LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Independence, OH
As an LGBTQIA affirming therapist, she values diversity and appreciates the unique stories held by individuals regarding their identities.
Taylor K. Buss is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. She brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to her work, specializing in helping individuals navigate grief, trauma, and major life transitions. Taylor holds the Certified Child & Adolescent Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS-CA) certification, allowing her to provide targeted support to children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing grief or significant losses. She also works with frontline clinicians, recognizing the unique challenges they face while working in the helping profession.
As an LGBTQIA affirming therapist, she values diversity and appreciates the unique stories held by individuals regarding their identities.
Taylor K. Buss is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. She brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to her work, specializing in helping individuals navigate grief, trauma, and major life transitions. Taylor holds the Certified Child & Adolescent Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS-CA) certification, allowing her to provide targeted support to children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing grief or significant losses. She also works with frontline clinicians, recognizing the unique challenges they face while working in the helping profession.
Catherine Kolleth
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131 (Online Only)
I have been in the profession for over 12 years, and in that time I have worked with a large variety of clients. I started working in a mental health residential treatment facility for adolescents, then worked in community health care, substance abuse residential treatment and private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions and LGBTQ+ hurdles. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse heal and become healthier, as well as embrace the happiness in their lives.
I have been in the profession for over 12 years, and in that time I have worked with a large variety of clients. I started working in a mental health residential treatment facility for adolescents, then worked in community health care, substance abuse residential treatment and private practice. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, addictions and LGBTQ+ hurdles. I have also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse heal and become healthier, as well as embrace the happiness in their lives.
Nicholette Leanza is a clinical counselor who possesses several years of experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of treatment settings. She is a group facilitator for the intensive outpatient program (IOP) and her specializations include trauma, LGBTQ+, ADHD and overall positive mental health and wellbeing. Nicholette believes in a treatment philosophy that encompasses a wholistic and eclectic approach to care and her treatment methods include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) and psychodynamic therapy.
Nicholette Leanza is a clinical counselor who possesses several years of experience working with adolescents and adults in a variety of treatment settings. She is a group facilitator for the intensive outpatient program (IOP) and her specializations include trauma, LGBTQ+, ADHD and overall positive mental health and wellbeing. Nicholette believes in a treatment philosophy that encompasses a wholistic and eclectic approach to care and her treatment methods include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), acceptance commitment therapy (ACT) and psychodynamic therapy.
Allison Schmoldt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Allison Schmoldt is a summa cum laude graduate of Lake Erie College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, and Ursuline College, where she received her master's degree in art therapy and counseling. She also participated in an honors study abroad program at Oxford University in England. Her 10 years of experience as a counselor includes experiential learning with horses, school-based counseling and art therapy.
Allison Schmoldt is a summa cum laude graduate of Lake Erie College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, and Ursuline College, where she received her master's degree in art therapy and counseling. She also participated in an honors study abroad program at Oxford University in England. Her 10 years of experience as a counselor includes experiential learning with horses, school-based counseling and art therapy.
Desiree Paschal
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
Desiree Paschal is a licensed professional clinical counselor, who has been practicing since 2012. She graduated from the University of Akron with a degree in clinical mental health counseling. Desiree believes in cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavior therapy approaches. The goals of these therapies is to make a positive change in life. Both therapies center on learning and practicing skills to utilize on the journey toward mental wellness. Desiree's areas of focus includes bipolar disorder, depression, and chronic illness. In her spare time, Desiree's hobbies are reading and playing strategic board games.
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
Depression, Anger, and Frustration can creep up on us without warning. No matter what the challenge, our licensed clinicians can help you gain an understanding of what is happening and implement coping skills to help you feel back in control. Our clients come to us with challenges, including Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Work difficulties, Family Concerns, and Substance Abuse Difficulties. We desire to see each person's goals achieved in a way that helps foster both growth and self-confidence.
Depression, Anger, and Frustration can creep up on us without warning. No matter what the challenge, our licensed clinicians can help you gain an understanding of what is happening and implement coping skills to help you feel back in control. Our clients come to us with challenges, including Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Work difficulties, Family Concerns, and Substance Abuse Difficulties. We desire to see each person's goals achieved in a way that helps foster both growth and self-confidence.
I help angry, frustrated and struggling young and adult men grappling with life's challenges. Through an empathetic therapeutic relationship, I help them confront societal pressures, family expectations, and personal struggles. By fostering a safe space for exploration, I guide them in rewriting their narratives, embracing vulnerability, and discovering their true selves.
