http://Thriveworks%20Parents%20award%20Logo%20for%20Best%20Online%20LGBTQIA+%20Counseling%20for%20Children,%20Teens%20&%20Adults
http://Thriveworks%20Verywell%20Family%20award%20Logo%20for%20Best%20LGBTQ%20Counseling%20for%202023

686,000 people sought help with Thriveworks in the last year

Discover how starting LGBTQIA+ counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.

Meet with an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist as soon as this week

47  therapists available in Charlottesville

Richmond

My personal experience as a queer and trans individual combined with my professional experience gives me a unique understanding of...

Read more
Lynchburg

With 18 years of experience in the mental health field working with a variety of clientele, I value establishing an authentic conn...

Read more
Blacksburg

I believe one life is a world and I hope that you let me get to know your world, so I can help you to grow....

Read more
Blacksburg

I value honesty, inclusivity, and kindness. I believe the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship requires empathy, un...

Read more
Richmond

I collaborate with my clients to promote healing in a safe and affirming space....

Read more
Lynchburg

I am here to support and guide you through your counseling journey and help you achieve your mental health goals....

Read more
Roanoke

Although I was trained as a clinical therapist, I believe a collaborative relationship between us is of the utmost importance as w...

Read more
Richmond

As someone who has worked on understanding my own identity and personal challenges with mental health, I understand the importance...

Read more
Roanoke

This world is not to be dealt with alone. Let me come alongside you and we can tackle it together!...

Read more
Richmond

As a Black Christian woman, I understand the challenges of breaking through cognitive barriers to embrace your worth and feel empo...

Read more
Henrico

Wendy Wasserstrom is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 9 years of social work experience. She has provided mental hea...

Read more
Blacksburg

As a queer and trans-identified therapist, I know how vital it is to have someone who truly gets it and I'm here to offer a compas...

Read more
Newport News

I am committed to providing a positive, empowering, and safe place that allows you to express and explore your thoughts and feelin...

Read more
Richmond

I understand the issues and struggles that many of us face, and I have a gentle but direct approach for those seeking services....

Read more
Lynchburg

I provide a welcoming, empathetic, and non-judgemental space to share and be heard. I respect the importance of meeting my clients...

Read more
Roanoke

I'm a therapist in rural southwest Virginia known for my ability to establish strong connections with clients, especially children...

Read more
Roanoke

As a woman of the LGBTQIA community, it is crucial to me to help others struggling with their identity....

Read more
Richmond

As a survivor of many different life experiences, I am able to work with clients and understand the challenges that life can often...

Read more
Lynchburg

I’m passionate about helping others tap into their inner strength and find healing....

Read more
Richmond

As someone who has experienced the impact of mental health challenges, I provide a unique perspective, level of understanding, and...

Read more
Alexandria

Elena Papathanassiou is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia who is practiced in providing therapeutic care to teens and ...

Read more
Norfolk

As a woman of color, I entered this field not only to help people but to bridge a gap in mental health awareness and understanding...

Read more
Chesterfield

As a neurodiverse woman from the mountains of Appalachia, I approach each new challenge with curiosity, humility, and humor....

Read more
Virginia Beach

As a multi-ethnic black woman and a veteran of the U.S. Navy, I understand various perspectives from racial issues, trauma, sexual...

Read more
Chesterfield

I am here to listen, validate, and support you in using the gifts you already have to tackle the challenges, hurts, and disappoint...

Read more
Chesapeake

As a black woman with many roles and responsibilities in my own life, I understand how to help meet your personal needs and accomp...

Read more
Richmond

I am passionate about helping children and youth struggling with the anxieties that come with being an athlete or performer....

Read more
Richmond

I know therapy takes real vulnerability, so I bring my full, authentic self to meet clients with connection and meaningful change ...

Read more
Newport News

Finding a counselor can be scary, but I'm here to make the process as easy as possible....

Read more
Lynchburg

My goal as a counselor is to support my clients in developing practical skills to apply in their day-to-day lives so they can auth...

Read more
Reston

As a survivor of domestic violence, cancer, and family members in active addiction, I understand the importance of having a safe s...

