Culturally Sensitive Therapists in Columbus, OH
Hey! I’m Kayla, and I have a laidback and eclectic approach to therapy. If you’re looking for a strictly-xyz therapist, I’m not your girl. However, if sarcasm and cursing feels more comfortable for you, I might be just who you’re looking for. I believe laughter is the best way to the heart, and very much needed for healing to begin. I really enjoy working with women and the queer community, especially around issues such as trauma, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
Hey! I’m Kayla, and I have a laidback and eclectic approach to therapy. If you’re looking for a strictly-xyz therapist, I’m not your girl. However, if sarcasm and cursing feels more comfortable for you, I might be just who you’re looking for. I believe laughter is the best way to the heart, and very much needed for healing to begin. I really enjoy working with women and the queer community, especially around issues such as trauma, self-esteem, depression, and anxiety.
Now accepting new clients in Ohio, Florida and Indiana! It can be intimidating looking for a therapist when you are Autistic and/or ADHD. It's also common to have had one or more negative therapy experiences in the past. Traditional talk therapy puts the blame on the Neurodivergent brain and expects it to change the way it works. The truth is that you can't and shouldn't be expected to change your brain, rather learn how to harness it to reach your goals, whatever they may be. As a Neurodivergent therapist I offer you both the training and personal experience to help on your journey to self acceptance and success.
Now accepting new clients in Ohio, Florida and Indiana! It can be intimidating looking for a therapist when you are Autistic and/or ADHD. It's also common to have had one or more negative therapy experiences in the past. Traditional talk therapy puts the blame on the Neurodivergent brain and expects it to change the way it works. The truth is that you can't and shouldn't be expected to change your brain, rather learn how to harness it to reach your goals, whatever they may be. As a Neurodivergent therapist I offer you both the training and personal experience to help on your journey to self acceptance and success.
I’m a clinical mental health counselor in training and working towards my master’s in counseling from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. I was drawn to this field for its intentionality in nourishing self-empowerment, wellness, and resiliency.
I’m a clinical mental health counselor in training and working towards my master’s in counseling from Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. I was drawn to this field for its intentionality in nourishing self-empowerment, wellness, and resiliency.
Are you a Black women or other woman of color that is a professional or college student experiencing a life changing event such as a new job, marriage, childbirth, graduation, a new relationship status, or dealing with loss? Perhaps you are searching for identity or purpose, and find yourself saying, “Who am I?” or “Who have I become? As you navigate these challenges, you may find yourself spiraling out of control or even feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and depression while trying to keep it all together. If this is your story, then I would love to help.
Are you a Black women or other woman of color that is a professional or college student experiencing a life changing event such as a new job, marriage, childbirth, graduation, a new relationship status, or dealing with loss? Perhaps you are searching for identity or purpose, and find yourself saying, “Who am I?” or “Who have I become? As you navigate these challenges, you may find yourself spiraling out of control or even feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and depression while trying to keep it all together. If this is your story, then I would love to help.
You may be navigating a life transition, healing from trauma, or seeking a therapist who understands LGBTQIA+ experiences. Perhaps you're processing religious trauma, exploring your identity, or figuring out non-traditional relationships. You want a judgment-free space where being queer, kinky, or polyamorous isn't something to explain or defend. You're looking for more than symptom management; you want to build genuine resilience, healthier boundaries, and real self-compassion. You're ready to invest in yourself and deserve a therapist who gets it. You deserve a therapist grounded in both training and lived experience.
You may be navigating a life transition, healing from trauma, or seeking a therapist who understands LGBTQIA+ experiences. Perhaps you're processing religious trauma, exploring your identity, or figuring out non-traditional relationships. You want a judgment-free space where being queer, kinky, or polyamorous isn't something to explain or defend. You're looking for more than symptom management; you want to build genuine resilience, healthier boundaries, and real self-compassion. You're ready to invest in yourself and deserve a therapist who gets it. You deserve a therapist grounded in both training and lived experience.
I specialize in working with individuals and families with experiences related to adoption, foster care, and kinship care. As an adult adoptee, I'm committed to working alongside others with similar experiences to move toward wellbeing and a sense of peace. I use a collaborative, humanistic, feminist, and art-based (for those interested) approach that is curious, compassionate, and direct. I use my lived experience, my journey of processing, and my personal dedication to continual learning to actively partner with my clients. Together, we'll work toward solutions, reduced symptoms, deeper understanding, and empowered choices.
