Discover how starting LGBTQIA+ counseling can support your own journey toward a happier, more fulfilling life.
15 therapists available in Blacksburg
As a therapist, I understand the importance of providing a safe, non-judgmental space in which individuals are met with kindness a...
About
As a therapist, I understand the importance of providing a safe, non-judgmental space in which individuals are met with kindness and where trust can grow and healing can begin.
I am a Resident in Counseling with 4 years of experience supporting adults and teenagers with a wide range of concerns, including anxiety, depression, parenting struggles, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Being bilingual in Spanish and English allows me to serve the Spanish-speaking community and welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds. I also have experience working with the immigrant population and strive to provide compassionate, culturally responsive care that meets clients where they are.
I earned my Master’s in Counseling and Human Development and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Radford University. My approach is holistic and includes person-centered, multicultural, cognitive behavioral therapy, expressive arts, solution-focused, and supportive-directive methods, tailored to each client’s needs.
I understand that life can feel difficult and overwhelming at times. I believe healing and growth are possible when trust and rapport are built, and I will walk alongside you at your own pace in the journey toward well-being. Together, we can create space for hope, resilience, and meaningful change.
Education and training
View more therapists in Blacksburg
As a devoted social worker and therapist with over a decade of experience, I understand the complexities of navigating life’s chal...
As a devoted social worker and therapist with over a decade of experience, I understand the complexities of navigating life’s challenges and strive to create a safe, supportive space where clients feel empowered to grow and heal.
Ramona Wilson is a Supervisee in Social Work with over 10 years of experience in the human services field. She focuses on supporting adults and families dealing with anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Ramona’s background includes crisis intervention, mental health assessments, and utilizing evidence-based therapeutic approaches tailored to the unique needs of her clients. She is dedicated to helping clients build resilience, achieve their goals, and uncover their inner strengths.
Ramona has a Master’s degree in Social Work from Howard University and is certified in safe and sound protocol and pregnancy and infant loss advocacy. She uses cognitive behavior therapy and solution-focused therapy to help clients build resilience, achieve personal goals, and navigate challenges with confidence and strength.
Ramona understands that life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but she believes in every individual’s ability to grow and heal. She creates a safe, welcoming space where clients can explore their concerns and build the tools they need to thrive. If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey, Ramona is here to support you.
I believe that the greatest struggle in life is the battle within yourself and that the trials and tribulations you go through can...
I believe that the greatest struggle in life is the battle within yourself and that the trials and tribulations you go through can be used to develop you as a person.
Keyonda Johnson is a Resident in Counseling with over 10 years of experience assisting adults and seniors who have a range of concerns including self-judgment, emotional pain, grief, chronic illness, behavioral problems, and difficulties in coping with challenging life situations and transitions. Keyonda supports individuals overwhelmed or defined by their life stories, particularly those facing trauma, identity struggles, relationship issues, mood or personality disorders, depression, and anxiety. She has previous experience in crisis intervention, skill-building, community stabilization, and intellectual disability.
Keyonda received her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. Keyonda utilizes a variety of clinical approaches that are targeted to client needs including dialectical behavior therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive behavioral therapy, solutions-focused therapy, and radical acceptance.
Keyonda empowers others to see their experiences from a new perspective and rewrite their stories to highlight strengths, agency, and the possibility for change in a safe space. Whether you're seeking guidance through life's challenges, coping with stress, or wanting a deeper understanding of yourself, Keyonda is here to support you.
As a woman raised in Appalachia, I bring a deep understanding of the cultural and social experiences that shape identity, especial...
As a woman raised in Appalachia, I bring a deep understanding of the cultural and social experiences that shape identity, especially for women navigating complex personal and regional dynamics.
Brianna Banks is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 5 years of experience supporting individuals in underserved and low-income communities. She is passionate about supporting individuals navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and identity development. Briana is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and supportive therapeutic environment where clients feel empowered to explore challenges, build on their strengths, and create meaningful change aligned with their personal goals.
Brianna is a PhD Candidate in Counselor Education and Supervision and has a Master’s in Counseling and Human Development both at Lindsey Wilson College. She uses cognitive behavioral strategies with person-centered techniques to guide clients in developing healthy coping skills, clarifying goals, and navigating challenges with resilience.
Brianna is committed to creating a compassionate and encouraging space where clients feel heard, valued, and supported. She encourages clients to take intentional steps toward growth and healing, helping them move forward with clarity and confidence at a pace that feels authentic and comfortable to them.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with experience in a variety of mental health settings....
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia with experience in a variety of mental health settings.
