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LGBT therapists in Newark, NJ

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Newark, NJ

Find affirming mental health support in Newark with 1,100 licensed providers experienced in LGBTQIA+ care. Headway connects you with warm, open-minded therapists who understand your unique needs through virtual or in-person sessions, with many providers offering free consultations.

Jacqueline Canovan

Jacqueline Canovan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • Matawan, NJ


“My style is warm, direct, and skills-focused. Sessions feel more like a real conversation than a formal appointment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alicia Giglio

Alicia Giglio

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Hazlet, NJ


Hi there! My name is Alicia and I am a licensed counselor. The first step in reaching out for help is challenging, so give yourself some credit for making it here.

My goal in sessions is for us to work collaboratively and I can give you the tools you may need to become the best version of yourself. My areas of focus are in working with trauma, family dynamics, and eating disorders.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Gilberto Pilarte

Gilberto Pilarte

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 24 mi away • Somerset, NJ


“I am an individual who is concerned with helping clients find their truths, passions and explore their future!”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Marc Rubin

Marc Rubin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 25 mi away • East Brunswick, NJ


“The coping mechanisms that are shared with my client's are established with the abilities of the individual patient in mind, though will also challenge the client at times.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Emily Lindemann

Emily Lindemann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Tinton Falls, NJ


Emily Lindemann is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Emily has 15 years of experience in multiple modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychoeducation and Family Support, Case Management, Collaborative Care, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Substance Abuse Treatment, Sex Therapy, and Holistic Therapy Interventions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Rebecca Casey

Rebecca Casey

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • Chester, NJ


“My goal is to bridge the gap between clinical expertise and relatable, down-to-earth support so that you feel truly heard—not just managed.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers
Megan Washburn

Megan Washburn

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • Red Bank, NJ


“My style is flexible and that's very important to me; I want all of my clients to know that therapy will be whatever they need it to be on that particular day.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Juan Carlos Barrera

Juan Carlos Barrera

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • Red Bank, NJ


“Their work is rooted in the belief that healing begins when you are able to reconnect with yourself—your body, your identity, and your inner voice.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Anastasia Kudless

Anastasia Kudless

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 28 mi away • Chester, NJ


“I strongly believe that mental health, is health! By prioritizing your mental health, you can achieve the personal growth you desire.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cheryl Schnabolk

Cheryl Schnabolk

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 28 mi away • Chester, NJ


“My role is to provide unyielding support, validation, practical tools and interventions, non judgmental space for you to speak your true feelings...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Fausat Odubiyi

Dr. Fausat Odubiyi

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Moorestown, NJ


“As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, she may specialize in Schizophrenia and Mood Disorders, in addition to other conditions.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Latoya Smalls

Dr. Latoya Smalls

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“As a counseling professional, it is essential to challenge my clients in a supportive and encouraging way that will not present as overly critical of their knowledge and experience, that will assist with promoting personal growth.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sara Wickizer

Sara Wickizer

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I am a highly seasoned clinician with years of experience in both mental health care and substance use services. My professional journey began in the substance use field, sand a deep understanding of the co-occurring mental health challenges many individuals face.

My clinical experience includes providing outpatient individual therapy and supporting individuals experiencing acute psychosis in inpatient psychiatric settings. After gaining many years of clinical experience, I expanded into leadership roles, providing clinical supervision and program oversight while managing co-occurring programs across New Jersey. I am also passionate about building the next generation of clinicians and serve part-time as an adjunct professor. I earned my degrees from Rutgers University School of Social Work and Honors College, where I was a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society and graduated summa cum laude.

I bring a diverse background and extensive knowledge to my clinical practice, having worked across a wide range of mental health and substance use settings. Over the years, I have gained experience with many different diagnoses, from anxiety and depression to trauma and co-occurring disorders. My expertise spans multiple evidence-based approaches, including ACT, CBT, DBT, SFT, trauma-informed care, person-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and psychoanalytic techniques. This breadth allows me to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring a personalized, effective, and compassionate approach to care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sara Figueroa

Sara Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My focal point is ALWAYS meeting my clients where they are at in life and not where I would like them to be as this is their journey, not mine.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Nicole DeSantis

Nicole DeSantis

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Navigating uncertain times can feel overwhelming. I strive to provide a supportive, compassionate space where clients feel heard and empowered. My goal is to help individuals work through challenges with greater clarity, resilience, and confidence as they move toward healing and growth.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with supervisory experience, offering an integrative approach to therapy that supports the whole person. My professional background includes work in private practice, college counseling settings, and intensive outpatient treatment, providing me with experience supporting clients across a wide range of needs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Arislady Sanchez

Arislady Sanchez

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Welcome, My name is Arislady Sanchez. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am bilingual and speak Spanish and English.

