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LGBT therapists in Raleigh, NC

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Raleigh, NC

Connect with LGBTQIA-affirming therapists in Raleigh who provide culturally competent care. Headway's 718 providers are available for virtual or in-person sessions, with many open appointments within two weeks and support through insurance coverage.

Bethany Dement

Bethany Dement

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 16 mi away

201 Wait Avenue, Wake Forest, NC

“I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, including LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous clients. Hello, I'm Beth and I am mental health counselor and ASSECT certified sex therapist...”
“I specialize in working with children, teens, adults, families, and couples, including LGBTQ+ and ethically non-monogamous clients. Hello, I'm Beth and I am mental health counselor and ASSECT certified sex therapist with nearly four years of experience. I hold a master’s in counseling from Capella University (2021).”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety,

Direct, Empowering, Holistic

Accepts Aetna insurance

Ollie Walker

Ollie Walker

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 22 mi away

1010 Lamond Avenue, Durham, NC

“I am a white, non-binary queer therapist. I have over 20 years experience in the field and 17 as a therapist. My approach is eclectic, collaborative and socially just.”
“I am a white, non-binary queer therapist. I have over 20 years experience in the field and 17 as a therapist. My approach is eclectic, collaborative and socially just. I believe that identifying and honoring one's strengths, especially in the context of struggle, is important to growth and healing.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Humorous, Inquisitive

Accepts Aetna insurance


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Leslie Cloninger

Leslie Cloninger

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 24 mi away

215 Providence Road, Chapel Hill, NC

“I am 46 years old and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I really dig my job and take my continued professional development seriously. I am a DBT therapist and find it expansive enough to deal with all the different...”
“I am 46 years old and a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. I really dig my job and take my continued professional development seriously. I am a DBT therapist and find it expansive enough to deal with all the different areas of life and behaviors/emotions that create problems in living.”

LGBTQIA+, PTSD, Relationship issues, Stress management,

Direct, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Ethan Lechner

Ethan Lechner

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away

100 East Weaver Street, Carrboro, NC

“LGBTQIA folks are welcome! I am in level-2 training in Hakomi (a mindfulness-based somatic therapy) and intensively trained in DBT. I help clients identify a source of wisdom and wellness within themselves. I offer...”
“LGBTQIA folks are welcome! I am in level-2 training in Hakomi (a mindfulness-based somatic therapy) and intensively trained in DBT. I help clients identify a source of wisdom and wellness within themselves. I offer warmth, honest human connection, and my own experience-based understanding of the mind from two decades of meditation practice.”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues,

Humorous, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Cigna, United Healthcare, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kristin Doyle

Kristin Doyle

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 20 mi away

2117 East Main Street, Durham, NC

“As a queer person of color, I am deeply committed to creating spaces that are LGBTQIA+ affirming & anti-racist. I know how important these spaces are, & how difficult they can be to access.”
“As a queer person of color, I am deeply committed to creating spaces that are LGBTQIA+ affirming & anti-racist. I know how important these spaces are, & how difficult they can be to access. I provide individual relational psychotherapy to adults and have eight years of clinical experience, five of those years offering individual psychotherapy.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions,

Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Wayne Alston

Wayne Alston

Therapist

Virtual • Greenville, NC


“I work with adults, adolescents, and families across the full range of what life throws: anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship strain, parenting struggles, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ affirming care...”
“I work with adults, adolescents, and families across the full range of what life throws: anxiety, depression, ADHD, relationship strain, parenting struggles, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ affirming care... My approach is warm and direct. I'll listen closely, challenge you when it helps, and adjust to what you actually need — not what the...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Energetic, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Amy Brown

Amy Brown

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“Over the years, I’ve supported clients from age 3 to 80, and I’m a proud LGBTQ+ ally who believes therapy can be both meaningful and a little bit human (yes, laughing is allowed).”
“Over the years, I’ve supported clients from age 3 to 80, and I’m a proud LGBTQ+ ally who believes therapy can be both meaningful and a little bit human (yes, laughing is allowed). My work is grounded in a holistic approach, and I’m trained in TF-CBT and EMDR to help clients move from “stuck” to “steady.””

