Transgender Therapists in Raleigh, NC
Ori L Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27607 (Online Only)
If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition or struggling with life stress or relationship difficulties, you may feel stuck or confused about what to do to help. If you are looking for a therapist who will work creatively and as a team with you to meet your mental health goals, this may be the right time to begin treatment. I am a non-binary person and have particular experience working with transgender and non-binary people, women, older adolescents, and other LGBQIA+ individuals. I am happy to work in a sensitive and affirming way with people from all walks of life.
If you or a loved one is living with a mental health condition or struggling with life stress or relationship difficulties, you may feel stuck or confused about what to do to help. If you are looking for a therapist who will work creatively and as a team with you to meet your mental health goals, this may be the right time to begin treatment. I am a non-binary person and have particular experience working with transgender and non-binary people, women, older adolescents, and other LGBQIA+ individuals. I am happy to work in a sensitive and affirming way with people from all walks of life.
Finn Draper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27605
Hi! My name is Finn Draper (they/he), and I am so excited to be an outpatient psychotherapist at Three Oaks. I am a queer, non-binary clinician, and I believe in creating an anti-racist and anti-ableist therapeutic space. I have a passion for working with transgender, gender-expansive, and queer adults, as well as anyone working through their identity, going through stress around life changes, struggling with self-esteem or perfectionism, dealing with relationship issues, or living with anxiety, depression, or other neurodivergence (this includes if you are uncertain, self-diagnosed, or diagnosed later in life!).
Hi! My name is Finn Draper (they/he), and I am so excited to be an outpatient psychotherapist at Three Oaks. I am a queer, non-binary clinician, and I believe in creating an anti-racist and anti-ableist therapeutic space. I have a passion for working with transgender, gender-expansive, and queer adults, as well as anyone working through their identity, going through stress around life changes, struggling with self-esteem or perfectionism, dealing with relationship issues, or living with anxiety, depression, or other neurodivergence (this includes if you are uncertain, self-diagnosed, or diagnosed later in life!).
Jonah Spector
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a part of and specialize in working with the transgender community, but I am happy to work with people from all walks of life.
Taking a person-centered, humanistic approach to therapy is important because everybody has a unique story, identity, culture, and goal. As your therapist, my role is to help you discover what works for YOU, in the context of your own life. I am here to help you unpack, understand, heal, grow, and ultimately build your own 'life toolbox' to use when things feel really big.
I am a part of and specialize in working with the transgender community, but I am happy to work with people from all walks of life.
Taking a person-centered, humanistic approach to therapy is important because everybody has a unique story, identity, culture, and goal. As your therapist, my role is to help you discover what works for YOU, in the context of your own life. I am here to help you unpack, understand, heal, grow, and ultimately build your own 'life toolbox' to use when things feel really big.
Nova Swanstrom - Gender And Sexuality Specialist
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615 (Online Only)
With over 40 years of lived experience being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and having been one of the founders of transgender care in Wilmington in 2008, I have a special place in my heart for members of my community and their loved ones.
Hi there! With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am equipped to help you explore and address difficulties such as identity (sexual and gender), life transitions, stress management, family and relationship dynamics, grief, as well as clinical issues to include anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide specialized assistance with transgender needs to include transition path planning, resource access, surgery letters, and detransition support. I am Kink, Poly/CNM, CD, and Neurodiverse knowledgeable.
With over 40 years of lived experience being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, and having been one of the founders of transgender care in Wilmington in 2008, I have a special place in my heart for members of my community and their loved ones.
Hi there! With over 15 years of clinical experience, I am equipped to help you explore and address difficulties such as identity (sexual and gender), life transitions, stress management, family and relationship dynamics, grief, as well as clinical issues to include anxiety, mood disorders, and ADHD. I provide specialized assistance with transgender needs to include transition path planning, resource access, surgery letters, and detransition support. I am Kink, Poly/CNM, CD, and Neurodiverse knowledgeable.
Daphne Krantz
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
My passion in life is supporting you to become your most authentic, joyous self. I believe you already have a wellspring of wisdom and clarity within, and I take great pleasure in helping you clear the way to your own inner guidance. As a proud, openly transgender woman, I find fulfillment in working with individuals and couples on transition and identity issues, communication, codependency, relational/cultural/ancestral trauma, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, depression, addiction, anxiety, psychedelic integration, and spirituality. Perhaps the path isn't quite clear, yet you're ready to take a step towards something better.
