LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Philadelphia, PA

Photo of Emily Endres, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Emily Endres
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily with queer and trans people, people who have experienced trauma, people living with illness and disability, and people in caregiving roles (personally or professionally).
We've all found ways of surviving in an often chaotic and overwhelming world, but many of those survival strategies can lead us to feel out of control, disconnected or helpless. I am a somatic and trauma-trained therapist. I take a harm reduction approach. I aim to help you understand the ways your brain and body have learned to adapt and to illuminate new paths toward connection, self worth, agency and meaning. I believe that through nonjudgmental awareness, exploration and acceptance, our moment-to-moment experience shows us how to heal if we can learn to listen.
I work primarily with queer and trans people, people who have experienced trauma, people living with illness and disability, and people in caregiving roles (personally or professionally).
We've all found ways of surviving in an often chaotic and overwhelming world, but many of those survival strategies can lead us to feel out of control, disconnected or helpless. I am a somatic and trauma-trained therapist. I take a harm reduction approach. I aim to help you understand the ways your brain and body have learned to adapt and to illuminate new paths toward connection, self worth, agency and meaning. I believe that through nonjudgmental awareness, exploration and acceptance, our moment-to-moment experience shows us how to heal if we can learn to listen.
(215) 782-6108 View (215) 782-6108
Photo of Katie Nordstrom, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Katie Nordstrom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I’m a LCSW based out of Pittsburgh, PA. My goal is to empower and help you to get “unstuck”. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with addiction, trauma, relationships, and substance use. While there are lots of confusing and overwhelming terms - clinical licenses, models of treatment, etc. I believe it really comes down to the relationship between client and therapist. I’m committed to hearing, understanding, and validating the goals you want to achieve.
I’m a LCSW based out of Pittsburgh, PA. My goal is to empower and help you to get “unstuck”. I specialize in working with adults who struggle with addiction, trauma, relationships, and substance use. While there are lots of confusing and overwhelming terms - clinical licenses, models of treatment, etc. I believe it really comes down to the relationship between client and therapist. I’m committed to hearing, understanding, and validating the goals you want to achieve.
(412) 472-7484 View (412) 472-7484
Deborah Lane
BSSW, MSODL
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19129
(215) 647-0545 View (215) 647-0545
Photo of Triumph Counseling Group, LLC in Philadelphia, PA
Triumph Counseling Group, LLC
MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Triumph Counseling Group is a practice comprised of clinicians that specialize in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Our therapists have a experience with all age groups but specialize in working with young people and families. Triumph Therapists are equipped with evidenced based techniques that get results. We help young people experiencing anxiety, depression, low academic motivation, social struggles, and poor self-esteem. We work collaboratively with parents, schools, other supports to ensure continuity of care across settings which we believe is a key factor in achieving therapeutic goals.
Triumph Counseling Group is a practice comprised of clinicians that specialize in treating children, adolescents, and young adults. Our therapists have a experience with all age groups but specialize in working with young people and families. Triumph Therapists are equipped with evidenced based techniques that get results. We help young people experiencing anxiety, depression, low academic motivation, social struggles, and poor self-esteem. We work collaboratively with parents, schools, other supports to ensure continuity of care across settings which we believe is a key factor in achieving therapeutic goals.
(215) 798-8025 View (215) 798-8025
Photo of Jacara Reid in Philadelphia, PA
Jacara Reid
MA
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19151  (Online Only)
Ideal client has problems with boundaries and trauma. They want to be able to have better relationships and process their trauma.
Ideal client has problems with boundaries and trauma. They want to be able to have better relationships and process their trauma.
(610) 609-8065 View (610) 609-8065
Photo of Howard J August, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Howard J August
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, JD, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with gay, lesbian, bi and heterosexual adults on issues related to sexuality, identity and relationships, as well as anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Maybe you've noticed yourself worrying more or mulling over regrets. Or something has happened that you need to talk though: it could be a breakup, a loss, a layoff, an illness, or something else. You want more than passive uh-huh’s, but not a new boss either. I will take a calm walk with you through your life. My hope is you will feel heard and accepted both for who you are right now and who you want to become.