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression,

Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dishonda Hopkins

Dishonda Hopkins

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“With over a decade of experience, I offer tailored therapy for diverse challenges: Disruptive Behavior, Parental Stress, LGBTQIA Support, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationships, Grief, Life Transitions...”
“With over a decade of experience, I offer tailored therapy for diverse challenges: Disruptive Behavior, Parental Stress, LGBTQIA Support, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Relationships, Grief, Life Transitions , BIPOC Concerns, and Personal Growth. I use a holistic approach integrating Trauma-Informed Care, CBT, and Behavior Therapy.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety,

Direct, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, United Healthcare,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michaela Wik

Michaela Wik

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mood-related challenges. I strive to create a welcoming, supportive space where clients feel safe...”
“I especially enjoy working with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mood-related challenges. I strive to create a welcoming, supportive space where clients feel safe being fully themselves without fear of judgment.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression,

Affirming, Challenging, Empowering

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

Elliott Skaggs

Elliott Skaggs

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“Originally from NC, I spent most of my career serving diverse populations from many different walks of life in NYC, and I developed a particularly strong niche working with LGBTQ+ clients seeking affirming...”
“Originally from NC, I spent most of my career serving diverse populations from many different walks of life in NYC, and I developed a particularly strong niche working with LGBTQ+ clients seeking affirming care. Having lived in many places and meeting people from many backgrounds, I serve diverse clients in all three states I am licensed in...”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jarem Bagnato

Jarem Bagnato

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“Areas of clinical interest: SPMI (thought disorders), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction (SUD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and LGBTQ+ topics.”
“Areas of clinical interest: SPMI (thought disorders), Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Addiction (SUD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and LGBTQ+ topics. There is no magic wand in therapy to cure a patient of everything that ails them, but with a strong therapeutic alliance I can help those who want to help themselves.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Direct, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Dr. Elizabeth Biggers

Dr. Elizabeth Biggers

Therapist

Virtual • Asheville, NC


“My practice includes working with individual adults, teenagers, children, families, and couples, LGBTQ, as well as parenting issues Education: M.R.E. My goal as a therapist is to create an atmosphere where it is...”
“My practice includes working with individual adults, teenagers, children, families, and couples, LGBTQ, as well as parenting issues Education: M.R.E. My goal as a therapist is to create an atmosphere where it is comfortable to explore both old wounds and current interpersonal dynamics.”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues,

Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Shawnta Wright

Shawnta Wright

Therapist

Virtual • Durham, NC


“Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Counseling & other modalities to help my clients resolve concerns including, but not limited to, sexual assault , domestic violence, BLM & LGBTQIA...”
“Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Gottman Method Couples Counseling & other modalities to help my clients resolve concerns including, but not limited to, sexual assault , domestic violence, BLM & LGBTQIA... I believe that change is a process so I help clients increase their motivation and overcome barriers to making desired changes.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Empowering, Energetic

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Marianne Knapp

Marianne Knapp

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I have also worked with those who have other challenges such as High Functioning Autism and issues concerning the LGBTQIA community. My approach to counseling comes from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness...”
“I have also worked with those who have other challenges such as High Functioning Autism and issues concerning the LGBTQIA community. My approach to counseling comes from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness techniques. I find these techniques help focus on the present moments.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Creative, Empowering, Holistic

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Earlene Kimberly Dunbar

Earlene Kimberly Dunbar

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“With expertise in trauma and PTSD, LGBTQIA+ counseling, depression, anger management, life transitions, and more. Her compassionate, client-centered approach ensures that those she serves feel heard, understood, and...”
“With expertise in trauma and PTSD, LGBTQIA+ counseling, depression, anger management, life transitions, and more. Her compassionate, client-centered approach ensures that those she serves feel heard, understood, and supported every step of the way.”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Kelly Lannon

Kelly Lannon

Therapist

Virtual • Durham, NC


“Specific populations served include Veteran and Military, LGBTQIA+, and those experiencing all levels of grief. For the past 11 years, I have gained professional experience working with Veterans Affairs in Crisis...”
“Specific populations served include Veteran and Military, LGBTQIA+, and those experiencing all levels of grief. For the past 11 years, I have gained professional experience working with Veterans Affairs in Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Grief or loss, Identity issues,

Affirming, Challenging, Creative

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Sarah Moore

Sarah Moore

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“Many of my clients feel like they are stuck, have relationship challenges (including polyamory, LGBTQ), chronic health issues, dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, college...”
“Many of my clients feel like they are stuck, have relationship challenges (including polyamory, LGBTQ), chronic health issues, dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, parenting challenges, college... I use a combination of therapeutic techniques such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, and...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Open-minded, Participatory, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