I have training and experience supporting LBGTQIA communities, especially transgender related issues and concerns.
Please note, I am only accepting clients in NC at this time. Welcome. I am so glad you are here. We all deserve support, understanding, and a safe space to talk through issues that may be interfering in our lives. Regardless of why you're here, I strive to provide a personal, flexible, and non judgmental environment. I have over 14 years of clinical experience working with adults, teens, and families. I am currently working for Waypoint Counseling and Maternal Wellness, PLLC, supporting women, men and parents as they navigate mental health and everyday life stressors.
I have training and experience supporting LBGTQIA communities, especially transgender related issues and concerns.
Please note, I am only accepting clients in NC at this time. Welcome. I am so glad you are here. We all deserve support, understanding, and a safe space to talk through issues that may be interfering in our lives. Regardless of why you're here, I strive to provide a personal, flexible, and non judgmental environment. I have over 14 years of clinical experience working with adults, teens, and families. I am currently working for Waypoint Counseling and Maternal Wellness, PLLC, supporting women, men and parents as they navigate mental health and everyday life stressors.
Jennie Dickson-Mills
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, SEP, E-RYT
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27613 (Online Only)
Seeking support can be a difficult yet rewarding step toward change and growth. I strive to understand your suffering in the context of your whole life and identity, using a warm and non-judgmental approach. I work with people to decrease distress, improve mood, process grief and traumatic experiences, explore identity, improve confidence, address eating and body image concerns, make life decisions, navigate transitions, enhance relationships, and develop a deeper awareness of emotions and connection to the body. I welcome clients from all sexual orientations and gender identities, including transgender people, as well as all racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.
Seeking support can be a difficult yet rewarding step toward change and growth. I strive to understand your suffering in the context of your whole life and identity, using a warm and non-judgmental approach. I work with people to decrease distress, improve mood, process grief and traumatic experiences, explore identity, improve confidence, address eating and body image concerns, make life decisions, navigate transitions, enhance relationships, and develop a deeper awareness of emotions and connection to the body. I welcome clients from all sexual orientations and gender identities, including transgender people, as well as all racial, cultural, and religious backgrounds.
I believe each of us have gifts to aid us in our healing and they can shine in a supportive environment. With curiosity and collaboration, I will walk alongside you in navigating, coping, and thriving through hardships, life transitions, and self exploration. I bring a grounding and patient presence that offers support and encouragement and cultivates an open, non judgemental, and affirming space where you can show up as you are. I welcome people from all backgrounds and specialize in working with those who are transgender, gender expansive, queer, in the LGBTQ+ community, or are a parent.
I believe each of us have gifts to aid us in our healing and they can shine in a supportive environment. With curiosity and collaboration, I will walk alongside you in navigating, coping, and thriving through hardships, life transitions, and self exploration. I bring a grounding and patient presence that offers support and encouragement and cultivates an open, non judgemental, and affirming space where you can show up as you are. I welcome people from all backgrounds and specialize in working with those who are transgender, gender expansive, queer, in the LGBTQ+ community, or are a parent.
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
Therapy is more than a comfy couch and a good listener; it’s a safe space to examine, reflect, goal-set, and learn new skills to align with such goals. My hope for you is that when you step into my office you feel supported in a non-judgmental collaborative setting while being provided space for autonomy, diversity, free-thinking, authenticity, and mutual respect. I specialize in treating clients with trauma-related disorders, anxiety, depression, gender dysphoria, as well as grief, and loss. I am most passionate about working with members of the trans community as well as all individuals within the LGBTQIA+ umbrella.
Karen L Bieniek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606
Waitlist for new clients
I like to use my education and experience to help clients ages 18 and older with a variety of issues, including depression across the lifespan, anxiety, marital and couple issues, sexual disorders, sexual orientation, gender dysphoria, and sexual health and wellness, primarily providing counseling services for individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University College of Behavioral Sciences, Twin Cities, Eagan, MN. I also have been a Licensed Practical Nurse, since 1990. I have completed education in sex therapy, from University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menamonie, WI. I have been working since 2014 as a therapist. I also have experience working with veterans, and have worked in both acute inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient intensive therapy.
