Image of a therapist and client in a counseling session.

6,560 people sought LGBTQ+ counseling help in North Carolina in the last year

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

Meet with a provider as soon as this week

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS Medicare Advantage, +21 more
Military / Veteran, LGBTQIA+, Infidelity, Sex Therapy, Stress, +8 more

As a systemically informed, non-binary, Latinx therapist, I have a personal understanding of the complex emotions associated with practicing self acce... As a systemically informed, non-binary, Latinx therapist, I have a personal understanding of the complex emotions associated with practicing self acceptance and processing relationship changes throughout the process. Read more

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Carelon, Caresource, +20 more
Domestic Abuse, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, +10 more

I believe the best therapy happens when you and I are able to truly connect.

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +21 more
Anger, Behavioral Issues, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, +14 more

Mental health treatment should be both holistic and inclusive, let’s consider all factors of your well-being

ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS

Aetna, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS, Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card), +20 more
LGBTQIA+, Anger, Coping Skills, Infidelity, Self Esteem, +11 more

Starting LGBTQ+ counseling

What is LGBTQ+ counseling?

LGBTQ+ 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 Raleigh, NC 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. The 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 Raleigh, NC 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?

In the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics, Adam Rippon became the first openly gay winter Olympian to medal. Many Americans cheered him both on and off the ice as he helped US Figure Skating win a team bronze medal with his emotional performance. He also helped bring awareness and understanding of what it is like to be an openly gay athlete. Rippon joined up with his friend, Gus Kenworthy, as an outspoken advocate for acceptance for athletes who identify as Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, or Questioning. In reality, Adam and Gus were an inspiration to anyone, not just LGBTQ athletes. If only the world consistently reflected the courage and love on display at the Olympics. While great strides have been made, the LGBTQ still faces stigma and shame for being who they are. Here are a few sobering realities:

  • Suicide is a leading cause of death for LGBTQ youth, ages 10-24.
  • At home and at school, LGBTQ youth experience more bullying, hatred, prejudice, and fear than their cis-gendered and straight peers.
  • The rate of mental disorders within the LGBTQ community for illnesses like Major Depressive Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and PTSD is higher than the general population.
  • Approximately 9 percent of the general population struggles with substance abuse. Approximately 30 percent of the LGBTQ population struggles with substance abuse.
  • Many people who identity with as LGBTQ live with “minority stress,” a heightened level of anxiety that results from experiencing family rejection, prejudice, social exclusion, harassment, and abuse.

“You can argue that it’s a different world now than the one when Matthew Shepard was killed, but there is a subtle difference between tolerance and acceptance. … It’s the chasm between being invited to a colleague’s wedding with your same-sex partner and being able to slow-dance without the other guests whispering.”
― Jodi Picoult, Sing You Home

LGBTQ people still live in a world where they can experience anything from abuse to tolerance to acceptance for simply being who they are. The toll of living in an unpredictable and often hostile world takes its toll. More and more, people who identify as LGBTQ are working with a mental health professional to find the healing, acceptance, and community that they need.

Thriveworks Counseling in Raleigh offers LGBTQ competent therapy. We understand the unique challenges our clients who identify as LGBTQ experiences, and we have walked with many as they come to self-acceptance and build a life upon that acceptance.

The Dual Stigma: Counseling for LGBTQ Communities

Making the decision to start therapy can be difficult for anyone, but those within the LGBTQ community face particular challenges. Up until 1973, the American Psychological Association officially categorized homosexuality as a pathology. Even though the official definitions have change, not all attitudes among mental health professionals have changed. Some still see sexual orientation or gender a problem to be fixed instead of a reality to be accepted. Thus, many of the people who need mental health care the most have the most difficult time finding a therapist who can offer informed care. This dynamic is so common that there is a name for it: the dual stigma.

The gap between need and quality of care is being closed, however. Many therapists and members of the LGBTQ community are working together. They are raising awareness about the need for mental health care and about how therapists can best provide that care. Thriveworks in Raleigh works hard to offer affirmative and sensitive care to our LGBTQ clients.

