LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Shaker Heights, OH

Photo of Duane D Culler, MSSA, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Duane D Culler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
I have an interest in working with clients with chronic health issues, cancer, genetic conditions, LGBTQ+ concerns and parents of LGBTQ+ children,.
I provide short-term and long-term adult psychotherapy with the goal of helping you improve your personal, family and work lives. I view psychotherapy as a process of exploration in which together we look at what doesn't seem to be working in your life, what you would like to change, and how you might be able to accomplish that.
I have an interest in working with clients with chronic health issues, cancer, genetic conditions, LGBTQ+ concerns and parents of LGBTQ+ children,.
I provide short-term and long-term adult psychotherapy with the goal of helping you improve your personal, family and work lives. I view psychotherapy as a process of exploration in which together we look at what doesn't seem to be working in your life, what you would like to change, and how you might be able to accomplish that.
(216) 677-2361 View (216) 677-2361
Photo of Kaleigh Turick, LPCC-S, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaleigh Turick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
We specialize in working with teenagers, parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Catharsis Counseling CLE wants to help you create balance, peace, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships in your life. While this process can be challenging, filled with doubt and uncertainty, it can also be an opportunity for growth. You can change the way you handle life's challenges and improve the relationships that matter most to you. We are here to help! We enjoy challenging current ways of thinking to move you forward, towards your goals. Let us support you in taking those first steps toward wellness and the best version of you.
We specialize in working with teenagers, parents, couples, and members of the LGBTQ+ community.
Catharsis Counseling CLE wants to help you create balance, peace, and healthier, more fulfilling relationships in your life. While this process can be challenging, filled with doubt and uncertainty, it can also be an opportunity for growth. You can change the way you handle life's challenges and improve the relationships that matter most to you. We are here to help! We enjoy challenging current ways of thinking to move you forward, towards your goals. Let us support you in taking those first steps toward wellness and the best version of you.
(216) 223-8817 View (216) 223-8817
Photo of Holly Ilene Zager, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Ilene Zager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
My career began working with the young LGBTQ community.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over twenty five years with experience working with teenagers and adults. I l enjoy working with motivated clients whose anxious and/or depressive symptoms are interfering with living a satisfying life. I integrate many approaches including, but not limited to, Solution-Focused, CBT, Strengths Based, IFS, Somatic, Mindfulness and EMDR. With compassion and empathy, I am eager to help clients feel understood and known but will also not hesitate to help them disentangle from unproductive thinking and relational patterns.
My career began working with the young LGBTQ community.
Thanks for checking out my profile! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over twenty five years with experience working with teenagers and adults. I l enjoy working with motivated clients whose anxious and/or depressive symptoms are interfering with living a satisfying life. I integrate many approaches including, but not limited to, Solution-Focused, CBT, Strengths Based, IFS, Somatic, Mindfulness and EMDR. With compassion and empathy, I am eager to help clients feel understood and known but will also not hesitate to help them disentangle from unproductive thinking and relational patterns.
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Photo of Hannah Heffner, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Heffner
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPCC, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
I have a passion for working with teens and young adults who are exploring their identity and hold a safe and supportive space for LGBTQ+ affirming counseling. I work well with teens and young adults who experience anxiety, depression, disordered eating and self-harm behaviors. I take a Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), person-centered, trauma informed approach within a social justice frame to support clients in blending the creative and practical so that clients enjoy the process of exploration and can see results in their mood and behaviors. New Group starting in April- Youth AFFIRM which is a group for LGBTQIA+ teens!
(484) 549-9434 View (484) 549-9434
Photo of Ruth DuBois- Earley, MA, LPCC
Ruth DuBois- Earley
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44118
I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
It may seem like you haven't yet had the opportunity to fully connect with and understand your true self. I aim to join you on your journey of self-exploration and empowerment, guiding you through the process of identifying, confronting, and transforming the patterns that no longer serve you. I am committed to fostering your healing journey through ongoing curiosity and exploration. In the words of Gabi Abrão, "As long as 'why' exists, everything in this life is suspended in a sacred open-endedness." You possess the capacity to craft a life that resonates with your deepest desires by embracing all facets of your being.
I am passionate about working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
It may seem like you haven't yet had the opportunity to fully connect with and understand your true self. I aim to join you on your journey of self-exploration and empowerment, guiding you through the process of identifying, confronting, and transforming the patterns that no longer serve you. I am committed to fostering your healing journey through ongoing curiosity and exploration. In the words of Gabi Abrão, "As long as 'why' exists, everything in this life is suspended in a sacred open-endedness." You possess the capacity to craft a life that resonates with your deepest desires by embracing all facets of your being.
(216) 750-3122 View (216) 750-3122
Photo of Beth M Shapiro, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth M Shapiro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
I have special interest in working with clients/families dealing with issues such as: trauma, adjustment to illness; end-of-life; anticipatory, disenfranchised & general grief/loss; pet loss; caregiver stress & fatigue; relationships; adjustment & mood disorders; adoption; LGBTQ+ issues & life transitions.