I like to use my education and experience to help clients ages 18 and older with a variety of issues, including depression across the lifespan, anxiety, marital and couple issues, sexual disorders, sexual orientation, gender dysphoria, and sexual health and wellness, primarily providing counseling services for individuals and couples.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University College of Behavioral Sciences, Twin Cities, Eagan, MN. I also have been a Licensed Practical Nurse, since 1990. I have completed education in sex therapy, from University of Wisconsin-Stout, Menamonie, WI. I have been working since 2014 as a therapist. I also have experience working with veterans, and have worked in both acute inpatient psychiatric hospital and outpatient intensive therapy.
Hi Thanks for taking a look at my profile- Reach out if it seems we might be able to work together in a way that would be helpful to you...I'm working only via telehealth which reduces your commute time. My clients tend to be working on being awake and aware of and attuned to and stressed by the complexity of our culture today. I work with issues of alternative sexuality, gender dysphoria, relationships in all forms including relationships that are kink friendly and/or poly. I come from an eclectic training background but use RLT and IFS more often than other modalities.
Hi Thanks for taking a look at my profile- Reach out if it seems we might be able to work together in a way that would be helpful to you...I'm working only via telehealth which reduces your commute time. My clients tend to be working on being awake and aware of and attuned to and stressed by the complexity of our culture today. I work with issues of alternative sexuality, gender dysphoria, relationships in all forms including relationships that are kink friendly and/or poly. I come from an eclectic training background but use RLT and IFS more often than other modalities.
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I work with young adults, college students, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, transgender and nonbinary folx, and neurodivergent adults with ADHD or ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us human. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
I work with young adults, college students, BIPOC, LGBTQ+, transgender and nonbinary folx, and neurodivergent adults with ADHD or ASD (autism spectrum disorder).
When we ignore or deny the things that upset us most, the more power and control we attribute to them. How often do you suppress or push away painful feelings, intrusive thoughts, shame, or chronic suicidality? Rather than avoid what’s causing our pain, fear, and discomfort, it's crucial that we stop and ask ourselves why we’re avoiding the things that make us human. When we ignore the physical and cognitive messages our bodies communicate to us, we risk neglecting what our bodies need to heal and thrive, thus denying ourselves the chance to succeed and live a value-driven and purposeful life.
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
Dr. Benton is the owner of Oak City Psychology. She is a Licensed Psychologist and a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS). Dr. Benton also specializes in working with people who identify as LGBTQ+ and women who have lost a pregnancy. While these are her primary specialties, she enjoys working with anyone who is open to examining their own life and making changes. Dr. Benton believes that each of us possess our own wisdom. Unfortunately, there are times when we are unable to access that wisdom. That's where therapy can help.
Julie Heustis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
The process of finding a therapist can be tough to navigate. I offer a free 20 minute phone consultation so we can have a chance to connect, ask questions and see if it seems like a good fit for you. My style is warm and authentic and focused on what goals people have for counseling. I provide a supportive space for people to explore gender identity and expression and honor what feels most authentic to them. I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
The process of finding a therapist can be tough to navigate. I offer a free 20 minute phone consultation so we can have a chance to connect, ask questions and see if it seems like a good fit for you. My style is warm and authentic and focused on what goals people have for counseling. I provide a supportive space for people to explore gender identity and expression and honor what feels most authentic to them. I meet regularly with people in the LGBTQ community and work to connect people with additional supports and resources if needed.
Things aren't going as you'd hoped or planned. You're strong, doing your best, and holding it together. But things may be falling apart. Maybe it feels like YOU are starting to fall apart at times. You feel stressed. Disconnected. Overwhelmed. Uncertain. Perhaps you're at a transition point in life and wondering how exactly you ended up here. Maybe it is due to a loss of a relationship, the loss of hope of what could or should be, or the death of a loved one. Or perhaps there isn't a clear reason.
