Skip to main content
Headway

Book LGBT-friendly therapy, covered by insurance

LGBT therapists in Bethesda, MD

Therapist and patient in a therapy session
Calculator Illustration
Get a cost estimate
People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Bethesda, MD

Finding an LGBTQIA+-affirming therapist in Bethesda is easier with Headway's diverse network of 656 licensed providers. Whether you're exploring identity, navigating relationships, or addressing mental health, our warm and empowering providers are available for free consultations and sessions as soon as next day.

Dr. Kadesha Evans

Dr. Kadesha Evans

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Laurel, MD


“I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore challenges, identify strengths, and develop personalized solutions...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Breona Dunlap-Griffin

Breona Dunlap-Griffin

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I am licensed in both MD and OR. I do not believe in an ideal client. As humans, we are all unique and need different things to thrive, so I will work with you and your experiences to help you be your ideal self. Your experiences do not have to define you but can aid in personal growth in one way or another. If you are open to self-exploration with a mix-bag of feedback, I believe we can work well together. This journey is not always a pretty one but can be rewarding. I am able to assist my clients by providing a safe space for exploration to allow my clients to go through their feelings. At times I am able to help clients name their feelings, but I am just a passenger, supporting safe travel through an emotional/ mental outing.Allow me to help you through your next adventure, where you learn more about your strengths and abilities. At times, your dislikes are also your strengths.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Julia Sanders

Julia Sanders

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Julia strongly believes that every person has a unique set of strengths and circumstances that have made them who they are today and that will help them become the person they would like to be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Energetic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Hannah Burhans

Hannah Burhans

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who believes therapy works best when it feels like a genuine, collaborative relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Mercy Gana

Dr. Mercy Gana

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


Seeking support can feel like a big step, and I'm glad you're here. My goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable being yourself—without judgment, pressure, or the need to have everything figured out. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, or simply feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, we'll work together to help you move toward healing and balance.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree. I provide comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy using an evidence-based, holistic approach. I believe mental health is about more than managing symptoms—it's about improving your overall quality of life and helping you thrive.

My clients often describe me as warm, humorous, open-minded, energetic, and easy to talk to. I also believe in being direct, honest, and solution-oriented because I know that meaningful growth comes from combining compassion with practical strategies. I enjoy helping people recognize their strengths, build resilience, and develop skills they can use long after our sessions.

I work with children, adolescents, adults, and older adults experiencing a wide range of mental health concerns, including anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD and trauma-related disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, and substance use disorders. I also support clients navigating life transitions, grief, relationship challenges, stress, and emotional regulation.

I believe healing happens through collaboration, trust, and hope. Whether this is your first time seeking mental health care or you're continuing your journey, I'm here to meet you where you are and help you take the next step toward living a healthier, more fulfilling life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Ekor Odaji

Ekor Odaji

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“I believe mental health care should be collaborative, personalized, and focused on the whole person—not just symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Renata Pavani

Renata Pavani

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I believe that the most important relationship you will ever have is the one you have with yourself; by cultivating self-compassion and clarity, you can bring your most authentic self to your relationships and every other area of your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Nikis Ellis

Nikis Ellis

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My job is to listen, be empathetic, non-judgmental, and provide clients with the best care possible.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Samantha B-Scott

Samantha B-Scott

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Hi there! Allow me to introduce myself, I'm Samantha Scott, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Glad to meet you. I am an eclectic therapist who truly believes that everyone deserves a safe space to be heard. I work with adults of all ages, from 18 all the way up to 98 years young. No matter where you are in your life journey, I am here to meet you exactly as you are today.

I went to school for a long time to make sure I could give you the best support possible!

  • Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
  • Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice (Human Services focus)
  • Associate Degree in Criminal Justice

In our sessions, I blend different tools like Solution-Focused Therapy, CBT, and Motivational Interviewing. This just means we will focus on your goals, look at how your thoughts affect your feelings, and find your inner strength to make a change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sophia Radich

Sophia Radich

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I have experience supporting people with depression, anxiety, OCD, and trauma.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Shan Shan He

Shan Shan He

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“My approach is collaborative, respectful, and grounded in evidence-based care, with an emphasis on creating a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Rachel Chernow

Rachel Chernow

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Healing isn't about perfection — it's about progress, growth, and learning to care for yourself in new ways.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Netelege Richards

Netelege Richards

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I am a Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience in helping individuals who have anxiety, depression (Suicidal ideation and self-harm urges), Anxiety, Anger, School Stressors, Race-Related Issues, and LGBTQIA+ Related Issues.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Funmilayo Olugbemi