Beth Hollingsworth is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 9 years of experience in clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, crisis intervention, and intensive outpatient services. She works with adults who are struggling with issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, stress, grief, and substance use. Beth is also a certified clinical trauma professional.
Beth has a Master of Counseling from Nova Southeastern University. She uses eclectic treatment modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, person-centered therapy, motivational interviewing, mindfulness meditation, and guided visualization.
Beth believes a trusting relationship between therapist and client is the foundation for addressing life’s challenges. She wants to help you identify your strengths and meet your goals. Schedule an appointment with her today!
I value honesty, inclusivity, and kindness. I believe the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship requires empathy, un...
I value honesty, inclusivity, and kindness. I believe the foundation of a successful therapeutic relationship requires empathy, unconditional positive regard, validation, and authenticity. I will provide these qualities to you in a safe and collaborative environment.
Jennie Brogan (pronouns she/her/they) is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience working with individuals in various counseling arenas. Jennie specializes in topics related to sex and sexuality, sex therapy, couples/relationship therapy, LGBTQ+ issues, "alternative lifestyles," religion & faith, and the intersection of sex and faith. She has been successful in treating clients with depression, anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and loss, adjustment disorders, and self-esteem issues. She has helped individuals develop healthy relationships, confidence, assertiveness, and communication skills.
Jennie earned her BS in Psychology at James Madison University, Master of Science in Counseling and Human Development at Radford University, and Master of Education in Human Sexuality Studies at Widener University. She uses person-centered therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and solution-focused therapy.
Jennie's work and life experiences show that she understands the unique challenges you experience throughout life. They persevere through many transitions (college, marriage, divorce, career changes) and identity-defining experiences. If you are looking for a counselor to guide you to success, schedule an appointment with her today!
Empowering resilience and healing through compassionate counseling for those navigating grief, trauma, and life’s challenges....
Empowering resilience and healing through compassionate counseling for those navigating grief, trauma, and life’s challenges.
Amanda Kassay is a compassionate and dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor with over 8 years of experience. She has worked with clients from childhood through late adulthood in individual and family therapeutic settings. Partnering closely with clients, Amanda addresses a wide range of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, and life transitions. Her specialized focus lies in grief therapy and guiding others through the process of loss and helping them reinvest in a meaningful life.
Amanda earned her Master’s in Counseling and Human Services from Lindsey Wilson College. She employs therapeutic modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and therapeutic art techniques.
Driven by a profound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit, Amanda is dedicated to providing compassionate guidance and support to individuals navigating grief and loss. She empowers clients to honor their emotions, cultivate resilience, and embark on transformative journeys toward healing and personal growth. Schedule an appointment today.
As a woman of color, I strive to assist individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds in navigating life’s challenges with underst...
As a woman of color, I strive to assist individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds in navigating life’s challenges with understanding, empowerment, and healing.
I am a Resident in Counseling with 2 years of experience supporting individuals and families through life’s challenges. My approach is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration, helping clients navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, family issues, and life transitions. I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and emotional balance while creating a safe and welcoming space for meaningful growth and healing.
I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University and began my career as a community-based mental health professional. My work draws from cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic principles to help clients gain insight, strengthen coping skills, and create lasting emotional change.
I believe everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal is to walk beside clients as they pursue healing, personal growth, and peace. Together, we’ll create a path toward greater self-understanding and emotional freedom—one that honors your unique story and empowers you to thrive.
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...
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 compassionate, affirming space for support.
Hudson Smith is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 6 years of experience across the mental health crisis continuum, including inpatient care, community stabilization, and prevention. He works with diverse concerns such as substance use, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. Hudson centers marginalized and under-resourced individuals, using an intersectional approach to support resilience. He welcomes all clients, with a focus on LGBTQ+ folks, disabled individuals, and those impacted by their social identities.
Hudson earned his Master’s in Counselor Education from Virginia Tech. He uses an eclectic, client-centered approach to therapy. Grounded in empathy and nonjudgment, he sees the therapeutic relationship as a space to explore new thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, while supporting each person’s capacity to grow into who they need to be.
Hudson has dedicated his career to supporting historically silenced communities and supporting clients as they grow into their most authentic selves. If you're seeking a space where you can show up as you are, Hudson welcomes you to reach out and begin your journey.
I understand how overwhelming life can be from personal experiences, so together we can navigate your journey....
I understand how overwhelming life can be from personal experiences, so together we can navigate your journey.
Chardonnay Crabtree is a Resident in Counseling in Virginia with 3 years of experience and a wide range of skills to help tailor treatment best for each client. She has worked with people ages 5-80 with a broad spectrum of disorders. Her areas of specialty are treating trauma with accelerated resolution therapy, as well as anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and ADHD.
