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LGBT therapists in Buffalo, NY

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People with insurance pay as low as $0 per session through Headway

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Buffalo, NY

Find affirming mental health support in Buffalo with 2,701 licensed providers experienced in LGBTQIA+ care. Headway connects you with warm, open-minded therapists who understand your unique journey, offering flexible virtual or in-person sessions with copays as low as $0.

Danielle Genoves-Sylvan

Danielle Genoves-Sylvan

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I like to approach each person in a unique way. I provide a singular listening experience where you are free to explore yourself in a nonjudgmental setting.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Summer Stevenson

Summer Stevenson

Therapist

Virtual • Albany, NY


“I believe in creating a safe space for my clients to connect with me, share their issues, and find a resolution.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Challenging, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Karina Polonskaya

Karina Polonskaya

Therapist

Virtual • New York


I am a licensed mental health counselor committed to helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and achieve lasting personal growth. My approach centers on setting realistic goals, building resilience, and uncovering the inner strength needed to find joy and meaning in life.

I also help individuals and families improve communication, resolve conflicts, and strengthen relationships. Additionally, I provide tools for managing anxiety, depression, and life transitions, equipping clients with strategies to navigate challenges.

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

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Robert Christman

Dr. Robert Christman

Psychologist

Virtual • New York


“My approach to therapy is the therapist and client work together to learn how to solve problems and build communication skills.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, End of life care
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Vernika Hess-Curry

Vernika Hess-Curry

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My job is to help you develop insight into the issues that brought you here and assist you in your healing process.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Humorous, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joseph Madonia

Joseph Madonia

Therapist

Virtual • New York


NYU Graduate and Post- Graduate Clinical Professor

Director of the Post- MAster's Program in Addictions- NYU

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Isabel Restrepo

Isabel Restrepo

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Long Is City, NY


“I use an eclectic and Trauma Informed theraputic approach comprised of elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Narrative Therapy, as well as other Evidence Based Practices...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Takara Rooks

Takara Rooks

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Therapy is a relationship that when done properly, can reshape lives, and bring new perspectives to an issue.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Andrea Cannalunga

Andrea Cannalunga

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I tailor my approach to meet each client's unique needs, fostering self-awareness, resilience, and emotional well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lylah Nassar

Lylah Nassar

Therapist

Virtual • New York, NY


“My approach is rooted in presence, connection, and curiosity. I see therapy as a collaborative space where we work together to understand your inner world, access your strengths, and move toward a life that feels more aligned, more free, and more...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Alex Kehoe

Alex Kehoe

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hey there! I'm an LCSW and psychotherapist with over 4 years of experience. I specialize in working with LGBTQIA+ teens and adults and people living with depression, anxiety, and the impact of trauma. I create a space where your full self is welcome—your identity, culture, feelings, and questions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Lyndsay Brischoux

Lyndsay Brischoux

Therapist

Virtual • New York


As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I am passionate about helping individuals create

meaningful change in their lives through a collaborative, supportive, and empowering therapeutic process.

I specialize in working with adults who are navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, or

feeling stuck.

Rather than focusing only on problems, I work with clients to uncover their strengths, develop practical

skills, and reconnect with their values. Whether you’re dealing with past trauma, daily stress, or seeking

personal growth, therapy can be a space for insight, healing, and real change.

I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Fordham University and bring both clinical training and

deep compassion into every session.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shelley Henderson

Shelley Henderson

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“With over 40 years of experience, I've had the privilege of supporting people through many different life experiences.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Eve Weinberg

Eve Weinberg

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I'm Eve — an LCSW with 38 years of experience working with people who are tired of performing "fine."”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Diabetes
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nerija Rosemond

Nerija Rosemond

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My goal is to create a compassionate and collaborative environment where you feel empowered to explore your story, discover your strengths, and work towards lasting positive changes.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Julie Yates

Julie Yates

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I have 24+ years of experience working with a variation of at-risk populations in several professional settings.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Paige Zeitz

Paige Zeitz

Therapist

Virtual • New York


I’m Paige, an experienced licensed clinical social worker who wants to help you navigate life’s challenges and your journey to self-improvement, manage overwhelming emotions, and foster resilience and growth through evidence-based practices. I aim to support you in cultivating healthier thought patterns and behaviors through cognitive-behavioral techniques, combined with empathy and lived experience.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Creative, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Caitlyn Connors

Caitlyn Connors

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Counseling can feel scary in the beginning but I pride myself on being open, present, and welcoming. If you are ready to take the risk, I would be honored to travel with you on your journey. Armed with extensive training in multiple therapies, I can help you move past the barriers of self doubt and into the life you dream of having. I specialize in working with teenagers and adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. As a therapist with years’ of experience, I strive to provide a safe, accepting and non-judgmental space where you will feel seen, heard and whole.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Michelle Feinberg

Dr. Michelle Feinberg

Psychologist

Virtual • New York


I'm glad you're here, and I want you to know that reaching out takes courage. I support individuals navigating a wide range of concerns — anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, bipolar disorder, OCD, personality disorders, schizophrenia, and more. Whatever brings you here, my goal is to create a space where you feel genuinely heard, respected, and supported.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. David Pliss

Dr. David Pliss

Therapist

Virtual • Buffalo, NY


“My therapy approach is collaborative, compassionate, and person-centered, using proven techniques to regain wellness and mental health.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Donald Cofield

Donald Cofield

Therapist

Virtual • The Bronx, NY


“I pride myself on providing you a safe space to be vulnerable, a connection that builds an alliance...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Cindy Carino

