LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapists in Columbus, OH
I provide empathetic, trauma-informed therapy grounded in my training & lived experience as a queer individual.
You may be navigating a life transition, healing from trauma, or seeking a therapist who truly understands LGBTQIA+ experiences. You want a judgment-free space where being queer, trans, kinky, or polyamorous isn't something to explain or defend.
I provide empathetic, trauma-informed therapy grounded in my training & lived experience as a queer individual.
You may be navigating a life transition, healing from trauma, or seeking a therapist who truly understands LGBTQIA+ experiences. You want a judgment-free space where being queer, trans, kinky, or polyamorous isn't something to explain or defend.
It can be scary making that first step to talk to someone. I appreciate the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed by life and are looking for relief, therapy may be the right next step. Often, our bodies give us signals when something isn’t quite right. I’m here to help you tune in to what those signals are trying to tell you. As we work together, you may even notice relief from physical symptoms as you process what's been weighing on you.
It can be scary making that first step to talk to someone. I appreciate the courage it takes to ask for help. If you are feeling overwhelmed by life and are looking for relief, therapy may be the right next step. Often, our bodies give us signals when something isn’t quite right. I’m here to help you tune in to what those signals are trying to tell you. As we work together, you may even notice relief from physical symptoms as you process what's been weighing on you.
Kelsy Chesser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43215
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion for working with clients seeking support in the following areas: body image concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, chronic illnesses, anxiety, depression and LGBTQ+ care.
I have worked in various levels of care specializing in eating disorder treatment and co-occurring diagnoses with clients of all ages. My experience includes working with clients of diverse backgrounds and complex life circumstances. I utilize an eclectic, client-centered and collaborative approach in my therapeutic style.
I have a passion for working with clients seeking support in the following areas: body image concerns, eating disorders, ADHD, OCD, chronic illnesses, anxiety, depression and LGBTQ+ care.
I have worked in various levels of care specializing in eating disorder treatment and co-occurring diagnoses with clients of all ages. My experience includes working with clients of diverse backgrounds and complex life circumstances. I utilize an eclectic, client-centered and collaborative approach in my therapeutic style.
I hold a deep interest in the intersection of creativity and mental wellbeing. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing often begins when we are able to express what words cannot fully capture—and that the process of uncovering unconscious material can lead to profound insight, integration, and personal growth.
Drawing from psychodynamic theory, I am interested in how early life experiences shape our internal world and influence current relationships and emotional patterns. I aim to help clients explore these deeper layers of their experience, offering a supportive space to process complex emotions and inner conflicts.
I hold a deep interest in the intersection of creativity and mental wellbeing. My approach is grounded in the belief that healing often begins when we are able to express what words cannot fully capture—and that the process of uncovering unconscious material can lead to profound insight, integration, and personal growth.
Drawing from psychodynamic theory, I am interested in how early life experiences shape our internal world and influence current relationships and emotional patterns. I aim to help clients explore these deeper layers of their experience, offering a supportive space to process complex emotions and inner conflicts.
I am a cis, Queer, white, neurodivergent, partnered woman with children.
Therapy is an active, authentic conversation, and goals are client-led. You will find compassion and humor in the room with me, as well as gentle reflection and challenge. We will work to free your from old patterns created by experiences with our families, significant relationships, and past traumas, as well as the culture and systems within which we live.
I am a cis, Queer, white, neurodivergent, partnered woman with children.
Therapy is an active, authentic conversation, and goals are client-led. You will find compassion and humor in the room with me, as well as gentle reflection and challenge. We will work to free your from old patterns created by experiences with our families, significant relationships, and past traumas, as well as the culture and systems within which we live.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety and a particular interest in working with couples, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and issues of identity.
Hello, I’m Aaron Knapp (he/him), and I’m excited to join Ebb & Flow Counseling as a Licensed Professional counselor. I hold a BS in Psychology from The Ohio State University and a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Empathy, understanding, and collaboration form the foundation for an effective therapeutic relationship. I help support and encourage my clients to set their own goals that are achievable, realistic, and will have the most impact on their lives to help them feel better or get closer to their values.
I have experience working with depression and anxiety and a particular interest in working with couples, adolescents, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and issues of identity.
