LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Columbus, OH
Welcome! I am now accepting new clients! I have experience counseling from a variety of social, cultural, and generational backgrounds. My clinical experience includes anxiety/stress, depression, obsessive compulsion, bipolar, trauma, grief, personality, identity, LGBTQ+ population, sexual concerns, disassociation, self-esteem, spirituality, ADHD, and multicultural concerns. I aim to foster a comfortable space for clients to express themselves freely, without judgement, and to grow as individuals. I am a part of the City Counseling practice in German Village, Columbus, Ohio and can see clients in person or virtually across Ohio..
Welcome! I am now accepting new clients! I have experience counseling from a variety of social, cultural, and generational backgrounds. My clinical experience includes anxiety/stress, depression, obsessive compulsion, bipolar, trauma, grief, personality, identity, LGBTQ+ population, sexual concerns, disassociation, self-esteem, spirituality, ADHD, and multicultural concerns. I aim to foster a comfortable space for clients to express themselves freely, without judgement, and to grow as individuals. I am a part of the City Counseling practice in German Village, Columbus, Ohio and can see clients in person or virtually across Ohio..
Kira Hayes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
I have immediate availability! As a queer-identifying, Native, and ADHD/ASD-diagnosed therapist, I prioritize knowledgeable and affirming care. My approach to therapy is direct and results-oriented. You deserve tangible, evidence-based solutions to address your challenges from the start. While I bring my expertise to the table, I recognize that you are the expert on what works best for you, so our work is always collaborative. I am deeply engaged and committed to providing active support and solutions, maximizing the value of every session to ensure you receive the strategies you need for lasting, meaningful change.
I have immediate availability! As a queer-identifying, Native, and ADHD/ASD-diagnosed therapist, I prioritize knowledgeable and affirming care. My approach to therapy is direct and results-oriented. You deserve tangible, evidence-based solutions to address your challenges from the start. While I bring my expertise to the table, I recognize that you are the expert on what works best for you, so our work is always collaborative. I am deeply engaged and committed to providing active support and solutions, maximizing the value of every session to ensure you receive the strategies you need for lasting, meaningful change.
Amber Raffeld
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, SEP, NARM L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Whether you are navigating anxiety, challenges in relationships, accumulated stress, past trauma, communication, and attuning to needs of yourself and others, I would be honored to participate in you feeling a greater connection to your experiences, yourself, and with others in relationship. I provide specializations in Somatic Experiencing, NeuroAffective Relational Model, ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, LGBTQIA+, kink positive, accumulated stress, and trauma. I enjoy providing individual, couple, consensual non-monogamy, polycule, family and non-traditional family mental health services.
Whether you are navigating anxiety, challenges in relationships, accumulated stress, past trauma, communication, and attuning to needs of yourself and others, I would be honored to participate in you feeling a greater connection to your experiences, yourself, and with others in relationship. I provide specializations in Somatic Experiencing, NeuroAffective Relational Model, ethical non-monogamy, polyamory, LGBTQIA+, kink positive, accumulated stress, and trauma. I enjoy providing individual, couple, consensual non-monogamy, polycule, family and non-traditional family mental health services.
Lisa Alfriend
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and committed in the pursuit of anti-racism.
I specialize in children and adolescents in several areas including anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting skills and parent-child relationships, and anger management. My goal is to help individuals and families reach their full potential. Starting therapy can feel daunting, you are already showing courage by looking. As your therapist, it is my priority to build a trusting relationship so we can work as a team on your goals and strengths. I use evidence-based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness to instill hope and growth.
I am an LGBTQIA+ ally and committed in the pursuit of anti-racism.
I specialize in children and adolescents in several areas including anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting skills and parent-child relationships, and anger management. My goal is to help individuals and families reach their full potential. Starting therapy can feel daunting, you are already showing courage by looking. As your therapist, it is my priority to build a trusting relationship so we can work as a team on your goals and strengths. I use evidence-based modalities including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and mindfulness to instill hope and growth.