I help angry, frustrated and struggling young and adult men grappling with life's challenges. Through an empathetic therapeutic relationship, I help them confront societal pressures, family expectations, and personal struggles. By fostering a safe space for exploration, I guide them in rewriting their narratives, embracing vulnerability, and discovering their true selves.
Jane Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
Benita K. Chernyk
Psychologist, PhD, CEAP, LICDCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
As a seasoned clinical psychologist, I treat adults with depression, relationship issues, anxiety disorders, ADHD, sexuality/gender issues, substance use and other problems. I have trained in multiple evidence-based treatment methods and am practical and direct. I enjoy working with couples and appreciate diversity. I was born and raised in Los Angeles but have lived and worked in Ohio for over thirty years. I am collaborative, prefer to avoid psycho-babble and have a reputation for being able to ask tough questions and confront difficult issues.
What if the key to unlocking your true potential lies within the stories you've been too afraid to share? I believe in creating a safe, empathetic, and empowering environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My goal is to help you find clarity, resilience, and growth through compassionate, culturally sensitive counseling. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other life transitions, I am here to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
What if the key to unlocking your true potential lies within the stories you've been too afraid to share? I believe in creating a safe, empathetic, and empowering environment where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My goal is to help you find clarity, resilience, and growth through compassionate, culturally sensitive counseling. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, or other life transitions, I am here to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery.
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Miranda J Villard
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
As a clinician, I value genuineness and authenticity. This forms the foundation from which I work with clients. I want to work with you to manage your chronic mental health issues, develop coping skills, work through trauma, and empower your authentic self. I do this in a variety of ways by enlisting your expertise on yourself combined with multiple treatment modalities tailored to your unique needs.
As a clinician, I value genuineness and authenticity. This forms the foundation from which I work with clients. I want to work with you to manage your chronic mental health issues, develop coping skills, work through trauma, and empower your authentic self. I do this in a variety of ways by enlisting your expertise on yourself combined with multiple treatment modalities tailored to your unique needs.
Direct intake number: 216-520-5969. Trust is nurtured and established through the flow of conversation and enables us to better identify root problems and issues that you are having. I always seek to maintain comfort and rapport with those that I work with through consistent dialogue. I have experience in treating Mood Disorders, Severe Mental Illness, Generalized and Social Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Behavioral Issues related to academics, Crisis Management, Depression, Chemical Dependency, Adjustment issues, family and employment stressors, and those with multiple psychosocial factors that contribute to stress in life.
Direct intake number: 216-520-5969. Trust is nurtured and established through the flow of conversation and enables us to better identify root problems and issues that you are having. I always seek to maintain comfort and rapport with those that I work with through consistent dialogue. I have experience in treating Mood Disorders, Severe Mental Illness, Generalized and Social Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Behavioral Issues related to academics, Crisis Management, Depression, Chemical Dependency, Adjustment issues, family and employment stressors, and those with multiple psychosocial factors that contribute to stress in life.
Stephanie McCain
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, IMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
Therapy is a challenging journey of work, towards self- transformation and infinite possibilities.
I am a lover of the comeback story; I am here to support you every step of the way. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the next step towards wellness. Emotional and relational challenges on life's journey can sometimes prevent us from experiencing our hopes, dreams and wishes fulfilled. Most clients discover that many of life's challenges and transitions such as: Adult childhood trauma, Grief/Loss, and Relationship Conflict, can increase openness towards change and self-awareness. As a Client you will be given space to sort through your personal story, explore and unlock your inner strength.
Therapy is a challenging journey of work, towards self- transformation and infinite possibilities.
I am a lover of the comeback story; I am here to support you every step of the way. Contact me today to schedule a consultation and take the next step towards wellness. Emotional and relational challenges on life's journey can sometimes prevent us from experiencing our hopes, dreams and wishes fulfilled. Most clients discover that many of life's challenges and transitions such as: Adult childhood trauma, Grief/Loss, and Relationship Conflict, can increase openness towards change and self-awareness. As a Client you will be given space to sort through your personal story, explore and unlock your inner strength.
Suzanne Gord
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131 (Online Only)
If you’re looking for a peaceful space to help you sort out stressful thoughts and discover new insights, I can help. As a person-centered counselor, I believe you have the potential to find the answers you seek. My role is to collaborate and guide you along the way. I’m a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). This means I have specialized training in exploring the causes and treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Along with talk therapy, I use techniques such as mindfulness, movement, grounding, and breathwork.
