Photo of Casey Hendershot in Jacksonville, FL
Casey Hendershot
LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals & those on a spiritual healing journey.
Life's journey can take unexpected turns, leaving us feeling shattered, exhausted &alone. If you're experiencing the weight of trauma, burnout or navigating challenging life transitions, know that you're not alone. With over 14 years of experience guiding individuals towards healing, self-discovery & wholeness, I specialize in helping individuals find peace within themselves. It's normal to feel overwhelmed by emotions like guilt or shame especially when others seem unable to grasp the depth of your struggles. You might yearn for a sense of normalcy yet find yourself trapped in a cycle of frustration & disconnection. There is hope.
My practice is inclusive and affirming, welcoming clients from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+ individuals & those on a spiritual healing journey.
Life's journey can take unexpected turns, leaving us feeling shattered, exhausted &alone. If you're experiencing the weight of trauma, burnout or navigating challenging life transitions, know that you're not alone. With over 14 years of experience guiding individuals towards healing, self-discovery & wholeness, I specialize in helping individuals find peace within themselves. It's normal to feel overwhelmed by emotions like guilt or shame especially when others seem unable to grasp the depth of your struggles. You might yearn for a sense of normalcy yet find yourself trapped in a cycle of frustration & disconnection. There is hope.
(904) 650-4434 View (904) 650-4434
Photo of Jesse Marquez, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jesse Marquez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32099  (Online Only)
I believe we all need extra support sometimes. It's okay to not be okay! I am here to help you with anything you want to share without judgment. I've had the pleasure of working with a diverse group of clients and especially enjoy working with people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I look forward to learning your stories and helping you recognize your strengths!
I believe we all need extra support sometimes. It's okay to not be okay! I am here to help you with anything you want to share without judgment. I've had the pleasure of working with a diverse group of clients and especially enjoy working with people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. I look forward to learning your stories and helping you recognize your strengths!
(786) 886-1370 View (786) 886-1370
Photo of Justin Dement- A Safe Port Counseling LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Justin Dement- A Safe Port Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32256
I have experience in working with clients coping with grief and loss (including pet bereavement), LGBTQ+ clients, clients diagnosed with terminal illness, self-esteem issues, helping clients with setting healthy boundaries, caregiver stress, stress related to aging, life transitions, relationship counseling, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Life can be overwhelming at times. There are often moments of despair and feelings that others simply just don't "get it". Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or navigating situations or relationships that are increasing your anxiety or negatively impacting your self-esteem, I can assist you by helping you first identify strengths and then help you face challenges head-on, at your own pace. In my practice I partner with my clients to reach their goals through open, non-judgmental counseling. Deciding to begin therapy can be a bit scary at times, but you can be proud of yourself for taking the first step!
I have experience in working with clients coping with grief and loss (including pet bereavement), LGBTQ+ clients, clients diagnosed with terminal illness, self-esteem issues, helping clients with setting healthy boundaries, caregiver stress, stress related to aging, life transitions, relationship counseling, adjustment disorders, depression, and anxiety.
Life can be overwhelming at times. There are often moments of despair and feelings that others simply just don't "get it". Whether you are dealing with grief and loss or navigating situations or relationships that are increasing your anxiety or negatively impacting your self-esteem, I can assist you by helping you first identify strengths and then help you face challenges head-on, at your own pace. In my practice I partner with my clients to reach their goals through open, non-judgmental counseling. Deciding to begin therapy can be a bit scary at times, but you can be proud of yourself for taking the first step!
(904) 664-1061 View (904) 664-1061
Photo of Sarah Berger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Sarah Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32258  (Online Only)
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
I have worked with people of all ages ranging from children to the elderly, with more focus devoted to those in their late teen s - mid - life stages . I specialize in working with anxiety, anger management, ADHD, stress management, improving relationships and communication, navigating life transitions, and parenting challenges. I have considerable experience supporting LGBTQIA individuals and helping them to navigate the challenges they may encounter with family, friends, or community. I also have worked extensively with parents on navigating challenging childhood behaviors and teenage puberty.
