LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Columbus, OH
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.
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.
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.
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.
John Chasteen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43214 (Online Only)
John's ideal client is likely from the LGB and Trans/Non-binary communities, struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma amidst navigating a heteronormative society. They seek emotional regulation and coping mechanisms, needing a safe space to explore and challenge ingrained beliefs. Their goal is stability, improved mental health, and empowerment within their identity.
John's ideal client is likely from the LGB and Trans/Non-binary communities, struggling with mood disorders, anxiety, and trauma amidst navigating a heteronormative society. They seek emotional regulation and coping mechanisms, needing a safe space to explore and challenge ingrained beliefs. Their goal is stability, improved mental health, and empowerment within their identity.
Kel Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43219 (Online Only)
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
I am a proud queer and transgender therapist who has dedicated my practice to providing inclusive and culturally humble services to all. My passion is in providing care to LGBTQIA+ individuals, couples & families. Additionally, I run therapy & support groups for LGBTQIA+ youth and plan to create more group spaces for people to connect to their community and peers. I have also had the privilege of providing training and education to professionals, clients and families on providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQIA+ youth.
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 deeply value the significance of knowledgeable and affirming care. Creating a space where you feel at home, truly understood and respected is of utmost importance to me. Let's team up and make therapy a journey where you can freely explore concerns and challenges, deepen effective communication and connection, and experience the growth you're hoping for. My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct, interactive, and firmly grounded in up-to-date evidence-based practices, ensuring a tailored and effective experience for you.
I have immediate availability! - As a queer identifying, Native, and ADHD/ASD diagnosed therapist, I deeply value the significance of knowledgeable and affirming care. Creating a space where you feel at home, truly understood and respected is of utmost importance to me. Let's team up and make therapy a journey where you can freely explore concerns and challenges, deepen effective communication and connection, and experience the growth you're hoping for. My approach to therapy is collaborative, direct, interactive, and firmly grounded in up-to-date evidence-based practices, ensuring a tailored and effective experience for you.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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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.
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..
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.
Dr. Bowen Marshall
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , MA, LPCC-S, PhD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43235 (Online Only)
My career centers on working with fellow neurodivergent persons, LGBTQ+ persons, and persons of color.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
My career centers on working with fellow neurodivergent persons, LGBTQ+ persons, and persons of color.
I believe the most important question we can ask ourselves is, "What do I want?" I believe that everyone has an ability to move towards growth, healing, and fulfillment. I approach therapy from a perspective learning and believe that the more we learn about ourselves, the better able we are to make choices about how we want to move forward in life. I use an integrative framework to address each client’s individual needs. I work from a trauma informed lens and use interventions from existential, Attachment Theory, Gottman, ACT, IPT, and EFT.
Christopher DeFranco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43201 (Online Only)
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Christopher specializes in working with adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of life's stressors that include, but are not limited to: LGBTQ+ issues, trauma, grief, anger management, impulsivity, chemical dependency, depression, anxiety, and eating disorders. He has over 10 years of clinical experience from a wide variety of settings that includes schools, research clinics, inpatient and residential treatment, and outpatient private practice. He also has extensive experience working with PTSD, gender dysphoria, and individuals on the autism spectrum.
Emerson Douglas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
Now accepting NEW clients for ongoing therapy and gender-affirming surgery letters! As a transmasculine-identified therapist, I'm proud to specialize in LGBQ+ and Transgender-affirming therapy. My passion as a therapist is to empower queer, trans, and nonbinary folks to embrace their authentic selves. Rooted in an anti-oppression framework, my mission is to co-create a safe, nonjudgmental space for you to explore healing through the development of a therapeutic relationship founded in authenticity, openness, and connection. My pronouns are he/they. I invite you to share your pronouns and name with me.
Rai Eury
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43201 (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and LGBTQ-related concerns for adults, and I offer gender-affirming care to individuals of all ages within the LGBTQ community.
Therapy can be a challenging decision for some, but it's an excellent starting point for creating positive change in your life. Let's work together to address those specific requirements. Together we can create a safe and encouraging environment for personal growth and exploration. Feeling heard, understood, respected, and valued in therapy is vital. Drawing from my background as a compassionate and empathetic listener, I'm eager to assist you in conquering the challenges you are facing today.
I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, and LGBTQ-related concerns for adults, and I offer gender-affirming care to individuals of all ages within the LGBTQ community.
Therapy can be a challenging decision for some, but it's an excellent starting point for creating positive change in your life. Let's work together to address those specific requirements. Together we can create a safe and encouraging environment for personal growth and exploration. Feeling heard, understood, respected, and valued in therapy is vital. Drawing from my background as a compassionate and empathetic listener, I'm eager to assist you in conquering the challenges you are facing today.
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.
Cynthia Tyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43212
I work with children, adults, and families from a wide range of identities and cultures, and have extensive experience working with people in the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Hey there, I'm Dr. Cynthia Tyson, but you can call me Cynthia. I know first-hand that life sometimes takes sharp turns on us - we can face sudden transitions, lose people we love, and generally get overwhelmed by the pace and heaviness of our challenges. For most of us, these challenges can get in the way of our truth-telling and testimony. That's where I come in. I can help guide you through the work of healing, growth, and self-discovery that comes with learning to navigate your way through crisis, chaos, and suffering.
I work with children, adults, and families from a wide range of identities and cultures, and have extensive experience working with people in the Black and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Hey there, I'm Dr. Cynthia Tyson, but you can call me Cynthia. I know first-hand that life sometimes takes sharp turns on us - we can face sudden transitions, lose people we love, and generally get overwhelmed by the pace and heaviness of our challenges. For most of us, these challenges can get in the way of our truth-telling and testimony. That's where I come in. I can help guide you through the work of healing, growth, and self-discovery that comes with learning to navigate your way through crisis, chaos, and suffering.
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
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- Grove City
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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.