How did I get here? I’m not where I want to be.” You exhaust yourself with the monotonous tasks of everyday work. You have trouble focusing on new information. You never have the energy left to do anything you truly enjoy. It’s not just work that has you exhausted either. You’re plagued by intrusive memories. Life seems to no longer be within your control. You tend to lose sight of good things and people in front of you. However, there is hope for healing and transformation. You can still build a fulfilling life. A life where each day brings happiness and excitement.
(479) 333-8361 View (479) 333-8361
Photo of Lee Ann Nimmo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rogers, AR
Lee Ann Nimmo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72756
Waitlist for new clients
Anxiety, panic, fear, grief, anger, irritability, insomnia, relapse, depression and shutting down are all normal responses to the trauma of the extensive fear and isolation we are currently experiencing. Whether distancing alone or with family, Covid 19 is making a serious impact on the mental and emotional wellbeing of millions of men, women and children. Many people are now experiencing acute anxiety, and PTSD. Those who were already dealing with mental health issues are at a very high risk of developing PTSD.
Anxiety, panic, fear, grief, anger, irritability, insomnia, relapse, depression and shutting down are all normal responses to the trauma of the extensive fear and isolation we are currently experiencing. Whether distancing alone or with family, Covid 19 is making a serious impact on the mental and emotional wellbeing of millions of men, women and children. Many people are now experiencing acute anxiety, and PTSD. Those who were already dealing with mental health issues are at a very high risk of developing PTSD.
(479) 802-3808 View (479) 802-3808
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.