Cindy Carino

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“The first session a client can expect to go over treatment goals, areas in which therapy can be beneficial to them, and to be treated with kindness, openness, and respect.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Energetic, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dina Franchi

Dina Franchi

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Drawing from over 20 years of experience, I provide a warm, non-judgmental space for adolescents, individuals, and couples...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Clara Ceccanti

Clara Ceccanti

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My work focuses on helping individuals cope with trauma, anxiety, and the emotional impact of chronic illness.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Julia Passarelli

Julia Passarelli

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My style is warm, down to earth, and interactive, and I specialize in working with anxiety, relationship challenges, self worth, grief, depression, and life transitions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 17 insurance carriers
Michael Gardner

Michael Gardner

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My primary goal is to help individuals foster self-discovery and resilience, creating lasting emotional well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Humorous
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Carline Jacques

Carline Jacques

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Taking the step to seek mental health services is a courageous choice, and you can feel confident that you are on the path to positive change.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Sonia Portugal

Sonia Portugal

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“In addition to traditional techniques like talk therapy and cognitive strategies, I use mindfulness practices, body-based tools like breathwork and creative exercises, depending on what resonates with you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mary Hall

Mary Hall

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“As someone who genuinely loves what I do every day and deeply cares about the success and well-being of my clients, I customize my sessions based on each individual's needs and provide compassionate, heart-centered care.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Julie Wei Lcsw

Julie Wei Lcsw

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I am a daughter, a sister, a single mother, two dog owner and most importantly a person just trying get through her day too.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jana DuFort

Jana DuFort

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Together we will address the roadblocks you've built deep within yourself to make healthier living a reality...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Identity issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Matthew Cosentino

Matthew Cosentino

Therapist

Virtual • Massapequa Park, NY


Hello, my name is Matthew Cosentino and I'm a licensed mental health counselor. I've worked with clients of all backgrounds and with various reasons that brought them to counseling. I know first hand what it's like to go through things like anxiety and depression and I specialize in working with people facing those challenges. I believe that even during life's most difficult seasons, there is hope ahead. I strive to help clients find the light at the end of the tunnel and build the tools needed to move toward a brighter future.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Emily Rosenthal

Emily Rosenthal

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I offer a warm, supportive, curious and collaborative approach, incorporating psychodynamic, behavioral, Internal Family Systems, etc.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Sabrina Spotorno

Sabrina Spotorno

Therapist

Virtual • Port Jefferson, NY


“I hold your story with gratitude and work from the premise that you already have the answers and vision for how to live your most authentic life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Charlotte Mokdessi

Charlotte Mokdessi

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I particularly enjoy working with artists and creatives to help uncover deep-rooted issues that prevent sustained contentment in their life and work.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Barbara Markowitz

Barbara Markowitz

Therapist

Virtual • New York


As a seasoned therapist I have found that the patient/therapist relationship is the cornerstone in building the therapeutic alliance. Life presents us with many challenges and I will help you face and deal with them. Our life’s journey is often marked by unexpected circumstances that are out of our control, childhood traumas, and so much else life has to present us with. I am experienced , compassionate and empathetic and we can explore together what your goals are and how to achieve them. My hope is that you will feel the safety to express and share anything and expect a non-judgmental and supportive response. I will be your therapeutic partner in working towards your goals to help you live a more positive life

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Kelly Belmontes

Kelly Belmontes

Therapist

Virtual • Lyons, NY


“I work to ensure my clients feel heard, unconditionally accepted and validated in session, but also challenged to try new ways of thinking and behaving in order to work towards their goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Challenging, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Elizabeth Figueroa

Dr. Elizabeth Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • The Bronx, NY


“I am dedicated to providing you with a safe space where we can work together to help you to achieve a balanced life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tomasina Beckford

Tomasina Beckford

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“She prides herself on providing a warm and compassionate setting where clients can feel comfortable.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Megan Shambaugh

Megan Shambaugh

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I believe that healing begins with connection, connection to yourself, others and the world around you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Buffalo, NY

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Buffalo, NY
There are over 27 therapists in Buffalo, NY accepting new patients.
27+
Average years in practice
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6 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Anxiety
  • 96%Trauma
  • 96%PTSD
  • 93%Stress management
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 96%Aetna
  • 93%Cigna
  • 85%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 52%Highmark BlueCross BlueShield of Western New York
  • 48%Highmark BlueShield of Northeastern New York
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
How they see their clients
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  • 100%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 78%Woman
  • 22%Man
License types
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  • 56%Licensed Mental Health Counselor
  • 37%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 4%Clinical Psychologist
  • 4%Nurse Practitioner
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 44%Family therapy
  • 22%Couples therapy
  • 19%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.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA Therapist in Buffalo

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Buffalo starts with looking for identity-affirming care. A therapist’s experience with LGBTQIA+ concerns can shape how they support identity exploration, gender dysphoria, relationship stress, family dynamics, anxiety, or depression. As you compare options, look for therapists who list affirmative therapy, WPATH training, gender-diverse experience, or direct work with LGBTQIA+ communities in their profiles.

Buffalo has a broad mental health care community, but the number of therapists with explicit LGBTQIA+ experience may vary by neighborhood, schedule, and specialty. Virtual sessions can expand your options if you want an affirming therapist who may be a good fit for your needs and accepts your insurance. Before booking, review each therapist’s bio for details on populations served, therapy approach, availability, and whether they offer a free phone consultation.

Therapy in Buffalo can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs, and Headway helps make that process clearer by showing estimated costs before you book. You can search for LGBTQIA+ therapists, enter your insurance details, review therapist profiles, and book directly when you’re ready.

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