LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy
A Safe, Supportive Space for Identity, Healing & Growth
Thriving Starts Here.
At Michigan Wellbeing, we believe that mental health care should be affirming, validating, and rooted in deep understanding. For LGBTQ+ individuals, therapy isn’t just about mental health—it’s about navigating identity, relationships, self-acceptance, and the impact of living in a world that doesn’t always understand or affirm who you are.
You deserve a space where you can show up as your full, authentic self—without fear of judgment, misunderstanding, or the need to explain your existence. Whether you’re exploring your identity, working through family or societal challenges, or seeking support for anxiety, depression, or trauma, we are here to help you heal, grow, and thrive.
Why LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy Matters
LGBTQ+ individuals are often forced to navigate unique stressors that impact mental health, from societal stigma to family rejection, discrimination, and the emotional toll of simply existing in a world that may not fully understand. Research consistently shows that LGBTQ+ individuals face higher rates of anxiety, depression, trauma, and minority stress—but when mental health care is affirming and supportive, outcomes improve dramatically.
Affirming therapy isn’t just about tolerance—it’s about deep, knowledgeable, and compassionate care that recognizes the complexity of LGBTQ+ experiences. At Michigan Wellbeing, we offer therapy that:
✔ Validates & Affirms Your Identity – No assumptions, no pathologizing—just a space where you are seen, heard, and respected.
✔ Addresses LGBTQ+ Specific Stressors – Exploring the emotional impact of discrimination, internalized shame, coming out, and family dynamics.
✔ Supports You in Relationships & Community – Strengthening boundaries, communication, and connection in ways that honor your identity.
✔ Offers Trauma-Informed Care – Helping to heal from past experiences of rejection, harm, or societal oppression.
✔ Empowers You in Self-Acceptance – Building confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of self.
Still have questions?
How We Support LGBTQ+ Clients
Every person’s journey is unique, which is why our therapy is tailored to your specific needs, goals, and experiences. We integrate evidence-based techniques with depth-oriented and relational approaches to provide comprehensive, affirming care.
Gender Identity Exploration & Support
For individuals questioning or affirming their gender identity, we offer:
A safe, nonjudgmental space to explore identity and expression
Support with gender dysphoria, transitions, & self-acceptance
Letters of support for gender-affirming care (when appropriate)
Coming Out, Self-Acceptance & Social Stressors
Navigating identity in personal, professional, and cultural spaces can be overwhelming. Therapy can help:
Process the complex emotions around coming out
Address the impact of family, community, and societal expectations
Strengthen self-compassion, confidence & resilience
Relationship & Family Support
We help individuals, couples, and families navigate relationships in ways that affirm identity and connection. Therapy can support:
LGBTQ+ couples in strengthening communication, intimacy & trust
Families adjusting to a child or loved one’s LGBTQ+ identity
Processing & healing from rejection, conflict, or estrangement
Mental Health & Trauma Recovery
LGBTQ+ individuals often experience higher rates of anxiety, depression, and trauma due to discrimination, rejection, or societal pressures. Our therapy provides:
Trauma-informed support for healing from past harm
Strategies to manage anxiety, depression & stress
Somatic & polyvagal therapy for nervous system regulation
Intersectionality & Identity Exploration
Your identity is multifaceted and deeply personal. Therapy can be a space to explore:
The intersection of race, culture, faith & LGBTQ+ identity
The impact of internalized stigma, oppression & self-worth
How to embrace your authentic self while navigating complex environments
Curious about insurance?
