Discover how starting LGBTQIA+ counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
15 therapists available in Richmond
Hi! I am dedicated to assisting you in navigating life’s many ups and downs with compassion and confidence....
About
Hi! I am dedicated to assisting you in navigating life’s many ups and downs with compassion and confidence.
I am a Licensed Master Social Work Supervisee with 28 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. I have worked with people facing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and relationship issues, and I provide compassionate, client-centered care. My focus is on helping you rediscover your strengths, build resilience, and move toward healing. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive space where you feel understood, valued, and empowered to grow.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Springfield College. My therapeutic style includes cognitive behavioral techniques, strengths-based strategies, and mindfulness practices. I strive to provide a supportive environment where you can explore challenges, uncover your inner strengths, and take steps toward meaningful change.
My goal is to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered as you work toward healing. I tailor my care to your unique needs, ensuring you feel heard and respected. Together, we will collaborate to build resilience, foster growth, and create positive steps toward the life you want to live.
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As a queer person who has experienced mental health issues in the past, I strive to provide an affirming, safe environment to work...
As a queer person who has experienced mental health issues in the past, I strive to provide an affirming, safe environment to work through mental health struggles.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker with over 2 years of direct clinical experience. I specialize in mental health treatment, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic disorders, and child behavioral challenges. I also have experience providing crisis support and stabilization for children, adolescents, and adults. I strive to create a safe and affirming space where clients feel supported as they work toward their goals.
I earned my Master’s in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. My background includes crisis intervention, stabilization, and long-term support for depression and anxiety. I use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy and dialectical behavioral therapy, and I strive to offer affirming, queer-friendly care tailored to each client.
I welcome the opportunity to walk alongside you on your journey toward healing and growth. Whether you are seeking tools to manage daily stressors or support through life’s challenges, I am here to provide compassionate, collaborative care. I encourage you to reach out so we can begin building a plan that feels supportive and meaningful to you.
Growing up in a working-class, single-parent home shaped my empathy, and I bring personal and professional experience to meet each...
Growing up in a working-class, single-parent home shaped my empathy, and I bring personal and professional experience to meet each client with authenticity and care.
I am William Watson, a Licensed Social Worker Supervisee with 2 years of experience. Shaped by a working-class, single-parent upbringing, I bring lived experiences and strong clinical training to my work. I support adolescents and adults facing depression, anxiety, ADHD, stress, and life transitions. My goal is to provide steady guidance and practical support as a respectful partner who values honesty, feedback, and collaboration.
I hold a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Arkansas and blend evidence-informed care with lived experience. My sessions emphasize practical tools, steady structure, and clear goals to help clients build confidence and skills between visits.
I know that starting therapy can feel overwhelming. That’s why I focus on creating a safe, respectful space where you can move at your own pace. If you are looking for practical strategies and a collaborative therapist who meets you where you are, I welcome you to reach out because you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.
I collaborate with my clients to promote healing in a safe and affirming space....
I collaborate with my clients to promote healing in a safe and affirming space.
Sharon Looney is a Supervisee in Social Work with 1 year of experience in in-home, outpatient, and clinical care. They specialize in the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, depression, neurodivergence (including OCD, ADHD, and ASD), and PTSD/trauma. Sharon also provides care for major life stressors including domestic and relationship issues, gender dysphoria/transition, and grief. Sharon has experience with behavioral interventions, crisis stabilization, case management, and individual psychotherapy.
Sharon received their Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University. They utilize strategies from dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and other evidence-based practices to create a personalized experience.
Beginning therapy may not be an instant fix for life’s challenges, but it is the last step you’ll have to take alone. Sharon is ready to walk with you in this next stage of your recovery. Schedule your initial appointment today!
As a young professional woman, I understand the challenges of navigating through life's stressors, transitions, and relationships....
As a young professional woman, I understand the challenges of navigating through life's stressors, transitions, and relationships.
Brittany Spak is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 4 years of experience helping children, adolescents, and adults seeking help with depression, anxiety, stress, eating disorders, and relationship issues.
Brittany completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from King’s College, PA, and received her Master's degree in Counselor Education from East Carolina University. She utilizes a combination of dialectical behavior, person-centered, strengths-based, and collaborative approaches to therapy while finding creative ways to meet an individual’s unique needs.
Brittany seeks to create a caring and validating relationship with you to help assist you in fostering a relationship with yourself and others, building upon your strengths and coping skills, to help you reach your goals while living a fulfilled and meaningful life.
Meredith Golob is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an extensive history working with children, adults, and families dealing...
Meredith Golob is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an extensive history working with children, adults, and families dealing with depression, anxiety, crises, life challenges, and trauma. She is a firm believer in creating a mutually respectful and trusting therapeutic relationship in order to support clients in reaching their goals.
Meredith graduated from James Madison University as a "double duke," receiving her Bachelor's of Arts in Psychology and her MA, Ed.S in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is a strength-based counselor, utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and person-centered approaches. Meredith has completed the Level 1 Training in Gottman Method couples therapy.
