Discover how starting LGBTQIA+ counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
11 therapists available in Charlotte
I am a compassionate and experienced registered nurse who values treating the whole person, mind and body, through individualized,...
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I am a compassionate and experienced registered nurse who values treating the whole person, mind and body, through individualized, culturally sensitive care guided by honesty, active listening, and evidence-based practices across all stages of life.
Shannon Griggs-Miller is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 2 years of experience providing compassionate, client-centered care. With a background in mental health, correctional nursing, emergency, and progressive care, Shannon has worked with individuals across the lifespan, from children to older adults, supporting them through a variety of psychiatric diagnoses including personality disorders, mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. She creates a safe space for clients to feel heard, respected, and actively involved in their treatment process.
Shannon earned her Master’s in Nursing from Walden University. She uses evidence-based practices to support each client’s unique needs, with an emphasis on mindfulness, active listening, and cultural sensitivity.
Clients working with Shannon can expect honesty, empathy, and a nonjudgmental space where they feel empowered to engage in their care. Her commitment to individualized treatment planning, mutual respect, and emotional awareness helps foster trust and promotes lasting healing across all stages of life.
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The issues that the client may be facing can be used as a motivating force to help them move forward....
The issues that the client may be facing can be used as a motivating force to help them move forward.
Ryan Adamczyk Ph.D., LCMHC, (Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor) who has over 10 years of experience working in a variety of settings. Ryan specializes in providing individual therapy for adolescents and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, self-esteem problems, and spirituality/religious problems. Ryan also addresses relationship problems with clients who desire to engage in couples or familial counseling. Additionally, Ryan has an interest in supporting veterans and their families as well as people with various disabilities.
Ryan earned his Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois, and has a Doctoral degree in Depth Psychology. He is a stroke survivor and has learned how to live a thriving life, despite the difficulties presented by his disability. This experience, which occurred at 18 months old, has equipped him with the persistence necessary to overcome adversity. Ryan desires to use his experience as a way to connect with his clientele, encouraging them to become overcomers in their own lives.
Ryan has a genuine concern for the quality of human life and the happiness of others. It is Ryan's belief that building a whole person involves both spiritual and clinical dimensions of life and only when both are addressed will we achieve wholeness. Take the first step in your therapeutic journey by contacting Ryan today.
I am passionate about partnering with others in their pursuit of mental wellness because of the peace I have found on my own journ...
I am passionate about partnering with others in their pursuit of mental wellness because of the peace I have found on my own journey, but I understand that each path is unique.
Molly McDonnell is a Licensed Clinician Social Worker (LCSW) in the state of North Carolina. She earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Iowa, moved to North Carolina to be closer to the mountains and the beach, and earned her Master of Social Work at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She had the pleasure of working with children, adolescents, women, and families in residential and community-based settings on issues including anxiety, mood, trauma, conduct, substance use, and relationship problems before transitioning to outpatient therapy.
She believes that trust, authenticity, and respect for individuality are the keys to a successful therapeutic relationship, and she will incorporate techniques from different therapies such as cognitive-behavioral, dialectical, solution-focused, experiential, emotion-focused, art, and mindfulness to match your unique strengths and world view. Whether you want to address a new problem, heal old wounds, or maintain emotional balance in your daily life, Molly is looking forward to partnering with you to achieve your goals. Reach out to start your wellness journey.
As a clinician who has served in children, family, relationship, and adult services for over 20 years and clinical practice for ov...
As a clinician who has served in children, family, relationship, and adult services for over 20 years and clinical practice for over 13 years, I understand the difficulty in trying to find balance and a sense of self. My goal is to empower and teach self-preservation in a world that is not always understanding.
Yolanda Miller is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with licensure in both North Carolina and New York. Yolanda served in the Child Welfare/Family Reunification system for over 20+ years, which afforded her an opportunity to provide child safety and aid families. Yolanda has found satisfaction with seeing the progress her clients have made in addressing and preserving their mental health. Her goal has been and will continue to be removing the stigma from mental health care. Yolanda obtained her undergraduate degree from Saint Augustine University, and her Master’s degree from Adelphi University in New York.
