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LGBT therapists in Columbia, MD

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Columbia, MD

Find affirming mental health support in Columbia, Maryland with 646 licensed providers who understand gender and sexual identity. Headway connects you with warm, open-minded therapists experienced in LGBTQIA+ mental healthcare, offering virtual and in-person sessions with flexible scheduling and insurance coverage to support your wellbeing.

Becky Jacks

Becky Jacks

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


I am Becky, I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-bc) based in Maryland. My ideal client is an adolescent, a professional or an emerging adult navigating complex mental health symptoms. I offer evaluation, diagnosis, medication management and therapy for children, adolescent and adults experiencing Mental health issues. I specialize in treating Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar, OCD, Grief, Trauma Schizophrenia and more I provide individualized care to help you regain your inner strength and purpose. call us today to schedule an appointment. I offer telemedicine to meet the need of your busy lifestyle.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Briana Williamson

Briana Williamson

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My approach is person-centered and collaborative, with a focus on creating a welcoming space where clients feel heard, supported, and comfortable being themselves.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Cristiano Santostefano

Dr. Cristiano Santostefano

Psychologist

Virtual • Maryland


It can be incredibly difficult to untie the emotional knots that complicate relationships, self-confidence, and understanding the past. Therapy is a safe opportunity to uncover these core issues and learn practical techniques that foster deeper insight. I believe that with this insight you can make meaningful, lasting changes.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Dr. Katherine Eyegue-Sandy

Dr. Katherine Eyegue-Sandy

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Takoma Park, MD


“I don't see you as a diagnosis or a checklist of symptoms. I see a whole person — with a unique story, real strengths, and an incredible capacity to heal and grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Shirelle Wright

Shirelle Wright

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I am a BIPOC therapist who is passionate about creating an affirming, inclusive space where clients from diverse backgrounds feel safe, respected, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, Stress management
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Williams

Jacqueline Williams

Therapist

Virtual • Largo, MD


“I provide a calm, non-judgmental space where you can begin to process what's weighing on you at your own pace.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Melissa Sweeney

Dr. Melissa Sweeney

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My practice is grounded in ethical, culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based approaches to social work, education and clinical intervention.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Imani Craig

Imani Craig

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I provide a thoughtful, intentional space for clients to explore, heal, and grow. My approach blends evidence-based practices with a deep respect for each client’s story, helping them move toward clarity, emotional balance, and a more aligned way of living.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Ashley Marinelli

Ashley Marinelli

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Clients can expect to leave sessions with greater self-awareness, practical coping tools, and a clearer understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Blessing Nweke

Blessing Nweke

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“I believe every person deserves to be treated as a whole individual—not simply defined by a diagnosis or a set of symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Loren Ketelsen

Loren Ketelsen

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Maryland


“My style of therapy is supportive and compassionate. I believe in empowering my clients, instilling hope, and courage...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Energetic, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Beth Johnson

Mary Beth Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I am a solution focused therapist with plenty of cognitive and cognitive-behavioral techniques in my toolbox!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sierra Coleman

Sierra Coleman

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My therapeutic orientation is person-centered, with a strong emphasis on experiential therapy and Internal Family Systems (parts work).”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Identity issues, Relationship issues
Direct, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
Yianni Mikalis

Yianni Mikalis

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I believe that meaningful change begins with a space where you feel seen, understood, and valued. As both a counselor and board-certified art therapist, I’m here to walk alongside you, helping you explore your emotions, understand your experiences, and discover new ways to heal and grow. Whether you’re working through trauma, looking to develop healthier habits, or wanting to improve communication in relationships, I’ll support you in cultivating greater emotional awareness and self-compassion.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jillian Block

Jillian Block

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) credentialed by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists. I completed my Bachelor’s degree (B.S. in Psychology) at Towson University in 2013 and received my Master’s degree (M.S.) in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University in 2016. I am passionate about helping others conquer their challenges and transcend their goals. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with friends, loved ones, and her dogter, Lila. My favorite self-care activities include going to concerts, traveling, kayaking, cooking, and experimenting with different types of mocktails and coffees.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jarrell Slade

Jarrell Slade

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I specialize in offering a safe and affirming therapeutic space for individuals, with a concentration on individuals within the LGBTQIA+ spectrum and Black and/or Indigenous people of color.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Sarah Ncookwa

Dr. Sarah Ncookwa

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


Hi, I’m a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience in both hospital and outpatient care. I work with adults dealing with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, substance use and more. I’m warm, easy to talk to, and I take time to really listen so you feel heard and supported. My approach is simple—we meet you where you are and work together on a plan that fits your life. I’m committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care and look forward to partnering with you on your mental health journey.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Tara Henley

Tara Henley

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a supportive and respectful environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Solomon Plonka

