LGBT therapists in Lansing, MI

Good therapy can change your life! In the decade that I've been a psychotherapist, I've accompanied my clients through breaking vicious cycles, reworking toxic patterns, and creating new habits that promote their flourishing. My advanced clinical training makes me especially effective working with clients who self-describe as perfectionists, people pleasers, over-functioning, and/or highly sensitive.

I graduated in 2013 from Oakland University with a Master's in Counseling. My undergraduate degree in Psychology with a minor in English.

I have worked in substance abuse rehab facilities and prison, providing substance abuse counseling in group and individual sessions. I have also worked for community health agencies for different counties in Michigan, doing individual counseling, assisting clients with applying for benefits and providing various resources.

I work with individuals, adults aged 18 plus via telehealth. I work with all genders, sexualities, ethnicities, relationship structures, and religious/non-religious beliefs.

My top treatment areas are anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues.

I offer a judgment-free space where we can work together toward your mental health goals. In our work, we will not just talk through the problems, concerns, or challenges bringing you to therapy. We will also focus on practical tools that can help change how you experience those situations and support you in moving toward a healthier version of yourself. I use a blend of evidence-based treatment approaches that I tailor to each client’s unique needs and goals.

I earned my LMSW from Grand Valley State University and have 17 years of experience across a wide range of mental health settings, including outpatient care, the emergency department, inpatient treatment, and partial hospitalization, along with many other levels of care in between. My additional training includes trauma-informed care, suicide risk assessment and safety planning, and DBT. Clients can expect me to meet them where they are while being empowering, transparent, direct, and focused on helping them reach their treatment goals.

I specialize in helping with all types of relationships, anxiety, stress, sex and intimacy. I also offer Christian counseling and have a heart for those who have experienced hurt or rejection from faith communities.

My name is Dr. Llena Carter. I am originally from the southside of Chicago. I have lived in four different states and traveled to over 40; including teaching/traveling abroad for multiple summers. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and have a breadth of experience. I see therapy as a sacred space where trust and nonjudgment are essential. I am specifically passionate about providing support for persons of color and oppressed populations where therapy may be otherwise stigmatized. I would be honored to walk, even a small part of your journey, with you.

In my 20-plus years of clinical experience, I have worked with individuals, families as well as with couples and groups. My experience has stemmed from a variety of settings including domestic violence shelters, psychiatric units, juvenile detention centers, college campuses and private practice. Consulting work has included Suicide Prevention, DEI trainings, Intergroup Dialogue, and Groups geared toward de-stigmatizing mental wellness for communities of color. All are welcome here.

As a fully licensed mental health therapist, I believe self-awareness and meaningful connections are essential to finding happiness and stability in life. Taking the first step to seek support can be challenging, so congratulations on reaching out! I’ve been practicing since 2020 and, at the end of 2024, I decided to start my own private practice. I primarily work with individuals (ages 12 and older) who find themselves struggling with anxiety, depression, and/or other life adjustment challenges.