LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in West Hartford, CT
Laura Becker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
Welcome! If you’re reading this, I’d imagine that you’re searching not just for any therapist, but one that will be the best fit for you. It takes courage to reach out and although it can seem scary and uncertain, it also provides hope that things can get better. If you’re looking for support and guidance, let’s talk. I provide a 15-minute complimentary phone consultation to learn more about one another. As the owner of CT Affirmative Therapy, I have experience with a diverse client base and am passionately committed to working with those in the LGBTQ+ community on issues related to gender and sexuality.
Welcome! If you’re reading this, I’d imagine that you’re searching not just for any therapist, but one that will be the best fit for you. It takes courage to reach out and although it can seem scary and uncertain, it also provides hope that things can get better. If you’re looking for support and guidance, let’s talk. I provide a 15-minute complimentary phone consultation to learn more about one another. As the owner of CT Affirmative Therapy, I have experience with a diverse client base and am passionately committed to working with those in the LGBTQ+ community on issues related to gender and sexuality.
Kathleen McKay-Pyne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people across a wide range of backgrounds, including LGBTQIA +, BIPOC, first generation, and cross cultural communities.
There may be several aspects of your life that need to be addressed in order to heal. You may be seeking a safe space to explore all of the parts of you that make you whole - your sexuality, racial identity, gender, and cross-cultural experiences.
I am passionate about helping people across a wide range of backgrounds, including LGBTQIA +, BIPOC, first generation, and cross cultural communities.
There may be several aspects of your life that need to be addressed in order to heal. You may be seeking a safe space to explore all of the parts of you that make you whole - your sexuality, racial identity, gender, and cross-cultural experiences.
Elliott Strick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Welcome to my practice! I am a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist (IFS) and work with individuals and couples, both gay and heterosexual, men who experienced childhood trauma, with gay men and lesbians, and with people who grew up with an alcoholic or emotionally absent parent (ACOA). I am committed to co-creating a safe space with you, where ALL parts of you can show up and be seen without judgment, heal wounds from the past, become free of shame, & unresolved anger or grief, and gaining the ability to live with more passion, energy and joy. My ideal clients are people familiar with or who are seeking IFS therapy.
Welcome to my practice! I am a Certified Internal Family Systems therapist (IFS) and work with individuals and couples, both gay and heterosexual, men who experienced childhood trauma, with gay men and lesbians, and with people who grew up with an alcoholic or emotionally absent parent (ACOA). I am committed to co-creating a safe space with you, where ALL parts of you can show up and be seen without judgment, heal wounds from the past, become free of shame, & unresolved anger or grief, and gaining the ability to live with more passion, energy and joy. My ideal clients are people familiar with or who are seeking IFS therapy.
Allyson Hurlburt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RDT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
As a queer therapist I am most drawn to working with individuals who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community and those who are exploring their sexual and/or gender identities.
Hi! I’m Allyson (she/her) and I am a queer identified therapist. I have over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist in many types of settings including schools, agencies, and the community. I have extensive experience working with trauma as well as young people. My work is relational, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I see therapy as it’s own type of creative process and it looks different for every person. I am here to support you peel back the layers and come home to yourself.
As a queer therapist I am most drawn to working with individuals who identify within the LGBTQIA+ community and those who are exploring their sexual and/or gender identities.
Hi! I’m Allyson (she/her) and I am a queer identified therapist. I have over 10 years of experience as a psychotherapist in many types of settings including schools, agencies, and the community. I have extensive experience working with trauma as well as young people. My work is relational, trauma-informed, and strengths-based. I see therapy as it’s own type of creative process and it looks different for every person. I am here to support you peel back the layers and come home to yourself.
Tanya Parker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06110 (Online Only)
Accepting new patients! Contact by email preferred. Telehealth only. Congrats on choosing to seek out therapy! It can be a life changing experience. Please read through my profile and website to see if we're a good fit. I have worked with people of all backgrounds but I generally work with LGBT folks and POC. I work with clients on self-esteem, body positivity, anxiety management, trauma symptoms, and relational issues. As a human and a provider, I am feminist, anti-racist, fat positive, sex positive, pro-science, pro-vaccine, and pro-LGBT. I also offer relationship therapy including therapy for polyamormous individuals.