(904) 822-9773 View (904) 822-9773
Photo of Tina Gillems, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Tina Gillems
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32218  (Online Only)
I have over 17 years of experience with Children and Families, Adults and children within the community, child welfare, individual and family therapy, case management and medical social work. I have worked within the Juvenile and adult justice system, LGBTQ population and their families, children and adults with mental health, children and adults that have aged out of foster care, and others in the community. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, domestic violence, and many more.
I have over 17 years of experience with Children and Families, Adults and children within the community, child welfare, individual and family therapy, case management and medical social work. I have worked within the Juvenile and adult justice system, LGBTQ population and their families, children and adults with mental health, children and adults that have aged out of foster care, and others in the community. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, domestic violence, and many more.
(904) 467-1249 View (904) 467-1249
Photo of Rosalyn Zacarias, Pre-Licensed Professional in Jacksonville, FL
Rosalyn Zacarias
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I have also done research on the sex lives of bisexual women.
I provide a safe space for people to work on the issues that are causing you stress and may seem to be taking over your life. In therapy, we can work together to set goals and figure out how to achieve them.
I have also done research on the sex lives of bisexual women.
I provide a safe space for people to work on the issues that are causing you stress and may seem to be taking over your life. In therapy, we can work together to set goals and figure out how to achieve them.
(904) 595-9149 View (904) 595-9149
Photo of Jacob Gandy, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Jacob Gandy
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, BCBA, NCC, TCT
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32223
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
I work with people ages 12 to 100 who are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, gender queer, male, female, in the minority or in the majority.
I have experience and a passion for working with people who feel like they are on the outside, looking in. This may lead to depression, anxiety, frustration, or questions about your identity. I offer a safe space to talk about your challenges and I will do my best to help you work toward progress. I have experience working with LGBTQ+ adults and teens and hold a certification as a Transgender Care Therapist from The International Transgender Certification Association.
(904) 842-4335 View (904) 842-4335
Photo of Kim Ehly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Kim Ehly, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
My practice includes individuals, couples w/ focus on communication, LGBTQA+, polyamory, transgender, adoptee challenges, grief/loss, pet loss, abandonment issues, Complex-PTSD, and relationship abuse recovery.
When life is challenging and hard to navigate, reaching out for guidance is often the most loving thing you can do for yourself, your intimate relationship, or your family. So my guess is, if you have landed here, you're ready to begin the journey toward healing. One of my greatest passions is helping you come through difficult times to discover how resilient and resourceful you really are. I believe therapy is a journey that can help anyone of any background gain comfort and contentment in life. We will be a team journeying toward the life you wish to lead.
(954) 289-6635 View (954) 289-6635
Photo of Nickolas Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Nickolas Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, ACSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32208  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Colorado, Florida, and Vermont with over 10 years of experience collaborating with clients to meet their goals. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress and anxiety, career challenges, LGBTQ+ related issues, and grief and loss.My counseling style is accepting, collaborative, and warm. I believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect while giving special attention to your strengths.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Colorado, Florida, and Vermont with over 10 years of experience collaborating with clients to meet their goals. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including stress and anxiety, career challenges, LGBTQ+ related issues, and grief and loss.My counseling style is accepting, collaborative, and warm. I believe in treating everyone with compassion and respect while giving special attention to your strengths.
(689) 333-6516 View (689) 333-6516
Photo of Kurt W Oster Msw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Kurt W Oster Msw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, ACSW, BCD, RPT™
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244  (Online Only)
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alabama, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist, and I hold multiple credentials. As a social worker, life coach, and trauma professional, I am here to help clients reach their goals of overcoming life challenges, growing in new ways, and helping develop new positive goals and ways of doing things. Additionally, I work with LGBTQ+ Clients on coming out, identity development, and gender identity issues. I provide a safe place for clients to explore the challenges facing them.
