LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Bedford Heights, OH
Elizabeth Bach-Van Valkenburgh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford Heights, OH 44128
My practice specializes in working with adults who are moving through transition; who need support and information to assist them in doing so in a successful, satisfying manner. My clinical focus is on trauma, relationships/couples, the change process across the life span, and divorce.
My practice specializes in working with adults who are moving through transition; who need support and information to assist them in doing so in a successful, satisfying manner. My clinical focus is on trauma, relationships/couples, the change process across the life span, and divorce.
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Dr. Emily Deming
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44105 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ parents and parents of LGBTQ+ children to address concerns about navigating stress, being inclusive and affirming, and personal worries.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
I specialize in working with LGBTQ+ parents and parents of LGBTQ+ children to address concerns about navigating stress, being inclusive and affirming, and personal worries.
Hello! I am Dr. Emily Deming. I am a queer psychologist who is passionate about making therapy a space to not only reflect but also to learn. I have first hand experience with supporting a neurodivergent partner and integrating into a multiracial family. I believe that therapy is a learning process and I strive to make sure that my clients leave our sessions with a toolkit they can handle life’s ups and downs with. As the expert on your life, your child, or your family, my clients are an essential part of developing individualized treatment plans focused on their needs and goals.
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.
Dr. Grey Nelei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114
My counseling practice is grounded in queer theory and narrative therapy. I work with adults with a range of concerns, including cultural and systemic oppression, sociopolitical issues, identity, anxiety, trauma, grief, and substance use. I specialize in working with queer & trans folks. My goal is to work with you collaboratively to achieve your desired goals for counseling. Being genuine with you is very important to me, and I believe that it is necessary if I expect you to be genuine with me. I do not expect to be an expert about you or your experiences, only a support to help
My counseling practice is grounded in queer theory and narrative therapy. I work with adults with a range of concerns, including cultural and systemic oppression, sociopolitical issues, identity, anxiety, trauma, grief, and substance use. I specialize in working with queer & trans folks. My goal is to work with you collaboratively to achieve your desired goals for counseling. Being genuine with you is very important to me, and I believe that it is necessary if I expect you to be genuine with me. I do not expect to be an expert about you or your experiences, only a support to help
Colors+ Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44114
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
Est. in 2018, LGBTQ+ owned and operated, and here to provide affordable care for you. Our team of licensed clinicians is 100% on your team. Our eclectic group of licensed professional clinical counselors (LPC/LPCC), licensed social workers (LSW/LISW), and marriage and family therapists (MFT) are trained to treat both adults and youth for individual counseling, family counseling and all types of relationships including monogamous, non-monogamous and polyamorous. In addition to traditional talk therapy our clinicians offer art therapy, music therapy, and EMDR to treat a wide range of issues that are unique to each person.
Queer Owned & Staffed - Affirming Pathways
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44106
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
We have immediate availability with multiple therapists and free consults to help you find the best fit! As a Queer-Owned and staffed group practice, we focus on supporting gender, sexual/affectional, and relationship structure diverse communities (LGBTQ+), including ethical non-monogamy, BDSM/Kink, etc. Our priority is fostering a therapeutic space where everyone feels safe, respected, and truly understood. We deeply value providing knowledgeable and affirming mental healthcare for all individuals, relationships, families, and youth.
Emily Plank
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
Emily Plank is a Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist who has been practicing since 2003. She graduated from Kenyon College with a BA in Psychology, and from Ursuline College with an MA in Art Therapy and Counseling. Emily believes in a holistic, feminist, person-centered approach to treatment. Her main areas of focus include trauma, LGBTQ and women's issues. She has worked extensively with domestic violence and sexual assault cases in Cuyahoga and Geauga Counties. In her spare time, Emily enjoys gardening, reading, doing yoga, playing with her many animals, and drinking obscene amounts of coffee.
Emily Plank is a Professional Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist who has been practicing since 2003. She graduated from Kenyon College with a BA in Psychology, and from Ursuline College with an MA in Art Therapy and Counseling. Emily believes in a holistic, feminist, person-centered approach to treatment. Her main areas of focus include trauma, LGBTQ and women's issues. She has worked extensively with domestic violence and sexual assault cases in Cuyahoga and Geauga Counties. In her spare time, Emily enjoys gardening, reading, doing yoga, playing with her many animals, and drinking obscene amounts of coffee.