Affirmative and Sensitive Therapy

Every client is unique. Everyone has their own weaknesses and strengths, opportunities and challenges, traumas and triumphs, experiences and story. Whatever people have going on in their lives, they need a place where they can speak openly and honestly about their lives. They need a space where they feel safe and accepted. They need a space where judgement and shame have no role. In many ways, this therapeutic environment cannot be established without trust. As clients trust their therapist, they often are able to open up more and more. With trust established, clients may delve deeper and deeper into emotional and psychological wounds and find deeper and deeper healing. Many people use therapy to discuss issues such as…

  • How and when to come out
  • Depression
  • Healthy communication
  • Dating and other relationships
  • Dealing with discrimination and non-acceptance
  • Past trauma and abuse
  • Addiction
  • Gender and sexual identity
  • Anxiety and stress
  • Eating disorders
  • Transcending gender roles
  • Family concerns
  • Self-esteem issues
  • Safety concerns

Therapy may repair psychological and emotional wounds. It may teach clients coping skills and healing strategies. It may also inspire people to reach for their dreams and make hard but important changes in their lives. Therapy may help an individual clarify their identity, values, and goals. It may empower them to build a life they love.

Scheduling an Appointment at Thriveworks in Raleigh for LGBTQ Sensitive Counseling

If you are considering reaching out for therapy, know that Thriveworks Counseling in Raleigh, NC has appointments available. Our therapists are licensed mental health professionals who are also sensitive and informed about the particular needs their LGBTQ clients may be experiencing. We want to help. We know that life is challenging, so we have made scheduling therapy as easy as possible. When you contact our office, a person (not a voicemail) will answer and help you make an appointment. You may be meeting with your counselor the following day. We also accept many insurance plans. Let’s work together. Call today.

Pricing & insurance

Our therapists accept most major insurances. We accept 585+ insurance plans, and offer self-pay options, too.
Learn more about pricing for therapy and counseling services at Thriveworks.

Our Raleigh therapists and counselors accept 27 insurance plans

  • Aetna

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS

  • Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina | BCBS Medicare Advantage

  • Blue Cross Blue Shield | Anthem (Blue Card)

  • Carelon

  • Caresource

  • Carolina Behavioral Health Alliance (CBHA)

  • Cigna | Evernorth

  • Cigna | Evernorth EAP

  • Cigna | Evernorth Medicare Advantage

  • Community Health Options

  • Compsych

Show more
Self-pay costs at Raleigh
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