Funmilayo Olugbemi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Waldorf, MD


“My treatment method consists of a person-centered approach with evidenced-based medication management; and while working as a team, I provide a combination of psychiatric medication, supportive/talk therapy, and encourage lifestyle changes.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Robyn Manning

Robyn Manning

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Edgewood, MD


“I emphasize empathy, open-mindedness, and expertise, creating a safe and therapeutic environment where your mental health needs are addressed with careful precision and genuine concern.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kia McMillion

Kia McMillion

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Hi, I’m Kia McMillion, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a passion for helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve personal growth. With years of experience in mental health, I specialize in working with adults, using a strengths-based approach to empower my clients.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Teresa Russell

Dr. Teresa Russell

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My approach is authentic and caring. I use a variety of therapy modalities to help you achieve your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Dr. Shannon Howard

Dr. Shannon Howard

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Dr. Shannon Howard is a highly sought-after professional counselor and CEO of SinClair McCoy, LLC. She serves as a sexual relationship specialist who focuses on assisting women and men with healing from childhood trauma surrounding sexual abuse.

Dr. Howard is also a a practitioner who focuses on the mental health care needs of first responders, law enforcement, healthcare workers, and government personnel.

Her extensive educational background consists of dual degrees in both Counseling and Clinical Psychology with a focus on Philosophy and Women’s Studies. She also possesses specialized training in trauma relating to the treatment of sex offenders and survivors of sexual assault.

She believes that every client is unique in their way and that each person’s story is different. This is the catalyst behind her coaching methodology. Using targeted strategies and personalized coaching approaches, she works with couples and individuals to help them transition from victim to victor.

Dr. Howard helps clients face their past trauma by uncovering and resolving the root issue, assessing desired outcomes, and implementing a plan of action that leads them toward living a more optimal life experience.

She is the author under the alias Sinclair McCoy of The Alternative book trilogy. She speaks nationally to the masses on a variety of topics including:

-Life After Sexual Abuse

-Finding Your Sexy After Sexual Abuse

-Regaining Your Body Trust

She is the owner of a private practice AND co-owner/ managing partner of a group practice in Maryland. She has been in the counseling field since 2002 and is passionate to serve a variety of clientele.

Her clients are located in the D. C. and MD states.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Julie Ceigler

Julie Ceigler

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


When was the last time you felt truly heard? Life can feel as though you're stuck in a maze without a map or sense of purpose. You may feel broken, alone, or depressed, but you're not. I've successfully helped clients work through challenges, learn effective coping skills, and view life in a realistic, positive way. I've helped clients with chronic illness maximize their quality of life. We'll set up a plan that meets your current needs, then empower you to reach your goals, together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Wright Doss

Wright Doss

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Clients consistently feel that they have been heard and validated by me, even when I then may challenge them to consider an alternative perspective.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Daniel McCarthy

Dr. Daniel McCarthy

Psychologist

Virtual • Maryland


“Only when a client feels that they are fully heard, understood, accepted and valued without judgment, does change occur.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Men's issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tamielle Taylor

Tamielle Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“She cultivates a supportive environment in which individuals may acknowledge, process, and problem solve their concerns in constructive ways.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Francis

Rachel Francis

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I prioritize person centered therapy and specialize in CBT treatment. My expertise includes depression, anxiety, low self esteem, self harm, adjustment disorders, bipolar, and serving the LGBTQ+ community.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Arnecia Moody

Arnecia Moody

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I have a warm, compassionate, caring spirit and believe in a straightforward strength-based perspective to addressing issues within a therapeutic relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jesse Jarman

Jesse Jarman

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I am energetic and bring a sense of humor to the sessions. I am passionate about people getting well...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Shelley Savage

Dr. Shelley Savage

Psychologist

Virtual • Maryland


“I offer integrative, trauma-informed care rooted in clinical science, creativity, and cultural humility.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Diabetes
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Joseph Hodge

Joseph Hodge

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I particularly enjoy working with adults who feel stuck in patterns they understand intellectually but haven't been able to change on their own.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Men's issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Yunlay Bridges

Dr. Yunlay Bridges

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Bethesda, MD


With over twenty-seven years of diverse nursing experience, particularly in Emergency Room and Mental Health settings, such as St. Elizabeth Hospital, Providence Hospital, and the Psychiatric Institute of Washington. These positions have equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of both clinical excellence and operational efficiency.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Katelyn Erbacher

