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Affirming LGBTQ+ Therapy Salt Lake City

Caring Support for Your identity, relationships, and self-acceptance, tailored to your needs.

A Space Where You Are Seen, Heard, and Valued

At New Heights Counseling, I provide affirming, evidence-based therapy for adult LGBTQIA+ individuals. My practice offers affirming therapy for diverse identities, with a focus on supporting the mental health needs of gay men. My practice is a space where all clients are fully valued and supported. Whether you’re navigating identity, relationships, self-acceptance, or healing from past experiences, therapy can help you build a life that feels authentic, meaningful, and fulfilling

Photo of Cody Merrell, LCSW — a gay therapist providing LGBTQIA+ affirming, trauma-informed care in Salt Lake City and online throughout Utah.

Supporting Your Story

Navigating your identity and relationships can bring unique challenges and opportunities for growth. My approach is grounded in trauma-informed care and other evidence-based modalities, tailored to your individual needs. We'll explore issues such as externalized and internalized stigma, relationship dynamics, and the impact of societal pressures, creating a safe space to increase resilience and self-acceptance.

Warm, affirming therapy office at New Heights Counseling in Salt Lake City, Utah—safe space for LGBTQ+ clients, trauma-informed, EMDR-trained gay therapist.

Transforming Your Narrative

Your narrative, shaped by unique experiences and evolving identities, influences your future. Navigating identity, relationships, and societal dynamics presents distinct challenges, especially when untangling post-religious transitions or acclimating to Utah. I recognize many LGBTQIA+ individuals navigate these shifts, exploring sexual and gender identities, and seeking meaning beyond traditional frameworks—cultivating a worldview that honors lived experiences, aligns with core values, and realizes a fulfilling life. My approach respects your beliefs, values, and experiences, providing a supportive space for affirmation. Together, we'll envision your future, address unfolding challenges, and seek the fulfilling next chapter you envision for yourself.

Tailored Support to Your Experiences & Needs

Embracing Gender Identity

Supporting clients in living authentically and confidently with their gender identity.

Navigating Societal Dynamics

Empowering clients to understand and effectively navigate social environments, fostering resilience and self-advocacy.

Navigating Post-Religious Identity & Spirituality

Supporting clients in defining their identity and exploring personal meaning beyond traditional religious frameworks.

Celebrating Sexual Orientation

Aiding clients in embracing their sexual identity with confidence and self-acceptance, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.

Cultivating Mental Wellness

Encouraging clients to build emotional resilience and well-being, addressing mental health challenges with compassion and strength.

Building Community & Support

Affirming clients, new to Utah or develop community ties, to build meaningful connections and a strong support network.

Relationship Empowerment

Assisting clients in building and maintaining healthy, fulfilling relationships that honor diverse structures and align with their personal values.

Healing From Trauma

Facilitating clients in transforming past trauma into sources of strength and resilience, fostering emotional well-being and personal growth.

Navigating Perfectionism & Self Doubt

Developing strategies to manage perfectionistic tendencies and self-doubt, fostering self-compassion and inner confidence.