I attended The Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. I specialized in Health and Mental Health. I have over15 years of experience providing mental health treatment and services for children, teens, adults, and families.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andre Thomas

Andre Thomas

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I focus my life and my life's work on the advancement of oppressed identities overall wellbeing in mind, body, and spirit.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Danielle Foox

Danielle Foox

Therapist

Virtual • Nutley, NJ


“Using a holistic approach that's specifically tailored to you, I specialize in helping adults struggling with anxiety, low confidence, and relationship issues learn to put themselves first by setting healthy boundaries and lead more fulfilling lives.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yelena Akhiyezer

Yelena Akhiyezer

Therapist

Virtual • Clark, NJ


“I am a genuine, tolerant, and warm person. Rather than committing to a particular therapeutic approach, I will choose and customize one that will fit your needs and personality.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Tara Canavera

Tara Canavera

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My journey into social work began through my own experience healing from trauma, which allows me to connect with clients in a genuine, relatable, and compassionate way.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Oluwaseun Adeoti

Oluwaseun Adeoti

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • East Orange, NJ


“I use a comprehensive approach that includes medication management, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes, treating mood and anxiety disorders.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Lauren Greenfield

Lauren Greenfield

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“Using mindfulness to connect your emotions and thoughts, you can develop your own toolkit to feeling relief.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yancun Wisseh

Yancun Wisseh

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“The therapeutic alliance that is the client-therapist relationship will become the greatest change agent-Trust, genuineness, and participation.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Steve Nisbet,LCSWR

Steve Nisbet,LCSWR

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My style is warm, attentive, and collaborative, with a healthy dose of humor—because therapy should feel human, not clinical.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss
Affirming, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Gbemisola Ore-ofe

Gbemisola Ore-ofe

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Hasbrouck Heights, NJ


“I believe that mental health is the foundation of overall wellbeing, and that when you're thriving mentally, every other area of your life begins to improve as well.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Laurie Parsons

Laurie Parsons

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“Using a blend of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and mindfulness techniques, I'll help you regain your power and focus your energy on what you can actually change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, End of life care
Humorous, Inquisitive, Solution-oriented
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ms.  Tina Lass

Ms. Tina Lass

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Hello I have been a practicing therapist for 20 years. I received my Masters degree from Buffalo University in 2005. I continue to receive and seek education to further my skill set.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Tammy Jamison

Tammy Jamison

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR to help you better understand yourself, build healthy coping skills, work through challenges, and make positive changes at your own pace.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Timothy Dunn

Timothy Dunn

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Hello there!

My name is Timothy Dunn, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Central New Jersey. I have been working in the mental health field since 2016, beginning in inpatient treatment, followed by several years as a case manager supporting adults with severe mental illness, and currently practicing in an outpatient setting since 2022.

I serve a diverse population across age, gender, and mental health concerns, with a focus on treating anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse and neglect, and adolescents. I am looking to work with individuals who are ready to “enter the room” and “do the work,” moving at a pace that feels right for you.

I’m also a husband, father, and proud dog dad who hopes to help heal the world one person at a time.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Energetic, Inquisitive
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kesar Hernandez

Kesar Hernandez

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I’m a therapist who specializes in supporting individuals and couples through some of life’s most overwhelming and tender seasons. Whether you’re navigating the emotional complexities of pregnancy or postpartum, struggling with intrusive thoughts or anxiety, feeling stuck in depression, or working to strengthen your relationship, you don’t have to do it alone.

I have a particular passion for perinatal mental health, helping clients adjust to identity changes, manage expectations, and process the emotional ups and downs that can come with trying to conceive, pregnancy, and early parenthood. I also work closely with individuals experiencing OCD, anxiety, and depression, providing tools to reduce distress and build a greater sense of control and confidence.

For couples, I offer a supportive space to improve communication, rebuild connection, and navigate conflict in a more productive and meaningful way.

