Transgender Therapists in Brecksville, OH

Photo of Carla J Penner, LPCC-S, Counselor
Carla J Penner
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Every journey begins with taking your first step towards your destination. This first step may be your most difficult. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment with taking this first step. You may be experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, or highs and lows because of chemical dependency, trauma, a mood disorder, or relationship issues. You may feel that you just need to be heard and your feelings validated. Whatever you are experiencing, you may feel that you just want to be a better you and be able to function more effectively.
Every journey begins with taking your first step towards your destination. This first step may be your most difficult. It is important that you feel comfortable and safe in a non-judgmental environment with taking this first step. You may be experiencing anxiety, sadness, anger, or highs and lows because of chemical dependency, trauma, a mood disorder, or relationship issues. You may feel that you just need to be heard and your feelings validated. Whatever you are experiencing, you may feel that you just want to be a better you and be able to function more effectively.
(440) 291-3180 View (440) 291-3180
Photo of Sarah Reichert, LPCC, ATR, Counselor
Sarah Reichert
Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
At times, It can be hard to communicate and put into words how you are thinking, feeling, and doing. If standard talk therapy has felt like trying to fit yourself into a box, Art Therapy could be a hands on approach to creatively express yourself without needing to have the words. As Bob Ross said, "There are no mistakes, just happy accidents”. I am passionate about embracing the creative process through Art Therapy. This process sometimes looks like making sense of past experiences to gain a deeper understanding of those events. Other times, Art Therapy is a means of expressing oneself or even exploring the self.
At times, It can be hard to communicate and put into words how you are thinking, feeling, and doing. If standard talk therapy has felt like trying to fit yourself into a box, Art Therapy could be a hands on approach to creatively express yourself without needing to have the words. As Bob Ross said, "There are no mistakes, just happy accidents”. I am passionate about embracing the creative process through Art Therapy. This process sometimes looks like making sense of past experiences to gain a deeper understanding of those events. Other times, Art Therapy is a means of expressing oneself or even exploring the self.
(330) 281-4892 View (330) 281-4892
Photo of Michelle Kramer, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Kramer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Do you ever find yourself struggling to get out of bed in the morning? Do you get overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts and sometimes want to shut down? Do you struggle with going to sleep at night because you feel as if you just can’t stop the endless worries and fears that are racing in your mind? These are real feelings and challenges that can be addressed.
Do you ever find yourself struggling to get out of bed in the morning? Do you get overwhelmed with intrusive thoughts and sometimes want to shut down? Do you struggle with going to sleep at night because you feel as if you just can’t stop the endless worries and fears that are racing in your mind? These are real feelings and challenges that can be addressed.
(440) 750-2596 View (440) 750-2596
Photo of Michelle Anderson, LPCC-S
Michelle Anderson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Michelle E. Anderson is an LPCC-S (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Status) and has been practicing since 2007. Michelle initially graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from Walsh University and taught Second grade for 10 years prior to returning to college for a Maters of Arts in Community Counseling at The University of Akron. While working on her PhD, Michelle taught Masters level classes at John Carroll University and The University of Akron in issues with sexuality and group counseling theories and practices.
Michelle E. Anderson is an LPCC-S (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory Status) and has been practicing since 2007. Michelle initially graduated with a Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Education from Walsh University and taught Second grade for 10 years prior to returning to college for a Maters of Arts in Community Counseling at The University of Akron. While working on her PhD, Michelle taught Masters level classes at John Carroll University and The University of Akron in issues with sexuality and group counseling theories and practices.
(440) 739-6505 View (440) 739-6505
Photo of Scott Brinkman, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Brinkman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
I provide non-judgmental,highly positive and safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. through therapy, my clients establish and achieve their personal and interpersonal goals. I treat clients with depression,anxiety, grief, PTSD, sexual abuse, personality disorders, relationship issues, etc in many populations including LGBT. I treat various forms of addiction from video games to gambling.I believe in celebrating what makes us different.I am proud to say that I have experience & training in various settings.
I provide non-judgmental,highly positive and safe environment for you to explore your concerns and become best version of yourself. My clients describe me as encouraging, loving, motivating and professional.. through therapy, my clients establish and achieve their personal and interpersonal goals. I treat clients with depression,anxiety, grief, PTSD, sexual abuse, personality disorders, relationship issues, etc in many populations including LGBT. I treat various forms of addiction from video games to gambling.I believe in celebrating what makes us different.I am proud to say that I have experience & training in various settings.
(440) 745-8577 View (440) 745-8577
Photo of Heather Rogers, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Heather Rogers is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who earned her master's degree in clinical social work from Case Western Reserve University and her bachelor's degree from West Virginia University. She has previously worked in community mental health care at Catholic Charities providing in home and in school therapy to children, at risk teens and families. Heather has received advanced training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Heather Rogers is a Licensed Independent Social Worker who earned her master's degree in clinical social work from Case Western Reserve University and her bachelor's degree from West Virginia University. She has previously worked in community mental health care at Catholic Charities providing in home and in school therapy to children, at risk teens and families. Heather has received advanced training in Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