LaToya Harley

LaToya Harley

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Cary, NC


“In Lifespan Psychiatry: Substance Abuse, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Cognitive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Gender Identity Disorders, Personality, Autism/ADHD,...”
“In Lifespan Psychiatry: Substance Abuse, Psychotic Disorders, Mood Disorders, PTSD, Cognitive Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Eating Disorders, Gender Identity Disorders, Personality, Autism/ADHD, Mental Retardation, Developmental Conduct Disorders”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lora Pilcher

Lora Pilcher

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“My name is Lora (she/her) and I have provided care to LGBTQ+ teens and adults via private practice since 2020. In sessions, I take a behavioral approach to therapy. This means I will assist you in learning new tools...”
“My name is Lora (she/her) and I have provided care to LGBTQ+ teens and adults via private practice since 2020. In sessions, I take a behavioral approach to therapy. This means I will assist you in learning new tools and approaches to reaching your goals.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression,

Direct, Empowering, Humorous

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Derrick Johnson

Dr. Derrick Johnson

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“...high-performance pressure Relationship distress, betrayal trauma, and attachment wounds Codependency and patterns of over-functioning Anxiety and mood-related disorders LGBTQ...”
“...high-performance pressure Relationship distress, betrayal trauma, and attachment wounds Codependency and patterns of over-functioning Anxiety and mood-related disorders LGBTQ... I believe therapy is about "discovery, education, and growth," and utilize this formula to help you create the change you are seeking.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues,

Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Joshua Cross

Joshua Cross

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I see all types of folks with all kinds of struggles, but to list some of my specialties: anxiety, depression, self esteem, procrastination, relationship and sexuality issues.”
“I see all types of folks with all kinds of struggles, but to list some of my specialties: anxiety, depression, self esteem, procrastination, relationship and sexuality issues. I am engaged, interactive and personable. I try to bring humor, exploration and experimentation to the serious business of therapy.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions,

Direct, Empowering, Humorous

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Ian Esmay

Ian Esmay

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“As an LGBTQIA+, transgender, and BIPOC affirmative counselor serving in NC and SC, I work with clients experiencing the following concerns: anxiety, stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self esteem,...”
“As an LGBTQIA+, transgender, and BIPOC affirmative counselor serving in NC and SC, I work with clients experiencing the following concerns: anxiety, stress, depression, trauma and PTSD, self esteem, grief, men's issues, and internet addiction. I work with the following age population: teen, adults, and elders.”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Inquisitive, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Briana Talarico

Briana Talarico

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“Whether you're navigating anxiety, gender identity, trauma, or just need someone in your corner, I'm here to walk with you. I offer a compassionate, affirming space where you can show up as your full self—no need to...”
“Whether you're navigating anxiety, gender identity, trauma, or just need someone in your corner, I'm here to walk with you. I offer a compassionate, affirming space where you can show up as your full self—no need to mask or shrink.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Beckett West

Beckett West

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“A particular focus of my work is supporting LGBTQ+ clients, especially transgender and gender-diverse individuals. I also have experience providing assessments and letters for gender-affirming care.”
“A particular focus of my work is supporting LGBTQ+ clients, especially transgender and gender-diverse individuals. I also have experience providing assessments and letters for gender-affirming care. I work with teens and adults navigating anxiety, depression, relationship stress, identity exploration, and life transitions. A particular focus of...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

Dr. Mark Worthen

Dr. Mark Worthen

Psychologist

Virtual • North Carolina


“If you have experienced marginalization or shame because of who you are—including your sexuality, religious beliefs, gender identity, or innate differences like neurodivergence—you will...”
“If you have experienced marginalization or shame because of who you are—including your sexuality, religious beliefs, gender identity, or innate differences like neurodivergence—you will... For PTSD and trauma-related conditions, I specialize in Written Exposure Therapy (WET). WET requires only 5 sessions with no homework between visits.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions,

Affirming, Direct, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Carelon Behavioral Health, Curative

