LGBT therapists in Johnson City, TN

My name is Emily Hand, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an evidence-based therapy that is particularly effective for trauma. With 8 years of experience, I work with adults and have a diverse background of experience with trauma, addiction, compulsive behaviors, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, and relationship problems. I’m passionate about this work, because when we internalize pain we often believe there’s something wrong with us, but what I’ve found is that it’s not about who you are, but what has happened to you — and the ripple effects that follow.

My name is Mark and I have come to this introduction today with the benefit of a professional background which includes: 2 Masters degrees in Counseling and Divinity; TN licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor, Mental Health Service Provider; United Methodist and Multi-Faith Chaplain; Certifications in Dialectical Behavior and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy modalities; Grief and Bereavement Certifications; 5 yrs of Private Practice in Counseling; 3 yrs in Community MH clinic as a Licensed Professional Counselor

Hi, I’m Stephanie Carmichael, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC. I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with experience providing care in both medical and mental health settings. My background has allowed me to develop a strong understanding of how physical health, emotional well-being, stress, and life experiences are deeply connected.

I earned my Family Nurse Practitioner degree from East Tennessee State University and my Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner degree from Western Kentucky University. I have experience treating individuals across the lifespan with a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, mood disorders, trauma-related concerns, stress, burnout, and life transitions.

My approach to care is warm, collaborative, and individualized. I believe clients deserve to feel heard, respected, and actively involved in treatment decisions. I focus on building strong therapeutic relationships and creating a comfortable, judgment-free environment where clients can openly discuss their concerns and goals.

I provide evidence-based medication management while also incorporating supportive, therapy-informed care, education, and lifestyle considerations into treatment. My goal is to help clients improve not only their symptoms, but also their overall quality of life and emotional well-being.

Outside of my professional role, I value authenticity, resilience, personal growth, and meaningful connection with others. I understand that seeking mental health care can feel vulnerable, and I strive to make the process approachable, supportive, and empowering.

As a licensed marriage and family therapist with 18 years of diverse experience, I proudly welcome people of all backgrounds. I provide therapy for individuals, couples and families and work with the following modalities:

• Somatic Therapy – Releasing trauma and stress stored physically in the body.

• EMDR – Processing distressing memories to reduce emotional triggers.

• Gottman Method – Strengthening communication and intimacy for couples.

• Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) – Healing relational bonds in couples and families.

• DBT-Informed – Managing intense emotions and building mindfulness skills.

• CBT – Reshaping negative thought patterns to change behaviors.

• Person-Centered – Providing a compassionate, non- judgmental space centered on you.

You may feel overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, past experiences, or relationship conflict that still affect how you show up in daily life and relationships. Many people reach out for therapy when trauma, depression, grief, or substance use begins to feel too heavy to manage alone. You may feel stuck in patterns of anger, conflict, or emotional pain and want a safe place to talk honestly about what’s going on. Therapy can be a space to slow down, make sense of what you’re carrying, and begin finding healthier ways to cope and move forward. I believe therapy works best when clients feel safe, understood, and respected.

I am passionate about helping clients find their voice to put words to their unique experiences. I approach each session with compassionate curiosity to provide you with a safe space to show up as your most authentic self. I hope that you feel seen, heard, understood, and accepted. I am enthusiastic about seeing my clients move towards health and healing. I consider it an honor and a privilege to support you throughout our work together.

My specialty is adult love and creating bonding experiences in couples and families. I’m a Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and an Addiction Specialist (LCAS). Helping people repair and reconnect after times of distress is my passion. I help people heal by increasing security, closeness and emotional connection in relationships. I help couples better understand their partners’ emotional responses, as well as their own. I also enjoy helping couples overcome addiction in relationships.

Dr. Deborah DeFrieze

Dr. in Education

Master's degree in social work

Social Work and Licensed Massage Therapist for 15 years

Missionary in Africa for 18 months

Public Education for 33 years

Regular and Special Education Teacher

Assistant Principal

Principal

Assistant Professor

My name is Dr. Regina Clark, DSW, LCSW, and I work with children, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma and are ready to begin their healing journey. I specialize in trauma-informed care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, and play therapy for young children.

In our sessions, you will find a safe, supportive space where you are seen, heard, valued, and never rushed. I believe every person’s story deserves compassion, understanding, and care. My practice is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and a genuine commitment to helping clients navigate life’s challenges while building resilience and emotional wellness.

I do this work because healing can be difficult, but you are not meant to walk through it alone. I believe growth, restoration, and healing are possible, and I am honored to support individuals and families as they move toward hope, balance, and lasting change.