LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH

Photo of Carina Montoya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Carina Montoya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
1 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
I am a strengths-based EMDR therapist with experience in working with individuals in various contexts, including queer, trans, neurodiverse, disabled or chronically ill, and polyamorous/ENM.
We'll focus on your strengths and values to achieve the goals we set together for your experience in therapy. I use a variety of theories and practices, operating from a collaborative and holistic approach including EMDR, mindfulness practices, solution-focused therapies, and gender affirming treatment.
I am a strengths-based EMDR therapist with experience in working with individuals in various contexts, including queer, trans, neurodiverse, disabled or chronically ill, and polyamorous/ENM.
We'll focus on your strengths and values to achieve the goals we set together for your experience in therapy. I use a variety of theories and practices, operating from a collaborative and holistic approach including EMDR, mindfulness practices, solution-focused therapies, and gender affirming treatment.
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Photo of Emily Kattner, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Emily Kattner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
1 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in working with children/adolescents, young adults, relationships, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I will collaborate with you to find the approach that works best for you. I primarily use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Systemic Therapy.
I work with individuals, couples, and families and specialize in working with children/adolescents, young adults, relationships, depression, anxiety, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ individuals.
I will collaborate with you to find the approach that works best for you. I primarily use techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Systemic Therapy.
(216) 616-7670 View (216) 616-7670
Photo of Karina Rocio Clifford, MEd, LPCC
Karina Rocio Clifford
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
My goal is to create a safe, affirming space that fosters growth and self-exploration while supporting you exactly where you are in life. Together, we can explore what brought you to counseling, incorporate your values, and build coping and mindfulness skills to navigate life and manage stress. I integrate approaches such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and EMDR into my practice, tailoring them to suit your needs. Sometimes, we all need a safe, unbiased space to talk openly about our experiences and encourage growth in new ways. Just as we prioritize our physical health, it’s important to care for our mental health.
My goal is to create a safe, affirming space that fosters growth and self-exploration while supporting you exactly where you are in life. Together, we can explore what brought you to counseling, incorporate your values, and build coping and mindfulness skills to navigate life and manage stress. I integrate approaches such as ACT, CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and EMDR into my practice, tailoring them to suit your needs. Sometimes, we all need a safe, unbiased space to talk openly about our experiences and encourage growth in new ways. Just as we prioritize our physical health, it’s important to care for our mental health.
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Photo of David Brockett, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MM, LPCC
David Brockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, MM, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
Waitlist for new clients
I help adults and young adults cope with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, and familial stressors. For over thirty years I have practiced mindfulness and meditation and have seen the power of these practices transform pain and discomfort into healing and opportunity. I am a Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher through Tibet House US and Dharma Moon. It is my goal to meet my clients where they are to help them feel comfortable in a therapeutic setting.
I help adults and young adults cope with chronic pain, anxiety, depression, overwhelm, and familial stressors. For over thirty years I have practiced mindfulness and meditation and have seen the power of these practices transform pain and discomfort into healing and opportunity. I am a Certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher through Tibet House US and Dharma Moon. It is my goal to meet my clients where they are to help them feel comfortable in a therapeutic setting.
(216) 238-2632 View (216) 238-2632
Photo of Ben Zimmer, Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
Ben Zimmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, IMFT-S
5 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
Waitlist for new clients
My ideal clients are people who sense that something is still unresolved — even after years of trying to understand themselves. They arrive carrying trauma, anxiety, relational wounds, or a sense that things could feel easier. Many are curious, self-aware, and ready to go deeper than talk therapy alone has taken them. I meet clients with a range of specialized approaches tailored to how each person's nervous system holds their history. I utilize EMDR & Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) in tandem with a disarming, relational approach, moving people toward genuine healing, not just symptom relief.
My ideal clients are people who sense that something is still unresolved — even after years of trying to understand themselves. They arrive carrying trauma, anxiety, relational wounds, or a sense that things could feel easier. Many are curious, self-aware, and ready to go deeper than talk therapy alone has taken them. I meet clients with a range of specialized approaches tailored to how each person's nervous system holds their history. I utilize EMDR & Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) in tandem with a disarming, relational approach, moving people toward genuine healing, not just symptom relief.
(216) 424-3735 View (216) 424-3735
Photo of Jacquese Southern, Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Jacquese Southern
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
1 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be overwhelming and tough. Sometimes, we need more than our normal support systems. Sometimes, we need help moving forward and healing. Color, sexuality, gender, societal stereotypes, labels and trauma can add to ones struggle to navigate through life. Whatever brings you to counseling, it is my honor and goal to be with you through your journey in healing
Life can be overwhelming and tough. Sometimes, we need more than our normal support systems. Sometimes, we need help moving forward and healing. Color, sexuality, gender, societal stereotypes, labels and trauma can add to ones struggle to navigate through life. Whatever brings you to counseling, it is my honor and goal to be with you through your journey in healing
(216) 262-8883 View (216) 262-8883
Photo of Ananda Sotherland - Nurtured Soul Therapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PCC-S, CYT-200
Nurtured Soul Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PCC-S, CYT-200
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
As a queer and neurodivergent affirming therapist, the clients I collaborate with often hold intersecting identities that have historically been excluded from therapy spaces.
