LGBT therapists in Concord, CA

Hello - My name is Nicole Forester. I welcome you.

I recognize the energy it takes to seek support.

I focus on what matters most to you at a pace you are comfortable with.

Thank you for trusting me to be part of this process.

I’m a licensed clinical psychologist who specializes in stress and anxiety disorders, mood concerns, and LGBT-issues.

I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and high performers—including Division I athletes, professionals, and anyone striving to meet high expectations. In my work, I’ve learned that growth happens at the edge of comfort—where support and challenge meet. My clients often tell me they appreciate my ability to be both direct and deeply compassionate, creating a space where they feel seen, understood, and encouraged to move forward.

Born in Taiwan, raised in Southern California, and trained in San Francisco and New Mexico, I bring a blend of cultural humility, life experience, and professional training into every session. As an Asian American therapist, I value identity, culture, and lived experience as essential pieces of healing. I aim to create a space where you can show up as your real self—without judgment, without masks.

Hi, and welcome! Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, or grief. You may feel stuck, stressed, or unsure how to move forward. My goal is to provide a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your concerns, feel understood, and start building the tools to regain control and find peace.

Dr. Clancy Cavnar is a licensed psychologist with specializations in addictions and psychedelic therapy. She has worked with a wide variety of people and with a broad range of diagnoses and life situations that therapy can help with. She offers a comprehensive assessment and treatment focused on a client’s individual needs. Dr. Cavnar is empathic and compassionate, and therapy with her is an exchange of ideas, with deep listening and non-judgmental acceptance.

As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I am passionate about providing compassionate, personalized care and building meaningful connections with the individuals I serve. I believe everyone deserves a provider who cares, hears, and truly listens. I believe seeking mental health care is a courageous and deeply personal decision, and you deserve a provider who genuinely listens. I strive to create a compassionate, inclusive, and judgment-free space where every person feels welcomed, respected, and valued. You are more than a diagnosis or a set of symptoms. My goal is to meet you where you are, understand what matters most to you, and provide a space where you feel safe being yourself.

I have a passion for helping people navigate life's challenges. Seeking help can feel like a big step, but it is also a powerful one. I offer a collaborative and nonjudgemental space for discovering strengths and with helping you feel empowered.

I'm a licensed psychologist who works with people who generally are holding it together in life, but feel stuck in certain areas. I believe that shame- this thing we all have- is what keeps us small, separate from others, and disconnected from our true selves.

What I bring to the room is warmth, directness and a true desire to understand all of you. I'm honest, not easily shocked, and I don't judge. I take your potential seriously, and I truly believe in the innate goodness and potential of all human beings- no matter where we have been or what we're holding on to.

Welcome, and thank you for considering me as a partner in your wellness journey! My therapeutic style is warm, gentle, and supportive, while also being direct and accountability focused. I believe meaningful change happens when compassion and honesty work together. In our time together, we will explore what’s getting in the way of your well-being and identify practical, sustainable ways to improve your daily functioning and overall quality of life.

With over a decade of experience in the mental health field, I bring a grounded, steady presence to the therapeutic space. I support clients through life transitions, emotional challenges, and periods of feeling stuck, always meeting you where you are while helping you move toward where you want to be. Therapy with me is collaborative, intentional, and centered on your goals, your values, and your lived experience. Together, we’ll work toward clarity, resilience, and growth at a pace that feels both supportive and empowering.

I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Neuroscience from the University of Portland and my Master’s degree from Santa Clara University. My clinical experience spans school-based services, residential care, ABA, community mental health, and high-acuity crisis work. I have worked with children, teenagers, adults, and older adults from diverse backgrounds. I particularly enjoy working with teenagers as they discover who they are and who they want to become. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationships, life transitions, couples therapy, and men’s mental health. My experience also allows me to remain calm and responsive when situations become difficult.

From the outside, it looks like you've got it handled: the job, the responsibilities, the reputation for being reliable. Underneath, your mind rarely slows down: replaying conversations, second-guessing decisions you've already made, feeling guilty when you try to rest.

I work with young adults with anxiety, perfectionism, and self-imposed pressure. A lot of my clients are exhausted by overthinking and frustrated that doing everything "right" hasn't actually brought them any peace.

Together, we'll figure out what's keeping that cycle going and build real tools for managing anxiety and pressure Not just insight, but things you can actually use. My style is direct, down-to-earth, and LGBTQ+ affirming.

Most people start out feeling like they're carrying more than they can hold. Over time, that tends to get lighter, more confidence in your own decisions, less dread before hard conversations, and a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks from the outside.

If you're ready to stop carrying this alone, I'd be glad to connect.