Hello, I’m Aaron Knapp (he/him), and I’m excited to join Ebb & Flow Counseling as a Licensed Professional counselor. I hold a BS in Psychology from The Ohio State University and a master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from John Carroll University. Empathy, understanding, and collaboration form the foundation for an effective therapeutic relationship. I help support and encourage my clients to set their own goals that are achievable, realistic, and will have the most impact on their lives to help them feel better or get closer to their values.
I work with adults of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and I support clients in all types of relationships, including monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous. My approach is inclusive, culturally sensitive, affirming, and nonjudgmental, focusing on resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth while honoring your unique experiences and goals.
I work with adults of all backgrounds, including LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, and I support clients in all types of relationships, including monogamous, non-monogamous, and polyamorous. My approach is inclusive, culturally sensitive, affirming, and nonjudgmental, focusing on resilience, self-awareness, and personal growth while honoring your unique experiences and goals.
I (they/them) am a mental health counselor, and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I prefer to build genuine relationships with my clients, emphasizing teamwork and encouraging your active participation in the counseling process. I'll welcome your humor and shared laughter while helping you to harness inner strengths, self-compassion, and newly developed skills to overcome the obstacles impacting your personal growth. I will bring a trauma informed lens and anti-oppression values to our work together and will trust you as the 'expert' of your own lived experience to help identify realistic solutions to life's challenges.
I (they/them) am a mental health counselor, and an AASECT certified sex therapist. I prefer to build genuine relationships with my clients, emphasizing teamwork and encouraging your active participation in the counseling process. I'll welcome your humor and shared laughter while helping you to harness inner strengths, self-compassion, and newly developed skills to overcome the obstacles impacting your personal growth. I will bring a trauma informed lens and anti-oppression values to our work together and will trust you as the 'expert' of your own lived experience to help identify realistic solutions to life's challenges.
Jeffrey M Glitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Columbus, OH 43209
Waitlist for new clients
I have professional experience working with teens, young adults, adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples.
Helping individuals identify their strengths and ability to grow is vital to their success and I engage in evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-Based Therapy. Areas of emphasis include anxiety, depression, trauma-informed care.
I have professional experience working with teens, young adults, adults, and LGBTQIA+ individuals/couples.
Helping individuals identify their strengths and ability to grow is vital to their success and I engage in evidence-based interventions including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, and Strengths-Based Therapy. Areas of emphasis include anxiety, depression, trauma-informed care.
If you're someone who wants more out of life, is unsure where to go, and wants to make some direction and take back control of their life, then we'll get along. My clients are wanting effective, lasting change, and they want to know what tools to use to get that progress. I get the tremendous privilege and honor to walk alongside clients who are doing their best every day to live in a world that's not always meant for them. My clients know that life is not just about surviving, and they are listening to that voice inside of themselves saying "there's got to be more." I agree with them.
If you're someone who wants more out of life, is unsure where to go, and wants to make some direction and take back control of their life, then we'll get along. My clients are wanting effective, lasting change, and they want to know what tools to use to get that progress. I get the tremendous privilege and honor to walk alongside clients who are doing their best every day to live in a world that's not always meant for them. My clients know that life is not just about surviving, and they are listening to that voice inside of themselves saying "there's got to be more." I agree with them.
You don’t have to stay stuck in overwhelm or emotional exhaustion. If you’re feeling anxious, reactive, or worn down by patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help you feel more grounded, steady, and confident in your responses. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and mood-related concerns who want practical tools and meaningful change. In our sessions, we’ll work together to better understand what’s driving your reactions and build skills that support emotional regulation and resilience.
You don’t have to stay stuck in overwhelm or emotional exhaustion. If you’re feeling anxious, reactive, or worn down by patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help you feel more grounded, steady, and confident in your responses. I work with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and mood-related concerns who want practical tools and meaningful change. In our sessions, we’ll work together to better understand what’s driving your reactions and build skills that support emotional regulation and resilience.
Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal journey, requiring trust, vulnerability, and a genuine connection. My approach is rooted in authenticity and intentional presence, moving beyond surface-level conversations. Our work together is purposeful. I'm not here to fill time with generic exercises or standard-issue worksheets. Instead, I'll create a space that honors your unique experiences, challenges your perceptions, and supports your growth. I challenge you because I see your strength, resilience, and capacity for transformation.