I am a licensed independent social worker with a PhD in psychology (academic degree). My humanistic approach engages clients in active collaboration on the content/direction of therapy. I strive to make the therapeutic space & time warm, welcoming, & safe, to provide clients the ability to focus on problems. I have extensive experience working within healthcare & hospice environments, & have a strong understanding of medical issues. I utilize strengths-based approaches in counseling individuals, couples, & families. Techniques are based on therapies including; EMDR, mindfulness, acceptance, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, narrative, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic, & client-centered therapy. My dissertation focused on existential suffering at end of life.
(440) 210-0430 View (440) 210-0430
Photo of Thailia Morton, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thailia Morton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44118
Welcome! Thank you for your interest in me helping you through your journey! My areas of focus include trauma focused care, anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression, life transitions, BIPOC individuals , LGBTQIA+ individuals, self esteem concerns, ADHD, boundary setting, self-care , and many more. I like to meet my clients where they are in their journey and utilize evidenced-based approaches that best fits the needs of the client.
Welcome! Thank you for your interest in me helping you through your journey! My areas of focus include trauma focused care, anxiety disorders, mood disorders including depression, life transitions, BIPOC individuals , LGBTQIA+ individuals, self esteem concerns, ADHD, boundary setting, self-care , and many more. I like to meet my clients where they are in their journey and utilize evidenced-based approaches that best fits the needs of the client.
(216) 999-3840 View (216) 999-3840
Photo of Christopher Keiper, PhD, Psychologist
Christopher Keiper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44120
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ohio and Indiana who provides psychotherapy for teens (15+) and adults. I specialize in OCD-and-related disorders, anxiety-spectrum disorders, phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder; I also work with body image dissatisfaction and emotion regulation difficulties, and support and work with LGBTQ+ individuals (including writing letters for surgery).
I am a clinical psychologist licensed in Ohio and Indiana who provides psychotherapy for teens (15+) and adults. I specialize in OCD-and-related disorders, anxiety-spectrum disorders, phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder; I also work with body image dissatisfaction and emotion regulation difficulties, and support and work with LGBTQ+ individuals (including writing letters for surgery).
(216) 202-4022 View (216) 202-4022
Photo of Samantha Hoch, LPCC-S, Counselor
Samantha Hoch
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I provide teletherapy to adults of all genders who live in the state of Ohio. Therapy can feel uncomfortable at times because change is difficult, so my hope is to create an environment where you can be authentic and share your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is warm and person-centered with a trauma-informed perspective to learn about how your past experiences have impacted you. I offer therapy that is LGBTQ+ affirming.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and I provide teletherapy to adults of all genders who live in the state of Ohio. Therapy can feel uncomfortable at times because change is difficult, so my hope is to create an environment where you can be authentic and share your thoughts and feelings. My approach to therapy is warm and person-centered with a trauma-informed perspective to learn about how your past experiences have impacted you. I offer therapy that is LGBTQ+ affirming.
(216) 666-5653 View (216) 666-5653
Photo of Rita Bryce, JD, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rita Bryce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LISW
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
People deserve an empathetic, supportive environment where they can process their feelings and make a plan to solve their problems and achieve their goals. Stress often leads to anxiety and depression which create barriers to those goals. My aim is to help clients see the strengths they have been overlooking to bring down those barriers and achieve their goals. I have a good deal of experience in counseling college and graduate students, both in a college counseling center and in private practice. I find helping young adults particularly rewarding.
People deserve an empathetic, supportive environment where they can process their feelings and make a plan to solve their problems and achieve their goals. Stress often leads to anxiety and depression which create barriers to those goals. My aim is to help clients see the strengths they have been overlooking to bring down those barriers and achieve their goals. I have a good deal of experience in counseling college and graduate students, both in a college counseling center and in private practice. I find helping young adults particularly rewarding.
(216) 677-2541 View (216) 677-2541
Photo of Dr. Ellen Bronder, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Ellen Bronder
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44120  (Online Only)
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive and high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
Offering help for depression, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, stress and burnout. Working with adults, college & grad students and professionals, including people in sensitive and high-profile roles for whom discretion & privacy are paramount. Here you will get a therapist that has a deep and unique understanding of suffering, a therapist that is skillful, knowledgeable, real, transparent and compassionate. A therapist that gets it and has expertise in diagnosis and treatment based on advanced knowledge of human development, psychotherapeutic treatment and advanced knowledge of research in psychology.
(216) 299-3810 View (216) 299-3810
Photo of Katarina Brown-Rodriguez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katarina Brown-Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
Welcome to my corner of insight and growth! Let's navigate the twists and turns of the human psyche together, one breakthrough at a time. Authenticity, empowerment, non-judgment, and validation are the cornerstones of my practice. I'm here to provide support in fostering self-awareness, building motivation, and developing the practical skills that will contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
Welcome to my corner of insight and growth! Let's navigate the twists and turns of the human psyche together, one breakthrough at a time. Authenticity, empowerment, non-judgment, and validation are the cornerstones of my practice. I'm here to provide support in fostering self-awareness, building motivation, and developing the practical skills that will contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
(216) 859-3696 View (216) 859-3696
Photo of Paul Markowicz, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paul Markowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
Waitlist for new clients
I see adults and couples, providing both short-term and long-term psychotherapy, in order to increase personal insight and decrease unwanted symptoms.