Emily Steinway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
I am an independently licensed social worker with ten years of experience in community mental health and healthcare. I have worked primarily with adults and specialize in treating people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma-related diagnoses, grief, and life transitions. I enjoy working with people who are exploring their gender identity and sexuality, especially individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a privilege to hold space for clients and I am dedicated to co-creating a safe, person-centered, and collaborative environment for healing and growth.
I am an independently licensed social worker with ten years of experience in community mental health and healthcare. I have worked primarily with adults and specialize in treating people who are experiencing anxiety, depression, psychosis, trauma-related diagnoses, grief, and life transitions. I enjoy working with people who are exploring their gender identity and sexuality, especially individuals within the LGBTQIA+ community. It is a privilege to hold space for clients and I am dedicated to co-creating a safe, person-centered, and collaborative environment for healing and growth.
Tory Trimble
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Tory! I've been a mental health professional for several years and have experience working with people from a broad range of backgrounds, cultures, ages, and presenting concerns. I am especially passionate about, and skilled in, working with young adults and folks in the LGBTQIA+ and polyamorous/ENM communities (both of which are identities I hold myself). I strive to show up in session as my authentic self, and bring curiosity, kindness, and humor to my work. I am endlessly grateful to have the privilege of walking alongside clients every day, and to be a part of supporting their healing and growth.
Hi, I'm Tory! I've been a mental health professional for several years and have experience working with people from a broad range of backgrounds, cultures, ages, and presenting concerns. I am especially passionate about, and skilled in, working with young adults and folks in the LGBTQIA+ and polyamorous/ENM communities (both of which are identities I hold myself). I strive to show up in session as my authentic self, and bring curiosity, kindness, and humor to my work. I am endlessly grateful to have the privilege of walking alongside clients every day, and to be a part of supporting their healing and growth.
Carly Habenschuss
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Not accepting new clients
My work is guided by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and multicultural, feminist, queer, and existential theories.
I strive to foster a safe, affirming and supportive therapeutic environment, and view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client is the expert. I am curious and observant, vulnerable and honest and I look forward to walking alongside you through your therapy journey. I encourage you to experiment with new behaviors that could help you embrace your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them and begin to engage in your life through making choices that move you toward your values.
My work is guided by Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and multicultural, feminist, queer, and existential theories.
I strive to foster a safe, affirming and supportive therapeutic environment, and view therapy as a collaborative process in which the client is the expert. I am curious and observant, vulnerable and honest and I look forward to walking alongside you through your therapy journey. I encourage you to experiment with new behaviors that could help you embrace your thoughts and feelings rather than fighting or feeling guilty for them and begin to engage in your life through making choices that move you toward your values.
Jaret Wiblin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Jaret believes in taking a progressive, nonjudgmental approach to counseling people from all walks of life.
Jaret's approach to therapy is a collaborative journey where the client and therapist work together authentically to address the client's goals and needs. He believes that the essence of human nature is to continually move towards growth in positive ways. Jaret seeks to empower you on your journey to radical self-acceptance through practicing nonjudgmental support and helping you find meaning in your story. He received his Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Psychology and Legal Studies from the University of Cincinnati and his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University.
As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Jaret believes in taking a progressive, nonjudgmental approach to counseling people from all walks of life.
Jaret's approach to therapy is a collaborative journey where the client and therapist work together authentically to address the client's goals and needs. He believes that the essence of human nature is to continually move towards growth in positive ways. Jaret seeks to empower you on your journey to radical self-acceptance through practicing nonjudgmental support and helping you find meaning in your story. He received his Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree in Psychology and Legal Studies from the University of Cincinnati and his Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Ohio State University.
Hi, I’m Dr. Essence! As a queer, multiracial and neurodivergent woman, I have first hand experience trying to embrace my identity, find belonging, and navigate a world that wasn't made for me. Soooo if you start therapy with me, you are guaranteed to have a psychologist who has walked the walk as much as she can talk the talk. I value the relationship with my clients over everything else, so I do my best to balance hyping you up with telling you the things you miiiiight not wanna hear. But, through my own self-disclosure and personal stories, I hope to cultivate a safe space for you to grow into your favorite version of yourself!
