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LGBT therapists in Arlington, VA

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

Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Arlington, VA

Arlington's LGBTQIA community deserves mental health support from providers who understand and validate your experiences. Headway offers 945 licensed therapists trained in affirming care, available for sessions as soon as tomorrow. Many patients pay as low as $0 per session through insurance, making compassionate, expert support within reach.

Maryanne Garnsey

Maryanne Garnsey

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I believe when people are provided a supportive caring environment along with knowledge and resources; empowerment and authenticity can be revealed to you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Holistic, Inquisitive, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Mara Watts

Mara Watts

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I'm passionate about walking alongside people as they discover who they truly are and learn how to embrace and become more of themselves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Shannon Talley

Shannon Talley

Therapist

Virtual • North Chesterfield, VA


Meet your therapist: I have 8+ years of experience in the field of counseling. It is truly my passion. My favorite thing is seeing a client overcome a challenge they once said would be "impossible." (Hint: Almost nothing is impossible with the right support!) I form a personal and intentional relationship with each client and I will walk with you through moments that are uncomfortable or difficult. Outside of work I can be found cooking and spending time on the farm with my three fantastic dogs.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Isabella Thomas Heinsohn

Isabella Thomas Heinsohn

Therapist

Virtual • Midlothian, VA


“I have 35+ years of experience treating adults and adolescents for anxiety, depression, other mood disorders, trauma and relationship problems.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Kelsi Fontaine

Kelsi Fontaine

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I prioritize cultivating an environment of authenticity, warmth, and creativity in the counseling space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Zari Encarnacion-White

Zari Encarnacion-White

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I have worked with veterans and utilize EMDR to assist with navigating their trauma to live healthier fuller lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Creative, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kevin Richardson

Kevin Richardson

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, and identity exploration.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Mylah Hand

Mylah Hand

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“My approach to therapy is conversational and collaborative, creating a space where opening up feels natural.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Brandy West-Bey

Brandy West-Bey

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“My approach to therapy is warm and welcoming. I walk beside my clients as they uncover their mental health and well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Energetic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Jewel Gear

Dr. Jewel Gear

Psychologist

Virtual • Richmond, VA


“My therapeutic style is eclectic. I draw from a variety of evidence-based approaches, allowing me to tailor treatment to each client's unique needs.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. CJ Polihronakis

Dr. CJ Polihronakis

Psychologist

Virtual • Virginia


“I will strive to help you emerge into the best version of yourself by assisting you overcome some of the internal barriers that may be impacting how you perceive - and engage with - yourself, others, and the world.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Shaqueal Stevens

Dr. Shaqueal Stevens

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I believe that no matter where we are in life regarding our past trauma or challenges, we can always work towards being our best selves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Creative, Empowering
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Karen Shugart

Karen Shugart

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Danville, VA


I provide evidence-based mental health care that centers primarily on medication management.

My passion for mental health care was sparked when I volunteered at a crisis hotline. I later earned a master's degree in nursing from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Since then, I have gained valuable experience in community and hospital settings.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Gregory Wilson

Gregory Wilson

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


Gregg is a seasoned LCSW, CSAC and Board-Certified Diplomat with over 30 years of clinical practice experience as an Army Behavioral Health Officer and VA Mental Healthcare Provider.

I specialize in addictions and recovery services, child and family therapy, military adjustment and transition services, and persons experiencing complex trauma.

"I am adept with teens, young adults and veterans facing career transitions and the pressures of early adulthood."

I provide a safe, client-centered and nonjudgmental space where you can unpack stressful and difficult experiences and work toward desired goals and outcomes.

My therapeutic approach is integrative, blending evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction. Treatment plans address the specific needs and objectives of clients, ensuring they receive individualized care.

In addition to individual therapy, I also lead group therapy sessions that foster a sense of community and mutual support among participants. These group sessions cover a range of topics, from coping strategies for PTSD to effective communication skills within families. By providing a collaborative environment, clients can share their experiences and learn from one another, promoting collective healing and growth.

Moreover, I am committed to continuous professional development and stay updated with the latest research and advancements in mental health care. This dedication ensures that clients receive the most effective and innovative treatments available. My goal is to empower individuals to achieve resilience and well-being, equipping them with the tools necessary for a fulfilling and balanced life.

Gregg is a retired Military and Veteran Health Care provider with extensive experience optimizing veteran care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 19 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Melinda Ensley

Melinda Ensley

Therapist

Virtual • Richmond, VA


“The relationship b/w feelings, thoughts & behaviors is crucial to understanding issues affecting life & relationship success.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Direct, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Natalie Szumel

Natalie Szumel

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


I’m a licensed therapist and founder of Sitting Together Therapy (sitting-together.com), and I help adults build a more compassionate, connected, and honest relationship with themselves. I view difficult patterns as adaptive, not defective. I work with thoughtful people navigating anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, emotionally blocked, avoidance, and life transitions.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Humorous, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Alyssa Shadbolt

Alyssa Shadbolt

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I primarily focus on techniques that are based on Humanistic therapy which focuses on strengths and becoming your authentic self.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Albritton

Jennifer Albritton

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“My practice is grounded in a collaborative, strengths‐based approach that emphasizes empowerment, goal‐setting, and sustainable progress.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Benedicte Libibe

Benedicte Libibe

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I am a trauma-informed, culturally competent, and compassionate multilingual practitioner with experience working with Children, adults, couples and families from diverse and multi-cultural backgrounds.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 16 insurance carriers
Sandra Bruce

Sandra Bruce

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“My goal is to create a warm, welcoming environment. Within this space of emotional safety, I empower clients to share at their own individual pace.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Keyonda Brown