My goal is to create a space where you feel understood, supported, and empowered to move forward.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Christina Williams

Christina Williams

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I prioritize trust, creating a safe space and fostering collaborative relationships with my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Creative, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kate Ravielli

Kate Ravielli

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“Even in the darkest of times, everyone is doing their best. My approach is compassionate and collaborative.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Challenging, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Jillian Higbee

Jillian Higbee

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Hi! I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor with a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I work with teens, young adults, and middle-aged adults on a variety of concerns, including anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges. I also have a special interest in supporting clients with eating disorders, body image, and body positivity, including HAES approaches, and offer family-based support when helpful. I aim to create a warm, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Heather Bielefeldt

Heather Bielefeldt

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with extensive experience providing compassionate, person-centered therapy to adults navigating anxiety, depression, serious mental illness, trauma, and complex life stressors. My clinical background spans community mental health, supportive housing, and outreach-based services, allowing me to work effectively with individuals facing co-occurring disorders, housing instability, and major life transitions.

I believe therapy works best when clients feel heard, respected, and supported without judgment. My approach is collaborative and practical, helping clients identify strengths, build coping skills, and move toward meaningful, sustainable change at their own pace.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Dr. Tina Anighoro-Okezie

Dr. Tina Anighoro-Okezie

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Matawan, NJ


“I employ an integrated approach to care, viewing each client as unique to provide tailored treatment recommendations.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Christopher Kempski

Christopher Kempski

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“As a doctoral trained therapist in alternative therapies, I incorporate the philosophy of the mind and body perspective in my practice.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Tonnesha Kidd

Tonnesha Kidd

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Hamilton Township, NJ


Hi, I’m a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I graduated from Drexel University with my Master's degree in Nursing. I then completed my Post-Graduate Certificate in Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I have over twenty years of experience working in healthcare. Psych has always been my passion. My experiences encompass working with clients across the life span, including Child and Adolescents, Adult, and Geriatric patient populations. I’ve provided services to clients presenting with many psychiatric disorders, such as Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, and more. I’m in the belief that mental health wellbeing is a priority. Human beings are resilient. Holistic care is the key to promoting better patient outcomes. Therefore, I believe that with an evidence-based practice treatment plan consisting of psychotherapy and/or a combination of psychotherapy and medication management, one will be able to control their mental health.


I’m a very compassionate, caring, and empathetic person. I strive to provide holistic care and collaborate with my clients to develop a treatment plan that they are comfortable with.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Aarti Mathur

Aarti Mathur

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Come and start your journey towards a better life. I will help you develop resilience and strengthen your inner core. I will work with you to develop problem solving skills, and learn effective communication skills. I am an empathetic listener with over 10 years of experience in this field.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Courtney Aranowitz Paul

Courtney Aranowitz Paul

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“While I use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), each client is different and therefore there is no "one size fits all" approach.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shannon Cahill

Shannon Cahill

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, trauma, and the many transitions life throws our way. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Psychology, a journey that fuels my commitment to providing evidence-based care while staying at the forefront of clinical research.

My professional background includes supporting adults and young adults through challenges ranging from PTSD and substance use to family dynamics and relationship stressors. I also specialize in supporting clients through gender-specific issues and significant life stages, including postpartum support and major career or personal shifts.

I believe the foundation of effective therapy is a warm, nonjudgmental partnership. At Holistic Counseling Solution, I strive to create a space where you feel truly seen and comfortable being yourself. Together, we will focus on your unique strengths to foster the meaningful, lasting change you are looking for.

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

Frequently asked questions

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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.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA Therapist in Newark

Searching for LGBTQIA therapists in Newark starts with finding identity-affirming care that matches your needs. An LGBTQIA+-affirming therapist may support people exploring sexuality, gender identity, relationship concerns, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. As you compare therapists, look for profiles that mention affirmative therapy, WPATH training, gender-diverse experience, or direct experience with LGBTQIA+ communities. This can help you find a therapist whose training, listed specialties, and approach align with the kind of support you want.

Newark offers both local office visits and virtual therapy options, which can help widen your search for an affirming therapist. If nearby options feel limited, virtual appointments may make it easier to find therapists specializing in gender identity, sexuality therapy, counseling for LGBTQIA+ concerns, or support for couples and families. Beyond specialty, consider appointment availability, scheduling flexibility, therapist background, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Reading therapist bios can also show how they describe their approach, communication style, and experience with LGBTQIA+ populations before you book.

Therapy in Newark can be a significant expense without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you find licensed therapists who accept a wide range of insurance plans, many of whom are accepting new patients, and offers upfront cost estimates after you enter your insurance details. You can browse therapists, review bios, compare virtual and in-person options, and book directly when you’re ready.

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