4.9 Learn about verified reviews
★★★★★
I love my therapist and psychiatrist
John Feb 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Very helpful She is a pro. I know because I’ve had a lot of therapists. I’d give Thriveworks 6 stars if I could
Read more Very helpful She is a pro. I know because I’ve had a lot of therapists. I’d give Thriveworks 6 stars if I could
Alfred Feb 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
My online visits with William have been a God-send! His style is relaxed, but attentive. I highly recommend ThriveWorks for your counseling needs.
Read more My online visits with William have been a God-send! His style is relaxed, but attentive. I highly recommend ThriveWorks for your counseling needs.
Jody Feb 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Had bad fall last year and I was feeling sad, depressed and angry cuz now I couldn't go to see my auntie mom like I was doing two or three times a year.  Now I have to be home I broke my wrist in two places now I have doctors and doctors and doctors and x-rays and all this other stuff going on and I felt like I didn't have my life, didn't have a life right then and I know I would get better but it was taking too long so that was infecting me mentally and so I found the Thriveworks card at my pain doctors office and I gave him a call and immediately they set me up with an appointment.  I've had three or four appointments now.  I'm starting to feel better because I live by myself, I'm 71, and I needed someone to talk to so y'all set me up with a very nice lady.  I learned out to do Zoom and a couple meetings of course, but I'm feeling better  as time goes on.  I still have to have another surgery but at least I'm closer to being able to traveling again right now I can even walk a half a block so thank you Thriveworks for being there for me.  I don't know how ling I need you but I'm glad you're there.  My person is kind to start phone she allows me to talk, she gives me feedback, and I'm just so grateful to have had her during this holiday as well so I've also recommended a couple other people to try Thriveworks right at my doctor's office and they seem interested.  Thank you Thriveworks
Read more Had bad fall last year and I was feeling sad, depressed and angry cuz now I couldn't go to see my auntie mom like I was doing two or three times a year.  Now I have to be home I broke my wrist in two places now I have doctors and doctors and doctors and x-rays and all this other stuff going on and I felt like I didn't have my life, didn't have a life right then and I know I would get better but it was taking too long so that was infecting me mentally and so I found the Thriveworks card at my pain doctors office and I gave him a call and immediately they set me up with an appointment.  I've had three or four appointments now.  I'm starting to feel better because I live by myself, I'm 71, and I needed someone to talk to so y'all set me up with a very nice lady.  I learned out to do Zoom and a couple meetings of course, but I'm feeling better  as time goes on.  I still have to have another surgery but at least I'm closer to being able to traveling again right now I can even walk a half a block so thank you Thriveworks for being there for me.  I don't know how ling I need you but I'm glad you're there.  My person is kind to start phone she allows me to talk, she gives me feedback, and I'm just so grateful to have had her during this holiday as well so I've also recommended a couple other people to try Thriveworks right at my doctor's office and they seem interested.  Thank you Thriveworks
Jean Jan 2024
Thriveworks.com verified review
★★★★★
Ava has been a joy to collaborate with. Great insight and very professional. As a DSS Social Worker My kids enjoy their sessions with Mrs. Ava and she is able to connect with my kids like no other therapist.
Read more Ava has been a joy to collaborate with. Great insight and very professional. As a DSS Social Worker My kids enjoy their sessions with Mrs. Ava and she is able to connect with my kids like no other therapist.
Raleigh Sep 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
I have known Mrs. Ashley Barber-Brown for 18 years now and I can honestly say that she is truly an amazing person. Besides her strong will to work hard and take care of her family, Ashley is also compassionate and undoubtedly dedicated to making sure that she helps others. Her selflessness, loyalty and authentic personality are just some of the many attributes that I admire about her.
Read more I have known Mrs. Ashley Barber-Brown for 18 years now and I can honestly say that she is truly an amazing person. Besides her strong will to work hard and take care of her family, Ashley is also compassionate and undoubtedly dedicated to making sure that she helps others. Her selflessness, loyalty and authentic personality are just some of the many attributes that I admire about her.
Raleigh Aug 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★★
Ava Baker is a wonderful therapist, she is patient, kind and I feel very comfortable talking to her. I think she is an asset to your company.
Read more Ava Baker is a wonderful therapist, she is patient, kind and I feel very comfortable talking to her. I think she is an asset to your company.
Raleigh Aug 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com
★★★★
Caitlyn Dowdy is attentive and thoughtful with her words. She helps bring focus to your goals and offers a safe place to constructively discuss feelings and needs.
Read more Caitlyn Dowdy is attentive and thoughtful with her words. She helps bring focus to your goals and offers a safe place to constructively discuss feelings and needs.
Raleigh Jan 2020
Review left on Thriveworks.com

Where to find us

Getting here

Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Raleigh is located at 8406 Six Forks Rd Suite 104, Raleigh, NC 27615, next to Spherion

Phone number

(919) 642-4857

Languages spoken by NC providers

  • Hindi
  • Russian
  • Urdu
  • English
  • Punjabi
  • Spanish
  • Creole
  • French
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
Wednesday 8:00am - 9:00pm
Thursday 8:00am - 9:00pm

Shown in ET

Friday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Saturday 7:00am - 6:00pm
Sunday 8:00am - 5:00pm
Monday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Tuesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Wednesday 7:00am - 9:30pm
Thursday 7:00am - 9:30pm

Shown in ET

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