LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Mayfield Heights, OH
Dr. Rachael Muster
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 (Online Only)
Have you tried therapy before, but never found the 'right' fit? Have you felt frustrated by the focus on problem-solving and 'coping' without fully investigating the root cause of your pain? Are you tired of struggling and ready to look at things from a new perspective… by examining the role of your mind, body, and spirit in your healing journey? Then you’re in the right place. Through a holistic lens, I can help you get unstuck, recover from stress + trauma, and tap into your innate ability to heal. The best part? I have immediate availability. The healing journey can be overwhelming and you don't have to do it alone.
Have you tried therapy before, but never found the 'right' fit? Have you felt frustrated by the focus on problem-solving and 'coping' without fully investigating the root cause of your pain? Are you tired of struggling and ready to look at things from a new perspective… by examining the role of your mind, body, and spirit in your healing journey? Then you’re in the right place. Through a holistic lens, I can help you get unstuck, recover from stress + trauma, and tap into your innate ability to heal. The best part? I have immediate availability. The healing journey can be overwhelming and you don't have to do it alone.
Sunflower Therapy Services
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor , LPCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 (Online Only)
Life can be unpredictable, chaotic, and downright scary at times. Other times it feels like time is moving so fast and you have so many things to do that it feels impossible. You are questioning yourself and your abilities to handle life. You are thinking the same things over and over, with no real resolution. You haven’t quite found your “people” and it’s been weighing you down lately. I enjoy working with young adults who are learning who they are and what they want to offer the world, but struggle with motivation and self-esteem to accomplish their goals. I am here to help and support you.
Life can be unpredictable, chaotic, and downright scary at times. Other times it feels like time is moving so fast and you have so many things to do that it feels impossible. You are questioning yourself and your abilities to handle life. You are thinking the same things over and over, with no real resolution. You haven’t quite found your “people” and it’s been weighing you down lately. I enjoy working with young adults who are learning who they are and what they want to offer the world, but struggle with motivation and self-esteem to accomplish their goals. I am here to help and support you.
Jen Newton-Smith
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults and teenagers navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life stress, self-esteem issues, body image difficulties, and more. I use a strengths-based, nervous system-informed approach and I encourage you to focus inward with compassion and to get curious about who you are and what feels right for you. Therapy is a collaborative relationship where you should feel seen and heard as your whole self. I value connection and authenticity. Though therapy can be an intense experience, our sessions will often include laughter and joy. I believe deeply in your ability to heal.
I specialize in working with adults and teenagers navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, identity exploration, life stress, self-esteem issues, body image difficulties, and more. I use a strengths-based, nervous system-informed approach and I encourage you to focus inward with compassion and to get curious about who you are and what feels right for you. Therapy is a collaborative relationship where you should feel seen and heard as your whole self. I value connection and authenticity. Though therapy can be an intense experience, our sessions will often include laughter and joy. I believe deeply in your ability to heal.
Karen S Raven
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
With over 25 years of counseling experience and expertise in Jungian and transpersonal techniques, I have guided numerous clients to a more gratifying life.
In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, my clients come to identify, understand, and respect the experiences that have brought them to this point in their lives. They develop a new relationship with their past, enabling them to be comfortable with themselves, confident in their decisions, and in charge of their life's direction. Through a compassionate and thoughtful approach, clients find positive and lasting changes.
With over 25 years of counseling experience and expertise in Jungian and transpersonal techniques, I have guided numerous clients to a more gratifying life.
In the safety of the therapeutic relationship, my clients come to identify, understand, and respect the experiences that have brought them to this point in their lives. They develop a new relationship with their past, enabling them to be comfortable with themselves, confident in their decisions, and in charge of their life's direction. Through a compassionate and thoughtful approach, clients find positive and lasting changes.
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
You are as unique as your fingerprint. I am a therapist that appreciates that and customizes treatment to suit your needs. I listen deeply, encourage, and advise within my scope of practice. You will benefit from: relaxation training, coping strategies for fear and depression, and insights on relationships. Above all, I promote your getting to know yourself. If your work or your faith or the arts is important to you, all strengths can be utilized in therapy. I can work with the rest of your health care team.Healing can be augmented by writing, reading, and communing in nature. If you are creatively blocked, I'm here.
Stephanie Purdom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
I became a therapist because I find true joy in connecting with others. I believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. As a social worker I value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. My style is warm and relaxed, but I will also work diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals.
I became a therapist because I find true joy in connecting with others. I believe that therapy can be impactful and enriching while still feeling down-to-earth and accessible. As a social worker I value collaboration, cultural humility, and seeing you as the expert of your own experience. My style is warm and relaxed, but I will also work diligently with you to develop the tools you need to meet your self-defined goals.