I specialize in working with individuals and families with experiences related to adoption, foster care, and kinship care. As an adult adoptee, I'm committed to working alongside others with similar experiences to move toward wellbeing and a sense of peace. I use a collaborative, humanistic, feminist, and art-based (for those interested) approach that is curious, compassionate, and direct. I use my lived experience, my journey of processing, and my personal dedication to continual learning to actively partner with my clients. Together, we'll work toward solutions, reduced symptoms, deeper understanding, and empowered choices.
Life can be an unpredictable adventure. It will have moments of triumph where we feel amazing and hopeful. But it will also have moments of failure and defeat where we feel hopeless. These are the moments when reaching out for help and compassion can make all the difference. I would be honored to be one of the helping hands you turn to in your time of need.
Life can be an unpredictable adventure. It will have moments of triumph where we feel amazing and hopeful. But it will also have moments of failure and defeat where we feel hopeless. These are the moments when reaching out for help and compassion can make all the difference. I would be honored to be one of the helping hands you turn to in your time of need.
I view counseling as a partnership between an individual or family and their therapist. When the theraputic relationship is strong I believe much can be accomplished. I work with individuals, adolescents and families as a partner in the process of wholeness. I believe that counseling can assist in the development of an understanding of yourself, your family and enhancing important relationships in your life.
I view counseling as a partnership between an individual or family and their therapist. When the theraputic relationship is strong I believe much can be accomplished. I work with individuals, adolescents and families as a partner in the process of wholeness. I believe that counseling can assist in the development of an understanding of yourself, your family and enhancing important relationships in your life.
My practice is focused on couples and adult individuals. We all encounter different types of challenges and adversity in life, whether in relationships or life events. Meeting people where they are, I enable them to find strength and meaningful connections in their lives.
My practice is focused on couples and adult individuals. We all encounter different types of challenges and adversity in life, whether in relationships or life events. Meeting people where they are, I enable them to find strength and meaningful connections in their lives.
I'm glad you are here! I believe that every individual has the ability to build resilience, drawing strength from both their challenges and successes. Together, we’ll explore your experiences through a lens of curiosity, compassion, and hope, focusing on your healing and growth.
With over 5 years of experience working with diverse populations, including immigrant and refugee youth, I have developed a deep understanding of how trauma and mental health can be shaped by cultural factors. This allows me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds in a way that feels respectful and empowering.
I'm glad you are here! I believe that every individual has the ability to build resilience, drawing strength from both their challenges and successes. Together, we’ll explore your experiences through a lens of curiosity, compassion, and hope, focusing on your healing and growth.
With over 5 years of experience working with diverse populations, including immigrant and refugee youth, I have developed a deep understanding of how trauma and mental health can be shaped by cultural factors. This allows me to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds in a way that feels respectful and empowering.
Hello! I am Dr. Justice, a dedicated mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. My passion lies in supporting individuals who face a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, people-pleasing, co-dependency, relationship difficulties, and identity concerns.
I understand that each person’s journey is unique, which is why I believe treatment should be tailored to meet your individual needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices such as EMDR, DBT, and IFS (informed)
Hello! I am Dr. Justice, a dedicated mental health professional with a Ph.D. in Counseling and a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. My passion lies in supporting individuals who face a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, people-pleasing, co-dependency, relationship difficulties, and identity concerns.
I understand that each person’s journey is unique, which is why I believe treatment should be tailored to meet your individual needs. My approach integrates evidence-based practices such as EMDR, DBT, and IFS (informed)
Therapy is for ANYONE and is often helpful for those looking for an enhanced sense of self-understanding and acceptance in the world. I hope to help you explore and understand how your past experiences have shaped the way you view yourself as well as your understanding of your relationships with others. I provide a safe place for my clients to explore thoughts, feelings, and reactions and how this impacts their lives in the day-to-day. I would love the opportunity to provide space for you as you move through a big life change or need support navigating this journey we call life.