I have experience working with gay, lesbian, bi and heterosexual adults on issues related to sexuality, identity and relationships, as well as anxiety, PTSD and depression.
Maybe you've noticed yourself worrying more or mulling over regrets. Or something has happened that you need to talk though: it could be a breakup, a loss, a layoff, an illness, or something else. You want more than passive uh-huh’s, but not a new boss either. I will take a calm walk with you through your life. My hope is you will feel heard and accepted both for who you are right now and who you want to become.
(215) 709-6574 View (215) 709-6574
Photo of Elizabeth Benullo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Elizabeth Benullo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19114  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Liz and I have 14 years of mental health experience. Whether this is your first-ever therapy session or you've had a few in the past, I'm here to make mental wellness approachable and to help you become your best self. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, grief and loss and trauma, and see individuals aged 16 to older adults. I take an individualized approach to providing therapy geared toward the client's presenting symptoms and experiences.
Welcome! My name is Liz and I have 14 years of mental health experience. Whether this is your first-ever therapy session or you've had a few in the past, I'm here to make mental wellness approachable and to help you become your best self. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, grief and loss and trauma, and see individuals aged 16 to older adults. I take an individualized approach to providing therapy geared toward the client's presenting symptoms and experiences.
(215) 608-0353 View (215) 608-0353
Photo of Gwen Marlatt Vela, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Gwen Marlatt Vela
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19019
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. It can take time to find someone that is the right fit for you. I offer free phone consultations to help initiate an understanding of what your needs are and if I am the right therapist for you. I engage with clients using varied therapy modalities tailored to my patient's needs. I offer Sandplay and EMDR to help access the spirit and body's natural tendency towards healing. I provide a comfortable atmosphere for personal growth and the space to be able to move beyond your past.
Looking for a therapist can be overwhelming. It can take time to find someone that is the right fit for you. I offer free phone consultations to help initiate an understanding of what your needs are and if I am the right therapist for you. I engage with clients using varied therapy modalities tailored to my patient's needs. I offer Sandplay and EMDR to help access the spirit and body's natural tendency towards healing. I provide a comfortable atmosphere for personal growth and the space to be able to move beyond your past.
(908) 975-0170 View (908) 975-0170
Photo of Karley Chickness, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Karley Chickness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
As JK Rowling once said, "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light." Welcome to a safe space, I commend your bravery & vulnerability to seek help for your mental health. Are you looking for a therapist that's adaptive to your needs and will also challenge you to become the best version of yourself? If you are, I may be a good fit for you and am happy to meet for a free consult. A little about me, I'm an empathic, yet humorous, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CAADC) in the state of Pennsylvania.
As JK Rowling once said, "Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times, if only one remembers to turn on the light." Welcome to a safe space, I commend your bravery & vulnerability to seek help for your mental health. Are you looking for a therapist that's adaptive to your needs and will also challenge you to become the best version of yourself? If you are, I may be a good fit for you and am happy to meet for a free consult. A little about me, I'm an empathic, yet humorous, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Certified Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CAADC) in the state of Pennsylvania.
(484) 897-7206 View (484) 897-7206
Photo of Sharrie Williams, LPC Intern in Philadelphia, PA
Sharrie Williams
LPC Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19122  (Online Only)
The beauty about this life is we don't have to face it alone. I welcome the opportunity to build a strong therapeutic relationship to help reach your goals. You are more than your circumstances and you can create more joy in your life. I have experience helping clients with self-esteem, self-worth, anxiety and depression. I am culturally sensitive and understand how age, gender identity, race, disability and socioeconomic status impact our interactions with the world. I believe in identifying your strengths and making meaning of difficult situations.
The beauty about this life is we don't have to face it alone. I welcome the opportunity to build a strong therapeutic relationship to help reach your goals. You are more than your circumstances and you can create more joy in your life. I have experience helping clients with self-esteem, self-worth, anxiety and depression. I am culturally sensitive and understand how age, gender identity, race, disability and socioeconomic status impact our interactions with the world. I believe in identifying your strengths and making meaning of difficult situations.
