LGBTQIA+ Therapy
in Salt Lake City & Across Utah
Schedule a Free 15-Minute Consultation
If you have questions before scheduling, feel free to call our billing & scheduling specialist at (801) 441-5652.
Supportive, Affirming Therapy for LGBTQIA+ Adults in Utah
I provide compassionate, trauma-informed therapy for LGBTQIA+ adults in Utah. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, perfectionism, relationship challenges, or healing from painful experiences, therapy offers a supportive and affirming space to feel seen, understood, and accepted.
I offer in-person sessions in Salt Lake City and secure online therapy across Utah, so you can access affirming care in the way that feels most comfortable and sustainable for you. You’re welcome to start with a free 15-minute consultation to ask questions and see if my approach feels like the right fit.
Common Reasons LGBTQIA+ Adults Seek Therapy at New Heights Counseling
Many LGBTQIA+ adults begin therapy not because something is “wrong” with them, but because they want to live with greater ease, clarity, and self-trust. Common themes in therapy include:
Navigating anxiety, overwhelm, or emotional exhaustion
Processing trauma or painful past experiences
Healing from perfectionism, shame, or self-criticism
Exploring identity, belonging, and authenticity
Building healthy, affirming relationships
Coping with minority stress, rejection, or discrimination
Managing life transitions or adjusting after a move
Reconnecting with purpose, meaning, or self-acceptance
Finding affirmation and understanding as a secular, non-religious, or spiritual-but-not-religious individual
Balancing ambition, creativity, and emotional well-being
My Approach to LGBTQIA+ Affirming Therapy
Therapy at New Heights Counseling is never one-size-fits-all. I use an integrative, evidence-informed approach that centers your values, strengths, and lived experiences. Our work is collaborative and tailored to your goals, emphasizing safety, authenticity, and connection.
Depending on your needs, sessions may include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Developing new ways of thinking and responding to challenges.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) & EMDR Informed Approaches: Processing trauma and reducing distress from painful experiences.
Trauma-Informed & Trauma-Focused Care: Prioritizing safety, pacing, and grounding while addressing trauma.
Humanistic & Narrative Therapy: Exploring your story, identity, and sense of meaning.
Existential & Client-Centered Practices: Supporting authenticity and alignment with your values.
Mindfulness & Present-Moment Awareness: Cultivating calm, focus, and resilience.
Strength-Based & Values-Oriented Approaches: Highlighting your inner resources and what matters most to you.
For some clients, choosing private pay therapy offers the space and flexibility to move at their own pace and focus on what feels most meaningful in their healing.
Cody Merrell, LCSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Salt Lake City providing affirming, trauma-informed therapy for LGBTQIA+ adults.