Chardonnay earned a Master's in Clinical Mental Health and Rehabilitation Therapy from West Virginia University. Her client-centered counseling style provides a compassionate, empathetic, safe, and nonjudgmental climate for the client. She believes that a peaceful mind creates a peaceful life.
Chardonnay welcomes anyone seeking support and guidance. She recognizes that reaching out for help can be scary, but she is here to provide a safe and empathetic space where your concerns are heard and respected. Let us begin this journey so you can gain the understanding and peace you want and have a more enjoyable day.
*Chardonnay does not provide ADHD Evaluations.*
I understand the issues associated with navigating differing types of relationships and the various emotions associated with these...
I understand the issues associated with navigating differing types of relationships and the various emotions associated with these interactions.
Michael Orndoff is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 4 years of experience in the field of Social Work. He is passionate about helping adults, adolescents, and couples manage their own unique challenges in their daily life. Michael specializes in relationship issues, depression, career concerns, anger management, building self-esteem, and parenting concerns.
Michael completed his Master's Degree in Social Work from Norfolk State University and his Bachelor's degree in Social Work from Virginia Wesleyan University. Michael came from a blended family and witnessed firsthand the struggles associated with building and maintaining relationships. Michael's professional experience has helped him learn how to develop and implement treatment approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and person-centered therapy (PCT).
Life is full of challenges and each and every person has their own unique story to tell. Michael is ready to listen and help you navigate your specific situation so that you can feel more empowered to enact positive change in your own life. Through exploration of your unique life experiences, Michael is confident that he will be able to assist you in developing skills and strategies to manage whatever it is that you are being affected by. If you are ready to take back control over your life and put in the effort, schedule and appointment with him.
As a woman with ADHD, I bring a unique, empathetic perspective to therapy, allowing me to connect deeply with clients who seek sup...
As a woman with ADHD, I bring a unique, empathetic perspective to therapy, allowing me to connect deeply with clients who seek support from someone who genuinely understands diverse cognitive and emotional experiences.
Anne O'Hara is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 4 years of experience in community mental health and a passion for empowering clients and fostering meaningful change. She specializes in depression, anxiety, ADHD/ASD, women's issues, stress, insomnia, and relationships (including polyamorous and ethically non-monogamous). Anne is deeply committed to the LGBTQIA+ community and specializes in supporting trans and nonbinary individuals through the journey of medical transitioning.
Anne has a Master's in Clinical Social Work from Radford University. She uses a range of approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, rational emotive behavior therapy, and feminist theory.
Having a brain that works differently can be overwhelming and lonely. Anne can provide skills, strategies, and education while honoring each client's unique identity and strengths. Ready to start your healing journey? Anne is here to provide a safe and compassionate space for your growth.
Having understanding and empathy allows me to help my clients feel comfortable focusing on complex or troublesome areas of their l...
Having understanding and empathy allows me to help my clients feel comfortable focusing on complex or troublesome areas of their lives.
Kristin Rasmussen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with more than 8 years of professional experience working with adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitional issues, chronic stress, and more.
Kristin earned her Master's degree in Social Work from Radford University and employs a range of therapeutic approaches, which are used as appropriate for the best care of my clients. Some of these approaches include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and solutions-focused therapy. She utilizes EMDR for clients who have simple or complex trauma to process and move on from. She is a huge proponent of the benefits of EMDR and each therapy session is tailored to the individual needs of each client.
The driving force in Kristin's therapy practice is empathy. Having understanding and empathy allows her to help her clients to feel comfortable focusing on the areas of their lives that may feel complex and formidable. The therapeutic relationship she strives to develop with her clients is one of warmth, compassion, and trust. Kristin views therapy as a time to allow the client to discuss any issues they would like to grow from or resolve, without judgment.
I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and I seek to make others feel heard and understood; I create a safe, n...
I believe that clients are the experts of their own lives, and I seek to make others feel heard and understood; I create a safe, non-judgmental environment and work with you to reach your goals.
Holden Raines is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 8 years of experience working in the mental health field. He has worked with a variety of populations including adults, adolescents, and children/families. He has worked in the community extensively and developed a flexible, person-centered approach. Holden specializes in treating anxiety, depression, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
Holden completed his Master's (M.S) in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Radford University. Holden first began working with children, adolescents, and their families in the home environment. He then transitioned to crisis counseling in which he provided solution-focused brief therapy directed at short-term goals. He obtained his license in 2021, and now provides outpatient counseling in a traditional face-to-face setting and also via video. Holden has developed an adaptable style in counseling and meets clients where they are. He often utilizes existential, narrative, strength-based, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused, and person-centered approaches in counseling.
