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LGBT therapists in Newark, NJ

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Newark, NJ

Find affirming mental health support in Newark with 1,056 licensed providers experienced in LGBTQIA+ care. Headway connects you with warm, open-minded therapists who understand your unique needs through virtual or in-person sessions, with many providers offering free consultations.

Rebecca Stegmann

Rebecca Stegmann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • Woodcliff Lake, NJ


As a Licensed Professional Counselor and the owner of Camellia Counseling, I am a compassionate therapist with a drive to help my clients grow into their truest selves. I specialize in treating adolescents and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and body image issues. I also treat issues related to identity development, relationship distress, and major life transitions. I consider it an honor to get to know you as a unique individual and help you meet your mental health goals!

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Moran

Tara Moran

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • Atlantic Highlands, NJ


“My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed, and skills-based. I integrate evidence-based practices such as Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness to help clients better understand their...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Creative, Holistic, Solution-oriented
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kathleen Ketofsky

Kathleen Ketofsky

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 23 mi away • North Brunswick Township, NJ


“I believe that developing a strong connection and relationship between the client and therapist is essential to working together to resolve the issues that bring one to treatment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Liliya Borodkin

Liliya Borodkin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 29 mi away • Branchburg, NJ


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and tailored to each client's unique needs, drawing from evidence-based practices like CBT and mindfulness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Holistic, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Marc Rubin

Marc Rubin

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 25 mi away • East Brunswick, NJ


“The coping mechanisms that are shared with my client's are established with the abilities of the individual patient in mind, though will also challenge the client at times.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Emily Lindemann

Emily Lindemann

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Tinton Falls, NJ


Emily Lindemann is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor. Emily has 15 years of experience in multiple modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychoeducation and Family Support, Case Management, Collaborative Care, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Substance Abuse Treatment, Sex Therapy, and Holistic Therapy Interventions.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Challenging, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Blessing Nwele

Blessing Nwele

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • 26 mi away • Hillsborough Township, NJ


“I have an extensive background (over a decade) in treating Depressive Disorders, Anxiety disorders, ADHD, OCD, Bipolar Disorders, other Mood Disorders, Psychotic Disorders, among others.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Kim Wielgus

Kim Wielgus

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • Chester, NJ


“My style is integrative, combining treatment modalities like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other approaches to help identify where your thoughts, behaviors and emotions lead you.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Anastasia Kudless

Anastasia Kudless

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 28 mi away • Chester, NJ


“I strongly believe that mental health, is health! By prioritizing your mental health, you can achieve the personal growth you desire.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Juan Carlos Barrera

Juan Carlos Barrera

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • 27 mi away • Red Bank, NJ


“Their work is rooted in the belief that healing begins when you are able to reconnect with yourself—your body, your identity, and your inner voice.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Chibuike Enyinnia

Chibuike Enyinnia

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Lawrence Township, NJ


“I work with all of my patients to achieve full recovery, improved quality of life, and improved relationships and joy by providing comprehensive psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and supportive therapy for patients of all age group...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Melanie S Browndorf, MS, Lpc

Melanie S Browndorf, MS, Lpc

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Ewing Township, NJ


Licensed in NJ and PA, I provide in-person and virtual care at my offices in Ewing, Mercer County, and Newtown, Bucks County. With over 20 years of clinical experience in mental health and substance abuse, I offer a welcoming, LGBTQ+ inclusive space for my patients. I specialize in treating addiction, relationship challenges, young adult life transitions, and mood and/or anxiety disorders.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Creative, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Varlee Kamara

Varlee Kamara

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New Jersey


“My approach is centered around warm, open-minded, and participatory care, where I work collaboratively with clients to identify solutions and develop personalized treatment plans.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shiy Ajao

Shiy Ajao

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New Jersey


“My goal is to empower individuals to recognize and change dysfunctional thinking and behavior, leading to improved emotional regulation and overall well-being.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Lauren Sacs

Lauren Sacs

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My goals are for you to be heard and validated in your experience. I want you to leave feeling empowered...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Relationship issues
Affirming, Creative, Humorous
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Melissa Boucher

Melissa Boucher

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I work from a client-centered approach while encouraging a side-by-side journey of self-exploration and growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Sara Wickizer

Sara Wickizer

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I am a highly seasoned clinician with years of experience in both mental health care and substance use services. My professional journey began in the substance use field, sand a deep understanding of the co-occurring mental health challenges many individuals face.