Dr. Solomon Plonka

Psychologist

Virtual • Maryland


Hi there! I am a licensed psychologist and completed a doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Adelphi University. I use evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy when working with clients. I specialize in the treatment of individuals with OCD, anxiety disorders, and substance use difficulties, as well as families of individuals who struggle in these ways.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Edith Kplivi

Edith Kplivi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Gaithersburg, MD


“I pride myself on being a good listener, provide a safe and supportive environment, collaborating with clients to develop personalized treatment plans to help achieve mental wellness and improve quality of life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Belinda Fosuhene

Belinda Fosuhene

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“My priority is delivering compassionate, evidence-based care that's tailored to each person I work with.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dina Josif

Dina Josif

Therapist

Virtual • Baltimore, MD


“My therapeutic approach is behavioral/goal oriented and designed to help the client solve the current issue that is stopping him/her from achieving what they want, in just 12 sessions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Dr. Deborah Jones

Dr. Deborah Jones

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


I’m Dr. Deborah E. Jones, PhD, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner dedicated to helping adults find balance, resilience, and renewed purpose. I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to care—combining evidence-based medication management with supportive therapy to promote lasting emotional wellness.

I’ve worked in nursing for more than 30 years across clinical care, education, and leadership, and for the past eight years I’ve specialized in psychiatric mental health as a nurse practitioner. My specialties include anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and stress-related concerns, and I especially enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to invest in their personal growth and well-being.

At Deborah E. Jones, Psychiatry & Mental Wellness, PLLC — A Lucid Collaborative, my goal is to create a therapeutic space where insight, healing, and clarity come together—empowering you to live with greater peace and confidence.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Barbara Rene-Darbouze

Barbara Rene-Darbouze

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My style is both compassionate and direct. I provide empathy and validation, while also gently challenging clients to take accountability, shift unhelpful patterns, and move toward meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Emma Stewart

Emma Stewart

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My motto is, come as you are and leave how you want to be. Sessions are curated to be safe spaces to reach treatment goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Inquisitive
Accepts 13 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
Toni Rivers

Toni Rivers

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Through our work together, I aim to help you reclaim your narrative, build healthier relationships, and foster a greater sense of belonging and purpose in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Energetic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jonathan Albright

Jonathan Albright

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Traequanda Brock

Traequanda Brock

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Traequanda is trained in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, has advanced training in infertility, and is also a birth and postpartum doula.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Thecla Asoluka

Thecla Asoluka

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“My goal is to help you feel better, sleep deeper, connect more meaningfully, and regain a sense of control over your mind and emotions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shannon Paige

Shannon Paige

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“I value direct communication and living an authentic life. Being or becoming comfortable to express one's truth is one of the main goals when working with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tom Gates

Tom Gates

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Largo, MD


“I am solution oriented and provide medication management services as well as education regarding medications and diagnosis.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Cortney Merritt

Cortney Merritt

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My approach is grounded in trauma-informed, whole-person care rooted in the core values of social work, including dignity, respect, and the belief that every person has strengths worth building on.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Natalie Gobrial

Natalie Gobrial

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“Using a warm, genuine, and empathic approach, I work with clients to build trusting and collaborative relationships that help them gain a deeper understanding of themselves...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dwayne Taylor

Dwayne Taylor

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


“My goal is to us this safe space support you, challenge you, and explore alternate ways of thinking to achieve growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Abigail Frimpong

Abigail Frimpong

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Maryland


“I understand that every client's experience, their perception, and their needs are different. This is why I work hard to give my clients that safe, non-judgmental space and personalized treatment plans to help them experience the deep healing they...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Tyler Bull

Tyler Bull

Psychologist

Virtual • Maryland


“I specialize in supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, with a particular focus on creating a safe, affirming space for LGBTQ+ patients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Victoria Kelly Robles

Victoria Kelly Robles

Therapist

Virtual • Maryland


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a background in community organizing, crisis intervention, and family and parent coaching. My work centers self-directed healing, truth telling, and culturally grounded care. I create a safe space for clients—especially those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities—to decompress, re-evaluate, and grow. I draw from evidence-based practices to honor each person’s lived experience and support increased insight, discernment, empowerment, and improved health outcomes.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Columbia, MD

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Columbia, MD
There are over 23 therapists in Columbia, MD accepting new patients.
23+
Average years in practice
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14 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 96%Anxiety
  • 91%Grief or loss
  • 91%Depression
  • 87%Stress management
Insurances accepted
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  • 100%Aetna
  • 78%CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • 74%Cigna
  • 57%Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
  • 57%Carelon Behavioral Health
Languages spoken
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  • 96%English
  • 4%Igbo
  • 4%Japanese
How they see their clients
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  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 87%Woman
  • 13%Man
License types
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  • 35%Licensed Clinical Social Worker - Clinical
  • 30%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse
  • 26%Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
  • 9%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 35%Family therapy
  • 30%Child or adolescent therapy
  • 17%Couples therapy

Frequently asked questions

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