Meredith is originally from New Jersey. She came to Virginia for school and never went back! In her spare time, Meredith enjoys spending time with family and friends, cooking, listening to music, and spending time with her pet.
As someone who has worked on understanding my own identity and personal challenges with mental health, I understand the importance...
As someone who has worked on understanding my own identity and personal challenges with mental health, I understand the importance of seeking support to help better one's quality of life.
During his professional years as a clinical social work therapist, Graeme Biddle has had the privilege of working with several populations, including clients with terminal illnesses and their family members, as well as children and adolescents experiencing emotional and behavioral instability. Graeme enjoys helping clients identify tools to cope with anxiety, depression, and anger. He also has experience helping clients understand life transitions, as well as better understand periods of grief and loss.
Graeme completed his Master of Social Work (MSW) from Virginia Commonwealth University, as well as his Bachelor of Arts from Randolph-Macon College. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) through the state of Virginia. Graeme provides a calm, validating approach to therapy, while also remaining direct, and encouraging self-accountability. While using a strengths-based perspective, Graeme utilizes several clinical modalities including Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
The process of beginning therapy can be scary and overwhelming. Graeme will strive at helping provide a safe space and facilitate a collaborative approach to help you feel valued and in control of your treatment. Schedule an appointment with Graeme to begin the steps of accomplishing your personal goals.
Through many years of experience as a medical and mental health social worker, and many years of pain and growth in my own life, I...
Through many years of experience as a medical and mental health social worker, and many years of pain and growth in my own life, I have become passionate about helping others struggling at various ages and stages of life.
Annette Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 34 years of experience helping individuals, couples, families, and seniors navigate life’s challenges. She specializes in supporting those facing grief, end-of-life issues, chronic medical conditions, and mental health concerns. With decades of professional and personal experience, Annette offers compassionate guidance and a safe space for growth, healing, and hope.
Annette earned her Master’s in Social Work from Florida State University. She integrates her clinical expertise with empathy, focusing on client-centered approaches that foster resilience, reflection, and meaningful connections. Her background equips her to guide clients through change with clarity and care.
Annette believes every person deserves support during life’s transitions. Her passion lies in helping clients find strength through struggle and rediscover purpose. Whether you are coping with pain, seeking clarity, or ready to fine-tune your life and relationships, Annette is here to walk alongside you on your journey.
I understand what it is like to seek help from others. My goal is to be a supportive and safe environment for you to continue to c...
I understand what it is like to seek help from others. My goal is to be a supportive and safe environment for you to continue to care for yourself and your mental health while responding to life’s challenges.
Sarajayne Vanover is a Supervisee in Social Work with 5 years of experience in case management. She has worked with children, adolescents, teenagers, and adults from diverse backgrounds. Sarajayne has treated trauma histories and family instability. She enjoys helping clients develop coping skills for depression, anxiety, life transitions, and daily struggles. Sarajayne understands the impact that positive support can have and seeks to help clients meet their goals. She seeks to provide validation and support to clients by understanding who they are and what they’ve experienced.
Sarajayne completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) in Clinical Practice as well as her Master of Science in Conflict Analysis & Resolution from George Mason University. Sarajayne has received training in Motivational Interviewing and approaches conflict with a Narrative Practice lens.
We have all experienced the highs and lows of life. Sarajayne strives to provide a safe space and a welcoming environment for individuals as they talk through whatever is on their minds and process what life has brought their way. If you are ready to start your journey, schedule an appointment with her today! She is looking forward to meeting you!
You are the expert on you. My expertise is in helping people make the changes they desire to live healthy, happy, and productive l...
You are the expert on you. My expertise is in helping people make the changes they desire to live healthy, happy, and productive lives.
Scott Beach is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has 16 years of experience in the mental health field. Scott has worked in several different areas, including private and state-run psychiatric hospitals with adults and children, as an outpatient therapist for a community mental health child and family program, and in a hospital emergency room to help assess individuals who might need hospitalization. These enriching experiences have allowed Scott the opportunity to develop competency in treating a broad range of clients with diverse mental health and substance use issues. He enjoys working with young persons and families, and with people who are dealing with trauma and challenging issues.
The skills and experience that Scott brings to a counseling relationship help him meet people where they are, help them assess what they are doing well and what they want to change, and help them find ways to make those changes. He uses different counseling techniques tailored to each client's needs. Scott's theoretical perspective is eclectic, with a strong grounding in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and insight-oriented work. He is also trained to provide eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
As a therapist who has worked extensively with clients experiencing stress related to depression, anxiety, and trauma, I recognize...
As a therapist who has worked extensively with clients experiencing stress related to depression, anxiety, and trauma, I recognize the need for person-centered, solution-focused treatment that will help people deal with life's stressors and lead a life worth living.
Tameka Boone is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has over 10 years of experience in the mental health field and has worked extensively with people diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, trauma, and disorders on the schizophrenia and personality disorder spectrums.
Tameka received her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. She utilizes various treatment modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and existential therapy.
