LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in University Heights, OH
Jacqueline Barco
Psychologist, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
Additional interests include identity, including racial/multiracial/biracial identity, queer/questioning, BIPOC marginalization/inclusion.
I work with my clients to empower them through awareness into the underlying influences of their clinical distress and life difficulties, which may include personal and social history, relationships, culture, and society. I am an empathic listener and support clients in identifying their own needs, challenges, and what is working or no longer working for them. I believe in meeting clients where they are at and to work together to build a safe, trusting, and meaningful therapeutic relationship.
Additional interests include identity, including racial/multiracial/biracial identity, queer/questioning, BIPOC marginalization/inclusion.
I work with my clients to empower them through awareness into the underlying influences of their clinical distress and life difficulties, which may include personal and social history, relationships, culture, and society. I am an empathic listener and support clients in identifying their own needs, challenges, and what is working or no longer working for them. I believe in meeting clients where they are at and to work together to build a safe, trusting, and meaningful therapeutic relationship.
As a clinical psychologist in the Cleveland area, I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-spectrum disorders (including phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder), as well as body-focused repititive behaviors. My approach is grounded in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's needs. I also provide support for individuals dealing with body image dissatisfaction and emotion regulation challenges. Additionally, I am dedicated to working with and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, including offering assistance with letters for surgery.
As a clinical psychologist in the Cleveland area, I specialize in treating OCD and anxiety-spectrum disorders (including phobias, social anxiety, and panic disorder), as well as body-focused repititive behaviors. My approach is grounded in providing compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to each individual's needs. I also provide support for individuals dealing with body image dissatisfaction and emotion regulation challenges. Additionally, I am dedicated to working with and supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, including offering assistance with letters for surgery.
Scott A. Soeder
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, EdS, LPCC
Verified Verified
University Heights, OH 44118
Now taking Medicare! If you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or unsettling life transitions, my counseling approach is to work collaboratively with you in a supportive and affirming environment. We will aim to realize your best self, guided by your life goals and aspirations. My commitment is to ensure you feel supported, heard, and welcomed in each session as we progress towards significant change.
Now taking Medicare! If you're grappling with anxiety, depression, or unsettling life transitions, my counseling approach is to work collaboratively with you in a supportive and affirming environment. We will aim to realize your best self, guided by your life goals and aspirations. My commitment is to ensure you feel supported, heard, and welcomed in each session as we progress towards significant change.
Happy Valley Counseling, LLC/Marianne Daugherty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LCSW, LISW
Verified Verified
University Heights, OH 44118
Find work/life balance, without the guilt! If you're a professional woman, grappling with that constant pressure to excel while secretly fearing you might fail or let someone down, you're not alone. You've probably tried therapy before with limited results. You're a high-achieving, motivated woman with a story, dreams, and a unique set of challenges. Together, we will uncover the roots of what's been driving the need to be perfect and I will teach you fast and effective methods to relieve unhealthy stress and free your mind and body from persistent tension so you can enjoy your life, relationships and career like never before.
Find work/life balance, without the guilt! If you're a professional woman, grappling with that constant pressure to excel while secretly fearing you might fail or let someone down, you're not alone. You've probably tried therapy before with limited results. You're a high-achieving, motivated woman with a story, dreams, and a unique set of challenges. Together, we will uncover the roots of what's been driving the need to be perfect and I will teach you fast and effective methods to relieve unhealthy stress and free your mind and body from persistent tension so you can enjoy your life, relationships and career like never before.
Brielle Dove-Smart
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, BA, MFT-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University Heights, OH 44118
Hi! Whether you have been in therapy before or you have been contemplating therapy for a while now, I know talking to someone new about your family or relationships can be a bit scary. Let me remind you to take a deep breath, as you are already halfway there! As you are searching to find a therapist who fits best for you and your family dynamic, I would be glad to help you along the way.
Hi! Whether you have been in therapy before or you have been contemplating therapy for a while now, I know talking to someone new about your family or relationships can be a bit scary. Let me remind you to take a deep breath, as you are already halfway there! As you are searching to find a therapist who fits best for you and your family dynamic, I would be glad to help you along the way.
Paul Markowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
University Heights, OH 44118
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.
Ben Zimmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
University Heights, OH 44118
Not accepting new clients
Hello! You've made the first step by logging on. Are you anxious and overwhelmed? Feeling down? Unfufilled in your relationships? If you’re new to therapy and you’re worried about getting started, you’re not alone! It can feel awkward to talk to a stranger about your life. I’d be glad to help you get started. In a time where face to face communication is less and less frequent, it is extremely beneficial to be supported and witnessed by another human being. Whether you are struggling with depression or looking for a new perspective, therapy can help. Take your time and find the therapist that is right for you!