Jourdan Brickey- Self Reclamation Therapist

Jourdan Brickey- Self Reclamation Therapist

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I offer practical tools grounded in real life, within an anti-oppressive, body-positive, and LGBTQ+ affirming practice. You don’t have to keep surviving. Peace is possible.”
“I offer practical tools grounded in real life, within an anti-oppressive, body-positive, and LGBTQ+ affirming practice. You don’t have to keep surviving. Peace is possible. My approach is eclectic and trauma-informed, grounded in clinical training from NCAT and lived experience within today's social and cultural pressures.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression,

Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Shaquasha Williams

Shaquasha Williams

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use and addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, domestic violence, maternal mental health, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and more, tailoring every approach...”
“I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance use and addiction, bipolar disorder, ADHD, domestic violence, maternal mental health, LGBTQIA+ affirming care, and more, tailoring every approach... I believe everyone deserves a healthy support system and that mental health should be a priority — not an afterthought.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Aetna Medicare Advantage,

Tomha Mcmillan

Tomha Mcmillan

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I have tons of experience working with family and relational issues, LGBTQ, trauma, self-worth, depression, anxiety, motivation, personal growth, career development, academic and academic success.”
“I have tons of experience working with family and relational issues, LGBTQ, trauma, self-worth, depression, anxiety, motivation, personal growth, career development, academic and academic success. I have a passion for working with military families. I love working with those who feel like outsiders and the exception.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety,

Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Dr. Brady Yocom

Dr. Brady Yocom

Psychologist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I've worked with people from a broad range of backgrounds on anxiety, stress, relationships, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I view clients as whole people in the context of their lives.”
“I've worked with people from a broad range of backgrounds on anxiety, stress, relationships, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. I view clients as whole people in the context of their lives. You are more than just a diagnosis. It's important to me to collaborate in setting goals, selecting an approach to therapy, and checking in along the way.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression,

Humorous, Inquisitive, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna insurance


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Megan English

Megan English

Therapist

Virtual • Wilmington, NC


“I specialize in working with the LGBTQ population including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. I am a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, meaning that I focus on how to make...”
“I specialize in working with the LGBTQ population including adolescents, families, and adults, as well as foster/adoptive families. I am a skills-based, solution-focused therapist, meaning that I focus on how to make things better in your life currently...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety,

Affirming, Empowering, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Dr. Erik Messinger

Dr. Erik Messinger

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“As a volunteer EMT and firefighter myself, I bring real-world experience to my work with first responders, individuals in recovery, LGBTQ+ clients, and adolescents.”
“As a volunteer EMT and firefighter myself, I bring real-world experience to my work with first responders, individuals in recovery, LGBTQ+ clients, and adolescents. I believe therapy works best when it's a true partnership between us. My style is direct but compassionate...”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression,

Affirming, Humorous, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Lori Harrow

Lori Harrow

Therapist

Virtual • Davidson, NC


“I'm grateful to have helped hundreds of clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, sexual orientation/gender issues, and trauma.”
“I'm grateful to have helped hundreds of clients struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, life transitions, sexual orientation/gender issues, and trauma. Together, we will work toward reducing distress, strengthening resilience, and creating lasting change—not simply helping you feel better, but helping you feel more capable,...”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Empowering, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Megan Williams

Megan Williams

Therapist

Virtual & in-person

216 McKinnish Cove Road, Asheville, NC

“I'm especially passionate about creating an affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients and people who have often felt misunderstood, different or pressured to fit expectations that are not authentic to them.”
“I'm especially passionate about creating an affirming space for LGBTQ+ clients and people who have often felt misunderstood, different or pressured to fit expectations that are not authentic to them. Life can feel overwhelming, especially when anxiety, trauma, and stress or life transitions leave you feeling stuck.”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues,

Affirming, Open-minded, Warm

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Jennifer Elkins

Jennifer Elkins

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I am also neurodivergent-affirming, disability-affirming, and proudly Queer-Allied. ADHD has been, is, and will be present for the lifetime of the person. It does not have a “cure,” but it can effectively be treated.”
“I am also neurodivergent-affirming, disability-affirming, and proudly Queer-Allied. ADHD has been, is, and will be present for the lifetime of the person. It does not have a “cure,” but it can effectively be treated. One does not “grow out of it,” despite what you may have been told. One cannot simply ignore it or choose to pretend it’s not real.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Affirming, Empowering, Humorous

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Sharifa Ahrendsen

Sharifa Ahrendsen

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I am passionate about accessible mental health for BIPOC, Queer and Trans, neurodivergent individuals, especially those from the African diaspora. I use IFS for trauma informed healing from systemic racism, family...”
“I am passionate about accessible mental health for BIPOC, Queer and Trans, neurodivergent individuals, especially those from the African diaspora. I use IFS for trauma informed healing from systemic racism, family problems, and political stress like war, racism, poverty, housing crisis', immigration policy, etc. I offer I have immediate...”