Compassionate collaboration, built on shared power is at the heart of where we start. My approach is holistic addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Grounded in mindfulness, Somatic attachment, EMDR and informed by IFS. This isn’t just about talking; it’s about feeling, exploring, and tending to your nervous system in a healing-centered, experiential way.
As a queer and neurodivergent affirming therapist, the clients I collaborate with often hold intersecting identities that have historically been excluded from therapy spaces.
Compassionate collaboration, built on shared power is at the heart of where we start. My approach is holistic addressing the mind, body, and spirit. Grounded in mindfulness, Somatic attachment, EMDR and informed by IFS. This isn’t just about talking; it’s about feeling, exploring, and tending to your nervous system in a healing-centered, experiential way.
(216) 677-4562 View (216) 677-4562
Photo of Amber Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Amber Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S, LCSW
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
People can heal from trauma. But you don't have to do this alone. People pleasing, relationship stress, anger, chronic pain, addictions, shame, insecurity; just a few ways trauma tends to show itself in your life. When people decide to get curious about how the wounding moments in life have impacted their self-worth and worldview, then healing can occur. You deserve to heal. And you deserve support through this process. I help people let go of shame, rediscover who they are, and find reasons to smile again. I would be honored to help discover what healing looks like for you, should you choose to no longer travel that path alone.
People can heal from trauma. But you don't have to do this alone. People pleasing, relationship stress, anger, chronic pain, addictions, shame, insecurity; just a few ways trauma tends to show itself in your life. When people decide to get curious about how the wounding moments in life have impacted their self-worth and worldview, then healing can occur. You deserve to heal. And you deserve support through this process. I help people let go of shame, rediscover who they are, and find reasons to smile again. I would be honored to help discover what healing looks like for you, should you choose to no longer travel that path alone.
(216) 294-2858 View (216) 294-2858
Photo of Katie Moody, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katie Moody
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Buckeye Shaker, Cleveland, OH 44120
Not accepting new clients
Friends, life is full of ups and downs. The downs can feel overwhelming and hopeless; personal, relational, community, and systemic issues affect our well-being and functioning. Thank goodness for therapy! As a mental health therapist, my goal is to partner with you to build on your existing strengths, develop new skills, and work through trauma and other challenges. I use a strengths-based approach and non-judgmental curiosity to meet you where you are, support you in identifying goals, and work together with you to create positive change.
Friends, life is full of ups and downs. The downs can feel overwhelming and hopeless; personal, relational, community, and systemic issues affect our well-being and functioning. Thank goodness for therapy! As a mental health therapist, my goal is to partner with you to build on your existing strengths, develop new skills, and work through trauma and other challenges. I use a strengths-based approach and non-judgmental curiosity to meet you where you are, support you in identifying goals, and work together with you to create positive change.
(216) 677-0384 View (216) 677-0384

Online Therapists

Photo of Csic Admin - Cleveland Sex & Intimacy Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cleveland Sex & Intimacy Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44113
We seek to empower and support folks who are LGBTQ+, kink, & non-monogamous.
Our clinicians are trained to unpack relational and sexual concerns in an open-minded and sex-positive perspective, while being respectful of your culture and belief systems. CSIC approaches therapy from an anti-racist, sex-positive, and anti-oppressive perspective. We have sex therapists and EMDR trained therapists!
We seek to empower and support folks who are LGBTQ+, kink, & non-monogamous.
Our clinicians are trained to unpack relational and sexual concerns in an open-minded and sex-positive perspective, while being respectful of your culture and belief systems. CSIC approaches therapy from an anti-racist, sex-positive, and anti-oppressive perspective. We have sex therapists and EMDR trained therapists!
(440) 595-5842 View (440) 595-5842
Photo of Alex Paul, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Alex Paul
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
9 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44113
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community, providing affirming care to those seeking support in the development and actualization of preferred identities.
- - - June 2026 - Currently accepting new clients, including sliding scale! - - - People often work with me because they have experienced trauma/marginalization in their lives that holds them back from living in accordance with their deepest desires, especially as it pertains to the formation and embodiment of their identity. Oftentimes these concerns manifest as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. My work is focused on compassionately exploring and processing your stories to inform how you want to move forward by developing a greater sense of connectedness with your holistic being.