Katelyn Erbacher

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“As someone who lives with ADHD myself, I understand how exhausting it can feel to constantly push against your own brain to get things done.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, PTSD, Stress management
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Angelina Diaz

Angelina Diaz

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I look forward to providing an opportunity for you to connect with someone who is compassionate, empathetic, and nonjudgmental.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Traina Jackson-Clarke

Traina Jackson-Clarke

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I counsel for change with a calm presence and understanding. My goal is to find solutions by investigating and challenging the beliefs about yourself and the issue at hand.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Steven Hayes

Steven Hayes

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I provide a safe, nonjudgmental, and culturally affirming space where clients can explore their emotions, develop new coping strategies, and work toward healing and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Lorain Gabriel

Lorain Gabriel

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Narrative therapy is a postmodern approach to psychotherapy that is rooted in the notion of social construction...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Byron Porcher

Byron Porcher

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I use evidence-based approaches including CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and strengths-based therapy...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Keona Smith

Keona Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


If you're carrying more than you'd like to admit right now, you've landed in the right place. I'm a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, relationship challenges, and life transitions. I bring warmth, humor when it fits, and a genuinely judgment-free space to every session. Using CBT, DBT, and faithbased approaches, I meet you exactly where you are. I'd love to help you find your way forward.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Challenging, Inquisitive
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Adedoyin Adeniji

Adedoyin Adeniji

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Cheverly, MD


“I am committed to providing compassionate, patient-centered, evidence-based care with a strong focus on long-term stability, symptom improvement, and overall quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Creative, Holistic
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Nasim Ameri

Nasim Ameri

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Hi there, I’m a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) with several years of experience supporting individuals through emotional healing, self-discovery, and meaningful life transitions. My background includes working in both clinical and community-based settings, where I’ve supported adults navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, and major life changes.

In addition to my clinical work, I am also a special education paraprofessional in the Montgomery County Public School system, where I have experience working with elementary- and adolescent-aged students. This role has deepened my understanding of child and adolescent development, learning differences, emotional regulation, and the unique challenges young people and their families often face.

I take a compassionate, relational, and culturally responsive approach to therapy. I integrate evidence-based practices with mindfulness, insight-oriented work, and practical coping tools, always tailoring treatment to each client’s unique history and goals. I believe therapy should feel safe, collaborative, and human, not clinical or judgmental.

As a therapist, I value honesty, warmth, and emotional depth. I work best with clients who want to better understand themselves, strengthen boundaries, heal old wounds, and build healthier relationships with others and with themselves. My goal is to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and aligned in your life.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Lula Heatley

Lula Heatley

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I have 25 years of experience in the Social Work field and love my profession with compassion and respect for others.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Jody Davis

Jody Davis

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Hi, my name is Jody and I would like to welcome you to Headway. As a therapist with many years of experience helping clients to navigate their unique journey I would like to make this process comfortable for you. Whether you are seeking support for a life transition, working through a past experience, or just want to better understand yourself, I will meet you where you are in your process.

I am committed to providing an inclusive and affirming environment for all clients. I welcome and support individuals regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, race, religion or back round.

When I am not working I enjoy being out in nature, animals of all kinds, reading and crafting.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Katelynn Liptak

Katelynn Liptak

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, and my goal is to make that first step feel a little easier. I approach my work with warmth, compassion, and genuine curiosity about each person’s story. I support clients in gently unpacking the thoughts and experiences that may be contributing to anxiety and depression, while offering empathy and practical tools along the way. You don’t have to navigate this alone—we’ll work through it together.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Bethesda, MD

Number of therapists serving Bethesda, MD
There are over 653 therapists in Bethesda, MD accepting new patients.
653+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
9 years
Top specialties offered
Watercolor illustration of specialties
  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 84%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 99%Aetna
  • 85%Cigna
  • 82%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 69%CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • 60%Ascension
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 99%English
  • 5%Spanish
  • 3%French
  • 1%Yoruba
  • 1%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 91%Online only
  • 9%In-person or online
Provider gender
Watercolor illustration of gender identity
  • 79%Woman
  • 19%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
Watercolor illustration of license
  • 41%Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Clinical
  • 30%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 23%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 4%Clinical Psychologist
  • 2%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
Treatment approaches
Watercolor illustration of treatment approach
  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 40%Family therapy
  • 25%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

Therapy Chair

Happy patient looking away

Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

Find a provider - your way

Use left and right arrow keys to switch tabs. Press Shift+Tab to return to the tab list from links in the selected tab.

1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.