Top-Rated Dating Therapist in Denver | Chelsea Newton LCSW, M.Ed.
Sick of swiping? Tired of first dates that go nowhere? Struggling to show up as your authentic queer self while dating? You deserve support navigating the messy, vulnerable, sometimes soul-crushing world of modern dating. As a queer dating therapist in Denver (who’s also a sex therapist), I get it—and I'm here to help.
Meet your Denver dating counselor
Chelsea Newton
Hey! I’m Chelsea, a clinical social worker and certified sex therapist who specializes in supporting LGBTQ+ individuals navigate dating, relationships, and sexual identity. With a decade of clinical experience, specialized training in human sexuality, and lived experience as a fellow queer person, I get the unique struggles of baby queers and LGBTQ+ folks when it comes to dating. If this resonates, I’d love to support you, too.
Offers dating counseling: ✓
Credentials: Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Clientele: LGBTQ+ young adults and adults
Location: Littleton, CO 80123
Virtual therapy?: Yes
How therapy for dating can help
Build authentic confidence
Dating therapy helps you connect with who you actually are—not who you think you should be. We'll work through shame, religious trauma, and internalized unhelpful messaging so you can show up on dates as your genuine self. When you're confident in your identity and sexuality, you attract people who appreciate the real you.
Break unhealthy patterns
If you keep attracting the wrong people or sabotaging good connections, there's usually a reason. Through therapy, we'll identify the patterns keeping you stuck and develop new ways of relating. You'll learn to recognize red flags, set boundaries, and choose partners who are actually good for you.
Heal from sexual trauma
Past trauma can make dating and intimacy feel impossible. As a trauma-informed sex therapist, I'll help you process what happened, understand your triggers, and reclaim your sexuality. It is possible to have fulfilling intimate relationships without being hijacked by past experiences.
Develop communication skills
Whether you're struggling to express your needs, talk about your identity, or navigate difficult conversations with partners, therapy is where you practice. We'll work on assertive communication, discussing sex and boundaries, and advocating for what you want in relationships.
Common reasons why people seek dating counseling
Exhausted from dating apps, hookup culture, and dates that never lead anywhere
Fear of getting close to someone and then sabotaging the connection by ghosting or pulling away
Difficulty being intimate or having sex due to past sexual trauma
Struggling with being out (or not being out) while dating
Dealing with sexual shame related to queer identity and religious trauma
Constantly worrying about being "queer enough" for the LGBTQ+ community or being rejected by potential partners
Feeling stuck in the same unhealthy relationship patterns over and over
Anxious about first dates and the possibility of unsafe situations
Lonely and wondering if you'll ever find a partner who truly gets you
Uncertain if you can trust your own intuition about dating and relationships
Feeling pressure from family to be "normal" and prove you can have stable relationships too
What to expect from the therapy process
Step 1. Initial consultation
We'll start with a free vibe check call where you can share what's bringing you to therapy, ask any questions you might have, and see if we're a good fit before committing to working together.
Step 2. Assessment and goal-setting
Together, we'll dig into your dating patterns, relationship history, and what you actually want in your romantic life. We'll create a personalized plan that addresses your specific struggles and goals.
Step 3. Ongoing therapy sessions
Sessions are a judgment-free space to process dating experiences, work through fears and triggers, build communication skills, and develop the confidence to show up authentically in relationships.
Step 4. Growth and reflection
As we work together, you'll start recognizing patterns, trying new approaches, and building healthier connections. We'll adjust our approach as your needs evolve and celebrate your wins, no matter how big or small.
FAQs about dating therapy
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I work exclusively with individuals. If you're single and struggling with dating, or in a relationship and need individual support around your dating experiences, I'm your person. I don't offer couples therapy, but I can help you navigate relationship dynamics from your side, which can be a game-changer.
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Welcome! I’m a poly-, kink-, and ENM-affirming therapist. Whether you’re actively in a poly relationship, considering ethical non-monogamy for the first time, or just want a therapist who won’t judge what you’re into, I’m here to help.
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I'm a relational therapist who uses a trauma-informed, sex-positive, LGBTQ+ affirming approach. I blend CBT, somatic experiencing, and narrative therapy—but honestly, I care way more about what actually helps you than sticking to any rigid framework. Every client is different, and I tailor my approach to meet your unique needs.
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Effective therapy isn’t just about attending weekly sessions—finding the right therapist is key. Here's what makes my practice unique:
Queer-identified therapist who understands what it's like to navigate dating as an LGBTQ+ person
Specialized training in sex therapy and human sexuality (not just general therapy)
Ten years of experience supporting diverse populations across Denver
Evening availability to accommodate busy schedules
Sliding scale options to make therapy accessible
Virtual sessions so you can get support from wherever you're comfortable
If you're reading this and thinking "holy shit, she gets it," that's a good sign. But if you’re still not sure, that’s fine too. Book a free clarity call where we can talk one-on-one before diving in.
Start working with a Denver dating counselor today
You don't have to keep struggling alone. Whether you're sick of the apps, healing from trauma, or just want to build healthier relationships, I'm here to support you. Let's work together to create the dating life—and ultimately the romantic relationships—you actually want.