(440) 772-2460 View (440) 772-2460
Photo of Mercedes Bryjak, LPCC,  IMFT
Mercedes Bryjak
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, IMFT
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Mercedes Bryjak received her bachelor's degree in language arts and psychology from Cleveland State University. She obtained her master degree in community counseling as well as marriage and family therapy from University of Akron. Mercedes is currently pursuing certification in sex therapy. She specializes in utilizing systemic approach in conceptualization and treatment of complex needs of individuals, couples and families.
Mercedes Bryjak received her bachelor's degree in language arts and psychology from Cleveland State University. She obtained her master degree in community counseling as well as marriage and family therapy from University of Akron. Mercedes is currently pursuing certification in sex therapy. She specializes in utilizing systemic approach in conceptualization and treatment of complex needs of individuals, couples and families.
(440) 683-6955 View (440) 683-6955
Photo of Margaret Bohn-Galas, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Bohn-Galas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious about life stressors? Is your marriage not quite where you would like it to be? Are you struggling with unhealthy communication? If so, I'm here to help you improve your life circumstances. My goal as a therapist is to help clients become more aware of and better understand their emotional responses to stressful life changes. I will introduce and teach communication tools to improve relationships and self esteem. Whether the struggle is with your spouse, life partner, child, or boss, these tools make it possible for you to feel healthy and happy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, sad, or anxious about life stressors? Is your marriage not quite where you would like it to be? Are you struggling with unhealthy communication? If so, I'm here to help you improve your life circumstances. My goal as a therapist is to help clients become more aware of and better understand their emotional responses to stressful life changes. I will introduce and teach communication tools to improve relationships and self esteem. Whether the struggle is with your spouse, life partner, child, or boss, these tools make it possible for you to feel healthy and happy.
(440) 210-9087 View (440) 210-9087
Photo of Melanie Falls, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Falls
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
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.
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.
(216) 450-6776 View (216) 450-6776
Photo of Jen Yensel - Jen Yensel, PhD, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jen Yensel
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Do you feel stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? I pride myself on my listening skills and like to build relationships with my clients. I can help you feel heard, and together, we can help find balance in your life. I have broad experience with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. My training has provided me the education to treat individuals of all ages and most mental health disorders. If I am not the best fit for you, I'll help you find someone who is.
Do you feel stressed? Overwhelmed? Need someone to talk to? I pride myself on my listening skills and like to build relationships with my clients. I can help you feel heard, and together, we can help find balance in your life. I have broad experience with clients in inpatient, outpatient, and school settings. My training has provided me the education to treat individuals of all ages and most mental health disorders. If I am not the best fit for you, I'll help you find someone who is.
(216) 208-5102 View (216) 208-5102
Photo of Lacey Caparanis, LPCC, Counselor
Lacey Caparanis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Lacey Caparanis holds a master's degree in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University and a bachelor's from Marietta College. She has spent her career working mainly with children, adolescents, and families in school-based settings. Lacey has also worked at Kent State University as a career advisor and has experience working with those recovering from alcoholism and addiction in a residential setting. She provides individual sessions and family sessions at Lifestance. She is a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and serves many clients from this group, as well as herself identifying as a part of the queer community.
Lacey Caparanis holds a master's degree in Counselor Education from The Ohio State University and a bachelor's from Marietta College. She has spent her career working mainly with children, adolescents, and families in school-based settings. Lacey has also worked at Kent State University as a career advisor and has experience working with those recovering from alcoholism and addiction in a residential setting. She provides individual sessions and family sessions at Lifestance. She is a LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and serves many clients from this group, as well as herself identifying as a part of the queer community.
(216) 438-9137 View (216) 438-9137
Photo of Jena Iacco, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jena Iacco
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
Jena Iacco is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor Supervisor in Ohio who has been practicing since 2018. She has a Master of Education from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Psychology from Notre Dame College. Jena is comfortably able to orient clients to the counseling process and meet them where they are at in their journey. She enjoys helping clients identify their goals and develop a realistic plan to achieve them. Jena enjoys helping clients realize their full potential by increasing their selfesteem and confidence. Being a client's advocate is her favorite part of being a therapist.
(216) 208-4477 View (216) 208-4477
Photo of Taylor K. Buss, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor K. Buss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Taylor K. Buss is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. She brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to her work, specializing in helping individuals navigate grief, trauma, and major life transitions. Taylor holds the Certified Child & Adolescent Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS-CA) certification, allowing her to provide targeted support to children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing grief or significant losses. She also works with frontline clinicians, recognizing the unique challenges they face while working in the helping profession.