I specialize in working with the LGBTQIA community, providing affirming care to those seeking support in the development and actualization of preferred identities.
- - - June 2026 - Currently accepting new clients, including sliding scale! - - - People often work with me because they have experienced trauma/marginalization in their lives that holds them back from living in accordance with their deepest desires, especially as it pertains to the formation and embodiment of their identity. Oftentimes these concerns manifest as PTSD, anxiety, and depression. My work is focused on compassionately exploring and processing your stories to inform how you want to move forward by developing a greater sense of connectedness with your holistic being.
(440) 693-2994 View (440) 693-2994
Photo of Alex Mock, Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Alex Mock
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
7 Endorsed
Online Only
As a queer & nonbinary therapist (they/them pronouns), I'm committed to providing an affirming and sex-positive space for queer and transgender clients, and folks in ethically non-monogamous relationships and kink communities.
My priority is to invite clients who have marginalized identities to feel both safe and challenged in my (virtual) office, and to help them build the skills and confidence they need to grow into the version of themselves they hope to be. We will focus on your whole self, your experiences, relationships, and environments, and how these impact your emotions, thoughts, and beliefs about yourself and the world. I enjoy working with adults managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and relationship concerns. My ideal client wants to be challenged, wants to grow, and is ready for the work of therapy and healing.
As a queer & nonbinary therapist (they/them pronouns), I'm committed to providing an affirming and sex-positive space for queer and transgender clients, and folks in ethically non-monogamous relationships and kink communities.
My priority is to invite clients who have marginalized identities to feel both safe and challenged in my (virtual) office, and to help them build the skills and confidence they need to grow into the version of themselves they hope to be. We will focus on your whole self, your experiences, relationships, and environments, and how these impact your emotions, thoughts, and beliefs about yourself and the world. I enjoy working with adults managing stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, identity development, and relationship concerns. My ideal client wants to be challenged, wants to grow, and is ready for the work of therapy and healing.
(216) 279-6563 View (216) 279-6563
Photo of Sam Everett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Sam Everett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi! I’m Sam, a therapist and licensed social worker. I help folks to navigate their mental health with a specialized focus in gender identity, sexuality, neurodivergence, and body image concerns.
Hi! I’m Sam, a therapist and licensed social worker. I help folks to navigate their mental health with a specialized focus in gender identity, sexuality, neurodivergence, and body image concerns.
(440) 586-3335 View (440) 586-3335
Photo of Portia Seals, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSWAIC, MSW, LMSW
Portia Seals
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSWAIC, MSW, LMSW
Online Only
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by big emotions or find yourself stuck in challenging relationships? Maybe you worry about being left, have trouble trusting, or struggle to set healthy boundaries. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t feel quite right, I invite you to give this another chance. I understand how difficult it can be to feel alone, misunderstood, or caught in cycles of conflict and self-doubt. My approach offers real tools and genuine support to help you cope, connect, and build a life that feels more fulfilling.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by big emotions or find yourself stuck in challenging relationships? Maybe you worry about being left, have trouble trusting, or struggle to set healthy boundaries. If you’ve tried therapy before and it didn’t feel quite right, I invite you to give this another chance. I understand how difficult it can be to feel alone, misunderstood, or caught in cycles of conflict and self-doubt. My approach offers real tools and genuine support to help you cope, connect, and build a life that feels more fulfilling.
(216) 400-5921 View (216) 400-5921
Photo of Katherine Boldt, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Katherine Boldt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
4 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44106
My work is especially supportive for individuals and relational constellations exploring: Sex and sexuality LGBTQ+ identity and queer relationships Kink/BDSM-informed care Polyamory and consensual nonmonogamy Shame-free sexual health conversations Desire, connection, and communication Donor-conceived people (DCP) and their families
As a donor-conceived person myself, I also hold deep care for supporting DCP, recipient parents, partners, and family systems through the unique emotional and relational layers of donor conception.
My work is especially supportive for individuals and relational constellations exploring: Sex and sexuality LGBTQ+ identity and queer relationships Kink/BDSM-informed care Polyamory and consensual nonmonogamy Shame-free sexual health conversations Desire, connection, and communication Donor-conceived people (DCP) and their families
As a donor-conceived person myself, I also hold deep care for supporting DCP, recipient parents, partners, and family systems through the unique emotional and relational layers of donor conception.
(440) 901-5948 View (440) 901-5948
Photo of Yub Kim, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Yub Kim
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44102
I'm an active member of both the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities, and I am here to support you in embracing and understanding your unique sexual identity.
Let's explore what sexual freedom looks like for you. Hi, I’m Yub, and I’m bilingual in Korean and English. I believe that sex and love should be enjoyed with pleasure and explored without judgment. However, the messages we receive throughout life can make it challenging to fully embrace our true sexuality.