Keyonda Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“My goal is to provide an authentic judgement free safe place to communicate and explore attainable goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 15 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jessica Mann

Jessica Mann

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I work best with adults of all ages looking to address trauma/PTSD, history of substance use issues, family dynamic issues, co-dependency, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tiffany James

Tiffany James

Therapist

Virtual • Chester, VA


“I show up as a real person in the room: warm, honest, and down-to-earth. I'll challenge you when needed, but always with compassion.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Ilesa Bauer

Ilesa Bauer

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I am queer and gender non conforming and my hair changes constantly to reflect that horrible stereotype that nonbinary people have blue hair but whatever :--)”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Deanna Hercik

Deanna Hercik

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Woodbridge, VA


I am a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with over 20 years experience in health care. My goal is to help patients live their best lives by treating the whole person. We will work together to determine the treatment plan that best suits your individual needs. I will provide individualized care, not "one size fits all" approach to medication management.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Engoh Bellamy

Engoh Bellamy

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Virginia


“I believe in taking the time to understand your story and work with you to navigate life's challenges with empathy and clarity.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Hyon Bachman

Hyon Bachman

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I help people with anxiety, depression & relationship conflicts through Mindfulness-Cognitive Behavior Therapy and Trauma-Informed EMDR.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 16 insurance carriers
Petra Gross

Petra Gross

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and family of origin issues. My particular passion lies in supporting minorities and mothers through all stages of motherhood...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Alena Yaseva

Alena Yaseva

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I don't believe in a "one size fits all" model of treatment because each person brings to the session their unique identity, background, and story.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Jessica Stoler

Jessica Stoler

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I work with clients who are trying to make sense of how past trauma still shows up in their lives today—whether through patterns that feel hard to break, struggles in relationships, anxiety, depression, chronic pain, codependency, or addiction.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Identity issues, Men's issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Anna Smith

Anna Smith

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I believe your strongest relationship should be with yourself. I have a passion for helping my clients on their life journey to self discovery and self-love...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Shannon Toy

Shannon Toy

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“Working with me means that I will advocate for you and work WITH you to empower you to live a happier and healthier life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Madelene Barber

Madelene Barber

Therapist

Virtual • Reston, VA


“I specialize in treating trauma, and have extensive experience working with adults who are survivors of child abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Challenging, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Kristen Jackson

Dr. Kristen Jackson

Psychologist

Virtual • Virginia


I have a double Master's and a Doctoral degree in psychology. I began my graduate study In NYC in 2006 doing research and clinical work in attachment theory both with young children and adults. It was there that I witnessed the impact of early and adult attachments. I have trained and worked in a variety of settings and each time I witnessed the fundamental human need of a secure, responsive and safe connection and the impact of isolation and trauma.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, Family issues
Inquisitive, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier
James Burrwell

James Burrwell

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 18 years of experience providing mental health services.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Wayne Pearson

Wayne Pearson

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I find humor and honesty to be my main approach when it comes to connecting and building rapport with clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Phylicia Wooten

Phylicia Wooten

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I believe that every individual has the capacity for growth and change, and I strive to create a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their experiences, develop self-awareness, and build the skills needed to overcome challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Humorous, Participatory
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Nicole Barnwell

Nicole Barnwell

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Virginia Beach, VA


“I bring a warm, approachable, and genuine presence to my work, making it easy for clients to open up about anything on their minds.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Alesha Caldwell

Dr. Alesha Caldwell

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“I can tailor responses based on your tone and needs—whether you're looking for validation, insight, practical tools, or just a safe space to vent.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Elizabeth Paul

Elizabeth Paul

Therapist

Virtual • Virginia


“Elizabeth is authentic and genuine as she moves through getting to know her clients and helping them form personal treatment plans during their therapy journey.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Arlington, VA

Number of therapists serving Arlington, VA
There are over 928 therapists in Arlington, VA accepting new patients.
928+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 94%Depression
  • 91%Stress management
  • 84%Trauma
Insurances accepted
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  • 98%Aetna
  • 86%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 84%Cigna
  • 45%United Healthcare
Languages spoken
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  • 99%English
  • 6%Spanish
  • 1%French
  • 1%Portuguese
  • 1%Japanese
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 88%Online only
  • 12%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 79%Woman
  • 19%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
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  • 40%Licensed Professional Counselor
  • 39%Licensed Clinical Social Worker
  • 10%Nurse Practitioner
  • 5%Psychologist
  • 5%Licensed Marriage/Family Therapist
Treatment approaches
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  • 100%Individual therapy
  • 37%Family therapy
  • 24%Couples therapy
  • 16%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 Arlington

Finding LGBTQIA therapists in Arlington starts with looking for identity-affirming care. A therapist who lists experience with LGBTQIA+ people, affirmative therapy, WPATH training, or gender-diverse care may be a stronger fit for support related to identity, relationships, family conflict, anxiety, depression, or stress. Affirming care matters beyond clinical training alone. It can help you choose a therapist whose listed specialties, approach, and experience match what you want to work on.

Arlington has many mental health therapists, but LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists may be more limited depending on schedule, office location, and specialty. Virtual appointments can expand your options beyond nearby offices while still giving you access to therapists licensed in Virginia. As you compare lgbtq therapists, look at availability, whether they offer a free phone consultation, and how they describe their work with LGBTQIA+ communities in their bios. Profiles can also help you understand communication style, therapy approach, and whether a therapist may be a fit for individual care, counseling lgbtq needs, or therapy for gay couples.

Therapy in Arlington can be a significant investment without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before you book. Headway makes it easier to search for LGBTQIA+-affirming therapists who are accepting new patients, compare bios, check estimated out-of-pocket costs, and book directly when you’re ready.

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