Aaron Knapp
Counselor, CIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Independence, OH 44131
I believe in providing a space where clients feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. The foundation of our work together is a strong therapeutic relationship built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I encourage active participation from clients in goal setting and treatment planning; I am here as a guide on your journey. I also believe in tailoring therapy to the individual. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and have a special interest in working with adolescents, young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
I believe in providing a space where clients feel safe expressing their thoughts and feelings. The foundation of our work together is a strong therapeutic relationship built on empathy, understanding, and collaboration. I encourage active participation from clients in goal setting and treatment planning; I am here as a guide on your journey. I also believe in tailoring therapy to the individual. I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds and have a special interest in working with adolescents, young adults, couples, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Nicholette Leanza
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
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.
Jaime Bishop
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44115 (Online Only)
I am LGBTQIA affirming.
Life is challenging, complex, and often stressful. Making the decision to seek help with life's challenges may seem over-whelming. People seek professional help for many reasons; to help sort things out; to receive support; to get through a difficult period; to learn new ways of coping; to strengthen personal and professional relationships; and to get relief. Regardless of the reason, I will make every effort to make this a smooth and comfortable process. I am a seasoned therapist with 30 years of experience. If you are ready for growth and are committed to living a healthier and happier life; therapy can change you.
I am LGBTQIA affirming.
Life is challenging, complex, and often stressful. Making the decision to seek help with life's challenges may seem over-whelming. People seek professional help for many reasons; to help sort things out; to receive support; to get through a difficult period; to learn new ways of coping; to strengthen personal and professional relationships; and to get relief. Regardless of the reason, I will make every effort to make this a smooth and comfortable process. I am a seasoned therapist with 30 years of experience. If you are ready for growth and are committed to living a healthier and happier life; therapy can change you.
Kathleen Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
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.
Faith Payton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
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.
Aimee Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118 (Online Only)
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
Deb Klecha
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
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.
Aimee Gay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Independence, OH 44131 (Online Only)
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
I am a passionate social worker committed to supporting individuals and couples through various aspects of their mental health and well-being. My expertise spans across Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma, Couples Counseling, LGBTQIA+ issues, Grief, Sleep, Insomnia, Domestic Violence and Substance Use. My journey in social work revolves around a deep dedication to understanding and addressing the unique needs of each client.
Laith Sersain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114 (Online Only)
I specialize in working with neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ issues, women's concerns, and young adults, my goal is to create a safe and affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and embrace their true identities.
I am an LISW-S based in Ohio, bringing over 4 years of experience to my practice. I earned my master in social work from The Ohio State University, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their unique journeys.
I specialize in working with neurodivergence, LGBTQ+ issues, women's concerns, and young adults, my goal is to create a safe and affirming space where individuals can explore their experiences and embrace their true identities.
I am an LISW-S based in Ohio, bringing over 4 years of experience to my practice. I earned my master in social work from The Ohio State University, and I am deeply committed to supporting individuals on their unique journeys.
Madeline Hodgman-Korth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Cleveland Heights, OH 44118
I am committed to providing a sex-positive and affirming space for LGBTQ+, non-binary, kinky, ethically non-monogamous, and fat clients.
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
I am committed to providing a sex-positive and affirming space for LGBTQ+, non-binary, kinky, ethically non-monogamous, and fat clients.
For many of us, anxiety, depression, and life stressors can be thought of like a wave that we ride throughout our lives. Sometimes the surf is good, and we can do so easily. Other times it might be choppy, and we have to use our resources and know-how to stay afloat. In bad times, it can feel like the waves are pulling you under. As a therapist, I strive to help clients navigate uncertain tides by processing these experiences together, drawing on their strengths, and improving coping skills.
Annika Jernigan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beachwood, OH 44122
Annika has experience counseling those navigating a multitude of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, discrimination, economic instability, developmental concerns, behavioral difficulties, grief, identity concerns/concerns related to the LGBTQIA experience, self-harm, and suicidality.
Annika has experience counseling those navigating a multitude of challenges, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, discrimination, economic instability, developmental concerns, behavioral difficulties, grief, identity concerns/concerns related to the LGBTQIA experience, self-harm, and suicidality.
Danielle Vancura
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Beachwood, OH 44122
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.
Kerrigan Skruck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Cleveland, OH 44114 (Online Only)
As a dedicated Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) therapist, I specialize in working with teenagers and adults, fostering resilience and growth. I am also committed to supporting the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a safe and affirming space for their unique journeys. It’s okay to not be okay. End the stigma and talk about it. Do you feel alone and stuck inside your head? Anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, body image, etc? I’m here to help foster your confidence and remind you that you are not alone.
As a dedicated Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) therapist, I specialize in working with teenagers and adults, fostering resilience and growth. I am also committed to supporting the LGBTQIA community, ensuring a safe and affirming space for their unique journeys. It’s okay to not be okay. End the stigma and talk about it. Do you feel alone and stuck inside your head? Anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, body image, etc? I’m here to help foster your confidence and remind you that you are not alone.
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.