Accepting new patients! Contact by email preferred. Telehealth only. Congrats on choosing to seek out therapy! It can be a life changing experience. Please read through my profile and website to see if we're a good fit. I have worked with people of all backgrounds but I generally work with LGBT folks and POC. I work with clients on self-esteem, body positivity, anxiety management, trauma symptoms, and relational issues. As a human and a provider, I am feminist, anti-racist, fat positive, sex positive, pro-science, pro-vaccine, and pro-LGBT. I also offer relationship therapy including therapy for polyamormous individuals.
Jodi M Kelly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, JD, LPC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
The LGBTQIA+ community is invited and welcome in my practice.
Whether you are recovering from addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or family/work/relationship challenges, everyone needs help finding their path. I believe that the 12 steps of recovery and the Internal Family System (IFS) approach can provide that path. I will meet you where you are, and we will develop an action plan to assist you in moving forward and getting traction in your life.
The LGBTQIA+ community is invited and welcome in my practice.
Whether you are recovering from addiction, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or family/work/relationship challenges, everyone needs help finding their path. I believe that the 12 steps of recovery and the Internal Family System (IFS) approach can provide that path. I will meet you where you are, and we will develop an action plan to assist you in moving forward and getting traction in your life.
Smith Kidkarndee
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06105
I also specialize in LGBT+ affirmative therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (LCP) who is collaborative, compassionate, and action-oriented. I have a great deal of experience in providing treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia), Health Anxiety, and Occupational Stress. I am an integrative clinician with training in various cognitive-behavioral therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based CBT (MB-CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR - Certified) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
I also specialize in LGBT+ affirmative therapy.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist (LCP) who is collaborative, compassionate, and action-oriented. I have a great deal of experience in providing treatment for Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia), Health Anxiety, and Occupational Stress. I am an integrative clinician with training in various cognitive-behavioral therapies such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness-based CBT (MB-CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR - Certified) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Ian Friedrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119
Additionally, he is passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and using his lived experiences as a queer person to help those who also identify with the community.
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Additionally, he is passionate about working with the LGBTQIA+ community and using his lived experiences as a queer person to help those who also identify with the community.
Ian Friedrich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 7 years of experience in various mental health settings. He is passionate about providing effective and competent care to support his clients in achieving their personal and clinical goals. He specializes in working with clients who struggle with traits of borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and concerns regarding sexuality and gender expression. Ian obtained his Master of Social Work from the University of Connecticut.
Susan LeClair, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Are you feeling lost; confused or broken? I have 20 years experience working in crisis intervention; depression; anxiety; grief/loss; divorce; gender identity/gay orientation issues; co-parenting; relational problems; domestic violence; trauma; sexual abuse; fertility/adoption; and career/life transition issues. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have experience working with individuals; couples and families. I am extremely ethical and am non-judgemental. If I do not feel I cannot help in your presenting issue; I will refer you to someone who could better assist you.
Are you feeling lost; confused or broken? I have 20 years experience working in crisis intervention; depression; anxiety; grief/loss; divorce; gender identity/gay orientation issues; co-parenting; relational problems; domestic violence; trauma; sexual abuse; fertility/adoption; and career/life transition issues. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, I have experience working with individuals; couples and families. I am extremely ethical and am non-judgemental. If I do not feel I cannot help in your presenting issue; I will refer you to someone who could better assist you.
Dr. Kathryn L. Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
Current openings-I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with 16 years of experience as a clinician and counselor educator. I specialize in working with adults, pre-teens, and adolescents, and am an ally with the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with clients experiencing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and childhood sexual abuse or sexual assault. I am trained in evidence-based practices (supported by research). Prior to working full time in private practice, I was a college professor and enjoy working with university faculty members and staff.
Current openings-I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and National Certified Counselor (NCC) with 16 years of experience as a clinician and counselor educator. I specialize in working with adults, pre-teens, and adolescents, and am an ally with the LGBTQIA+ community. I work with clients experiencing a variety of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, and childhood sexual abuse or sexual assault. I am trained in evidence-based practices (supported by research). Prior to working full time in private practice, I was a college professor and enjoy working with university faculty members and staff.
