Chesapeake LGBTQ Counseling

Informed and Sensitive Mental Health Care— Counseling for Chesapeake’s LGBTQ Community

The Olympics are usually a cultural phenomenon that promotes understanding and kindness, but the 2018 athletes who represented the USA took their mission to new heights. Two openly gay athletes competed, and Adam Rippon became the first openly gay man to win a medal at the winter Olympics. Adam and his good friend, Gus Kenworthy, were outspoken about the challenges of being a gay athlete and the need for more acceptance. Their voices are some of the highlights of recent advancements for the legal and cultural rights of those identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or questioning. It is important to acknowledge the value of legal battles such as the legalization of gay marriage, but it is also important to acknowledge that more work is needed. LGBTQ individual continue to face marginalization and discrimination. They pay a steep mental health toll for inequality, and they suffer higher rates of mental health disorders because of it. Therapy that is informed and sensitive to the LGBTQ community’s particular needs is often an important part of healing.

“It pushed me to this place where I needed to come out and I’m so happy that I did. To take that step meant a lot for me and for my mental well-being.”
—Gus Kenworthy

A foundation of mental health is the importance of living one’s truth. People need to be known and accepted for who they are in every aspect of their identity. Living one’s truth often begins with self-acceptance, but the mental health field has not always offered this basic level of care to those in the LGBTQ community. The American Psychological Association used to pathologize homosexuality, and it only changed its position in 1973. Even though the definition was changed, attitudes did not always change. There are many therapists who do not offer LGBTQ individuals the care they deserve and need.

The mental health professionals at Thriveworks Chesapeake understand that their clients need to live their truth. Our life coaches, counselors, and therapists are sensitive to the unique challenges that individuals who identify as LGBTQ face, and we are committing to offering care that meets their needs.

What Does LGBTQ Competent Therapy Look Like?

People’s whole lives are important. Their physicality, intellect, emotions, spirituality, and sexuality are all facets of their identity, and they are all intertwined. People’s emotional life is connected to their sexuality. Their physical health is tied to their emotional health. Psychological health means all aspects of a person’s being are integrated, and yet, many people in the LGBTQ community are asked to separate their identity in a way that is harmful to themselves. That is why it is so important for mental health care to be personalized and also aware of unique challenges that those within the LGBTQ community may be facing.

LGBTQ competent therapy is first and foremost individualized. Every person is unique with their own experiences, challenges, and opportunities. Each professional at Thriveworks Chesapeake works hard to build trust with their clients. As a therapist and client grow to trust each other, people are often able to go deeper and deeper into their story. That means healing can go deeper and deeper as well. In order to establish that trust, therapists may ask questions like…

  • How did you decide to start therapy?
  • How is your living situation? Is it safe?
  • Is there were one thing you could change about your life, what would it be?
  • What are some of the exciting things happening in your life?
  • What do you want to be doing in a year? Five years? Ten? More?

Therapy is often about healing past wounds, but it is also about helping people create a happy life now. When people feel safe, they can speak openly about their fears, traumas, and challenges, but they can also speak openly about their hopes, loves, and opportunities. Therapy is often just as much about achieving dreams as it is about anything else. For some people, that looks like setting themselves up for a successful romantic relationship. For others, it looks like coming out to family and friends. There is no agenda or right path forward. Each client sets the trajectory and pace.

When trust is established and individualized care is offered, topics often arise that are unique to those in the LGBTQ community. The therapists at Thriveworks Chesapeake are committed to handling these topics with the care they deserve. A few examples include…

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

Appointments for LGBTQ Competent Therapy at Thriveworks Chesapeake

When you think about your life right now, are you ready to meet with a mental health professional? If you are, the therapists at Thriveworks Chesapeake are ready too. We offer LGBTQ sensitive therapy and we have appointments available. When you contact our office, you may be meeting with your counselor the following day. A scheduling specialist will answer your call and help you make an appointment. We do not have a voicemail, and we do not keep a waitlist. We do offer evening and weekend sessions. We also work with many difference insurance companies and accept many different insurance plans.

Let’s work together for your mental health. Call Thriveworks Chesapeake today.

Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

People Love Our Providers!