Hello! You've made the first step by logging on. Are you anxious and overwhelmed? Feeling down? Unfufilled in your relationships? If you’re new to therapy and you’re worried about getting started, you’re not alone! It can feel awkward to talk to a stranger about your life. I’d be glad to help you get started. In a time where face to face communication is less and less frequent, it is extremely beneficial to be supported and witnessed by another human being. Whether you are struggling with depression or looking for a new perspective, therapy can help. Take your time and find the therapist that is right for you!
More Therapists Nearby
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.
Maya L Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, LCDCIII, CCTP
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an ally of the queer, and marginalized communities as well as a champion for women's rights.
If you have been to many therapists and feel like you are just another nameless face. I see you. If other providers have told you, you are too much I see you. If your family or loved ones have made you feel worthless, I see you. If you have always felt different or you just didn't fit in I see you. I am here to help anyone, whomever you are. If you are struggling with trauma, narcissistic relationships, alcohol or drug addiction, self-harm or self abuse I will hold space for you. I will help you develop the tools to feel seen and recover for the long-term. Nothing is a quick fix and therapy is the long-game.
I am an ally of the queer, and marginalized communities as well as a champion for women's rights.
If you have been to many therapists and feel like you are just another nameless face. I see you. If other providers have told you, you are too much I see you. If your family or loved ones have made you feel worthless, I see you. If you have always felt different or you just didn't fit in I see you. I am here to help anyone, whomever you are. If you are struggling with trauma, narcissistic relationships, alcohol or drug addiction, self-harm or self abuse I will hold space for you. I will help you develop the tools to feel seen and recover for the long-term. Nothing is a quick fix and therapy is the long-game.
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.
Kathleen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44120
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mary Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you are struggling in a society that places so much value on independence. I’m proud of you for taking the first steps toward asking for help and sharing your story - it’s brave of you to be here. I approach therapy from a compassionate, person-centered perspective, and draw from an eclectic range of therapeutic interventions. As a queer therapist I have a special interest in providing an affirming space for those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I welcome adults seeking letters for gender affirming medical care.
Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you are struggling in a society that places so much value on independence. I’m proud of you for taking the first steps toward asking for help and sharing your story - it’s brave of you to be here. I approach therapy from a compassionate, person-centered perspective, and draw from an eclectic range of therapeutic interventions. As a queer therapist I have a special interest in providing an affirming space for those in the LGBTQIA+ community, and I welcome adults seeking letters for gender affirming medical care.
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.
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).
Norman James Cerny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106 (Online Only)
Let's create an affirming, respectful, and open space tailored to support what you want to work through. This is a place where your identity is valued, whether you’re neurodivergent, queer, or navigating any unique aspect of who you are. My expertise includes Trauma-Focused Care (EMDR, TF-CBT), ADHD support for both adults and children, LGBTQ+ issues—particularly gay and trans care—self-harm, addiction, and family and relationship conflicts. While I focus on transitional youth, especially teens and young adults, I welcome clients of all ages into my practice.
Let's create an affirming, respectful, and open space tailored to support what you want to work through. This is a place where your identity is valued, whether you’re neurodivergent, queer, or navigating any unique aspect of who you are. My expertise includes Trauma-Focused Care (EMDR, TF-CBT), ADHD support for both adults and children, LGBTQ+ issues—particularly gay and trans care—self-harm, addiction, and family and relationship conflicts. While I focus on transitional youth, especially teens and young adults, I welcome clients of all ages into my practice.
Megan Long
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, MSSA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with adults experiencing various mental health concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. I have extensive knowledge on trauma responses and the neurobiology of trauma, and have facilitated both individual and group counseling for individuals with these concerns. As a queer practitioner, I have experience leading both individual and group counseling for LGBTQIA+ populations who may be experiencing concerns related to identity. I am aligned with and open to working with non-monogamous and alternative relationship styles and orientations.
I am experienced in working with adults experiencing various mental health concerns, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma. I have extensive knowledge on trauma responses and the neurobiology of trauma, and have facilitated both individual and group counseling for individuals with these concerns. As a queer practitioner, I have experience leading both individual and group counseling for LGBTQIA+ populations who may be experiencing concerns related to identity. I am aligned with and open to working with non-monogamous and alternative relationship styles and orientations.
See more therapy options for University Heights
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for University Heights
- Beachwood
- Bedford
- Cleveland
- Cleveland Heights
- Euclid
- Garfield Heights
- Gates Mills
- Lyndhurst
- Mayfield Heights
- Pepper Pike
- Shaker Heights
- South Euclid
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.