Therapy is for ANYONE and is often helpful for those looking for an enhanced sense of self-understanding and acceptance in the world. I hope to help you explore and understand how your past experiences have shaped the way you view yourself as well as your understanding of your relationships with others. I provide a safe place for my clients to explore thoughts, feelings, and reactions and how this impacts their lives in the day-to-day. I would love the opportunity to provide space for you as you move through a big life change or need support navigating this journey we call life.
I am Steve Kapela, and I've been in long-term recovery since May 12, 2008. My journey includes overcoming challenges with gambling, alcohol, and drugs, etc. My Recovery transformation has allowed me to heal my family, build a fulfilling career, seek redemption, and repair the damage from 35 years of addiction. In 2016, I earned my Master of Social Work (LISW-S), and by 2017, I received my independent social worker license and Chemical Dependency certification. I was also among the first in Ohio to be certified as a gambling counselor (LICDC-CS-GAMB).
I am Steve Kapela, and I've been in long-term recovery since May 12, 2008. My journey includes overcoming challenges with gambling, alcohol, and drugs, etc. My Recovery transformation has allowed me to heal my family, build a fulfilling career, seek redemption, and repair the damage from 35 years of addiction. In 2016, I earned my Master of Social Work (LISW-S), and by 2017, I received my independent social worker license and Chemical Dependency certification. I was also among the first in Ohio to be certified as a gambling counselor (LICDC-CS-GAMB).
Immediate Availability as of 11/26/2025- I take a holistic, person-centered approach to healing, recognizing that each individual is more than a diagnosis or just symptoms. I view therapy as a collaborative journey that honors the whole person: mind, body, & spirit.
My methods draw from a range of evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, somatic awareness, narrative therapy, and strengths-based techniques—blended into a global approach tailored to your unique needs. I will work with you to explore the emotional, relational, cultural, and environmental factors that shape your experience.
Immediate Availability as of 11/26/2025- I take a holistic, person-centered approach to healing, recognizing that each individual is more than a diagnosis or just symptoms. I view therapy as a collaborative journey that honors the whole person: mind, body, & spirit.
My methods draw from a range of evidence-based modalities—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, somatic awareness, narrative therapy, and strengths-based techniques—blended into a global approach tailored to your unique needs. I will work with you to explore the emotional, relational, cultural, and environmental factors that shape your experience.
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
I specialize in treating generalized anxiety, OCD, depression, complex trauma and PTSD, substance and alcohol use, couples & marital issues, grief, major life transitions, vocational/career discernment, and a variety of everyday and lifelong existential questions and realities we all face. Are you depressed and anxious about many things, with sleepless nights and moments of quiet desperation, helplessness, hopelessness, and worthlessness? Are you searching for answers to questions both known and unknown, looking to share with someone who can validate the reality of suffering in your life & help you find ways to navigate?
I currently have immediate openings for ADULT ADHD and ASD testing. This process involves an online diagnostic visit, an in-person day of testing at our North Campus location, and an online feedback session. We accept most major insurances, though be prepared that the process is often between $600 to $1500 AFTER the discount from your insurance. If you are interested, please fill out the form on our website to get started. At this time, I am not accepting new clients for regular therapy. We are currently developing the systems to be able to test younger clients, but currently do not have the tests or infrastructure.
I currently have immediate openings for ADULT ADHD and ASD testing. This process involves an online diagnostic visit, an in-person day of testing at our North Campus location, and an online feedback session. We accept most major insurances, though be prepared that the process is often between $600 to $1500 AFTER the discount from your insurance. If you are interested, please fill out the form on our website to get started. At this time, I am not accepting new clients for regular therapy. We are currently developing the systems to be able to test younger clients, but currently do not have the tests or infrastructure.
Hi, I'm Brandi and I'm excited to help individuals and couples improve communication and understanding in their relationships. Our potential to be well, cope with stress, be ourselves, and connect with others are continually linked and impacted by our relationships. Relationships are so important that they require consistent attention and effort for success.
Hi, I'm Brandi and I'm excited to help individuals and couples improve communication and understanding in their relationships. Our potential to be well, cope with stress, be ourselves, and connect with others are continually linked and impacted by our relationships. Relationships are so important that they require consistent attention and effort for success.