Overall Rating: 5★★★★★ based on 30 5 1 30 reviews. See all reviews
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Positive Feedback

★★★★★
I've had the pleasure of working with Tammy Boone for about 5 months now and it has been a wonderful journey. She has challenged me to do the work and express myself in ways I never thought was possible. She provides ways to cope with difficult situations without being judgmental. I couldn't have asked for a better clinician!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Simply the BEST

★★★★★
Dr. P. Jones, I can only say that she is simply the best!!! I found Dr. Jones in a rush, she had authentic concern for the situation, she went over and WELL ABOVE assisting us with our needs. She was our angel during this process!!!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Phenomenal services with Dr. Jones

★★★★★
I have had the pleasure of working with Dr. Jones for the past 9 months. She is incredibly genuine and easy to confide in, even over our online sessions. She was able to help me through a difficult time and I will truly miss my sessions with her. I highly recommend her services. Thank you Dr. Jones!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Close out Review

★★★★★
Close out review with Dr. Patricia Jones. Outstanding service and was extremely helpful in giving me several techniques that I can use. Having video sessions was very convenient and effective. Highly recommend Dr. Jones just for her listening skills and the ability to relate to what you are going through. Very passionate about her job and you will not be disappointed when selecting her as your counselor!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Close out Review

★★★★★
This is a close out review for Dr. Patricia Jones. Amazing therapist who helped me with increasing self-esteem and gave me tools to assist with problem solving skills and healthier thinking techniques. Extremely easy to talk to and sincerely engaged in every session. I look forward to using the tools to document my daily mood/thoughts and finding ways to keep myself active. She will definitely be missed!!!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Great Service

★★★★★
I really appreciate the efforts that Dr. Jones put toward helping me. Even in an online environment, I felt really comfortable and the tools and skills I acquired have continued to help me today.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Excellent Counselor

★★★★★
Sherry Lee is an excellent counselor. I have had the pleasure of knowing her and having her as a colleague for over 20 years. She is empathetic, caring, knowledgeable ,competent,and responsible.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Parent

★★★★★
Mrs. Sowers is by far the best counselor out there!! She made such an impact on my children, providing them with tools they can utilize everyday. She personally helped me learn positive coping mechanisms that have had a tremendous impact. Mrs Sowers is the best! I highly recommend to everyone!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Dr. Patricia Jones Review

★★★★★
Therapy was a brand new experience for me and i was actually very nervous about going. Dr. Jones was so great and helpful! She made me feel comfortable the very first day. She provided me the tools and guidance to combat my negative thoughts and anxiety. I was given great handouts that I can even carry with me in my wallet. I really enjoyed speaking with her and looked forward to each session and finding new tools to help me improve my self-esteem. I am truly grateful for the guidance I received from Dr. Jones!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Excellent Rapport

★★★★★
First of all, I was so afraid to go to counseling yet open up to a total stranger. However, Dr. Crayton is THE exception to the rule. I didn't feel like I was being judged, or that I was "crazy... She is so kind, calm, and very easy to talk to. She helped me overcome my hesitation about counseling. She allowed me to talk and "hear" my inner voice. Her style and compassion for helping people seems to come naturally. She allowed me to see things from a variety of perspectives but did not discount my feelings and perception. I feel like a new person just from my initial session. I welcome the next session and have already reflected on my mini homework assignment that she suggested. Dr. Crayton has given me a new outlook. I will definitely continue with her!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

DTRs changed my life lol!

★★★★★
I have spent the last year learning so much about myself and mental/emotional health! From day 1 Dr. Patricia Jones, has been open, welcoming and nonjudgmental. She truly created a space for me to work through the things I was going through there in the office but also gave me the tools that continue to help me now. DTRs changed my life lol, but seriously I would recommend Dr. Jones in a heartbeat! Also Thriveworks is simple to work with and the newsletter articles are great
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Great Place for People Considering Therapy

★★★★★
At first I was super hesitant on going to therapy for myself. Once I found out about Thriveworks, I started up for about a month. Dr. Jones, Patricia Jones, helped me with much more than my mental health and it exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend her if you are considering therapy. It is a very reasonable priced place to go to if you have a great copay as well. I changed for a better during my time there and would 101% recommend if you are considering counseling.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Great Guy!