Tameka is a strong advocate and assists individuals in her care with learning the skills necessary to lead productive lives using goal-oriented, person-centered, and solution-focused interventions. Schedule with Tameka today!
As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health challenges, I provide a unique perspective, level of understanding, and...
As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health challenges, I provide a unique perspective, level of understanding, and empathy towards others.
Victoria Staten is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with years of experience. She has experience practicing in a variety of clinical settings providing both inpatient and outpatient mental health services to both adolescents and adults. Victoria focuses on helping. She has experience treating individuals suffering from depression, anxiety, traumatic experiences, adjusting to life changes, challenges within relationships, and low self-esteem.
Victoria received her Master's degree in Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University and her Bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Radford University. Victoria utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), solution-focused therapy (SFT), and more.
Victoria wants you to know that even though you are the only one who can take steps towards taking back control over your mental health, you do not have to take those steps alone. Schedule your session today.
As a clinician, I understand that individuals have different backgrounds and experiences that make them unique....
As a clinician, I understand that individuals have different backgrounds and experiences that make them unique.
Marissa Bell is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adolescents, adults, and families address their unique challenges and needs. Marissa has a diverse professional background working with individuals of different ages and needs. She specializes in treating individuals with depression, anxiety, grief, adjustment disorder, trauma, and major life transitions. Marissa completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Marissa is very passionate about supporting and guiding others in finding solutions and overcoming challenges. Marissa utilizes multiple treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered therapy, and solution-focused therapy.
Despite the challenges and situations that happen in life, Marissa is confident that she can support and empower individuals through navigating life challenges. Marissa can support others in developing coping skills and establishing goals. If you are ready to start therapy, schedule an appointment with her today.
As a clinician, I strive to cultivate a comfortable, empowering therapeutic relationship that recognizes the client as a whole per...
As a clinician, I strive to cultivate a comfortable, empowering therapeutic relationship that recognizes the client as a whole person while highlighting their inner strengths.
Allie Wright is a Resident in Counseling with 1 year of experience helping teens and adults from diverse backgrounds. Allie specializes in treating clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and life adjustments. She is passionate about working with individuals from marginalized backgrounds, survivors of trauma and abuse, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community. Allie individualizes her treatment methods to meet each client's needs.
Allie has a Master of Education in Mental Health Counseling and a Master of Arts in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College at Columbia University. Her therapeutic approach is collaborative, affirming, strengths-based, and trauma-informed. Allie uses cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and narrative therapy.
Allie cultivates a compassionate, accepting, and empowering therapeutic space where she strives to meet clients where they are and work together to reach their personal goals. Schedule an appointment with Allie today!
Paula O’Leary is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked in the mental health field for 15 years in a variety of ...
Paula O’Leary is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who has worked in the mental health field for 15 years in a variety of settings, including outpatient, school, community-based, residential, hospital, and correctional settings. Paula specializes in treating depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, substance use, and other issues. She completed her master's degree at Cardinal Stritch University. Paula has also completed additional training in trauma and has obtained certification as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
Paula uses an integrated approach, which may incorporate the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), motivational interviewing, person-centered, solution-focused, and mindfulness, with a focus on each individual’s specific needs and goals. She believes in creating a safe, supportive space for individuals to express themselves without fear of judgment. Paula will assist individuals in building insight, in exploring past experiences and the impact they may be having on their current functioning, and in developing healthy ways to manage stressors. She recognizes that seeking services can feel overwhelming, but welcomes the opportunity to support you in this process.
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
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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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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.
Respect. Freedom. These are bedrocks of mental health. When these are compromised, mental health will suffer. People deserve for respect. They were born to be free. That means they deserve the space to express their weaknesses and strengths, dislikes and likes, gender and sexuality.
Those in the LGBTQ community encounter more obstructions in their path toward this freedom and respect. The counselors and therapists at Thriveworks Richmond understand those roadblocks—the unique difficulties that the LGBTQ community have to handle. We are committed to offering holistic and affirmative mental health care to our LGBTQ clients. Reach out today for help.
People within the LGBTQ community often have a more difficult path toward freedom and respect than others, and they often need particular guidance and support for the journey. What are some of the things that make their journey more difficult? Here is a small glance of the toll that discrimination, rejection, and harassment can take:
That is why Thriveworks Richmond offers affirmative counseling to those within the LGBTQ community. We believe everyone deserves care. We believe people should be empowered to be who they are.
As our clients and therapists build trust, they often tackle topics such as…
When you think about what is happening in your life right now, what would it be like to have help? What would it be like to have an ally? What would it be like to have healing and acceptance and respect? The therapists at Thriveworks Richmond are ready to walk with you on your journey if you are ready too. When you contact our office, know that a real person will answer your call. We do not have voicemail, but our scheduling specialists help our clients find an appointment that work for their schedule.
New clients often have their first appointment within the week. Weekend and evening sessions are offered, and our therapists are credentialed with many insurance panels which means we can accept many different forms of insurance.
Your mental health matters. You are not alone. Let’s work together. Call Thriveworks Richmond today for LGBTQ inclusive therapy and counseling.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
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