Yolanda utilizes multiple treatment approaches, which include cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, narrative therapy, structural therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
As we face challenges that leave us with feelings of isolation and in despair, it is crucial to know that you’re not alone. As a professional clinician, Yolanda provides a safe, non-judgmental, positive environment that places you at the center. She welcomes you and looks forward to forming a consistent and open partnership with you.
As one who battles with anxiety myself, I have great empathy for those who seek out therapy....
As one who battles with anxiety myself, I have great empathy for those who seek out therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 14 years of experience. I specialize in working with clients navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, trauma, and relationship dynamics, including ethically nonmonogamous partnerships. I bring a warm, person-centered approach to counseling, empowering clients to guide the process as they are the true experts in their own lives. My goal is to create a safe and supportive space where healing, growth, and resilience can thrive.
I earned my Master’s in Community Counseling from Argosy University. My approach blends empathy and collaboration, focusing on helping clients recognize their strengths and find strategies that align with their unique needs. I strive to support individuals in overcoming challenges and embracing their progress.
I believe we are all works in progress, and my hope is that each client finds the help they are seeking—whether with me or another provider. I am committed to walking alongside clients on their journey toward healing and self-discovery, providing encouragement and understanding every step of the way.
My ultimate goal is to empower my clients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and evidence-based care so that we can work toget...
My ultimate goal is to empower my clients by providing compassionate, inclusive, and evidence-based care so that we can work together to cultivate their mental health and well-being.
I am Melanie Whitesell, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 4 years of experience. I specialize in providing medication management and compassionate mental health support for individuals navigating challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood swings, and post-traumatic stress disorder. My goal is to help clients restore balance and improve their overall quality of life.
I hold a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Carolina. My approach emphasizes evidence-based care tailored to each client’s needs, blending medication management with holistic support. I focus on creating a collaborative and safe environment where clients feel understood and empowered.
I welcome clients who are ready to take the next step in prioritizing their mental health and well-being. Together, we will work to achieve your wellness goals in a supportive and inclusive setting. Please reach out if you are interested in beginning this journey toward balance and healing.
With over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, I bring an evidence-based approach to care to assist individuals chal...
With over 15 years of experience in the field of psychiatry, I bring an evidence-based approach to care to assist individuals challenged by mental health issues.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 15 years of experience. I have supported individuals facing depression, anxiety, bipolar spectrum disorders, schizophrenia spectrum disorder, dementia-related conditions, and substance use challenges. I provide virtual care and bring a compassionate, client-centered approach to every session, ensuring that those I work with feel supported, valued, and empowered.
I earned my Master of Science in Nursing from Hunter College. My clinical approach includes psychotropic medication management along with adjunctive therapies. I integrate cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, supportive therapy, and trauma- and emotion-focused interventions to best meet each client’s needs. .
My clients can expect me to be a knowledgeable and attentive listener who is warm, understanding, and supportive. I strive to create a safe and collaborative space where we can work together to achieve lasting emotional growth and stability.
Having experienced close family loss and living with a learning disability, I deeply understand how life’s challenges can weigh he...
Having experienced close family loss and living with a learning disability, I deeply understand how life’s challenges can weigh heavily and the pressure to push beyond what feels humanly possible.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate with 4 years of experience supporting individuals and families through times of challenge and change. My background includes providing care in both academic and correctional settings, where I focused on family connection, emotional regulation, and rehabilitation. My master’s internship was at a male correctional facility, where I worked in both group and individual settings focused on emotional growth and resilience. I’m passionate about helping clients navigate learning and developmental disabilities, build coping skills, and find renewed purpose in their healing journey.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from West Virginia University. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and mindful interviewing to help clients manage emotions, strengthen coping skills, and shift unhelpful thought patterns.
My approach is compassionate, goal-focused, and collaborative. I truly care about understanding what you’re going through and providing a safe, supportive space for healing. You don’t have to face things alone. Let’s navigate this journey together. When you’re ready, I’m here for you.