Taylor K. Buss is a Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor (LISW-S) in Ohio who has been practicing since 2016. She brings a compassionate and empathetic approach to her work, specializing in helping individuals navigate grief, trauma, and major life transitions. Taylor holds the Certified Child & Adolescent Grief Counseling Specialist (CGCS-CA) certification, allowing her to provide targeted support to children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing grief or significant losses. She also works with frontline clinicians, recognizing the unique challenges they face while working in the helping profession.
(216) 606-8726 View (216) 606-8726
Photo of Allison Schmoldt, LPCC, ATR
Allison Schmoldt
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, ATR
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Allison Schmoldt is a summa cum laude graduate of Lake Erie College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, and Ursuline College, where she received her master's degree in art therapy and counseling. She also participated in an honors study abroad program at Oxford University in England. Her 10 years of experience as a counselor includes experiential learning with horses, school-based counseling and art therapy.
Allison Schmoldt is a summa cum laude graduate of Lake Erie College, where she earned her undergraduate degree in psychology, and Ursuline College, where she received her master's degree in art therapy and counseling. She also participated in an honors study abroad program at Oxford University in England. Her 10 years of experience as a counselor includes experiential learning with horses, school-based counseling and art therapy.
(440) 762-6134 View (440) 762-6134
Photo of Jane Martinez, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
I enjoy working with adults who have an interest in addressing mental health issues, including struggles with addictions. I also love to work with young people, ages 11 to 17. It is very rewarding to work toward a goal with a client and assist them in realizing their full potential. I have been fortunate to work with many types of individuals, such as those who want to deal with short-term or long-term problems. I am also bilingual in Spanish. Often people come to therapy because they want to solve an issue they have been struggling with for a long time, or sometimes it is something urgent that just suddenly arises.
(216) 868-7207 View (216) 868-7207
Photo of Kristine M Harris, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristine M Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141  (Online Only)
I help clients understand themselves and how to find peace and balance in our fast paced changing world. Often times there are barriers to our personal growth inside and outside of ourselves that need to be understood, changed or worked through to heal, and improve our lives. I will work along side you one step at a time. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems are approaches I use to help clients make meaningful changes in their lives. I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker/Therapist for 31 years and graduated from Case Western Reserve University.
I help clients understand themselves and how to find peace and balance in our fast paced changing world. Often times there are barriers to our personal growth inside and outside of ourselves that need to be understood, changed or worked through to heal, and improve our lives. I will work along side you one step at a time. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Internal Family Systems are approaches I use to help clients make meaningful changes in their lives. I have worked as a Clinical Social Worker/Therapist for 31 years and graduated from Case Western Reserve University.
(216) 868-8333 View (216) 868-8333
Photo of Virginia Clark - Western Reserve Psychological Associates,Inc, PhD
Western Reserve Psychological Associates,Inc
PhD
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
Western Reserve Psychological Associates, Inc. is committed to providing the highest quality outpatient psychological services in order to help our clients cope with and find solutions to problems of daily living. Fully licensed and qualified mental health professionals will provide our services in a confidential, supportive and caring environment.
Western Reserve Psychological Associates, Inc. is committed to providing the highest quality outpatient psychological services in order to help our clients cope with and find solutions to problems of daily living. Fully licensed and qualified mental health professionals will provide our services in a confidential, supportive and caring environment.
(330) 650-5338 View (330) 650-5338
Photo of Beth Thomas, LPCC-S, LICDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Thomas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist I invite individuals for counseling. Despite mental health being a topic people don't want to talk about, I value your time and try to make you as comfortable as possible. My goal is to empower you to make the change you want and create a life worth living.
As a therapist I invite individuals for counseling. Despite mental health being a topic people don't want to talk about, I value your time and try to make you as comfortable as possible. My goal is to empower you to make the change you want and create a life worth living.
(216) 465-0913 View (216) 465-0913
Photo of Sidney Bash, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sidney Bash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brecksville, OH 44141
Not accepting new clients
Sidney believes in creating a safe space for clients to reflect, work on self-acceptance, and build a DBT skillset that will help them navigate their emotions and interpersonal relationships more effectively. Sidney has curated these skills from her time specializing in treating high school and college aged clients with suicidal ideation. She understands that days can feel like a marathon filled with feelings of shame and untrue, negative stories we tell ourselves. Sidney enjoys empowering her clients to retell these stories and find meaning, truth, and hope within them to pave the way for a more authentic and fulfilling future.
Sidney believes in creating a safe space for clients to reflect, work on self-acceptance, and build a DBT skillset that will help them navigate their emotions and interpersonal relationships more effectively. Sidney has curated these skills from her time specializing in treating high school and college aged clients with suicidal ideation. She understands that days can feel like a marathon filled with feelings of shame and untrue, negative stories we tell ourselves. Sidney enjoys empowering her clients to retell these stories and find meaning, truth, and hope within them to pave the way for a more authentic and fulfilling future.
(216) 369-6706 View (216) 369-6706

