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LGBT therapists in Syracuse, NY

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Syracuse, NY

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Syracuse with 2,611 licensed providers who offer affirming, open-minded mental healthcare. Access talk therapy and medication management through virtual or in-person sessions, with many providers offering free consultations and availability within two weeks.

Matthew Scheuer

Matthew Scheuer

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • <1 mi away • Syracuse, NY


“I take a person centered approach when working with clients. It is your journey and success is measured by what you are hoping to achieve.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Richard Chapman

Richard Chapman

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 2.9 mi away • Syracuse, NY


“My approach, consistent with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy focuses on pursuing values and meaning above simply coping with symptoms.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Zakiyyah Peet

Zakiyyah Peet

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • <1 mi away • Syracuse, NY


“I am an Art Therapist and have worked with persons struggling with anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for over 15 years.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cecelia Maalouf

Cecelia Maalouf

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 5.6 mi away • Fayetteville, NY


“I believe that you have the power to be the creator of your life, to harness your experiences and to help cultivate the change within that you wish to see, and feel your best.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Karleen Locher

Karleen Locher

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 5.2 mi away • Fayetteville, NY


“I aim to provide a warm and non-judgmental space that allows for growth as well as relief from the burdens you are carrying each day.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Roger Howard

Roger Howard

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 9.2 mi away • Liverpool, NY


“I have dedicated my life to helping you see what is on the other side of your struggle and to find the clarity that may be evading you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Aericka Pawlikowski

Aericka Pawlikowski

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Baldwinsville, NY


“I strive to provide a safe space for clients to process experiences, gain new tools and feel supported on a journey towards empowerment and self-discovery.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Vince Markowsky

Vince Markowsky

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 12 mi away • Brewerton, NY


“I am a very good listener and have great empathy for my clients, but I would have to say that I am primarily a directive counselor that gives a lot of direction and feedback to my clients, especially when they request for it.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Direct, Humorous
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Kelly Clookey

Kelly Clookey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 15 mi away • Skaneateles, NY


“I support individuals to identify their challenges, needs, desires & strengths to develop healthy alignment between oneself & environment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Marissa Kalabanka

Marissa Kalabanka

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Auburn, NY


“My goal is to provide a warm, non-judgmental environment where you are in the driver's seat of your treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Energetic, Humorous
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Karen Dellonte

Karen Dellonte

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away • Auburn, NY


“My belief is that each individual brings a set of strengths and skills to the session that together we can build upon.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Helena Parish

Helena Parish

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 25 mi away • Fulton, NY


“My approach to therapy is to gain knowledge of my clients' mental health symptoms, history of all aspects of their life...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Participatory
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Flannery Hysjulien

Flannery Hysjulien

Therapist

In-person • Ithaca, NY


I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and received my Master of Social Work from UNC-Chapel Hill in 2007. Prior starting private practice 2017, I worked as a therapist at Family and Children's Service of Ithaca and at Duke University’s Student Counseling Center (CAPS).

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care, Family issues
Open-minded, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Molly Schamel

Molly Schamel

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Burdett, NY


“I work to provide a safe and collaborative environment to help clients improve self-understanding, decrease self-doubt, increase self-compassion, process trauma, and navigate life challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jason Riccardelli

Jason Riccardelli

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I strive to create a supportive, collaborative space where clients feel comfortable exploring challenges, building coping skills, and working toward meaningful, lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joseph Gagliano

Joseph Gagliano

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hi, I'm Joseph. I've worked in mental health since I was eighteen, starting as a therapy aide at a psychiatric hospital. I believe the patterns that helped you survive don't have to run your life. I work with adults and teens on anxiety, depression, anger, stress, and family conflict, and I welcome every race, culture, and orientation. Let's talk."

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Humorous, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Jason Wieder

Jason Wieder

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hello there!

