Individual Mental Health Counseling
Intakes for The Center's one-on-one mental health counseling are currently closed. Please email counseling@gaycenter.org with questions or to receive referrals.
Mental Health Counseling
From dealing with anxiety and depression to facing bereavement, eating disorders, and self-harming behavior, The Center’s mental health counseling team is here to help you manage your mental health.
Our 1:1 short-term counseling services are available to individuals ages 18 and over who reside in New York State. Sessions are provided in person and virtually.
Family Therapy
The Center provides non-judgmental, affirming support for families navigating a child’s coming out process and developing identity.
Up to 6 months of free and confidential support, for families with children ages 5+!
The LGBTQ+ Institute For Family Therapy (LIFT) Certification Program
LIFT is a training and certification program for Licensed Master Social Workers (LMSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW) who provide therapeutic services to families involved with New York City’s Administration for Children’s Services (ACS).
LIFT is designed to help clinicians gain additional knowledge, skills, and confidence to reduce the rejecting behaviors of families struggling to accept their LGBTQ+ children. The program also aims to support families experiencing conflict around their child’s actual or perceived sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Upon program completion, clinicians will receive CE hours.
LIFT is offered in six-month or three-month cycles. It includes training sessions, group coaching sessions, and one-on-one technical assistance for case consultations.
LIFT Certification Program Requirements:
Credentialed as a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) or a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in New York State; Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists (LMFT) and Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC) are invited to apply but are not eligible to receive CEUs at this time
Currently working with families in a clinical capacity or supervising clinicians who are working with families
Submit application; upload resume and complete assessment
Secure supervisor approval to commit to LIFT time commitment and guidelines
Prior participation in the ACS LGBTQ+ Training is preferred but not required; participation in LIFT may be used in lieu of mandated ACS LGBTQ+ training and re-training sessions
Have a strong foundational understanding of LGBTQ+ identities and experiences, the ACS LGBTQ+ policy, and related best practices
Apply for LIFT
LIFT is committed to building a network of diverse clinicians by offering ongoing professional development opportunities. People of color, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ+ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Questions about LIFT
LIFT is currently virtual and facilitated through Zoom and Google Classroom. If you have any questions, please contact foreverfamilies@gaycenter.org.