Read more
Newport News

I am a strong advocate of empowering my clients to be the best version of who they are in order to succeed and go far physically a...

Read more
Richmond

I understand what it is like to seek help from others. My goal is to be a supportive and safe environment for you to continue to c...

Read more
Alexandria

Krista Hale is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has worked in a variety of settings in the mental health field for 45 years. ...

Read more
Midlothian

Life and healing aren't always linear. As a human being first, and a therapist second, I offer a safe, compassionate, non-judgment...

Read more
Arlington

I believe the relationship between therapist and client is the key to progress, and I will be with you every step of the way as yo...

Read more
Roanoke

I am so proud of you for starting this healing journey....

Read more
Virginia Beach

Through mutual trust, respect and transparency, I find working collaboratively with clients lends to more meaningful connections a...

Read more
Alexandria

I am curious to listen to assess factors that contribute to the diagnosis, to establish priorities, discuss treatments, and provid...

Read more
Richmond

As a mother, wife, daughter, and college student, I have come to terms with the fact that all individuals are unique in their expe...

Read more
Richmond

As a clinician, I strive to cultivate a comfortable, empowering therapeutic relationship that recognizes the client as a whole per...

Read more
Chesapeake

When "all the things" seem to cloud the way forward, help me help you make it make sense!...

Read more
Woodbridge

I understand the unique issues of client with mental health challenges; hence I aim to provide support and to assist you in buildi...

Read more
Lynchburg

As a married mother of two who works daily to manage chronic medical challenges, I can empathize with the unique level of support ...

Read more
Charlottesville

I recognize the courage it takes to ask for help in order to find healing and change....

Read more
Alexandria

“Feeling better often takes more than medicine alone. My approach is holistic, collaborative, and down-to-earth while sharing my c...

Read more
Midlothian

You matter. Your problems matter. Whatever you're dealing with, let's face it together....

Read more

Look for a confirmation email in your inbox shortly. We'll help find you a provider and guide you through everything you should know about starting care at Thriveworks.

Starting LGBTQIA+ counseling in Charlottesville

What is LGBTQ+ counseling?

LGBTQIA+ counseling is a type of queer affirmative counseling dedicated to assisting individuals and couples in navigating the intricate intersections of their sexual orientation, gender identity, and mental health, with a primary goal of fostering well-being, self-acceptance, and affirming a client’s life experiences as a queer individual. Although not all LGBTQ+ individuals seek specialized counseling, a substantial number discover vital support and empathy within these inclusive and affirming therapeutic settings.

How does LGBTQ+ counseling work?

Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Charlottesville, VA typically begins with an initial assessment to understand your specific needs. LGBTQ+ counselors aim to create a safe, inclusive, and affirming environment for anyone within the LGBTQ+ community by encouraging self-acceptance and offering an understanding of your identity and experiences. LGBTQ+ therapy addresses issues like coming out, discrimination, mental health challenges, and gender transition, and provides support for LGBTQ+ relationships.

Why is LGBTQ+ counseling important?

LGBTQ+ counseling is incredibly important because it can help queer individuals accept their identity, learn self-love, and give them important tools for facing the challenges of being a queer person in today’s society, among many other benefits. LGBTQ+-affirming therapists can understand the unique perspective and experiences of queer individuals as they help them process past trauma, address family conflicts, treat issues with anxiety, and more.

Is LGBTQ+ counseling conducted in person or online?

Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Charlottesville, VA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.

How long does LGBTQ+ counseling last?

The number of sessions for LGBTQ+ counseling depends on the specific needs and goals of the individual. It could encompass a relatively limited series of sessions or extend into a longer counseling plan. The precise quantity and duration of sessions typically emerge through collaborative discussion with the counselor, taking into account the client’s progress and their therapeutic objectives.

Need more help deciding?

Charlottesville, VA LGBTQ Counseling – Gender and Sexuality Therapy

Finding a counselor, therapist, or psychologist who truly understands, cares for, and is capable of working with the LGBTQ community is a highly challenging task. The ability to effectively provide counseling and therapy for this community is among the rarest specialties in the mental healthcare community.