Hi, I’m Dr. Essence! As a queer, multiracial and neurodivergent woman, I have first hand experience trying to embrace my identity, find belonging, and navigate a world that wasn't made for me. Soooo if you start therapy with me, you are guaranteed to have a psychologist who has walked the walk as much as she can talk the talk. I value the relationship with my clients over everything else, so I do my best to balance hyping you up with telling you the things you miiiiight not wanna hear. But, through my own self-disclosure and personal stories, I hope to cultivate a safe space for you to grow into your favorite version of yourself!
Dr. Mark G Sampson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43214
Waitlist for new clients
My professional interests include Gay/Bi Men's issues, male body image issues, adjustment/life transitions, LGBTQ issues, anxiety management, grief, family concerns, relationship counseling, sexual identity and gender identity issues.
You possess a unique and personal journey that influences how you navigate the world. By exploring your journey together, we can access your resilience and develop tools to overcome life's challenges. We will work to identify the strengths and coping skills that life has taught you along the way and identify new skills to improve your ability to thrive. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive and fulfilling life. We will work to understand how your experiences, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors have influenced your journey.
My professional interests include Gay/Bi Men's issues, male body image issues, adjustment/life transitions, LGBTQ issues, anxiety management, grief, family concerns, relationship counseling, sexual identity and gender identity issues.
You possess a unique and personal journey that influences how you navigate the world. By exploring your journey together, we can access your resilience and develop tools to overcome life's challenges. We will work to identify the strengths and coping skills that life has taught you along the way and identify new skills to improve your ability to thrive. The ultimate goal is to help you heal, grow, and re-engage in a productive and fulfilling life. We will work to understand how your experiences, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and other factors have influenced your journey.
Relationship Support - Trauma Healing - Sara Bartley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43235
Your courage is admirable - seeking support can feel like staring up the face of a mountain. I respect the delicate nature of inner work and consider it an earned privilege to be invited into spaces where healing and growth can happen. Everyone is welcome. I especially enjoy collaborating with individuals and couples who • Hope to discover new and more authentic parts of themselves • Desire to strengthen their relationships & capacity for emotional intimacy • Seek to explore their unique sexual identity & values • Are facing trauma recovery, self-esteem issues, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, religious trauma, or life transitions.
Your courage is admirable - seeking support can feel like staring up the face of a mountain. I respect the delicate nature of inner work and consider it an earned privilege to be invited into spaces where healing and growth can happen. Everyone is welcome. I especially enjoy collaborating with individuals and couples who • Hope to discover new and more authentic parts of themselves • Desire to strengthen their relationships & capacity for emotional intimacy • Seek to explore their unique sexual identity & values • Are facing trauma recovery, self-esteem issues, anxiety, LGBTQ+ issues, grief, religious trauma, or life transitions.
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Dr. David D Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, IMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43240
I have clients who identify as hetero, bi, gay, lesbian or queer and clients who hold trans- or cis-gender among their identities; also clients in monogamous, poly,&negotiated open relationships.
As a Marriage & Family therapist, I'm attuned to clients’ interconnected webs of relationships even when working 1-on-1. My experience & training with families & couples enables me to walk with clients through (re)discovering their connectedness to those they love. I’m most passionate about exploring clients’ stories & listening for places where personal narratives might differ from others’. This often provides spaces for clients to explore new or neglected understandings of themselves & their relationships leading to preferred, more fulfilling future stories. I enjoy working with clients across cultural, sexual& gender identities.
I have clients who identify as hetero, bi, gay, lesbian or queer and clients who hold trans- or cis-gender among their identities; also clients in monogamous, poly,&negotiated open relationships.