I am an LCSW who has worked in various treatment settings: community-based outpatient clinics (article 31), in the community (ACT team), and residential. I have worked in various roles: mental health therapist, family therapist, clinical supervisor, assistant clinical director, and associate director. I have a wealth of experience in treating clients with various diagnoses including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, life transitions, socioeconomic concerns, OCD, BPD, ODD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, autism, eating disorders , chronic health conditions, etc.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Melissa Willner

Melissa Willner

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hi Im Melissa! I've been a mental health counselor for over 6 years. I love hearing your story and working with you to unravel patterns in thought and behavior and learn new skills for healthier living. I have special experience working with individuals with anxiety disorders and chronic ailments.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Panic disorders, Physical health issues
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Johanna Gutierrez

Johanna Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • Forest Hills, NY


“I believe therapy should be a safe, supportive space where you feel heard, understood, and accepted for who you are.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Creative, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Erik Beresnoy

Erik Beresnoy

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My style? Most of my clients appreciate my down-to-earth personality, my sense of humor, and the way I walk the tightrope between empathy and accountability...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Energetic, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Dr. Christine Callahan

Dr. Christine Callahan

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Clients can expect that they have been heard and listened to, and that we can embark together on a therapy journey that will include greater insight and self-reflection.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Carmen Valentin

Carmen Valentin

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Carmen takes a client-centered, nonjudgmental approach, creating a safe and supportive space where individuals can openly explore their experiences and build resilience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Hertzen Vilela

Hertzen Vilela

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My approach is rooted in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly heard, understood, and supported.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kyle Calderon

Kyle Calderon

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I work from an affirming, strength based perspective. I help clients identify the resources and skills they already have, and continue to build on them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sibimol Niravath

Sibimol Niravath

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Commack, NY


“I am passionate about tailoring treatment to each client's unique needs, empowering them on their journey toward mental wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Heather Luboff

Heather Luboff

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hey, I’m Heather, a licensed clinical social worker & certified in alternative healing modalities. Our work together can be an opportunity to better understand how present behaviors & beliefs are keeping you from your fullest happiness. We'll uncover what's at the root of these challenges & together, create strategies for what you feel is needed: managing stress & anxiety, establishing healthy boundaries, deepening self-awareness, working through loss or creating conscious relationships + more.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Alexa Michl

Dr. Alexa Michl

Psychologist

Virtual • New York


“I custom-tailor treatment to each client's needs by balancing deeper, insight-oriented work with skills-based approaches to reduce suffering.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Toby Hawkins

Toby Hawkins

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Therapy with me is active and goal-oriented. I focus on practical tools that you can implement immediately to improve communication, resolve conflict, and build a deeper sense of connection.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Grief or loss, PTSD
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kate Dotson

Kate Dotson

Therapist

Virtual • New York, NY


“My hope is that through this space you can better understand yourself and your challenges, connecting the dots towards a more fulfilling future.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Julia Mooney

Julia Mooney

Therapist

Virtual • New York, NY


“I know firsthand the vulnerability of sitting on the couch. I also know the relief that comes from saying hard things in a shared space and feeling seen.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chenelle Browne

Chenelle Browne

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I draw from evidence-based approaches like Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)... to support you in making meaningful, lasting changes.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Bernice Jackson

Bernice Jackson

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New York, NY


“I take a holistic, patient-centered approach, integrating therapy and evidence-based medication management to support lasting change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Jacqueline Francesco

Jacqueline Francesco

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“I cater my therapeutic services to meet your needs. I believe in having a Client Centered and Solution Focused approach.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Grief or loss, Maternal mental health
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
David Ettinger

David Ettinger

Therapist

Virtual • New York


It's difficult making the first phone call, booking an appointment and admitting you need help. Whether it's depression, anxiety, a mood disorder or trauma, it's frightening to admit that everything isn't how you want it to be and you don't have all the answers. If you're experiencing sadness, anxiety, mood swings, intrusive thoughts or images, flash backs, numbness or insomnia, there is hope and there is help. I'm going to teach you skills to manage you symptoms, emotions and relationships more effectively.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Rachel Yun

Rachel Yun

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New York, NY


“I blend conventional psychiatric treatments—such as medication and psychotherapy—with natural supplements, mindfulness practices, body awareness, and conversations about meaning, purpose, and belonging.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Octavia Phoenix

Octavia Phoenix

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“Octavia is a compassionate and dedicated therapist who believes everyone is the author of their own life story, and that every story deserves to be heard.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Raquel Orejuela

Raquel Orejuela

Therapist

Virtual • New York


Hi there!