At Thriveworks LGBTQ Counseling Charlottesville,VA we have on staff leading LGBTQ counselors in the Charlottesville, VA area. They are highly experienced in working alongside LQBTQ clients and excel in their ability to understand, empathize with, and help their clients process the many issues that both the Transgender and Questioning communities are specifically faced with. Reach out today to schedule an appointment.

Common LGBTQ+ Challenges

It is undeniable that the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Questioning communities face many unique challenges:

  • Legal issues
  • Domestic challenges
  • Hormone Therapy
  • Social Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Misunderstanding and Judgment from family and friends

Getting LGBTQ+ Competent Care

The list above is far from exhaustive, but we believe that each of the challenges faced by the LGBTQ community brings with it the unique opportunity to overcome and to set an example for others that being defeated is not the only option. Processing through these issues is rarely an easy task, one which becomes increasingly difficult when faced alone. Unfortunately most people experiencing the challenges that come with being a member of the LGBTQ community do just that – attempt to face them alone, but often realize little success.

The level of misunderstanding toward this community has never been higher; and sadly, this is echoed by the suicide-related statistics in this community. Compared to their straight peers, the youths of the LGB community are four times more likely to attempt suicide, while the Questioning community also is three times more likely. Almost one half of the young members in the LGBTQ community have given serious thought to attempting suicide, while approximately one quarter has reported a suicide attempt.

Scheduling LGBTQ+ Counseling at Thriveworks Charlottesville

The statistics are frightening and are compounded by the fact that youths are not the only demographic of the community affected. These figures point out the dire need for understanding, help, and care toward the LGBTQ community, and At Thriveworks LGBTQ Therapy Charlottesville, VA we are proud to fill the gap.

We provide a wide range of day and evening availability, as well as availability to meet with a provider within the week of scheduling. We are also in network with most major insurance plans, so receiving the help you need is likely more affordable than you thought.

Call us today at (434) 812-4009! We’re ready to start when you are.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 360+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our therapists and counselors in Charlottesville accept 25 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia Medicare Advantage

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS HMO

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Virginia | Exchange

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS HMO

  • CareFirst Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Virginia | BCBS PPO

  • Carelon

  • Carelon | Medicare Advantage

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Compsych

Show more
Self-pay costs at Charlottesville
Talk therapy

Talk therapy

Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Talk therapy

Psychiatry

Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management

First session

$1

Ongoing sessions

$1

Hear from our clients

4.7 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I appreciate how simplistic everything is from scheduling appointments to using the portal, and then also how wonderful my sessions have been!
Emily Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Andrea is wonderful to work with. She is very skilled in listening and assessing my concerns and providing various tools and strategies for me to cope and manage my life and stressors. She is such a blessing to me this season of my life.
Ramona Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
The service fits my schedule and personality well.
Benjamin Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Michele is awesome! She listens but also asks questions that lead me to realizing what I'm doing without having to “tell me”. And I feel that she really does care about my well-being.
Sierra Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I love my therapist. She has been so helpful to me and I feel comfortable sharing my thoughts and feelings with her. I also like the ability to have virtual sessions.
Janice Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I have had a great experience with Robin.
Natasha Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
The automated forms are good for making sure I am checking in but they lack nuance and ability to tailor to needs of patients and provider
Jordan Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
I really feel Sharon knows exactly how to help me with my issues as I go through a tumultuous divorce. I feel very safe with Sharon's words of wisdom and her understanding.
Cynthia Mar 2025
Thriveworks.com verified review

Where to find us

Getting here

We share a building with Shear Magic Salon, Sei Bella Salon, New Looks Studio, Hairflair, Ishan Gala Foundation, Embrace Home Loans, Alpha Home Care Services, and JBD Mobile Catering & Events. We are located at the corner of Commonwealth Drive and Greenbrier Drive. Next to us on Commonwealth Drive is Commonwealth Drive Cemetery and Charlottesville Blue Ridge Dental. Across the street is Lighten Up hair salon.

Phone number

(434) 205-6776

Languages spoken by VA providers

  • English
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Saturday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Wednesday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Friday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 6:00pm
Monday 8:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 8:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

18 photos