Evan R. Lemma
Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
As a trans-identifying therapist, I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
So you’re taking steps to improve your mental health. Good for you! Therapy is not “one size fits all”. I meet my clients where they are at and help them reach their goals in a way that is natural to them. I provide a safe, judgement-free (virtual) space where you can get the support you need to improve your life. While my approach to counseling is unique to each client’s needs, I generally incorporate many positive psychology principles. Rather than focusing solely on areas of weakness and unhappiness, I help clients maximize their strengths and recognize areas of joy in their lives.
As a trans-identifying therapist, I am passionate about working with members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
So you’re taking steps to improve your mental health. Good for you! Therapy is not “one size fits all”. I meet my clients where they are at and help them reach their goals in a way that is natural to them. I provide a safe, judgement-free (virtual) space where you can get the support you need to improve your life. While my approach to counseling is unique to each client’s needs, I generally incorporate many positive psychology principles. Rather than focusing solely on areas of weakness and unhappiness, I help clients maximize their strengths and recognize areas of joy in their lives.
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Dr. Eunice Rivera-Miranda
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Having empathetic, compassionate and expert support through the therapeutic process, can make a world of difference in our well being and that of those around us as we navigate difficult times. I have witnessed the exceptional value there is in working to foster emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships and quality of life overall. With my integrative and collaborative approach, you can expect to enhance your wellbeing and be better equipped to cope with any difficulty you may be experiencing. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, couples issues, LGBTQ+ needs, chronic illness/pain.
Having empathetic, compassionate and expert support through the therapeutic process, can make a world of difference in our well being and that of those around us as we navigate difficult times. I have witnessed the exceptional value there is in working to foster emotional wellbeing, healthy relationships and quality of life overall. With my integrative and collaborative approach, you can expect to enhance your wellbeing and be better equipped to cope with any difficulty you may be experiencing. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, grief, life transitions, couples issues, LGBTQ+ needs, chronic illness/pain.
Jamie Dlugoborski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
Being a young adult in this world can be tricky! Whether you are in college, a new graduate, making big transitions, or simply figuring out your next moves in life, it is important to have supportive people in your corner to help you through. Navigating unique challenges, changes, and choices presented in life can be both exciting and daunting. I offer a safe, judgment free, and LGBTQIA+ friendly environment to my clients.
Being a young adult in this world can be tricky! Whether you are in college, a new graduate, making big transitions, or simply figuring out your next moves in life, it is important to have supportive people in your corner to help you through. Navigating unique challenges, changes, and choices presented in life can be both exciting and daunting. I offer a safe, judgment free, and LGBTQIA+ friendly environment to my clients.
Caitlin Morelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107 (Online Only)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in working with teens, college students, and young adults with various concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, and life transitions.
My passion in life is to assist others in creating a life in which they feel their best. Coming to therapy is the first step in helping yourself achieve your personal goals and create an overall sense of peace and happiness. Life is filled with many joys but can also come with unexpected challenges and turns. It is my job to help clients find and utilize tools to be able to help themselves in overcoming these challenges, while feeling safe and comfortable in the process.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I specialize in working with teens, college students, and young adults with various concerns including anxiety, depression, ADHD, LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, and life transitions.
My passion in life is to assist others in creating a life in which they feel their best. Coming to therapy is the first step in helping yourself achieve your personal goals and create an overall sense of peace and happiness. Life is filled with many joys but can also come with unexpected challenges and turns. It is my job to help clients find and utilize tools to be able to help themselves in overcoming these challenges, while feeling safe and comfortable in the process.
Dr. Rachel Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
I am a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in working with teens, young adults, and adults, particularly around issues of life transitions, identity, values, and meaning. I have expertise in LGBTQ+ issues, depression and anxiety, trauma, OCD, and communication issues. I will never judge you for your darkness and will reflect your light back at you until you see it. I am passionate about helping you understand what is going on inside your brain so you don’t think you are broken. However, I believe you are the expert on your own life and we will work together to figure out what approach to therapy will meet your needs.
