LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy in Baltimore, Maryland
Support for Gender, Sexuality, and Identity Exploration
Hi, I’m Kristy Leone (Kris), LCPC, LCPAT, ATR-BC (she/they). As a queer, non-binary art therapist, I know how complex and layered identity exploration can be — especially when the world around you isn’t always safe, understanding, or affirming. Whether you’re questioning your gender, coming out later in life, processing past harm, or simply looking for a space where you don’t have to explain everything, you’re welcome here.
My work is grounded in queer-affirming, neurodiversity-affirming, and trauma-informed care. I support teens and adults navigating identity, belonging, and the pressure to “make sense” to others — even when you’re still making sense of things yourself.
You Deserve Support That Sees the Whole You
Navigating identity can be both empowering and deeply isolating, especially in times like these. You might be sorting through questions, emotions, or pressures that don’t have easy answers. You or someone you love might be experiencing:
Confusion, curiosity, or overwhelm around gender or sexuality, especially during life transitions like puberty, college, or coming out.
Feeling stuck between who you are and who others expect you to be, such as editing yourself around family, at school, or in social spaces.
Burnout from code-switching or masking, like constantly managing how you speak, dress, or express yourself to stay “safe” or accepted.
Grief and disconnection after rejection, whether from family, faith communities, or peer groups who don’t understand or support your identity.
Struggles with internalized shame, anxiety, or perfectionism, which may show up as people-pleasing, self-doubt, or harsh self-criticism.
Feeling isolated and unsure where to turn, especially if it’s hard to find affirming support in your school, community, or social circle.
How Therapy Helps: ERP, ACT, Parts Work & Art Therapy for OCD
I combine a four-step approach with evidence-based therapies tailored to support overthinkers struggling with OCD. Art therapy lets you express your feelings in creative ways. ERP (Exposure and Response Prevention) helps you face things that make you anxious little by little, so they don’t control you anymore. ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) teaches you how to notice your thoughts without fighting them, so they don’t take over your life. Parts work helps you understand the different sides of yourself that are struggling, so you can be kinder and more understanding to yourself. Together, these tools help you feel calmer and more in control!
Gender-Affirming Therapy
In session: We talk openly about your gender identity, explore your feelings, and work through any challenges related to coming out or transitioning. This can include support for social or medical steps and strategies to cope with external pressures.
How it helps: You build confidence, reduce gender dysphoria, and feel empowered to live authentically and safely in your true self.
Narrative Therapy and Art Therapy
In session: We explore the stories you tell about yourself, identifying limiting beliefs or painful narratives. Together, we work on rewriting these stories to highlight your strengths and resilience.
How it helps: You develop a stronger, more positive sense of self, reduce shame, and increase self-esteem by embracing your unique journey.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
In session: You practice mindfulness and acceptance skills, learning to observe your thoughts and emotions without getting overwhelmed. We clarify your values and set small goals that reflect what truly matters to you.
How it helps: You gain psychological flexibility, reduce stress and internal conflict, and learn to live a meaningful life aligned with your authentic identity.
Insights & Resources: My Approach to Supporting Identity Journeys
Explore my blog and mental health toolbox page to learn more about how I support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, creative tools, and practical strategies for healing and growth. These resources offer hope and understanding for your journey.
Nurturing Identity: How Art Therapy Empowers LGBTQIA+ Youth and Families
Collage: A Powerful Tool in Art Therapy, Activism, and Personal Expression
Found Poetry Cards: A Creative Form for Self-Expression
Expressing Identity Through Art: A Collage Workshop for Transgender Day of Visibility