Welcome, and thank you for visiting my page. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Alabama, Florida, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia, a Board Certified Diplomate, and a Registered Play Therapist, and I hold multiple credentials. As a social worker, life coach, and trauma professional, I am here to help clients reach their goals of overcoming life challenges, growing in new ways, and helping develop new positive goals and ways of doing things. Additionally, I work with LGBTQ+ Clients on coming out, identity development, and gender identity issues. I provide a safe place for clients to explore the challenges facing them.
(904) 849-2956 View (904) 849-2956
Photo of Beyond The Matter Counseling , Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Beyond The Matter Counseling
Counselor, LMHC, Veteran
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32205  (Online Only)
As a member and ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, I'm an advocate for the challenges faced by the community, both personally and professionally.
You're on a quest for self-discovery, aiming to grow and tap into your innate well-being. You desire self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Overcoming anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and low mood disrupts daily life. You want a non-judgmental environment to explore emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with compassionate guidance and evidence-based tools. Your goals include self-acceptance, positive relationships, and overall balance. You seek to regain control, boost self-esteem, and find lasting happiness. You long for connections, harmony, purpose, and joy. You aim to embrace challenges, unlock potential, and cultivate joy.
As a member and ally to the LGBTQ+ Community, I'm an advocate for the challenges faced by the community, both personally and professionally.
You're on a quest for self-discovery, aiming to grow and tap into your innate well-being. You desire self-discovery, resilience, and inner peace. Overcoming anxiety, stress, self-doubt, and low mood disrupts daily life. You want a non-judgmental environment to explore emotions, thoughts, and behaviors with compassionate guidance and evidence-based tools. Your goals include self-acceptance, positive relationships, and overall balance. You seek to regain control, boost self-esteem, and find lasting happiness. You long for connections, harmony, purpose, and joy. You aim to embrace challenges, unlock potential, and cultivate joy.
(319) 254-5609 View (319) 254-5609
Photo of Michelle Camp, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Michelle Camp
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32244
I also often work with LGBTQIA+ individuals, as my focus is on self-identity, self-esteem, and ultimately enhanced discovery of who you are, your value, and your place in the world.
My name is Michelle Camp, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Orlando, Florida working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I specialize in working with children/adolescents and their guardians related to stress, school issues, self-esteem, and self-identity, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices to help my clients understand themselves better and feel better through these critical early years. I typically work with children and adolescents and/or their guardians, as I am also a Certified School Counselor and bring expertise in both mental health and school systems.
I also often work with LGBTQIA+ individuals, as my focus is on self-identity, self-esteem, and ultimately enhanced discovery of who you are, your value, and your place in the world.
My name is Michelle Camp, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Orlando, Florida working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I specialize in working with children/adolescents and their guardians related to stress, school issues, self-esteem, and self-identity, using primarily Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based practices to help my clients understand themselves better and feel better through these critical early years. I typically work with children and adolescents and/or their guardians, as I am also a Certified School Counselor and bring expertise in both mental health and school systems.
(904) 842-4639 View (904) 842-4639
Photo of Dr. Andrew A. Gauler, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Dr. Andrew A. Gauler
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, CRC, CVE, ACS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32216
, LGBTQ) and individuals with congenital and acquired disabilities.
I am working with both adolescents and adults. My theoretical orientation to counseling and psychotherapy is rooted in the philosophy of a humanistic-existential approach to human functioning. I use the tenets of individual responsibility to choice and decision-making and apply them within a cognitive-behavioral perspective (CBT) to counseling and clinical work. I consider myself a generalist with specialty training in cognitive rehabilitation, vocational/career counseling, as well as psychoeducational testing and other evaluations, such as pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., for bariatric procedures).
, LGBTQ) and individuals with congenital and acquired disabilities.