As someone living with obsessive-compulsive disorder, I know the struggle that comes from being overwhelmed by obsessions and feel...
As someone living with obsessive-compulsive disorder, I know the struggle that comes from being overwhelmed by obsessions and feeling there is no way out. I strive to help clients overcome their obsessions and take control of their lives.
Madison May is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate with 1 year of experience. She has a passion for providing care to those living with obsessive-compulsive disorder through nurturing, compassionate, highly effective, and exposure-based counseling. Madison also works with clients of all ages experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, and life transitions. Her own mental health experiences have given her a unique sense of empathy and understanding that translates to her clinical work.
Madison has a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Catawba College. She uses cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, person-centered therapy, exposure-response prevention, and solution-focused therapy to help her clients reach their full potential.
Madison offers a space where clients are accepted, nurtured, and advocated for. She meets every client with unconditional positive regard to see them overcome the stress and anxieties they face and live a life that they feel is filled with joy. Madison looks forward to meeting you!
As a human being who is doing the best they can and fears asking for assistance, I can relate to the relief when I finally ask for...
As a human being who is doing the best they can and fears asking for assistance, I can relate to the relief when I finally ask for help.
Nysha Speed is an Associate Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 2 years of experience assisting children, adolescents, and the geriatric population with concerns including anxiety, anger, depression, mental stress, life transitions, grief, and relationships. She offers a fresh perspective on therapy and believes it is her mission to serve others by meeting them where they are. Nysha has shadowed and collaborated with therapists, social workers, and counselors to continue learning and developing as a clinician. Her ideal client is ready to be transformed from the inside out.
Nysha received her Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She has experience in crisis intervention and uses approaches including play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. Nysha is excited to utilize other tools and techniques when requested.
In a safe, welcoming space, Nysha allows others to be heard. She strives to dismantle the stigma around therapy and mental health and applauds those taking the steps to care for themselves. Maintaining trust is the backbone of Nysha’s practice, and she would be honored to walk beside you.
As a provider who believes that mental health care is not a one-size-fits-all approach, I understand the importance of providing p...
As a provider who believes that mental health care is not a one-size-fits-all approach, I understand the importance of providing person-centered and culturally-sensitive treatment.
Camellia Douglas is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner who has worked with adults from diverse backgrounds for the past 7 years. She specializes in assisting patients who are challenged with mood disorders, trauma, and women's issues such as perinatal depression and anxiety. Her warm, person-centered demeanor is useful for establishing trust and rapport, and she allows patients a safe space to discuss their concerns and ask questions. Camellia has experience in settings including outpatient clinics and the psychiatric emergency department.
Camellia received her Master of Science in Nursing from Eastern Kentucky University. She takes a unique approach to patient care by utilizing active listening and consistent education to adapt treatment to an individual’s needs and goals. Camellia incorporates this with medication management when necessary.
Camellia feels it is important for every person to participate in their care, and she looks forward to collaborating with you. If you are ready to begin working toward better mental health and a happier life, book an appointment with Camellia today!
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
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My go-to approach for helping people in LGBTQ+ counseling is to validate and normalize diverse expressions of identity. I find the benefit in this because under and misrepresented groups can be vulnerable to distress. This can occur by internalizing negative narratives and/or the anticipation of real and perceived threats to the individual’s diverse expression of their identity within the inclusive term used to represent lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer or questioning.
I teach the following tools in LGBTQ+ counseling:
I know a client is making meaningful progress in LGBTQ+ counseling when they are achieving measurable objectives in route to their goal. Therapists generally rely on SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time Limited) goals. When we can specifically identify what needs to occur to know that a goal is being met then we are better able to measure progress!
Clients can supplement their time in LBTQ+ counseling with practicing skills learned in counseling, ensuring that their therapeutic goals align with area of need, completing homework assignments, identifying and providing topics for session, identifying and disclosing meaningful events and if unsure simply asking.