With over 30 years experience in community agency and private practice, I serve clients from wide ranging backgrounds, with an extensive range of presenting issues. I view "problem" behaviors in a non-pathologizing way: we're all trying our best, using self-protective approaches to life's challenges that we've developed along the way, some of which may no longer serve us well. I use a humanistic, mindfulness-based approach in a safe, accepting and confidential environment. With every client who enters my office I am honored and inspired by the uniqueness of each individual as well as the commonality of our shared human experience.
With over 30 years experience in community agency and private practice, I serve clients from wide ranging backgrounds, with an extensive range of presenting issues. I view "problem" behaviors in a non-pathologizing way: we're all trying our best, using self-protective approaches to life's challenges that we've developed along the way, some of which may no longer serve us well. I use a humanistic, mindfulness-based approach in a safe, accepting and confidential environment. With every client who enters my office I am honored and inspired by the uniqueness of each individual as well as the commonality of our shared human experience.
If you feel like you don't fit in, like you don't understand who you are, like the world isn't made for you: welcome. You're safe here. Perhaps you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or you're a BIPOC or you have a disability; perhaps you're unsure whether any of these labels apply to you, but you know the way you've been trying to fit in isn't working for you. My goal is to help you challenge traditional norms, to uplift your own story and lived experience, and to see your unique experience of the world as meaningful.
If you feel like you don't fit in, like you don't understand who you are, like the world isn't made for you: welcome. You're safe here. Perhaps you're part of the LGBTQ+ community or you're a BIPOC or you have a disability; perhaps you're unsure whether any of these labels apply to you, but you know the way you've been trying to fit in isn't working for you. My goal is to help you challenge traditional norms, to uplift your own story and lived experience, and to see your unique experience of the world as meaningful.
Your story matters! Are you feeling stuck under the weight of stress or struggling with the lingering effects of trauma? It can be daunting to reach out for help, but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. At Free Spirit Counseling, we create a warm, inviting space where you can feel truly connected during therapy. Our compassionate team specializes in various areas of mental health and life transitions, ready to support you on your journey to healing and growth. Let’s work together to turn challenges into stepping stones and embrace a brighter, more vibrant life!
Your story matters! Are you feeling stuck under the weight of stress or struggling with the lingering effects of trauma? It can be daunting to reach out for help, but finding the right therapist can make all the difference. At Free Spirit Counseling, we create a warm, inviting space where you can feel truly connected during therapy. Our compassionate team specializes in various areas of mental health and life transitions, ready to support you on your journey to healing and growth. Let’s work together to turn challenges into stepping stones and embrace a brighter, more vibrant life!
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby Culturally Sensitive Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Grandview
- Grove City
- Hilliard
- New Albany
- Powell
- Reynoldsburg
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
- Worthington
Culturally Sensitive Therapists
How does culturally sensitive therapy work?
A culturally sensitive therapist will tailor their approach to therapy based on the individual client’s background. This may include changing their style of interaction (asking open-ended questions vs. being the “expert” voice), their affect (seeming warm or “neutral”), how much personal information they disclose about themselves, and more. It’s also important for a culturally sensitive therapist to acknowledge larger societal forces that may impact their client due to the client’s background.
How effective is culturally sensitive therapy?
Some professionals have expressed concern about highlighting cultural differences in therapy, suggesting that it might promote stereotypes and harm the therapeutic bond; however, many experts agree that cultural sensitivity tends to strengthen the connection between therapist and client and help clients feel heard and understood. A culturally sensitive approach to therapy can be especially helpful for those not in the cultural majority, especially when combined with proven therapies like Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
What are the limitations of a culturally sensitive approach to therapy?
While being culturally sensitive is generally a valuable skill to have, a therapist cannot treat every client from a similar background the same way. Each client is an individual with their own values, personal preferences, and life experiences that will need to be explored during therapy. In addition, it’s rare for a therapist and client to have identical backgrounds, so there may be some cross-cultural differences to navigate during therapy, but a culturally sensitive therapist can do so with empathy and respect.
Can culturally sensitive therapy be done online?
Yes, online therapy using a culturally sensitive approach can be beneficial. Therapy can sometimes be difficult to access for clients from diverse backgrounds and socioeconomic standing. The array of mental health support available through the internet makes it possible for clients to find a good therapist match regardless of where they live.