★★★★★
I have accessed therapy myself but have never had the opportunity to see James for therapy. I have known James for a long time, probably about ten years and have always found him to be eager to help and able to help. He is a very devoted father and a good friend. I would trust him as a friend and as a therapist.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

James Baughman

★★★★★
James is a very capable and compassionate counselor. He goes the extra mile to assist his clients to accomplish their counseling goals. I definitely recommend him.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

counseling review

★★★★★
I attended several sessions from February-July with Patricia Jones. Ms. Jones provided me with breathing techniques, positive thinking, situation analysis and how to resolve different problems. I am now able to deal with daily stress and I can handle situations better by turning them into positive resolutions. Ms. Jones is an awesome counselor and it was a pleasure working with her in providing me with the help that I desperately needed.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Dr

★★★★★
Valerie Proctor is a seasoned therapist with expertise and compassion for clients struggling with trauma histories, relationship challenges, and identity issues. She has a special talent for working with biracial, multicultural, and LGTBTQ clients. Her keen insights paired with sound/proven intervention approaches serve to empower and equip clients for wholistic growth. Very Highly recommended!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Quality Counselor

★★★★★
Jame Baughman (LCSW) is an experienced counselor that has greatly helped me in my path toward a healthy mental life. He's a good listener and offers several different aspects of dealing with issues. Thriveworks is definitely a better place with him there! - One door closes, another opens! Thanks, James.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Mental illness hits close to home

★★★★★
We have a family member who suffers from anxiety and depression. It affects the entire family as well as the victims. It's ok to talk and get help. We encourage anyone with any mental health problems to not hide those issues, but seek help from professionals trained n these areas.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Brittany Morris

★★★★★
Ms. Morris is compassionate and approachable. She listens and in nonjudgmental.She has insight and gently guides individuals to authenticate themselves.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Former Coworker to James Baugh

★★★★★
James was always respectful to coworkers and fellow colleagues in the field, always pleasant to work with, was professional, and seemed to have great passion for his clinic and the work he did.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Great therapist

★★★★★
James Boughman is a great therapist. He is especially skilled helping individuals, couples and families deal with depression and other difficult mood disorders. I believe in him.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Brittany Morris is a top choice!

★★★★★
I had the pleasure of Brittany Morris working with me in my 4th grade classroom this past school year! She not only helped me manage my many students with anxiety and social adjustments, but she helped guide me along the school year as well. Brittany has a knack for keeping chaotic situations calm, reminding adults and children that they are being heard and are important. Brittany shares stories and advice that easily help children and adults in not so easy situations. She was not only a counselor to me and my class, but also became a friend. I will treasure everything Brittany taught me and my young students! I cannot say enough positive and wonderful things about her, I highly recommend her to anyone!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Valerie Proctor

★★★★★
Valerie Proctor is a dynamic therapist! Her experience and breadth of knowledge, coupled with her kindness and compassion make her one of the best in her field. Highly recommend!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Valerie Proctor

★★★★★
Valorie Proctor is an excellent therapist. She is empathetic, professional, and very knowledgeable in her field. I recommend Valerie to any one seeking mental health services.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Dr. Trent’s Sessions

★★★★★
My first ever long-term counseling sessions were spent with Dr. Trent. In being apprehensive about therapy, Dr. Trent provides a safe and comfortable space to freely discuss my emotions. Her professionalism, kindness, and care were vital in my journey to control my mental health.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

James Baughman

★★★★★
James is an awesome listener always mild toned
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

James is great!

★★★★★
James used to work with me in Oklahoma and I think he would be a great therapist to see!
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

Outstanding and caring individual

★★★★★
James is an outstanding therapist/social worker. He listens well and offers sincere advice. He’s a very caring individual with a true heart to help others.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

James Baughman

★★★★★
James is an awesome social worker. His knowledge of the system is truly amazing. The compassion he has for his clients is truly beyond compare. He's definitely, one of a kind.
Thriveworks Counseling Chesapeake

James Baughman

★★★★★
You have an extremely caring counselor in James who’s empathy helps him relate to those he comes in contact with. I had the pleasure of getting to know him before he left Oklahoma and consider him a great asset to your organization.
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Thriveworks Counseling

Schedule your first appointment with a Thriveworks Counselor or Life Coach!

  • 3804 Poplar Hill Rd Ste D,
    Chesapeake, VA 23321

  • Mon-Fri:7AM-9:30PM
    Saturday:7AM-6PM
    Sunday:8AM-5PM

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