I am working with both adolescents and adults. My theoretical orientation to counseling and psychotherapy is rooted in the philosophy of a humanistic-existential approach to human functioning. I use the tenets of individual responsibility to choice and decision-making and apply them within a cognitive-behavioral perspective (CBT) to counseling and clinical work. I consider myself a generalist with specialty training in cognitive rehabilitation, vocational/career counseling, as well as psychoeducational testing and other evaluations, such as pre-surgical evaluations (e.g., for bariatric procedures).
(904) 508-0821 View (904) 508-0821
Photo of Hannah Mayderry, Counselor in Jacksonville, FL
Hannah Mayderry
Counselor, LMHC, MEd, EdS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist and have the honor of working with people of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Life often feels out of control. I view therapy as the process of working towards self-empowerment in the midst of an unpredictable world. My passion for counseling stems from my own experience of learning to control what I can, while also being kind to myself as I learned to let go of what I could not. I believe that as we become aware of people, places, and mindsets that are no longer serving us, we make room for those that will.
I am an LGBTQ+ friendly therapist and have the honor of working with people of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Life often feels out of control. I view therapy as the process of working towards self-empowerment in the midst of an unpredictable world. My passion for counseling stems from my own experience of learning to control what I can, while also being kind to myself as I learned to let go of what I could not. I believe that as we become aware of people, places, and mindsets that are no longer serving us, we make room for those that will.
(904) 478-9052 View (904) 478-9052
Photo of Victoria McNeil-Young, Psychologist in Jacksonville, FL
Victoria McNeil-Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32224  (Online Only)
I offer support for a variety of concerns and life events including anxiety, racial trauma, depression, relationship issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, and career/academic concerns.
In addition to regular services, I am now accepting short-term therapy clients for issues related to anxiety, stress, or life transitions. We all have the ability to grow and to reach our fullest potential in life. However, sometimes support is needed as we navigate life’s challenges and changes. As a Counseling Psychologist operating within a multiculturally focused liberation framework, I am committed to helping my clients realize the best version of themselves while honoring their identities, culture, life experiences, and values. You matter, you are worthy of wellness, and your authentic self is enough.
I offer support for a variety of concerns and life events including anxiety, racial trauma, depression, relationship issues, identity development, LGBTQ+ concerns, trauma, self-esteem, life transitions, and career/academic concerns.
In addition to regular services, I am now accepting short-term therapy clients for issues related to anxiety, stress, or life transitions. We all have the ability to grow and to reach our fullest potential in life. However, sometimes support is needed as we navigate life’s challenges and changes. As a Counseling Psychologist operating within a multiculturally focused liberation framework, I am committed to helping my clients realize the best version of themselves while honoring their identities, culture, life experiences, and values. You matter, you are worthy of wellness, and your authentic self is enough.
(904) 298-6498 View (904) 298-6498
Photo of James Lounsbury, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
James Lounsbury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32207
I can help you with: communications and conflicts with spouses, parents, teens and others; work stress; anger management; depression; anxiety; PTSD; divorce recovery; sexual and intimacy issues; LGBTQ issues; cultural adjustments, military readjustment; lifestyle and career changes; men's issues; porn and sex addiction, or whatever holds you back.
Life in the 21st century can be overwhelming. Stress affects relationships, work, social groups, home, health...and the list goes on. I've been working with individuals, families and organizations for 20+ years. I've had the best clinical training available in a broad range of techniques (below). I am board certified in clinical social work and hypnosis. I have a PhD in natural health. Prior to that, I worked for 25 years as a policy manager for corporate, government and non profit organizations, and understand work/home stress. We'll talk about what's going on in your life, and what approach will help you move forward.
I can help you with: communications and conflicts with spouses, parents, teens and others; work stress; anger management; depression; anxiety; PTSD; divorce recovery; sexual and intimacy issues; LGBTQ issues; cultural adjustments, military readjustment; lifestyle and career changes; men's issues; porn and sex addiction, or whatever holds you back.
