LGBTQ+ affirming counseling in Bentonville, AR
Be fully yourself here, no explaining needed
A welcoming space for every identity, orientation, and stage of figuring things out. Counseling for LGBTQ+ adults, in person in downtown Bentonville or online anywhere in Arkansas.
What it means
What affirming means here
Affirming care means your identity isn’t a problem to be solved. Whether you’re gay, lesbian, bisexual, pansexual, asexual, transgender, nonbinary, queer, questioning, or still finding the words, you’re welcome exactly as you are.
You shouldn’t have to educate your counselor or defend who you are. Here, we can focus on what you came to work on, whether or not it has anything to do with your identity.
And because so many LGBTQ+ people carry hurt from family or faith communities, there’s room here for that, too.
What we can work on
- Coming out, or deciding whether, when, and how
- Questions about sexuality or gender identity
- Family rejection, distance, or strained relationships
- Healing from religious harm, including conversion therapy
- Anxiety, depression, and the stress of a world that isn’t always kind
- Relationships, dating, and building chosen family
How we’ll work together
Room to be who you are
Every story is different, so our work is shaped around you. Here’s how my approach fits this work.
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You’re the expert on you
You know your identity and your life best. I’ll follow your lead, and never push a label or a timeline.
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Make sense of the past
We can explore how earlier experiences, including times you felt you had to hide, shape how you feel and relate to people today.
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Family, on your terms
Family can get complicated when you’re LGBTQ+. We’ll look at family roles and patterns, and how to set boundaries or build chosen family in ways that fit you.
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At home in your body
Mindfulness and body awareness can help you feel more grounded and more at home in yourself, day to day.
Common questions
Questions people often ask
Do you only work with LGBTQ+ clients?
No. I have a broad practice and work with adults on nearly anything life brings. Affirming care is part of everything I do, so you’re welcome whatever brings you in.
Do I need to be out to work with you?
No. Whether you’re out to everyone, to no one, or somewhere in between, this is a confidential space, and you set the pace.
What if I’m still figuring out my identity?
That’s welcome too. You don’t need a label, or certainty, to start. We can explore at whatever pace feels right, with no pressure to land anywhere in particular.
Can you help if my family or faith community doesn’t accept me?
Yes. Family and religious rejection are things many LGBTQ+ people carry. Religious trauma and recovery from high-control environments are part of my practice too, and we can work through both together.
Do you offer online sessions?
Yes. I offer secure video sessions for anyone located in Arkansas, and in-person sessions at the Cozy Cottage in downtown Bentonville. If you live outside Arkansas, ask about coaching by video.
Do you see couples or teens?
I work one-on-one with adults 18 and older, so I don’t see anyone under 18 or offer couples or family sessions. If a partner or family member is part of what you’re working through, we can still talk about those relationships in your sessions.
How do I get started?
Start with a free 15-minute consultation by video or phone. It’s a relaxed, no-pressure chance to ask questions and see if we’re a good fit. You can book it here.
Need support right now?
You’re not alone
Freebird Counseling & Wellness isn’t able to provide emergency or crisis services. These free, confidential lines are there any time. In immediate danger, call 911.
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988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Free, confidential support 24/7 for anyone in emotional distress or a suicidal crisis.
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The Trevor Project
24/7 crisis support for LGBTQ+ young people. Call 1-866-488-7386 or text START to 678-678.
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Trans Lifeline
Peer support run by and for trans people. Call 1-877-565-8860.
Ready when you are
Start with a free 15-minute call, by video or phone. No pressure, just a chance to ask questions and see if we’re a good fit.