LGBT Issues therapists in Shawnee, Kansas KS
LGBT Issues
Merritt Posten Benz
Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LSCSW, CDWF, MCLC
People are people, couples are couples and therapeutic work is open to everyone but/and if you identify within the LGBTQI community, there are circumstances and struggles that you must uniquely face. Navigating a healthy and full life is challenging for all of us, and everyone experiences times of struggle and challenge and the added stress and isolation of being a member of the LGBTQI within a heteronormative and often unsafe world, can make the harder things harder. It's crucial to know and have a therapist that is not only open and affirming but can also speak to the experience of being LGBTQI in a world that does not consistently have your interests or experiences in mind and often works intentionally to silence, shame and subdue you and your rights.
21 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Jayson L. Mystkowski
Psychologist, Ph.D., ABPP
Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ACBT) is an individualized, active and goal-oriented type of psychotherapy, with evidence-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy interventions targeting SGM-specific stress and concerns. Topics addressed in Affirmative Cognitive Behavioral Therapy include the following:
Stress management (e.g., coping skills, substance abuse and recovery)
Gender identity (e.g., evaluations for medical transition and supporting documentation, non-binary)
Coming-out (e.g., concerns about one’s family, religion, culture, and workplace)
Sexual health (e.g., safer sex, STIs, sex positivity)
20 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
David A. Heilman
Psychologist, Psy.D.
While receiving my doctorate in clinical psychology, I also received a graduate certificate in LGBT Health Policy and Practice. I used this experience to gain more insight into treating internalized heteronormativity and shame within the LGBTQIA+ communities.
6 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Jennifer Plumb Vilardaga, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Wherever you are on your journey, I aim to support you. We can work together on defining goals for your care whether it be exploring your identity, exploring if/how to share your identity with others, or coping with other stressors related to your life, we will take each as it comes. For some, their gender or sexual identity (or how others currently or historically have responded negatively or harmfully to you) is at the forefront of their life and treatment goals, and for some it is an important part of themselves but not a current focus for care. I aim to be affirming in all that we do, learning about and supporting you as a whole human worthy of dignity, respect, and kindness.
11 Years Experience
LGBT Issues
Kreins Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, PsyD
As a psychologist committed to supporting the mental health and well-being of the LGBT+ community, my approach to treatment is rooted in cultural humility, affirming the diverse identities and experiences of each individual. Through a safe and inclusive therapeutic space, I provide affirmative therapy that validates clients' identities, experiences, and challenges they may face due to societal stigma and discrimination. Utilizing culturally competent and evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), narrative therapy, and interpersonal therapy, I work collaboratively with clients to address concerns related to coming out, family acceptance, relationship issues, and identity exploration. Additionally, I advocate for social support networks and community resources to facilitate connection and resilience. My goal is to empower LGBT+ individuals to navigate life authentically, foster self-acceptance, and thrive in their identities.
24 Years Experience