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alex Corcoran, MSSA, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alex Corcoran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSA, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Broadview Heights, OH 44147
Direct intake number: 216-520-5969. Trust is nurtured and established through the flow of conversation and enables us to better identify root problems and issues that you are having. I always seek to maintain comfort and rapport with those that I work with through consistent dialogue. I have experience in treating Mood Disorders, Severe Mental Illness, Generalized and Social Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Behavioral Issues related to academics, Crisis Management, Depression, Chemical Dependency, Adjustment issues, family and employment stressors, and those with multiple psychosocial factors that contribute to stress in life.
Direct intake number: 216-520-5969. Trust is nurtured and established through the flow of conversation and enables us to better identify root problems and issues that you are having. I always seek to maintain comfort and rapport with those that I work with through consistent dialogue. I have experience in treating Mood Disorders, Severe Mental Illness, Generalized and Social Anxiety, Low Self-Esteem, Behavioral Issues related to academics, Crisis Management, Depression, Chemical Dependency, Adjustment issues, family and employment stressors, and those with multiple psychosocial factors that contribute to stress in life.
(440) 210-9266 View (440) 210-9266

Transgender Therapists

As a gender-diverse individual, why might I want to see a therapist who is also gender diverse?

A trans or gender-diverse client may want to see a therapist who is also trans or gender diverse because the client may feel safer sharing their experiences and more confident that the therapist will understand, validate, and support them. But trans or gender-diverse clients can also benefit from therapy with cisgender therapists; this is a personal decision based on the connection between the client and the therapist, and if that connection is strong, therapy will be successful.

What if I cannot find a therapist who shares my gender identity?

Therapy can still be effective if a therapist does not share a client’s gender identity; a large body of research indicates that the most important factor in successful therapy is the therapeutic alliance. A therapist can also be interviewed for sensitivity and competence on gender identity and expression to ensure they possess appropriate knowledge and skills. Many therapists have excellent training and extensive experience working with gender-diverse clients, and that expertise can be invaluable despite a therapist not sharing the same firsthand experiences.

How can I recognize a good therapist for working with gender-diverse clients?

An experienced therapist should be able to help clients explore their gender identity and expression, alleviate discomfort related to their gender identity, treat mental health challenges and trauma, address existing relationships and communication with family members and loved ones, and determine the next steps pertaining to nonmedical or medical gender-affirming interventions. To recognize a good therapist, clients can ask about these topics and explore their comfort and connection with the clinician.

How might I inquire about a therapist’s experience working with transgender clients?

Clients should feel comfortable asking therapists directly about their experience working with transgender or gender-diverse clientele. For example, clients may ask about the therapist’s training and education with regard to gender identity, how many trans clients they’ve worked with in the past, and what sorts of matters were discussed. You may wish to inquire how a therapist specifically supports the needs of transgender clients or clients questioning their gender identity. A good clinician who is nonetheless not the right fit for you is often happy to make referrals to others based on the concerns you articulate in a preliminary conversation.