As a Marriage & Family therapist, I'm attuned to clients’ interconnected webs of relationships even when working 1-on-1. My experience & training with families & couples enables me to walk with clients through (re)discovering their connectedness to those they love. I’m most passionate about exploring clients’ stories & listening for places where personal narratives might differ from others’. This often provides spaces for clients to explore new or neglected understandings of themselves & their relationships leading to preferred, more fulfilling future stories. I enjoy working with clients across cultural, sexual& gender identities.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ parents and parents of LGBTQ+ children to address concerns about navigating stress, being inclusive and affirming, and personal worries.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ parents and parents of LGBTQ+ children to address concerns about navigating stress, being inclusive and affirming, and personal worries.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
I greatly enjoy supporting queer, neurodivergent, and/or consensually non-monogamous adults in problem solving and building fulfilling lives.
I can help you to recognize patterns in your thoughts and actions that contribute to feeling distressed and help you to change those patterns. We will work together to identify both your challenges and your strengths. I am a clinician who is transparent, creative, collaborative, caring, and persistent.
I greatly enjoy supporting queer, neurodivergent, and/or consensually non-monogamous adults in problem solving and building fulfilling lives.
I can help you to recognize patterns in your thoughts and actions that contribute to feeling distressed and help you to change those patterns. We will work together to identify both your challenges and your strengths. I am a clinician who is transparent, creative, collaborative, caring, and persistent.
Elizabeth (Beth) Youngman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212 (Online Only)
I am currently accepting new clients as of 7/8/2024. I am a queer nonbinary therapist offering individual teletherapy for adults. I welcome all diverse individuals, relationships, spiritualities, expressions, & identities. I work extensively with, and enjoy working with gender & sexual minorities, intersecting identities, immigrants, parents/caregivers, & neurodivergent populations. I often work with folks experiencing stress, self-exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression & dissociation.
I am currently accepting new clients as of 7/8/2024. I am a queer nonbinary therapist offering individual teletherapy for adults. I welcome all diverse individuals, relationships, spiritualities, expressions, & identities. I work extensively with, and enjoy working with gender & sexual minorities, intersecting identities, immigrants, parents/caregivers, & neurodivergent populations. I often work with folks experiencing stress, self-exploration, life transitions, grief, trauma, complex trauma, anxiety, depression & dissociation.
LGBTQ+ Counseling and Support
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214
As our client, you can utilize clinical services for as long as necessary while you navigate your own process or journey, explore your identity understanding, and navigate opportunities and challenges as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Taking a step to do something for your self is the right thing to do. Start slow and easy if that helps, see how it goes, or jump right in. Either way - we are here for you and can help.
As our client, you can utilize clinical services for as long as necessary while you navigate your own process or journey, explore your identity understanding, and navigate opportunities and challenges as a member of the LGBTQ+ community.
Taking a step to do something for your self is the right thing to do. Start slow and easy if that helps, see how it goes, or jump right in. Either way - we are here for you and can help.
Violet Vanilla Valley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43222 (Online Only)
My clients are typically between the ages of 16 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive coaching from someone who shares one or more of my identities. freespiritcounselingllc.com/violet-vanilla-valley-msw-lsw-she-they/
My clients are typically between the ages of 16 and 60. They are typically, but not exclusively, queer, trans, polyamorous, neurodivergent, or exploring identities. Clients come to me to receive coaching from someone who shares one or more of my identities. freespiritcounselingllc.com/violet-vanilla-valley-msw-lsw-she-they/
Danielle Nicole Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
As a queer-identified therapist, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and affirming space for individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Hello, I'm Danielle Norris, a passionate and empathetic Clinical Social Worker based in Columbus, Ohio. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from The Catholic University of America, and since then, I've been committed to making a difference in the lives of those I work with. My journey began with several years as a case manager for children, adolescents, and families in the vibrant community of Washington, D.C. During this time, I honed my skills in navigating complex family dynamics and providing the support necessary for growth and resilience.
As a queer-identified therapist, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and affirming space for individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations.
