LGBTQ+ | How We Help

Did you know:

The LGBTQ+ community is three times more likely to experience mental health issues?
Suicide is the leading cause of death for individuals ages 10-24 in this community?
An estimated 20-30% of LGBTQ+ people abuse substances (compared to about 9% of the general population)?

Our practice is proud to offer inclusive, LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy for teens, young adults, and families. We work with our clients to create a safe space where they can explore and express their sexual and gender identities. We do not utilize a heteronormative or cisgendernormative model when they do not fully meet our clients’ needs. Our therapists provide individualized treatment tailored to your unique concerns and goals. We embrace your journey and support your growth.

If you’re unsure whether LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy is right for you or your teen, take a few minutes to review the chart below and consider if anything feels familiar.

Parents Report:	Teens Report:	Your Observations:
Teen has made negative comments about body image, self-esteem, or discussed removing primary and/or secondary sex characteristics	“I don’t feel right in this body” “I wish I was born (opposite of assigned gender)”	Teen appears more uncomfortable than others talking about puberty symptoms
Teen reports wanting to feel “normal”	“I don’t feel like the others kids” “Something does not feel right”	Teen does not like discussing self in relation to others
Teen shows signs of discomfort when changing around peers	“I don’t want to participate in gym” “I don’t feel comfortable changing in front of others”	Teen requests note to excuse absence from gym or other physical activity
Teen is bullied at school for the way they dress or who they date/hang out with	“Kids at school have been talking about me” “Bullying doesn’t bother me” “The kids at school are jerks”	Teen withdraws from questions about school/peers
Teen is very emotional, ranging from teary to irritable/lashing out	“I feel sad all the time” “I feel overwhelmed” “I hate my life”	Disheveled appearance, not keeping up with activities of daily living
Teen is lethargic, sleeps late into the day and still reports being tired	“I feel tired all the time” “I can’t get anything done” “I can’t wake up early”	Neglecting hygiene
They have noticed scratches on teen’s arms, legs, feet	“My cat scratched me” “I don’t know how I got that”	Superficial cuts or burns on wrists, forearms, upper arms, stomach, inner ankles, feet
Teen yells, curses at, threatens, or speaks disrespectfully to parents	“I hate everyone” “No one gets what I’m going through”	Teen presents as angry or out of control
Teen is skipping school	“I hate school and I don’t really have to go”	Cancelled appointment due to teen refusing to attend
Teen can’t seem to focus on his/her homework, easily distracted	“I can’t pay attention” “It’s too hard” “I just can’t keep up with what’s going on in class”	You need to repeat questions several times
Teen has been isolating, not wanting to hang out with friends or engage in activities	“I just want to be alone” “I don’t fit in”	Teen appears withdrawn

If the answer is “yes,” your teen would likely benefit from therapy. To be sure we’d be a good fit, we’d like to offer you a free 15 minute phone consultation to discuss the challenges you’ve been facing and answer any questions or concerns you may have. Just fill out the form below to get started.

Free 15 Minute Phone Consultation

Fill out the form below to request a free 15 minute phone consultation with one of our therapists.

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Get To Know Our Therapists

Marina Voron, MA, LMFT
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Co-Founder | Clinical Director

Marina is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Sex Therapist working towards AASECT clinical certification. She has extensive experience working with LGBTQ+ adolescents and their families. Marina is able to create a safe and supportive environment where adolescents are free to explore their identity and orientation and develop effective skills to cope with emotional and behavioral issues. She is passionate about fostering acceptance and enriching family relationships.

Lisa Mineo, MA, LMFT, CASAC-T
Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist | Clinical Supervisor
Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee

Lisa is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor Trainee. She has worked at a non-profit organization for over 5 years treating at-risk youth and their families. Lisa is passionate about working with teens and has been able to connect with some of the most challenging clients. She works with adolescents experiencing substance abuse and anger management issues, as well as their families.