Life in the 21st century can be overwhelming. Stress affects relationships, work, social groups, home, health...and the list goes on. I've been working with individuals, families and organizations for 20+ years. I've had the best clinical training available in a broad range of techniques (below). I am board certified in clinical social work and hypnosis. I have a PhD in natural health. Prior to that, I worked for 25 years as a policy manager for corporate, government and non profit organizations, and understand work/home stress. We'll talk about what's going on in your life, and what approach will help you move forward.
(904) 495-7137 View (904) 495-7137
Photo of Raquel Veda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Raquel Veda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256  (Online Only)
As a therapist, Raquel enters into each session focused on your specific goals and needs at the core. She truly believes that therapy is an effective way in which mental and emotional health can be managed and improved. Many of her clients are individuals dealing with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, relational distress, childhood trauma, and neurodiversity. She works with persons of all backgrounds and diversities, including LGBTQ+, multi-cultures, nontraditional relationships & families, etc.
As a therapist, Raquel enters into each session focused on your specific goals and needs at the core. She truly believes that therapy is an effective way in which mental and emotional health can be managed and improved. Many of her clients are individuals dealing with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, relational distress, childhood trauma, and neurodiversity. She works with persons of all backgrounds and diversities, including LGBTQ+, multi-cultures, nontraditional relationships & families, etc.
(813) 320-2795 View (813) 320-2795
Photo of Ilona Korsunsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Ilona Korsunsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32210
LGBTQ, Veterans, etc.
Hi All, My name is Ilona Korsunsky and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently practicing in the State of Florida. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Sociology from Rutgers University of New Jersey and later pursued a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, graduating with high honors from Florida International University. Occasionally, life unexpectedly shows up, causing one to become increasingly stressed and overwhelmed. During those trying times, it is so important to have the right support and guidance.
LGBTQ, Veterans, etc.
Hi All, My name is Ilona Korsunsky and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) currently practicing in the State of Florida. I earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Sociology from Rutgers University of New Jersey and later pursued a Master’s Degree in Clinical Social Work, graduating with high honors from Florida International University. Occasionally, life unexpectedly shows up, causing one to become increasingly stressed and overwhelmed. During those trying times, it is so important to have the right support and guidance.
(904) 774-2853 View (904) 774-2853
Photo of Justin Dement, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Justin Dement
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jacksonville, FL 32256
My areas of interest include working with clients coping with grief/loss, caregiver stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship counseling, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, I strive to help my clients find healthy, balanced lives. No matter their background, I invest in my clients' well-being, partnering with them through open, non-judgmental counseling. I empower my clients by helping them understand that self-acceptance, self-care and ultimately, self-love are the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.
My areas of interest include working with clients coping with grief/loss, caregiver stress, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship counseling, life transitions, anxiety and depression.
As a therapist, I strive to help my clients find healthy, balanced lives. No matter their background, I invest in my clients' well-being, partnering with them through open, non-judgmental counseling. I empower my clients by helping them understand that self-acceptance, self-care and ultimately, self-love are the greatest gifts we can give ourselves.
(904) 299-1079 View (904) 299-1079
Photo of Natalie Reeder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Jacksonville, FL
Natalie Reeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, FL 32209  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a variety of topics including grief and loss, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ anxiety, adolescent issues, bariatric evaluations, divorce, end of life issues, social problems/bullying, and adjustment/life changes. I have experience working with various multidisciplinary teams in a host of settings and working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I work with all populations.
I have experience working with a variety of topics including grief and loss, mood disorders, LGBTQ+ anxiety, adolescent issues, bariatric evaluations, divorce, end of life issues, social problems/bullying, and adjustment/life changes. I have experience working with various multidisciplinary teams in a host of settings and working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. I work with all populations.
(786) 833-7370 View (786) 833-7370

See more therapy options for Jacksonville

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.