I'm an active member of both the LGBTQIA+ and kink communities, and I am here to support you in embracing and understanding your unique sexual identity.
Let's explore what sexual freedom looks like for you. Hi, I’m Yub, and I’m bilingual in Korean and English. I believe that sex and love should be enjoyed with pleasure and explored without judgment. However, the messages we receive throughout life can make it challenging to fully embrace our true sexuality.
(216) 677-8748 View (216) 677-8748
Photo of Dr. David D Bowers, Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, IMFT
Dr. David D Bowers
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, IMFT
2 Endorsed
Cleveland, OH 44130
I have clients who identify as hetero, bi, gay, lesbian or queer and clients who hold trans- or cis-gender among their identities; also clients in monogamous, poly,&negotiated open relationships
As a Marriage & Family therapist, I'm attuned to clients’ interconnected webs of relationships even when working 1-on-1. My experience & training with families & couples enables me to walk with clients through (re)discovering their connectedness to those they love. I’m most passionate about exploring clients’ stories & listening for places where personal narratives might differ from others’. This often provides spaces for clients to explore new or neglected understandings of themselves & their relationships leading to preferred, more fulfilling future stories. I enjoy working with clients across cultural, sexual& gender identities.
I have clients who identify as hetero, bi, gay, lesbian or queer and clients who hold trans- or cis-gender among their identities; also clients in monogamous, poly,&negotiated open relationships
As a Marriage & Family therapist, I'm attuned to clients’ interconnected webs of relationships even when working 1-on-1. My experience & training with families & couples enables me to walk with clients through (re)discovering their connectedness to those they love. I’m most passionate about exploring clients’ stories & listening for places where personal narratives might differ from others’. This often provides spaces for clients to explore new or neglected understandings of themselves & their relationships leading to preferred, more fulfilling future stories. I enjoy working with clients across cultural, sexual& gender identities.
(440) 481-1137 View (440) 481-1137
Photo of Jim Buccini, Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Jim Buccini
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Cleveland, OH 44113
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include supporting LGBTQ+ clients, parents and guardians (including foster and adoptive parents), and those navigating anxiety, depression, or major life transitions.
Clinical Social Workers use many of the same tools as counselors and psychologists. My colleagues and I focus on listening, supporting, and helping with strategies that fit your needs. Through down-to-earth talk therapy, I’ll help you build resilience, boost self-awareness, and handle life’s ups and downs.
My specialties include supporting LGBTQ+ clients, parents and guardians (including foster and adoptive parents), and those navigating anxiety, depression, or major life transitions.
Clinical Social Workers use many of the same tools as counselors and psychologists. My colleagues and I focus on listening, supporting, and helping with strategies that fit your needs. Through down-to-earth talk therapy, I’ll help you build resilience, boost self-awareness, and handle life’s ups and downs.
(440) 218-8233 View (440) 218-8233
Photo of James Edwards-Roberts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
James Edwards-Roberts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Online Only
Hey, I get it. Life can feel heavy sometimes. Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain about your next steps, or struggling to reach your goals? You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. These feelings, while uncomfortable, are powerful signals that growth and change are calling you forward. As a therapist, I create a safe space where you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Feeling unsatisfied doesn’t mean something is wrong with you; it often means you’re ready to rediscover what truly matters—and I’m here to walk with you on that journey.
Hey, I get it. Life can feel heavy sometimes. Are you feeling overwhelmed, uncertain about your next steps, or struggling to reach your goals? You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck. These feelings, while uncomfortable, are powerful signals that growth and change are calling you forward. As a therapist, I create a safe space where you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Feeling unsatisfied doesn’t mean something is wrong with you; it often means you’re ready to rediscover what truly matters—and I’m here to walk with you on that journey.
(330) 632-1308 View (330) 632-1308
Photo of Zachary Pichler, Counselor, LPCC-S, LMHC
Zachary Pichler
Counselor, LPCC-S, LMHC
Online Only
My practice is deeply affirming for LGBTQIA+ clients undergoing gender exploration or significant life transitions.
My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I specialize in integrating EMDR and skills-based interventions to help you move through developmental trauma and complex life shifts. Therapy with me isn't just venting; it’s an honest, highly structured space to safely process painful experiences and walk away with concrete tools for lasting relief.
My practice is deeply affirming for LGBTQIA+ clients undergoing gender exploration or significant life transitions.
My style is warm, direct, and collaborative. I specialize in integrating EMDR and skills-based interventions to help you move through developmental trauma and complex life shifts. Therapy with me isn't just venting; it’s an honest, highly structured space to safely process painful experiences and walk away with concrete tools for lasting relief.
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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.