(267) 641-3835 View (267) 641-3835
Photo of Lydia Bennett, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Lydia Bennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist can be difficult and prioritizing yourself can be even harder. You may be seeking support for feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or trying to balance too much at once. Or you may be like many people and experience guilt or shame because you think you aren't living up to personal or societal expectations. These all can effect how you feel about yourself, your work and your relationships. It's hard to know where to start and that's why I'm here. Therapy is a space where we can identify what it is you want from life and develop strategies to help you not only cope but also develop proactive ways to help you thrive.
Finding a therapist can be difficult and prioritizing yourself can be even harder. You may be seeking support for feeling overwhelmed, disorganized, or trying to balance too much at once. Or you may be like many people and experience guilt or shame because you think you aren't living up to personal or societal expectations. These all can effect how you feel about yourself, your work and your relationships. It's hard to know where to start and that's why I'm here. Therapy is a space where we can identify what it is you want from life and develop strategies to help you not only cope but also develop proactive ways to help you thrive.
(267) 762-2065 View (267) 762-2065
Photo of Deborah DiLazzero, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Deborah DiLazzero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
Currently, I see clients with various presenting issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, infertility, family of origin concerns, life transitions, and grief/loss.
As a psychologist, I help people explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships in a supportive environment. I enjoy collaborating with people to identify their strengths, while working to change behaviors and attitudes that are no longer effective. Often people come to therapy because they are not able to follow through with goals, even though they really want to change. It is my goal to help them understand the emotional obstacles that are keeping them "stuck," and options for making the changes they desire. I encourage clients to become more intentional in their choices and to take steps towards change.
Currently, I see clients with various presenting issues including depression, anxiety, eating disorders, relationship issues, LGBTQ issues, infertility, family of origin concerns, life transitions, and grief/loss.
As a psychologist, I help people explore their thoughts, feelings and relationships in a supportive environment. I enjoy collaborating with people to identify their strengths, while working to change behaviors and attitudes that are no longer effective. Often people come to therapy because they are not able to follow through with goals, even though they really want to change. It is my goal to help them understand the emotional obstacles that are keeping them "stuck," and options for making the changes they desire. I encourage clients to become more intentional in their choices and to take steps towards change.
(484) 986-0314 View (484) 986-0314
Photo of Christine M Prebble, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Christine M Prebble
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BSL, NCC, CATP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, teens, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
I have experience working with individuals, couples, families, children, adolescents, teens, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Hey there, I’m Chris and I look forward to meeting you! Are you feeling overwhelmed and it seems like everyone in your life has advice to give but you don't think they truly understand what you are saying or the extent of what you are experiencing? Do you feel unheard and misunderstood? In working with me, I want to provide you with a safe, nonjudgmental environment; one, in which, you feel like somebody finally "gets it." I believe in working with you as a teammate (yes, I do love sports); we are in this together. I cannot do the work for you, but I can be in there with you providing encouragement, tips and strategies, and insight.
(484) 443-1384 View (484) 443-1384
Photo of Dr. John Howe, Psychologist in Philadelphia, PA
Dr. John Howe
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19119
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
Are you engaging in persistent, compulsive or disruptive actions that bring little satisfaction and damage how you relate to others at home, at work or in social settings? Disturbances of the inner self can interfere with joy, love, and satisfaction in living. Frustration, anger, sorrow and loss, disappointment become repetitious and even predictable. If so, it is time to do something to relieve these ineffective experiences in living. I am a licensed psychologist with 35 years experience helping clients with stress and anxiety, sexual and relationship issues, and the effects of personality disorders.
(215) 565-0317 View (215) 565-0317
Photo of Brian J Lundberg, Pre-Licensed Professional in Philadelphia, PA
Brian J Lundberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA MFT
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19102  (Online Only)
I believe that it is necessary to interact with clients as feeling, thinking, and embodied beings; therapy must address each person holistically and relationally in all aspects: emotional, cognitive, and behavioral. Therapy can help us make sense of our selves, our world, our relationships, our personal stories and the paths we take - other words, how to live life as our best, fulfilling selves. A former high school and university teacher, I have a passion for working with adolescents & young adults. I also have a keen interest in working on men's issues, helping men and those close to them to live more in-touch and connected lives.