My clinical experience includes providing outpatient individual therapy and supporting individuals experiencing acute psychosis in inpatient psychiatric settings. After gaining many years of clinical experience, I expanded into leadership roles, providing clinical supervision and program oversight while managing co-occurring programs across New Jersey. I am also passionate about building the next generation of clinicians and serve part-time as an adjunct professor. I earned my degrees from Rutgers University School of Social Work and Honors College, where I was a member of the Phi Alpha Honor Society and graduated summa cum laude.

I bring a diverse background and extensive knowledge to my clinical practice, having worked across a wide range of mental health and substance use settings. Over the years, I have gained experience with many different diagnoses, from anxiety and depression to trauma and co-occurring disorders. My expertise spans multiple evidence-based approaches, including ACT, CBT, DBT, SFT, trauma-informed care, person-centered therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and psychoanalytic techniques. This breadth allows me to tailor treatment to each individual’s unique needs, strengths, and goals, ensuring a personalized, effective, and compassionate approach to care.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Tara Canavera

Tara Canavera

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My journey into social work began through my own experience healing from trauma, which allows me to connect with clients in a genuine, relatable, and compassionate way.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Richard Houseal

Richard Houseal

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My care approach is solution-oriented and short-term, but the results are aimed to be long-term through processing, reframing, and utilizing helpful and productive interventions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Direct, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Kyle Calderon

Kyle Calderon

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“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 4 insurance carriers
Deirdre Arato

Deirdre Arato

Therapist

Virtual • Toms River, NJ


My journey began as a deeply personal quest for healing, shaped by significant challenges such as abandonment, neglect, and trauma. Overcoming hardships like poverty, familial substance abuse, and toxic relationships led me to a lifelong struggle with anxiety and feelings of isolation. In my search for relief, I explored countless self-help resources, pursued degrees in psychology, and experimented with therapeutic techniques, yet nothing seemed to offer lasting change.

Everything shifted for me about three years ago when I experienced a transformative moment that inspired the creation of the Blue Lotus Approach. This method has not only helped me heal but has also profoundly impacted my clients, guiding them toward self-awareness and resilience.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Panic disorders
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Susan Goodwin

Susan Goodwin

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


Susan Goodwin is a highly qualified and experienced therapist holding licenses as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC). With a passion for helping individuals overcome mental health and substance use challenges, Susan brings a wealth of expertise to her practice.



LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Seema Dhindaw

Seema Dhindaw

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I specialize in helping individuals and couples navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, aging, cultural issues, work stress, relationship dynamics, and addictions.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Somer Saleh

Somer Saleh

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“Finding the space to simply be can be hard, especially when you feel you don't fully belong, whether that is culturally, socially, or politically.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Inquisitive
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Alexandra Leet

Alexandra Leet

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My approach is warm, collaborative, and practical. I'll help you understand your patterns, challenge what's keeping you stuck, and build something that actually feels more secure and grounded.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Holistic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Judith Schwartzhoff

Judith Schwartzhoff

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I have a Master's Degree in Social Work and over 30 years of experience in Mental Health Treatment. I work with adults who are struggling with a variety of issues including stress, self esteem, family conflicts and life changes such as divorce or loss or change in jobs. I specialize in working with elderly around issues of health, retirement and loss.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Shannon Cahill

Shannon Cahill

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in New Jersey dedicated to helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, trauma, and the many transitions life throws our way. I am currently pursuing my PhD in Psychology, a journey that fuels my commitment to providing evidence-based care while staying at the forefront of clinical research.

My professional background includes supporting adults and young adults through challenges ranging from PTSD and substance use to family dynamics and relationship stressors. I also specialize in supporting clients through gender-specific issues and significant life stages, including postpartum support and major career or personal shifts.

I believe the foundation of effective therapy is a warm, nonjudgmental partnership. At Holistic Counseling Solution, I strive to create a space where you feel truly seen and comfortable being yourself. Together, we will focus on your unique strengths to foster the meaningful, lasting change you are looking for.