Hello, I'm Danielle Norris, a passionate and empathetic Clinical Social Worker based in Columbus, Ohio. I hold a Master's degree in Clinical Social Work from The Catholic University of America, and since then, I've been committed to making a difference in the lives of those I work with. My journey began with several years as a case manager for children, adolescents, and families in the vibrant community of Washington, D.C. During this time, I honed my skills in navigating complex family dynamics and providing the support necessary for growth and resilience.
The Empowering Space
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have earned my Masters of Social Work from Rutgers University and brings more than 6 years of clinical experience and expertise working with queer folks, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and young adults who are struggling to cope with anxiety, mood, trauma, sexual issues, and relationship issues. I also have experience in working with the queer community on an array of issues and concerns.
I am a Licensed Social Worker. I have earned my Masters of Social Work from Rutgers University and brings more than 6 years of clinical experience and expertise working with queer folks, adolescents, couples, and families. I specialize in the treatment of adolescents and young adults who are struggling to cope with anxiety, mood, trauma, sexual issues, and relationship issues. I also have experience in working with the queer community on an array of issues and concerns.
I work with individuals, groups, and couples, specializing in trauma and LGBTQ concerns. As the owner of City Counseling, my goal is to foster a space that feels safe enough for people to take risks and grow. To me, this is what it means to have “brave space,” and it’s why “A Home for Growth” is in our name. This includes me and the other therapists; all of us must also do our work to grow if we hope to continue being of service to clients of all backgrounds.
I work with individuals, groups, and couples, specializing in trauma and LGBTQ concerns. As the owner of City Counseling, my goal is to foster a space that feels safe enough for people to take risks and grow. To me, this is what it means to have “brave space,” and it’s why “A Home for Growth” is in our name. This includes me and the other therapists; all of us must also do our work to grow if we hope to continue being of service to clients of all backgrounds.
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Galloway
- Grandview
- Grove City
- Hilliard
- Lockbourne
- Reynoldsburg
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
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LGBTQ+ Therapists
Do LGBTQ-affirmative therapists receive special training?
Yes. Many therapists who practice LGBTQ-affirmative therapy have completed specialized training, either during their degree program or as continuing education, to learn the core principles of affirmative therapy and how to best support their LGBTQ clients; some have received certifications in LGBTQ-affirmative therapy. Prospective clients should inquire as to a clinician’s background and training to ensure a good fit.
Why might I want to see an LGBTQ-affirming or LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
Queer and gender-non-conforming individuals frequently experience bias and marginalization in day-to-day life. Working with a therapist who understands these unique challenges, as well as accepts and affirms their identity, can help LGBTQ clients feel safe and supported during therapy—allowing them to better navigate their relationships, mental health, and anything else that they wish to explore during therapy. It is important to note that many therapists can be effective in their work with LGBTQ+ individuals, even in the absence of specific training or background knowledge. The most important component in therapy is the alliance between therapist and client, and this alliance can exist between individuals with very different backgrounds.
How can I find an LGBTQ-friendly therapist?
You may wish to inquire about a therapist’s expertise with your specific challenges or concerns—depression, for example, or relationship strife—as well as their past experiences treating LGBTQ+ clients. Prospective clients may also ask whether a therapist has obtained additional training and/or certification in LGBTQ-affirmative techniques.
How can I inquire about a therapist’s experience with LGBTQ issues?
Prospective clients should feel empowered to directly ask therapists whether they have received training or been certified in LGBTQ-affirming therapy; competent therapists will be happy to explain their educational background and preferred approach(es) to help a client find the best match for them. Clients may also wish to ask how a therapist has treated clients with their particular challenges in the past and what they expect treatment to look like.
Are all the therapists listed in the LGBTQ directory themselves members of the LGBTQ community?
While therapists may choose to disclose their sexual orientation or gender identity in their profiles, the LGBTQ directory features not only those who have shared this information but also those who assert specialized training or experience in providing support to queer individuals, couples or families.