To prepare for your first LGBTQ+ session, you can schedule your appointment at a time when you will not be interrupted. Prepare for your appointment by finishing paperwork in advance. Ensure that you have a stable connection and microphone and camera work. It is helpful to bring a notebook and pen for note taking. Plan to discuss your current issue, history and goals. Try to be as transparent when discussing intention and issues and ask questions on things you are unsure about.
LGBTQIA+ counseling is a type of queer affirmative counseling dedicated to assisting individuals and couples in navigating the intricate intersections of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health, with a primary goal of fostering well-being, self-acceptance, and affirming a client’s life experiences as a queer individual. Although not all LGBTQ+ individuals seek specialized counseling, a substantial number discover vital support and empathy within these inclusive and affirming therapeutic settings.
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Charlotte, NC typically begins with an initial assessment to understand your specific needs. LGBTQ+ counselors aim to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for anyone within the LGBTQ+ community by encouraging self-acceptance and offering an understanding of your identity and experiences. LGBTQ+ therapy addresses issues like coming out, discrimination, mental health challenges, and gender transition, and provides support for LGBTQ+ relationships.
LGBTQ+ counseling is incredibly important because it can help queer individuals accept their identity, learn self-love, and give them important tools for facing the challenges of being a queer person in today’s society, among many other benefits. LGBTQ+-affirming therapists can understand the unique perspective and experiences of queer individuals as they help them process past trauma, address family conflicts, treat issues with anxiety, and more.
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Charlotte, NC is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
The number of sessions for LGBTQ+ counseling depends on the specific needs and goals of the individual. It could encompass a relatively limited series of sessions or extend into a longer counseling plan. The precise quantity and duration of sessions typically emerge through collaborative discussion with the counselor, taking into account the client’s progress and their therapeutic objectives.
The therapists, counselors, and life coaches at Thriveworks Charlotte understand that one of the most powerful changes people can make within their lives is acknowledging who they are to themselves and to the world. This means being honest about what they like and dislike, about how they are strong and weak, where they experience happiness and discontent, and of course, about who they are—emotionally, physically, spiritually, and sexually.
Living life with honesty takes courage and probably a little support along the way. That is why Thriveworks Charlotte offers LGBTQ informed therapy. No one should have to navigate issues regarding their sexuality and their mental health alone. We are here for you. Reach out to Thriveworks to schedule an LGBTQ counseling session today.
The mental health professionals at Thriveworks Charlotte try to address life’s issues within their proper context. While sexuality is not the entirety of who people are, it is a major factor in forming one’s identity—what makes you who you are. You are a unique individual. Your story is unlike anyone else’s. The challenges you face are your challenges. The opportunities you have are your opportunities. When you begin therapy at Thriveworks Charlotte, your time will likely begin by building trust as you get to know your counselor, and your counselor gets to know you too. You may discuss what brought you to schedule therapy. Therapist may ask questions such as…
Many cultural representations of therapy focus upon problems and difficulties and shortcomings. While hardships are real, therapy is much more focused upon the positive. What are your strengths? Where do you feel comfortable? What opportunities do you want to pursue and how can you do that? Many times, people need to learn relational and emotional skills that help them succeed in achieving what they want out of life.
Therapy is often a process of self-discovering, where you can learn about your strengths and weaknesses and where you can learn what you need and how to get it. Counseling sessions often focus upon creating a judgment-free, safe space where these issues can be explored without shame. In therapy, clients often feel free to speak openly and honestly—to name and explore ideas they otherwise would not dare discuss.
Topics that come up in LGBTQ therapy:
What is happening in your life right now? If you are facing discrimination or marginalization, know that we are sorry for what you are experiencing. There is no shame in who you are. If you are navigating additional difficulties because of your sexuality and who you are, know that you are not alone. The professionals at Thriveworks Charlotte are ready to stand with you and for you.
When you contact our office, a person will answer. Our scheduling specialists will help you schedule an appointment. Many new clients have their first appointment within the week of their first call. We also accept many forms of insurance as well as offer evening and weekend appointments. Let’s work together for more acceptance and inclusion. Contact Thriveworks Charlotte today.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
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