Laurie McBreen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06107
I am inclusive for all types of families including LGBT+ and solo parents.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to address their trauma history, improve their relationships and explore goals to improve their lives. Everyone's journey is different and I enjoy the challenge of identifying symptoms and exploring coping skills and changes we can make to help improve your life.
I am inclusive for all types of families including LGBT+ and solo parents.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to address their trauma history, improve their relationships and explore goals to improve their lives. Everyone's journey is different and I enjoy the challenge of identifying symptoms and exploring coping skills and changes we can make to help improve your life.
Michele E Nardella
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06119
I work with heterosexual couples and LGBTQ couples on establishing healthy communication and connection to better navigate difficult issues.
I work with individuals, couples and families to help them identify and address the difficult issues that are standing in the way of the strong, loving relationships they desire. I strive to help all clients establish positive communication skills and stronger relationships. I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore and address feelings of hurt or anger and develop goals that will move them toward healing and reconnection.
I work with heterosexual couples and LGBTQ couples on establishing healthy communication and connection to better navigate difficult issues.
I work with individuals, couples and families to help them identify and address the difficult issues that are standing in the way of the strong, loving relationships they desire. I strive to help all clients establish positive communication skills and stronger relationships. I provide a safe and supportive environment where they can explore and address feelings of hurt or anger and develop goals that will move them toward healing and reconnection.
Jessica Allard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06107
Jessica Allard is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, and families within community, school, mental health agency, and telemedicine settings. She enjoys helping people struggling with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life stressors, interpersonal conflicts, and she enjoys working with individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. She combines aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and Solution-focused therapy in her work with clients.
Jessica Allard is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) who has experience working with children, adolescents, adults, groups, and families within community, school, mental health agency, and telemedicine settings. She enjoys helping people struggling with concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life stressors, interpersonal conflicts, and she enjoys working with individuals in the LGBTQIA+ community. She combines aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Psychodynamic, and Solution-focused therapy in her work with clients.
Sarah Marie FitzGerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-NY, LCSW-CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Hartford, CT 06119 (Online Only)
I specialize in sex therapy, with extensive knowledge and skill in the areas of intentional non-monogamy, kink, and queer identity.
Connecting with the right therapist can help us lighten negative feelings from week to week. Often, these feelings can leave us feeling burdened, and reaching out to loved ones can seem impossible. Trusting a therapist enough to give them a call or an email can seem so risky.
I specialize in sex therapy, with extensive knowledge and skill in the areas of intentional non-monogamy, kink, and queer identity.
Connecting with the right therapist can help us lighten negative feelings from week to week. Often, these feelings can leave us feeling burdened, and reaching out to loved ones can seem impossible. Trusting a therapist enough to give them a call or an email can seem so risky.
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
West Hartford, CT 06106
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy services to individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, LGBTQIA issues, relationship problems, and other mental health concerns.
Now accepting new clients! Are you exhausted from carrying around the weight of anxiety? Does the struggle to get through your day with depression make you want to stay in bed? Are you overwhelmed by society's pressure to stay positive and try harder? Mental health issues can make even the most minor tasks seem impossible. You can’t get away from the swirling negative thoughts in your mind long enough to accomplish your goals. You want to engage with life and be present with your loved ones, but it all seems like too much effort. You need someone to guide you out of the dark and help you find your path to wellness.
At SMPsychotherapy and Counseling Services, we provide compassionate therapy services to individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, grief, PTSD, LGBTQIA issues, relationship problems, and other mental health concerns.
Now accepting new clients! Are you exhausted from carrying around the weight of anxiety? Does the struggle to get through your day with depression make you want to stay in bed? Are you overwhelmed by society's pressure to stay positive and try harder? Mental health issues can make even the most minor tasks seem impossible. You can’t get away from the swirling negative thoughts in your mind long enough to accomplish your goals. You want to engage with life and be present with your loved ones, but it all seems like too much effort. You need someone to guide you out of the dark and help you find your path to wellness.
See more therapy options for West Hartford
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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.