If you’re looking for a peaceful space to help you sort out stressful thoughts and discover new insights, I can help. As a person-centered counselor, I believe you have the potential to find the answers you seek. My role is to collaborate and guide you along the way. I’m a Certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional (CCATP). This means I have specialized training in exploring the causes and treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Along with talk therapy, I use techniques such as mindfulness, movement, grounding, and breathwork.
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member stressed or overwhelmed from the pressures of life's FAST pace & uncertainty? Has your college student had behavior or mood changes? Any intense fears or chronic worry? Perfectionism? Unresolved trauma? Questioning ADHD symptoms? Maybe you are struggling with health, chronic pain or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery, finding solutions and .
In Person or Secure Video Sessions. Are you or a family member stressed or overwhelmed from the pressures of life's FAST pace & uncertainty? Has your college student had behavior or mood changes? Any intense fears or chronic worry? Perfectionism? Unresolved trauma? Questioning ADHD symptoms? Maybe you are struggling with health, chronic pain or relationships? There many different reasons that a person may reach out to a counselor and you may just not know where to begin. My aim is to help you sort through your concerns and to come up with a collaborative plan that puts you on a path of self discovery, finding solutions and .
Kimberly Fuller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, MEd, LISW-S, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
What's your story? Each person has their own unique story filled with struggle, pain, triumph,and success. I find myself lucky enough to have people share their stories with me every day. I assist people in working through difficult experiences in their past and present, and create a new story for themselves in their future. I seek to help people create better relationships with others through individual, relationship, or sex therapy. I look forward to helping you understand and re-write your story to gain better relationships. I am also trained in EMDR, which can help us get at some of the deep rooted trauma affecting you today.
What's your story? Each person has their own unique story filled with struggle, pain, triumph,and success. I find myself lucky enough to have people share their stories with me every day. I assist people in working through difficult experiences in their past and present, and create a new story for themselves in their future. I seek to help people create better relationships with others through individual, relationship, or sex therapy. I look forward to helping you understand and re-write your story to gain better relationships. I am also trained in EMDR, which can help us get at some of the deep rooted trauma affecting you today.
Do you feel stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? I pride myself on my listening skills and like to build relationships with my clients. I can help you feel heard, and together, we can help find balance in your life. I have broad experience with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. My training has provided me the education to treat individuals of all ages and most mental health disorders. If I am not the best fit for you, I'll help you find someone who is.
Do you feel stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? I pride myself on my listening skills and like to build relationships with my clients. I can help you feel heard, and together, we can help find balance in your life. I have broad experience with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. My training has provided me the education to treat individuals of all ages and most mental health disorders. If I am not the best fit for you, I'll help you find someone who is.
BF Empowerment specializes in helping you reach your goals. Our specialty is helping those dealing with stress, feeling over-whelmed, trauma, relationship concerns, financial concerns, anxiety, and depression. We develop a plan to move you from feeling stressed and over-whelmed to feeling in control again. We work to improve your relationships with your loved ones and yourself. If you are feeling stuck and do not know where to turn. We will help you lighten the burden. We do not judge you because our goal is to help you accomplish your goals whatever they may be. You'll be able to face new challenges with greater confidence.
BF Empowerment specializes in helping you reach your goals. Our specialty is helping those dealing with stress, feeling over-whelmed, trauma, relationship concerns, financial concerns, anxiety, and depression. We develop a plan to move you from feeling stressed and over-whelmed to feeling in control again. We work to improve your relationships with your loved ones and yourself. If you are feeling stuck and do not know where to turn. We will help you lighten the burden. We do not judge you because our goal is to help you accomplish your goals whatever they may be. You'll be able to face new challenges with greater confidence.
Kindred Harbor Behavioral Health LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131
We accept new clients from anywhere in Ohio for telehealth sessions. Asking for help with mental wellness or addiction issues takes courage. Remember that seeking support during difficult times is actually a sign of strength. It's also a step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I can empathize with the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin this journey...when your ready to get started just reach out.
We accept new clients from anywhere in Ohio for telehealth sessions. Asking for help with mental wellness or addiction issues takes courage. Remember that seeking support during difficult times is actually a sign of strength. It's also a step toward improving your mental and emotional well-being. I can empathize with the vulnerability and courage it takes to begin this journey...when your ready to get started just reach out.
See more therapy options for Independence
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Independence
- Bedford
- Brecksville
- Broadview Heights
- Brook Park
- Cleveland
- Garfield Heights
- Macedonia
- Middleburg Heights
- North Royalton
- Northfield
- Parma
- Shaker Heights
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.