As hard as we may fight it, a stigma still exists regarding mental health and asking for help. Holden understands that it can be a difficult decision to begin therapy. He looks forward to helping you identify goals, work toward them, and live a more fulfilling life.
As a young woman living in rural Appalachia, I understand the impact that social and cultural norms can have on our self-explorati...
As a young woman living in rural Appalachia, I understand the impact that social and cultural norms can have on our self-exploration, mental health, and life situations.
Darian Phillips Fawbush is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health field. Darian specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, women's issues, rural mental health, and the intersectionality of familial, social, and cultural dynamics that can bring a diverse range of challenges. Darian identifies as an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community and affirms all spiritual or religious beliefs. Darian completed her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Virginia's College-Wise, and her Master's degree in Counseling Education from Virginia Tech.
Darian has lived in rural Appalachia her entire life, which brings a unique understanding of how important social, cultural, and relational dynamics can be for clients as they examine their sense of self. Darian utilizes multiple treatment approaches including trauma-informed care, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), & cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Darian understands that life is not always easy. She is confident that she would be able to support you on your journey to forge paths to wellness, improve coping, and provide support for challenges you may be facing. If you are looking for a caring, compassionate, and understanding guide to assist you.
You deserve dedicated time with a mental health professional — it can be life-changing.
Not ready to book? Contact me
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.
No membership fees or subscriptions
Evening and weekend sessions
Award-winning therapy & psychiatry
What support are you seeking?
You acknowledge that by submitting this form, you are providing what may be considered “sensitive data” and consent to Thriveworks Privacy Policy & Terms. By submitting this information, you consent to receive communication from Thriveworks about our services via automatic calls, artificial or pre-recorded messages, or texts at the phone number provided, or by email at the address provided. You have the option to opt out of communications.
We will contact you with availability updates based on the preferences you provided for up to six months.
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.
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Blacksburg, 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.
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.
Thriveworks LGBTQ+ counseling in Blacksburg, VA is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
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.
The LGBTQ community faces mental health concerns just like the rest of the population. However, they experience more negative mental health outcomes, possibly because of these prejudices and biases. At Thriveworks Blacksburg, we offer a space that is welcoming, supportive, knowledgeable, and free from bias. We want to ensure a positive outcome for our LGBTQ clients.
One of our goals is to inspire and empower our clients, while helping them achieve their goals. While a person’s gender identity may not be a source of stress, LGBTQ people often find that the social stigma of living as a minority is stressful, and can lead to anxiety and other mental health issues. At Thriveworks Blacksburg LGBTQ counseling, we believe that whether one is seeking therapy for gender identity issues, or for other mental health concerns, it’s important to work with a qualified mental health professional who is LGBTQ informed. Reach out today for help.
Society’s acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identifications is progressing. But the fact remains that bullying, discrimination, and marginalization of LGBTQ people continues, sometimes even in one’s own family unfortunately. Add to that the usual daily stressors, such as relational complexities, workplace concerns, or low self-esteem, and the result is higher levels of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and other mental health concerns for LGBTQ people.
Though many therapists may be qualified to help, sometimes LGBTQ clients feel more comfortable with an LGBTQ therapist, or at least an LGBTQ informed therapist. Knowing what challenges you may face as a member of the LGBTQ community and working with LGBTQ inclusive providers can help ensure more positive outcome.
“Minority stress” within the LGBTQ community comes from a variety of factors including social stigma, discrimination, prejudice, denial of civil and human rights, abuse, harassment, victimization, social exclusion, and family rejection. Though not all people will face mental health challenges, discrimination or violence, many people report less mental well-being and satisfaction.
Though more therapists today have positive attitudes toward the LGBTQ community, people still face unequal care due to a lack of training and/or understanding. Here at Thriveworks LGBTQ Counseling in Blacksburg, our providers have up-to-date knowledge of the unique needs of the LGBTQ community and experience with LGBT mental health issues. They will focus on more than just a your sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
We want you to feel comfortable, welcome, supported, and cared for. You can be confident in talking about sensitive issues, your thoughts, and feelings. Here, you’ll receive acceptance, support, and encouragement to grow and ultimately, thrive. Reach out today to get started.
Includes individual, couples, child/ teen, & family therapy
Includes reducing symptoms with medication & management
Shown in ET
19 photos
Call us to book
Our team is happy to help you schedule your first session.
Book online
Find the right provider for you. Book your session online yourself in just a few easy steps.