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

Dina Graziano

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where clients feel understood and empowered to grow.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Direct, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Magdalena Vazquez

Magdalena Vazquez

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“Clients can expect their sessions with me to be a safe and supportive environment where they can openly express themselves without fear of judgment.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 2 insurance carriers
Alex Brown

Alex Brown

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“The therapeutic relationship is an essential component for any good work to be done, and the therapeutic space can be the necessary setting to try new skills before using them out in the world.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Jennifer Dimarco

Jennifer Dimarco

Therapist

Virtual • Howell Township, NJ


“I aim to create a safe and relaxing environment, allowing clients to feel comfortable expressing their issues through verbal expression and/or play.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Challenging, Warm
Accepts 1 insurance carrier

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Lisa Musarra

Lisa Musarra

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Surf City, NJ


“My approach focuses on you, the client, understanding your unique needs and "meeting you where you are."”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Alice Garfinkel

Alice Garfinkel

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


I have 45 years of experience and specialize in many areas of expertise - addictions, LGBTQ+ mood disorders, trauma, grief, workplace issues to name a few.. I am a total insurance based practice and slide scale if necessary. Therapy is a process of self healing , discovery, growth and positive change. I try to promote a relaxed, open empathic experience with support and feedback. Prior to a first visit , I will do a 15 minute free consultation to see if we are a good fit. If we schedule an appointment, I will find out insurance benefits because I like all financial expectations out of the way so that it does not take time out of the session. Forms and consents are also sent via email prior to the session, so that any " business" needs are out of the way.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Sandra Burstyn

Sandra Burstyn

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My style is warm, collaborative, and focused on your strengths. I believe that you are the expert in your own life...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Stephanie (Stevie) Willoughby

Stephanie (Stevie) Willoughby

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I aim to normalize and validate my clients' experiences without judgment, and above all, provide the most basic of human needs: to feel seen and heard.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Mitchell Koenig

Mitchell Koenig

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I like to describe myself as "professionally goofy". I believe in making sure you feel safe and that we genuinely click before diving into any deep work.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Abiola Saba

Dr. Abiola Saba

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual & in-person • Evesham, NJ


“I take a calm, structured, and collaborative approach, focusing on clear communication, accurate diagnosis, and medication management that supports long-term stability and daily functioning.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Yvette Mcdonald

Yvette Mcdonald

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“I work with individuals facing challenges related to drug and alcohol use. Working as a Drug and Alcohol Counselor for the past 14 plus years has ignited my passion for a deeper involvement in addiction recovery.”
LGBTQIA+, Cultural & ethnic issues, Infertility, Maternal mental health, PTSD
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Linda Onunkwo

Linda Onunkwo

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • New Jersey


“I take time to truly listen and work collaboratively with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs, lifestyle, and goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 4 insurance carriers
Toni-Marie Brickhouse

Toni-Marie Brickhouse

Therapist

Virtual • New Jersey


“My approach to therapy is collaborative, strengths-based, and practical. I believe therapy works best when it feels like a partnership...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 3 insurance carriers

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 a Therapist in Newark

Finding an LGBTQIA+-affirming therapist in Newark starts with knowing what kind of support you're looking for. Some people seek help with anxiety, depression, or trauma that may be compounded by experiences of discrimination or minority stress. Others want a space to explore identity, navigate coming out, or work through relationship dynamics. A provider who is experienced in LGBTQIA+ care can meet you where you are — so you can focus on what brought you to therapy rather than explaining your identity.

When evaluating providers, look for licensed professionals (such as an LCSW, LPC, psychologist, or psychiatrist) who list LGBTQIA+ care as a specialty and describe their affirming approach in their bio. Reading about a provider's style, background, and areas of focus can help you decide if they're a good match before you book. On Headway, providers share detailed bios, and many offer a free phone consultation so you can connect before committing.

Therapy in Newark can be expensive out of pocket, but using your in-network insurance benefits is one of the most reliable ways to reduce costs. On Headway, you can enter your insurance details to see estimated session costs upfront, and your out-of-pocket expense may be as low as $0 per visit. Nationally, Headway partners with over 100 insurance plans, making it easier to find an affirming provider who fits both your needs and your budget.

Find a provider - your way

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