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LGBTQ+

LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling for Professionals, College Students, Graduate Students, Teachers, Administrators, Clergy, Nurses, and Other Professionals Across Virginia

Being a part of the LGBTQ+ community can bring immense pride and strength, but it also comes with unique challenges, including discrimination, stigma, identity struggles, and relationship complexities. Whether you’re navigating issues related to coming out, transitioning, relationships, or facing social pressures, our LGBTQ+ affirming counseling services are here to provide support.


At Freedom Support Services, we offer safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate counseling for individuals and couples of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Our counselors understand the complexities that come with being part of the LGBTQ+ community, especially for professionals, students, and caregivers balancing personal challenges with demanding careers and responsibilities. We offer a space where you can process your emotions, explore your identity, and work through any barriers you may be facing.


Signs You May Benefit from LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling:
  • Struggling with coming out or concerns about how to disclose your identity to family, friends, or colleagues

  • Feeling isolated, misunderstood, or disconnected from others

  • Facing internalized homophobia, transphobia, or self-doubt about your identity

  • Experiencing relationship challenges related to your sexual orientation or gender identity

  • Stress from discrimination, microaggressions, or lack of acceptance at work, school, or in social circles

  • Anxiety, depression, or fear of rejection related to your LGBTQ+ identity

  • Gender dysphoria or challenges navigating gender expression

  • Dealing with the loss of a loved one or support system related to your identity

  • Managing the stress of being a visible LGBTQ+ leader in your community or workplace


How LGBTQ+ Affirming Counseling Can Help:
  • Provide a safe space for self-exploration and identity affirmation

  • Help you navigate the coming-out process and build confidence

  • Offer strategies to cope with discrimination, stigma, and prejudice

  • Strengthen relationship skills and communication with partners, family, and friends

  • Address gender dysphoria and offer support in your gender identity journey

  • Provide gender-affirming assessments to assist with gender-related goals and healthcare needs

  • Support you in building resilience and self-acceptance

  • Guide you through life transitions, including changes in career, relationships, and health

  • Help you build a support network of allies and affirming people


We offer in-person counseling in Christiansburg, Blacksburg, Radford, and Roanoke, as well as virtual sessions statewide, including Richmond, Alexandria, Fairfax, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach. Most major healthcare plans are accepted, with affordable options available for those without insurance.


You deserve to be seen, heard, and supported. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you embrace your full, authentic self.

Pick Your Counselor

Shaterra Walker, LPC

Shaterra Walker, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Pragya Agarwal, M.S.

Pragya Agarwal, M.S.

Resident in Counseling

Eleah Ruffin

Eleah Ruffin

Graduate Intern

Chandra Shorter, LPC

Chandra Shorter, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Katelyn Lloyd, M.S.

Katelyn Lloyd, M.S.

Resident in Counseling

Nijeria Jones, LPC

Nijeria Jones, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Julie Jackson, M.A.

Julie Jackson, M.A.

Resident in Counseling

Lauren Rutledge, LPC

Lauren Rutledge, LPC

Licensed Professional Counselor

Tiffany Watlington

Tiffany Watlington

Graduate Intern

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