I am a licensed psychotherapist with diagnostic privilege, providing a holistic person first approach. I deeply care about humans and particularly serving the under served, and BI-POC communities. As an Afro-Indigenous Latina / West Indian woman, I understand the vitality of intersectionality and connection to culture in mental health settings. My specific area of expertise is Forensic Mental Health Counseling with an Advanced Certificate in Victimology Studies, and having directly worked alongside individuals who have experienced: domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, sex and labor trafficking, hate crimes, and other forms of interpersonal violence. I have worked with a wide range of populations from youth, young adults, adults, and seniors; I also provide couples and family therapy. The main population I served for the last 6 years has been marginalized individuals with SMI/SPMI [serious mental illness] in homeless services including street homeless outreach, shelter, and supportive housing. I specialize in supporting those with PTSD, depression, anxiety, substance use, and other dysregulated / self destructive behaviors. I also can provide Emotional Support Animal letter's if you are having issues with landlord/housing which is protected under the Fair Housing Act.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Nicole Paraisy

Nicole Paraisy

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New York


“Clients can expect to experience better emotional regulation at the end of the session. They can expect to feel valued and understood.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lura Salm

Lura Salm

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My passion and purpose in working with someone in therapy is to empower them to develop an understanding of their needs and take action toward meeting them.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Louis Marzella

Louis Marzella

Therapist

Virtual • New York


“My priority as a therapist is to build an affirming space for you to express your authentic thoughts and feelings so that we can work together to help you embrace your power.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Syracuse, NY

Number of therapists serving Syracuse, NY
There are over 2,619 therapists in Syracuse, NY accepting new patients.
2,619+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 95%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 86%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 95%Aetna
  • 83%Cigna
  • 79%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 74%Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield New York
  • 53%Oxford
Languages spoken
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  • 98%English
  • 10%Spanish
  • 3%Assamese
  • 2%French
  • 1%Russian
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 92%Online only
  • 8%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 75%Woman
  • 23%Man
  • 3%Non-binary
License types
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  • 44%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 29%Licensed Mental Health Counselor
  • 11%Nurse Practitioner
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
  • 3%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 36%Family therapy
  • 23%Couples therapy
  • 17%Child or adolescent therapy

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 Syracuse

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Syracuse starts with identifying care that is affirming, relevant, and grounded in your specific needs. You may be looking for support related to identity, relationships, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, or life transitions. As you compare therapists, look for profiles that name LGBTQIA+-affirming care, affirmative therapy, gender-diverse experience, or WPATH training. These details can help you find a therapist whose background matches what you want to talk through in care.

In a smaller city like Syracuse, the number of local therapists with explicit LGBTQIA+ experience may be more limited than in larger metro areas. Virtual sessions can expand your options while still letting you use local or in-state care. Beyond specialty, consider availability, scheduling flexibility, therapist identity or background, and whether a free phone consultation is offered. Reading therapist bios before booking can help you see how each person describes their approach, communication style, and experience with LGBTQIA+ clients.

Therapy in Syracuse can be a significant expense without insurance, and using in-network coverage is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs. Headway helps you find licensed therapists who accept a wide range of insurance plans, offer virtual or in-person sessions, and are accepting new patients. You can enter your insurance details to see estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, then browse therapists, review bios, and book directly when you’re ready.

Find a provider - your way

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