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression,

Empowering, Humorous, Inquisitive

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Angel Luis Mercado

Angel Luis Mercado

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“My conviction that all people deserve to be happy and that all human beings have exactly the same rights regardless of skin color, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation, is what guides my personal...”
“My conviction that all people deserve to be happy and that all human beings have exactly the same rights regardless of skin color, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation, is what guides my personal... The therapeutic space that I offer is distinguished by being one free of judgment and criticism, but focused on the potential that all of us...”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, End of life care,

Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Jacqueline Ellis

Jacqueline Ellis

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I work from a trauma-informed, social justice and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness techniques to support my clients with achieving their treatment goals.”
“I work from a trauma-informed, social justice and LGBTQIA+ affirming lens. I utilize cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic, and mindfulness techniques to support my clients with achieving their treatment goals.”

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented

Accepts Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, Cigna,

Jennifer Lippel

Jennifer Lippel

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I provide a safe space for diverse populations including individuals identifying within the LGBTQ+IA community. I believe building a therapeutic relationship with each client is key to developing the person-centered...”
“I provide a safe space for diverse populations including individuals identifying within the LGBTQ+IA community. I believe building a therapeutic relationship with each client is key to developing the person-centered treatment plan that will be able to grow and produce desired outcomes.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression,

Empowering, Open-minded, Participatory

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey,

Crystal Neal

Crystal Neal

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help you understand your direction and power.”
“I am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I use cognitive behavioral therapy and solution focused therapy to help you understand your direction and power.”

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder,

Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health


Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jarvis Cleveland

Jarvis Cleveland

Therapist

Virtual • North Carolina


“You may be navigating your gender or sexuality, carrying cultural or family expectations that conflict with the life you want, or feeling depressed and disconnected after years of putting everyone else...”
“You may be navigating your gender or sexuality, carrying cultural or family expectations that conflict with the life you want, or feeling depressed and disconnected after years of putting everyone else... For the past seven years, I've worked with people navigating identity, trauma, family conflict, relationships, and the stress that comes with...”

LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues,

Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded

Accepts Aetna, Cigna, Carelon Behavioral Health,

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Raleigh, NC

Number of therapists serving Raleigh, NC
There are over 721 therapists in Raleigh, NC accepting new patients.
721+
Average years in practice
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10 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 97%Anxiety
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Stress management
  • 87%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 98%Aetna
  • 94%Cigna
  • 89%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 67%Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina
  • 51%Curative
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 6%Spanish
  • 1%French
  • 1%Hindi
  • 1%American Sign Language
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 88%Online only
  • 12%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 81%Woman
  • 17%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
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  • 44%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 35%Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
  • 7%Nurse Practitioner
  • 5%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
  • 3%Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 37%Family therapy
  • 27%Couples therapy
  • 15%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 Raleigh

Finding LGBTQIA+ therapists in Raleigh starts with finding care that is affirming, experienced, and aligned with your needs. Affirming therapy can support people navigating identity, relationships, family dynamics, gender-related concerns, anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. As you compare therapists, look for profiles that mention affirmative therapy, experience with LGBTQIA+ populations, gender-diverse clients, or training related to gender-affirming care. A therapist’s listed specialties and bio can help you understand whether their background matches the kind of support you want.

Raleigh has a strong mental health care community, but the right LGBTQIA+-affirming fit may depend on location, schedule, and specific experience. In-person sessions may work well if you prefer an office near home, work, or school, while virtual sessions can expand your options across North Carolina. When narrowing your search, consider whether a therapist is accepting new patients, offers appointment times that fit your calendar, and provides a free phone consultation. Reading bios closely can also show how a therapist describes their communication style, approach, and experience with LGBTQIA+ clients.

Therapy in Raleigh can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and make ongoing care more accessible. Headway helps you search for Raleigh therapists who focus on LGBTQIA+ care, see estimated out-of-pocket costs before booking, and choose from therapists who accept a wide range of insurance plans. You can review profiles, compare availability, and book directly when you’re ready.

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