Meet the Team
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George Khamis, MA, LLP
Therapist & Clinic Director
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Ashley Legel, MSW, LCSW
Therapist & Supervisor
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Jazminne Silva, LLSW
Therapist
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Esther Guak, LLMSW
Therapist
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Chloe Mitchell, LLMSW
Therapist
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Sonia Khaleel, LLMSW
Therapist
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Courtney Hall, LLMSW
Therapist
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Matt Nieto, LLPC
Therapist
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Dr. Jeffrey Karp, LP
Supervisor
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Christy Stiles, LLMSW
Therapist
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Emily Thomas, LMSW
Supervisor
Who This Type of Therapy is For
We work with LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families at all stages of life. Whether you are:
Exploring gender identity or sexual orientation and seeking guidance in the process
Navigating family or relationship challenges as an LGBTQ+ individual or couple
Experiencing anxiety, depression, or trauma related to identity or life experiences
Healing from religious or cultural rejection and reclaiming your sense of self
Looking for a space to process the intersection of your identity & mental health
A parent or loved one wanting to support an LGBTQ+ family member
What To Expect From Therapy at Michigan Wellbeing
A Thoughtful, Individualized Approach – Therapy is not one-size-fits-all. We take the time to understand your experiences, your history, and the ways you relate to yourself and others.
A Whole-Person Perspective – We integrate relational therapy, somatic work, self-regulation techniques, and evidence-based interventions to address challenges from multiple angles.
Practical Tools for Everyday Life – Therapy is not just about insight—it’s about gaining the tools and strategies to navigate emotions, relationships, and daily life with confidence.
Deep, Root-Cause Healing – Instead of just managing symptoms, we work to understand and shift underlying patterns so that real, lasting change can happen.
A Flexible, Evolving Process – As you grow, your therapy evolves with you. We adjust the approach based on what’s working, ensuring that each session remains impactful and aligned with your needs.
💡Therapy is about more than just coping—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient, and more connected version of yourself. Whatever challenges you’re facing, we are here to help you move through them with care, expertise, and a truly integrative approach to healing.
Why Choose LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy at Michigan Wellbeing?
You deserve therapy that affirms your identity, supports your healing, and empowers you to live authentically and fully.
Truly Affirming & Knowledgeable – You don’t have to explain or justify who you are—our therapists are deeply informed and affirming.
Trauma-Informed & Compassionate – We understand the impact of discrimination, rejection, and minority stress and create a safe space for healing.
Intersectional & Inclusive – We recognize that identity is complex and honor how all aspects of your life shape your mental health.
Relationship & Family Support – Helping you strengthen connections, set boundaries, and heal relational wounds.
Holistic & Integrative Approach – Addressing mental health through nervous system regulation, self-awareness, and emotional resilience.
Still have questions?
Start Your Therapy Journey Today
At Michigan Wellbeing, we help you break free from the past, build self-trust, and cultivate connections that truly nourish you.
Insurance, Fees & Access
We're a fully virtual practice, so you can meet with us from wherever you are in Michigan.
In-network: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and Priority Health.
UnitedHealthcare and HAP PPO are coming soon. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid.
Self-pay: $165–185 for a 53-minute therapy session, depending on clinician credentials. Ask us about sliding-scale options if cost is a concern.
Related Therapy Services
Explore how our specialized therapy services can support your healing journey. Let us know how we can help or point you in the right direction.
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Contact Us
If you’re interested in therapy, we invite you to get started here. You can explore our therapists, request a consultation, and find care that fits your needs.
Our sessions are virtual, so you can work with us from anywhere in Michigan.
Prefer Another Way to Connect?
Email info@miwellbeing.org or call/text (248) 266-5775.
You’re also welcome to send us a message using the form below. We look forward to connecting with you.
In the context of integrative relational psychotherapy, the therapeutic relationship serves as a dynamic space where past and present intersect, allowing clients to explore and transform deep-seated patterns. This process fosters self-awareness, emotional resilience, and authentic connections, guiding individuals toward meaningful change and personal growth.
FAQs
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For therapy services, we are in-network with Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna and Priority Health. UnitedHealthcare and HAP PPO are coming soon. We do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Self-pay is $165–185 for a 53-minute therapy session, depending on clinician credentials. Ask us about sliding-scale options if cost is a concern.
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We’re a fully virtual practice, so you can meet with us from wherever you are in Michigan. Therapy clients must be physically located in Michigan for their sessions.
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Visit our Get Started page to explore our therapists and send an inquiry. If you feel ready to move forward, you’re welcome to view current availability to request a discovery call or an initial therapy session. To fully confirm your therapy appointment, please complete all intake documents before your session so we have time to review your information and insurance, if applicable.