Lauren Walters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 (Online Only)
I'm Lauren Walters, a compassionate and experienced licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals overcome life's challenges. My mission as a therapist is to enable my clients to achieve the emotional well-being necessary for long term success. With a background in clinical social work and years of practice, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
I'm Lauren Walters, a compassionate and experienced licensed therapist dedicated to helping individuals overcome life's challenges. My mission as a therapist is to enable my clients to achieve the emotional well-being necessary for long term success. With a background in clinical social work and years of practice, I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns.
Jessica Wyant
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124 (Online Only)
What if all of those negative thoughts just didn’t bother you anymore? What if you could find a healthy way to not only process them, but let them go? Does it ever feel like you have a dark cloud hanging over yourself. Constant negative thoughts running through your mind. Maybe memories of trauma or negative experiences that creep up constantly. They may have happened years ago, but to you, it feels like yesterday. Life can be difficult enough without also having to fight negative thoughts and feelings in your own mind. It’s exhausting. And worst of all, it can stop you for accomplishing your goals and living your best life.
What if all of those negative thoughts just didn’t bother you anymore? What if you could find a healthy way to not only process them, but let them go? Does it ever feel like you have a dark cloud hanging over yourself. Constant negative thoughts running through your mind. Maybe memories of trauma or negative experiences that creep up constantly. They may have happened years ago, but to you, it feels like yesterday. Life can be difficult enough without also having to fight negative thoughts and feelings in your own mind. It’s exhausting. And worst of all, it can stop you for accomplishing your goals and living your best life.
Lisa Kostansek
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
I am here to help adults, parents, and families find strength and skills to meet life's challenges.
I am here to help adults, parents, and families find strength and skills to meet life's challenges.
Randi Gross Nathenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, Jungian, Analyst
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mayfield Heights, OH 44124
Not accepting new clients
I view therapy as a collaborative process where you can tell your story, explore your feelings, increase insight, and build self-awareness. I see therapy as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Drawing on over two decades of experience my approach is sensitive, patient and accepting. I feel that my role is to be a compassionate guide and facilitator to help you learn about yourself. Therapy can be like sanctuary - a place where there are no distractions, where there is an opportunity to pay attention to what is important.
I view therapy as a collaborative process where you can tell your story, explore your feelings, increase insight, and build self-awareness. I see therapy as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Drawing on over two decades of experience my approach is sensitive, patient and accepting. I feel that my role is to be a compassionate guide and facilitator to help you learn about yourself. Therapy can be like sanctuary - a place where there are no distractions, where there is an opportunity to pay attention to what is important.
More Therapists Nearby
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
I have crafted a career working with Transgender and Gender Diverse individuals, recognizing their unique challenges, providing specialized care that validates their identities, and receiving specialty training and support through WPATH. Additionally, my expertise extends to working with Autistic and Neurodivergent individuals, building an accommodating environment to optimize therapeutic outcomes and enhance a sense of identity. I have a particular focus on addressing Racial Stress and Trauma, ensuring culturally competent care. We all have unique perspectives and strengths that can be cultivated to overcome any challenge.
Emerson Fetty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44124 (Online Only)
Emerson Fetty is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over 5 years of experience. He specializes in issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community, gender and sexuality issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, life transitions, and more.
Emerson Fetty is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over 5 years of experience. He specializes in issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community, gender and sexuality issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, life transitions, and more.
Khannah Wetmore is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. They have a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA; MSW equivalent) from the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences via Case Western Reserve University. Khannah has expertise in end-of-life care, grief support and counseling, care of older adults, LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care, and trauma-informed care.
Khannah Wetmore is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2019. They have a Master of Science in Social Administration (MSSA; MSW equivalent) from the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences via Case Western Reserve University. Khannah has expertise in end-of-life care, grief support and counseling, care of older adults, LGBTQ+ and gender-affirming care, and trauma-informed care.
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
My professional journey has been shaped by a commitment to providing compassionate support and understanding to individuals on their path to mental well-being. Within the realm of counseling, I specialize in various areas, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), LGBTQIA+ affirmative counseling, ADHD, substance abuse, personality disorders, grief, chronic illness, pregnancy, prenatal and postpartum care, sleep/insomnia management, trauma, and PTSD.
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, LGBTQIA populations, couples and families.
Melanie Falls is an LISW-S and LICDC-CS who has been practicing since 1995. She graduated from KSU's Honors College and Case Western Reserve University with a Master's in Social Science Administration. Her track was clinical with a focus on working with Adolescents, Adults and Families. Melanie believes in starting with where the individual client is and understanding what has influenced them including the family and systems in which they exist. She believes in using an eclectic approach individualized to each client.
Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, trauma, women's issues, LGBTQIA populations, couples and families.
Melanie Falls is an LISW-S and LICDC-CS who has been practicing since 1995. She graduated from KSU's Honors College and Case Western Reserve University with a Master's in Social Science Administration. Her track was clinical with a focus on working with Adolescents, Adults and Families. Melanie believes in starting with where the individual client is and understanding what has influenced them including the family and systems in which they exist. She believes in using an eclectic approach individualized to each client.
Kathleen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mayfield Village, OH 44143
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children. I have pervious experience working with clients who have had concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavior issues, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I work collaboratively with my clients to create goals and a plan that will help my clients grow, heal, and have a happy, fulfilling life.
I enjoy working with adults, adolescents and children. I have pervious experience working with clients who have had concerns related to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavior issues, trauma, and LGBTQ+ related issues. I work collaboratively with my clients to create goals and a plan that will help my clients grow, heal, and have a happy, fulfilling life.
Deb Klecha is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from the Adler School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and a certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. Deb believes in a collaborative approach where she brings clinical knowledge and expertise and clients bring knowledge of themselves. She believes that this combination is effective in analyzing and understanding each client's unique experience and what is keeping them stuck. Her areas of specialty include relationship/couples counseling, career, and LGBTQ+ issues.
Deb Klecha is a psychotherapist who has been practicing since 2004. She graduated from the Adler School of Professional Psychology with a Master's Degree in Counseling Psychology and a certificate in Substance Abuse Counseling. Deb believes in a collaborative approach where she brings clinical knowledge and expertise and clients bring knowledge of themselves. She believes that this combination is effective in analyzing and understanding each client's unique experience and what is keeping them stuck. Her areas of specialty include relationship/couples counseling, career, and LGBTQ+ issues.
A particular area of interest is assisting individuals in the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent populations.
Danielle Vancura is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2011. She obtained her Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hiram College. Danielle's previous experience includes more than a decade of working with individuals exposed to trauma and experience working with individuals, families, and children in communitybased, schoolbased, and hospital settings. Danielle sees children/adolescents and adults individually.
A particular area of interest is assisting individuals in the LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent populations.
Danielle Vancura is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2011. She obtained her Master of Science in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Hiram College. Danielle's previous experience includes more than a decade of working with individuals exposed to trauma and experience working with individuals, families, and children in communitybased, schoolbased, and hospital settings. Danielle sees children/adolescents and adults individually.
Melanie Prepetit earned her bachelor's degree in social work at Bowling Green State University and her master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University. She has more than 25+ years of experience providing therapy in community-based, outpatient and residential treatment settings. She has also served as a clinical supervisor and director of community-based therapy. Melanie believes in a holistic approach to treatment. Her practice is LGBTQIA+ friendly and a transgender safe space. She specializes in trauma and abuse, reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Melanie Prepetit earned her bachelor's degree in social work at Bowling Green State University and her master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University. She has more than 25+ years of experience providing therapy in community-based, outpatient and residential treatment settings. She has also served as a clinical supervisor and director of community-based therapy. Melanie believes in a holistic approach to treatment. Her practice is LGBTQIA+ friendly and a transgender safe space. She specializes in trauma and abuse, reactive attachment disorder (RAD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Spencer is passionate about supporting people's access to good clinical care, and takes an intersectional, trauma informed and decidedly anti-racist, pro- LGBTQIA+ lens to all of his clinical work.
Spencer Gerber is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2014. Spencer is a firm believer in the healing power of relationships, community, and connection, and has built his framework for treating the people he supports with that in mind. Using a mix of evidence-based practices and a relational approach, Spencer supports people through life's challenges, teaches skills for working through overwhelming times, and encourages deep introspection around how our past experiences and current environment shape our internal and external realities.
Spencer is passionate about supporting people's access to good clinical care, and takes an intersectional, trauma informed and decidedly anti-racist, pro- LGBTQIA+ lens to all of his clinical work.
Spencer Gerber is a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio who has been practicing since 2014. Spencer is a firm believer in the healing power of relationships, community, and connection, and has built his framework for treating the people he supports with that in mind. Using a mix of evidence-based practices and a relational approach, Spencer supports people through life's challenges, teaches skills for working through overwhelming times, and encourages deep introspection around how our past experiences and current environment shape our internal and external realities.
See more therapy options for Mayfield Heights
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Mayfield Heights
- Beachwood
- Chesterland
- Cleveland Heights
- Euclid
- Gates Mills
- Lyndhurst
- Pepper Pike
- Shaker Heights
- South Euclid
- University Heights
- Wickliffe
- Willoughby Hills
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.