I believe that it is necessary to interact with clients as feeling, thinking, and embodied beings; therapy must address each person holistically and relationally in all aspects: emotional, cognitive, and behavioral. Therapy can help us make sense of our selves, our world, our relationships, our personal stories and the paths we take - other words, how to live life as our best, fulfilling selves. A former high school and university teacher, I have a passion for working with adolescents & young adults. I also have a keen interest in working on men's issues, helping men and those close to them to live more in-touch and connected lives.
(267) 930-2078 View (267) 930-2078
Photo of Nicollette Airhart, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Philadelphia, PA
Nicollette Airhart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19151  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. I am a white, non-binary, queer, able-bodied person who is a transplant to Philadelphia. I believe the therapeutic relationship can be an incredibly powerful resource for increasing self-awareness, self-love, and healing through connection. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe, nonjudgmental space that honors individuals’ intersecting identities and aids clients in finding their own truths.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and psychotherapist practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. I am a white, non-binary, queer, able-bodied person who is a transplant to Philadelphia. I believe the therapeutic relationship can be an incredibly powerful resource for increasing self-awareness, self-love, and healing through connection. My aim as a therapist is to foster a safe, nonjudgmental space that honors individuals’ intersecting identities and aids clients in finding their own truths.
(215) 918-7986 View (215) 918-7986
Photo of Carly Geis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Carly Geis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MS, NCC, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19128  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and personality disorders. My goal is to help my clients identify their mental health goals and support them with compassionate and empathetic therapy techniques. While I may be an expert in the clinical sense, my clients are experts in themselves, so therapy is a collaborative experience with me!
I have experience working with adults navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, domestic violence, intimate partner violence, substance use/addiction, eating disorders, and personality disorders. My goal is to help my clients identify their mental health goals and support them with compassionate and empathetic therapy techniques. While I may be an expert in the clinical sense, my clients are experts in themselves, so therapy is a collaborative experience with me!
(215) 330-5119 View (215) 330-5119
Photo of Erica B. Bucci, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Erica B. Bucci
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Making the decision to begin or restart therapy is tough. We get messages from all around us that we should be independent or "strong," so asking for support can feel like somehow, we've failed. Maybe it gives you anxiety just imagining how you would squeeze one more appointment into your already packed schedule. Less than optimal experiences in therapy might have you tired of searching and worried about who you'll be able to trust. Or maybe you're waiting for the 'right time' to begin. Whatever has brought you to this point right now though, has taken a lot of strength.
Making the decision to begin or restart therapy is tough. We get messages from all around us that we should be independent or "strong," so asking for support can feel like somehow, we've failed. Maybe it gives you anxiety just imagining how you would squeeze one more appointment into your already packed schedule. Less than optimal experiences in therapy might have you tired of searching and worried about who you'll be able to trust. Or maybe you're waiting for the 'right time' to begin. Whatever has brought you to this point right now though, has taken a lot of strength.
(267) 214-6039 View (267) 214-6039
Photo of Jonathan Alpert, Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Jonathan Alpert
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19103
I am a results-oriented psychotherapist, executive coach, and author of Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days. I work with individuals and couples on a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationships, career/workplace, performance, stress/time management, and more. I'm licensed in NY, PA, DC, CT, and MD and provide sessions remotely to these locations and coaching sessions across the U.S. and globally. My patients come from all walks of life including executives, professionals, actors, musicians, athletes, etc. I have flexible hours that includes days, evenings, nights, and weekends.
I am a results-oriented psychotherapist, executive coach, and author of Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days. I work with individuals and couples on a range of issues including anxiety, depression, relationships, career/workplace, performance, stress/time management, and more. I'm licensed in NY, PA, DC, CT, and MD and provide sessions remotely to these locations and coaching sessions across the U.S. and globally. My patients come from all walks of life including executives, professionals, actors, musicians, athletes, etc. I have flexible hours that includes days, evenings, nights, and weekends.
(202) 841-3458 View (202) 841-3458
Photo of Alyssa Renee Kirk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Philadelphia, PA
Alyssa Renee Kirk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19125  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with 13 years experience in therapy. I also have a background in social work with expertise in linking individuals to community resources.
(610) 890-6076 View (610) 890-6076

See more therapy options for Philadelphia

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.