Things aren't going as you'd hoped or planned. You're strong, doing your best, and holding it together. But things may be falling apart. Maybe it feels like YOU are starting to fall apart at times. You feel stressed. Disconnected. Overwhelmed. Uncertain. Perhaps you're at a transition point in life and wondering how exactly you ended up here. Maybe it is due to a loss of a relationship, the loss of hope of what could or should be, or the death of a loved one. Or perhaps there isn't a clear reason.
My ideal client has a desire to commit to creating change and willing to be vulnerable throughout the therapeutic process. Clients who struggle with intimacy struggles and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and stress are both great focuses in my practice. My client's desire to be in happy and healthy relationships is what I like to foster.
My ideal client has a desire to commit to creating change and willing to be vulnerable throughout the therapeutic process. Clients who struggle with intimacy struggles and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety and stress are both great focuses in my practice. My client's desire to be in happy and healthy relationships is what I like to foster.
I use a collaborative, hands on approach to help clients become more productive and content at school, work, home, and in relationships. I use my strong background in assessment to help clients to understand how their learning style (both strengths and weaknesses) impacts their ability to succeed.
I also enjoy working with college students and adults, offering psychological assessments and ADD/ADHD coaching. My approach to coaching clients with ADD/ADHD is a non-judgmental, practical approach. I I help clients create natural, sustainable change that will decrease their stress (and stress of those around them).
I use a collaborative, hands on approach to help clients become more productive and content at school, work, home, and in relationships. I use my strong background in assessment to help clients to understand how their learning style (both strengths and weaknesses) impacts their ability to succeed.
I also enjoy working with college students and adults, offering psychological assessments and ADD/ADHD coaching. My approach to coaching clients with ADD/ADHD is a non-judgmental, practical approach. I I help clients create natural, sustainable change that will decrease their stress (and stress of those around them).
My passion and drive comes from working with the queer community in navigating their identity, building confidence and self-esteem, and thriving in a world that is filled with oppression. I love to work with folx aged 13+, but I've also worked with younger kiddos as well. I work with couples in helping them better understand, communicate with, and love each other through an attachment lens. My work is deeply rooted in prioritizing and centering the needs of the LGBTQ+ community, whether you are a "late bloomer"coming out, exploring your gender identity, or processing religious trauma. I will meet you exactly where you're at.
My passion and drive comes from working with the queer community in navigating their identity, building confidence and self-esteem, and thriving in a world that is filled with oppression. I love to work with folx aged 13+, but I've also worked with younger kiddos as well. I work with couples in helping them better understand, communicate with, and love each other through an attachment lens. My work is deeply rooted in prioritizing and centering the needs of the LGBTQ+ community, whether you are a "late bloomer"coming out, exploring your gender identity, or processing religious trauma. I will meet you exactly where you're at.
Michelle Topal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
Appointments Available. If you are looking for someone who understands the stress for many of us in these divisive, uncertain political times & is easy to talk to? Or are along the sexual or gender continuum (LGBTQ+/TGD), looking for someone who gets it? Or are having problems in your most important relationship(s)... I'm here to help. As an out queer person, I've been helping the LGBTQ+ community, as well as teens, parents, & partners, feel heard, cared for, accepted & understood for over 30 years. I create an authentic, safe, affirming space to explore & grow. I look forward to being an encouraging voice to help you find your own.
Karim Nassar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27606 (Online Only)
You deserve to live your best, most authentic life. My practice focuses on helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I celebrate all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender presentations, and believe that all relationship models between consenting adults are valid and beautiful. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool in helping us find our path through the obstacles and challenges that life throws at us.
You deserve to live your best, most authentic life. My practice focuses on helping members of the LGBTQIA+ community. I celebrate all sexual orientations, gender identities, and gender presentations, and believe that all relationship models between consenting adults are valid and beautiful. I believe that therapy can be a powerful tool in helping us find our path through the obstacles and challenges that life throws at us.
See more therapy options for Raleigh
Nearby Transgender Therapists Searches for Raleigh
- Apex
- Cary
- Clayton
- Fuquay Varina
- Garner
- Holly Springs
- Knightdale
- Morrisville
- Research Triangle
- Wake Forest
- Willow Spring
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Transgender Therapists
As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?
A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.
What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?
Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.
How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?
An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.
How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?
Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.