I see adults and couples, providing both short-term and long-term psychotherapy, in order to increase personal insight and decrease unwanted symptoms.
(216) 929-0227 View (216) 929-0227
Photo of Meghan Newman, LPCC, Counselor
Meghan Newman
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
​Counseling isn’t one size fits all. I approach the counseling process eclectically and by meeting the patient where they are in their life. I believe it’s important to incorporate various techniques, as well as different forms of interaction that may facilitate deeper conversation and connection. I believe in order for someone to feel comfortable opening up, they have to trust. Sometimes this means stepping outside of your comfort zone. I look forward to working with you on your journey of self-improvement, self-reflection, understanding, growth, and discovery.
​Counseling isn’t one size fits all. I approach the counseling process eclectically and by meeting the patient where they are in their life. I believe it’s important to incorporate various techniques, as well as different forms of interaction that may facilitate deeper conversation and connection. I believe in order for someone to feel comfortable opening up, they have to trust. Sometimes this means stepping outside of your comfort zone. I look forward to working with you on your journey of self-improvement, self-reflection, understanding, growth, and discovery.
(330) 632-3116 View (330) 632-3116
Photo of Sarah Hope Lincoln, PhD, Psychologist
Sarah Hope Lincoln
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
Everyone experiences challenges throughout their lives, and each of us is equipped with different strengths to tackle them. Sometimes we need to acquire additional support to develop new skills and strategies, and have a source of encouragement, in facing these challenges. I aim to help children, teens, and young adults navigate a variety of academic, learning, behavioral, and psychological challenges, in a supportive, warm, and collaborative environment. I work with incredible individuals and am honored to work with them!
(617) 553-6351 View (617) 553-6351
Photo of Dean Malec, PhD, Psychologist
Dean Malec
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist with Center for Evidence Based Treatment Ohio. I work with adults and adolescents with a variety of presenting concerns, including eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, and difficulties with emotion regulation, including borderline personality disorder, suicidal urges and self-harm. Having done much of my training at university counseling centers, I also enjoy working with young adults on stress management and navigating healthy development. I provide in-person and remote services and am able to work with clients in any PSYPACT-participating state (psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap).
Hello! I am a licensed psychologist with Center for Evidence Based Treatment Ohio. I work with adults and adolescents with a variety of presenting concerns, including eating disorders, anxiety and mood disorders, and difficulties with emotion regulation, including borderline personality disorder, suicidal urges and self-harm. Having done much of my training at university counseling centers, I also enjoy working with young adults on stress management and navigating healthy development. I provide in-person and remote services and am able to work with clients in any PSYPACT-participating state (psypact.org/mpage/psypactmap).
(216) 478-4929 x2005 View (216) 478-4929 x2005
Photo of Ashley Schwartzman, PsyD, Psychologist
Ashley Schwartzman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
I work with adolescents (14+ y/o) and adults who are seeking individual, family, and couples therapy. Many of the adolescents and adults I work with experience general and social anxiety, grief, depression, PTSD, and may engage in self-harming behaviors or have suicidal ideation. I provide parent/ caregiver coaching to parents who want to improve the quality of their relationship with their children and learn skills of effective conflict management and limit setting. The couples I work with want to learn skills to improve their communication, manage conflict effectively, and rebuild trust and intimacy within their relationship.
(234) 348-3858 View (234) 348-3858
Photo of Olivia Goins-Jordan, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Goins-Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
My main goal for all clients is to make therapy as stress free as possible. For my kiddos, I aim to make sessions as fun as possible. My clients can always rely on me to listen with an open mind and to provide a safe judgement free zone. I feel fulfilled when clients leave my office feeling like they were heard and understood.
My main goal for all clients is to make therapy as stress free as possible. For my kiddos, I aim to make sessions as fun as possible. My clients can always rely on me to listen with an open mind and to provide a safe judgement free zone. I feel fulfilled when clients leave my office feeling like they were heard and understood.
(216) 677-4610 View (216) 677-4610
Photo of Stephanie Purdom, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Purdom
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shaker Heights, OH 44122
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.
(614) 968-7032 View (614) 968-7032
Photo of Ayanna Bates, LSW, LMSW
Ayanna Bates
Licensed Master Social Worker, LSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Shaker Heights, OH 44122  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and adults who are experiencing eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I approach therapy using an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, and strengths-based lens. I believe therapy should be collaborative and I strive to support clients in reaching their life worth living goals and find their path to healing.
As a Licensed Social Worker, I have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and adults who are experiencing eating disorders, suicidal ideation, self-harm, depression, anxiety, grief, and trauma. I approach therapy using an anti-oppressive, trauma informed, and strengths-based lens. I believe therapy should be collaborative and I strive to support clients in reaching their life worth living goals and find their path to healing.
(929) 205-6798 View (929) 205-6798
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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.