LGBT therapists in Bethesda, MD

Most people who find me already know where they’re stuck. They’re introspective and self-aware. They’ve read the books, tried the apps, maybe seen a therapist before but nothing has felt solid or lasting yet. They’re ready to dig deeper and address the roots of anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship pain. I use EMDR, IFS parts work, mindful movement, and other somatic tools reach the nervous system where talk alone can’t—and prevent re-traumatizing story-telling.

I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC). I have a Bachelor of Science Degree in Psychology from University of Maryland University College, a Master of Science Degree in Marriage & Family Counseling Therapy and a PhD in Advanced Studies in Human Behavior from Capella University.

I specialize in working with couples experiencing communication difficulties, conflict, trust issues, infidelity, intimacy concerns, life transitions, and relationship distress. I work with couples of all backgrounds and identities and provide an LGBTQIA+ affirming and inclusive environment.

I believe therapy should be a place where you feel supported, but also challenged to grow. I strive to create an environment where clients feel heard and understood while also encouraging honest reflection, personal accountability, and meaningful change. My goal is to help couples strengthen their connection, improve communication, rebuild trust, and create healthier ways of relating to one another.

Please note that I offer couples therapy on a self-pay basis only. Insurance companies generally reimburse services that are tied to an individual's mental health diagnosis and do not typically cover relationship or couples counseling. My fee for couples therapy is $150 per session.

Hi, I’m Bettina. As a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner my goal is to provide more tools to put in your tool box on your path to wellness. Mental health is multifaceted and I believe that medications, in addition to psychotherapy, are one of many aspects of wellness. As your provider, we can explore what will work for you and your body/mind. I have 13 years of nursing experience at various psychiatric facilities in Baltimore. I have primarily worked in the inpatient setting allowing me to gain extensive experience treating mood disorders, psychosis, addiction, trauma and anxiety disorders. I strive to be consistently empathetic and actively listen to each of my patients in order to create a relationship that embraces safety and trust.

Susan White specializes in individual therapy and has 10+ years of experience. Her areas of expertise are trauma, parenting, multicultural concerns, PTSD, LGBTQ challenges, and adjustment. She sees life as a journey and not a destination. You are one step closer to a new you, feeling empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. Her goal is to help you.

Hi, I'm Amanda. I am a white, queer, ND, chronically ill/disabled (hey spoonies!) therapist. Many of the folks I work with also identify with one or all of these experiences and are trying their best to just exist in a world that doesn't seem to want them to. I primarily work with adults who are navigating grief, trauma, and chronic illness. I provide a space to slow down, feel accepted, and make sense of how your lived experiences have shaped you. My practice is pro-Palestine, anti-racist, anti-capitalist, anti-colonization, and LGBTQIA+ affirming, which is a reflection of my values in and out of the office. Abolish ICE.

Hello, I am Jordan Cox (she/they). The world can feel overwhelming, and it’s natural to experience anxiety, depression, or uncertainty about where to turn. I provide a compassionate, holistic approach with the understanding that life is vivid and complex. Vivid in beauty but also in pain. I strive to create a space where people feel liberated from social norms or traumatic experiences.

My role is to cultivate healthy relationships with my clients and teach them how to cultivate healthy relationships with others. I assist my clients work through trauma and understanding how the brain helps to protect you from yourself and the world.

Hi! I’m Amanda and I’m a Black, queer licensed clinical social worker who specializes in creating healing spaces for Black and Brown communities. I enjoy working with young people, creatives, activists and healers, especially. I believe therapy should be a place to discover your most authentic self, bravely and safely. I show up with gentleness, intentionality, and honesty, with the ultimate goal of supporting you in navigating your own healing journey.

I'm a psychiatric nurse practitioner in Maryland with a background in both medication management and therapy — and I believe the best care happens when we tailor it to you. I specialize in anxiety, ADHD, and depression, and I work with patients who want a provider who actually listens before deciding anything. Many of the people I see found me through their community — they wanted someone they could trust, who'd take the time to get to know them. My approach is warm and direct: I'll tell you exactly what I'm thinking and make sure every session reflects where you are right now.

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.

Dr. Opelt earned his Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology at New Mexico State University after completing his Master’s of Science in Educational Psychology: Community Counseling from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee. During his graduate training, he earned certifications in Trauma Counseling and Multicultural Knowledge Basis in Mental Health Practices, and a graduate minor in Integrated Behavioral Health. Dr. Opelt has completed postdoctoral fellowships in research in Rehabilitation Psychology, with an emphasis on Multiple Sclerosis, at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, and in clinical Rehabilitation and Pain Psychology at MedStar Health National Rehabilitation Hospital. He has focused his clinical work on adults who have concerns about insomnia, cognitive impairment, addiction, LGBT+ concerns, caregiver support, transplants, burn survivors, cancer, musculoskeletal diseases like MS and Parkinson’s disease, and those who have amputations. He is a licensed psychologist in Maryland and Illinois.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to figure things out alone. I’m Tamara Whittleton, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with adults navigating stress, anxiety, depression, and major life changes. I focus on creating a supportive environment where clients feel comfortable talking openly while developing practical strategies for growth and healing

Hi there! I am a licensed psychologist and completed a doctorate degree in clinical psychology from Adelphi University. I use evidence-based approaches like cognitive-behavioral therapy when working with clients. I specialize in the treatment of individuals with OCD, anxiety disorders, and substance use difficulties, as well as families of individuals who struggle in these ways.