Choosing a therapist is a deeply personal journey, requiring trust, vulnerability, and a genuine connection. My approach is rooted in authenticity and intentional presence, moving beyond surface-level conversations. Our work together is purposeful. I'm not here to fill time with generic exercises or standard-issue worksheets. Instead, I'll create a space that honors your unique experiences, challenges your perceptions, and supports your growth. I challenge you because I see your strength, resilience, and capacity for transformation.
I have experience in community mental health, college counseling centers, private practice settings, working with children, adolescents, adults and LGBTQ+ communities.
I utilize a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach, integrating cognitive-behavioral strategies, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based techniques to support each client’s unique path toward healing and growth. Additionally, I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR.
I have experience in community mental health, college counseling centers, private practice settings, working with children, adolescents, adults and LGBTQ+ communities.
I utilize a trauma-informed and evidence-based approach, integrating cognitive-behavioral strategies, motivational interviewing, and strengths-based techniques to support each client’s unique path toward healing and growth. Additionally, I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR.
Hi! I’m Lexie, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who works with children, teens, and Gen Z adults who are navigating and/or believe they may have ADHD, anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I support all identities, orientations, and family structures, welcoming all clients with warmth, respect, and clinical expertise. You deserve to feel understood, supported, and empowered no matter where you are in life.
I'd love for you to contact me via email to learn more about how we can start your journey of self-love, growth, and healing!
Hi! I’m Lexie, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who works with children, teens, and Gen Z adults who are navigating and/or believe they may have ADHD, anxiety, depression, and/or trauma. I support all identities, orientations, and family structures, welcoming all clients with warmth, respect, and clinical expertise. You deserve to feel understood, supported, and empowered no matter where you are in life.
I'd love for you to contact me via email to learn more about how we can start your journey of self-love, growth, and healing!
I specialize in LGBTQ+ culture and incorporate trauma-informed interventions that celebrate our uniqueness.
Life can be chaotic, and wonderful, and challenging, and sorrowful - sometimes all at once. The seasons we go through can be hard to bear alone. Life transitions, biological mental health challenges, family and relationships, and personal acceptance and growth are all subjects I'm adept at helping navigate and problem solve.
I specialize in LGBTQ+ culture and incorporate trauma-informed interventions that celebrate our uniqueness.
Life can be chaotic, and wonderful, and challenging, and sorrowful - sometimes all at once. The seasons we go through can be hard to bear alone. Life transitions, biological mental health challenges, family and relationships, and personal acceptance and growth are all subjects I'm adept at helping navigate and problem solve.
Many are LGBTQ+, living with HIV, seniors, or coping with anxiety, depression, and the impact of stigma.
I offer collaborative, affirming therapy using cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and harm reduction approaches to build practical coping tools while exploring the stories that shape your life. I also specialize in gender-affirming surgical readiness letter assessments in accordance with WPATH Standards of Care.
Many are LGBTQ+, living with HIV, seniors, or coping with anxiety, depression, and the impact of stigma.
I offer collaborative, affirming therapy using cognitive-behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and harm reduction approaches to build practical coping tools while exploring the stories that shape your life. I also specialize in gender-affirming surgical readiness letter assessments in accordance with WPATH Standards of Care.
I provide telehealth therapy to adults across Ohio, with a focus on anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I mainly work with LGBTQIA+ individuals and the unique experiences that can come with that, like navigating identity, relationships, and the impact of marginalization. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, big life changes, or just feeling stuck, you don’t have to go through it alone.
I provide telehealth therapy to adults across Ohio, with a focus on anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ concerns.
I mainly work with LGBTQIA+ individuals and the unique experiences that can come with that, like navigating identity, relationships, and the impact of marginalization. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, big life changes, or just feeling stuck, you don’t have to go through it alone.
As a queer therapist, I offer affirmative therapy rooted in the belief that healing happens when we feel truly seen and supported—especially for LGBTQ+ folks and those navigating the complexities of non-traditional relationships.
I am passionate about moving folks from disconnection to deeper understanding. I bring a sex-positive lens to therapy because intimacy matters—and for many, it’s intertwined with identity, pleasure, and vulnerability. Together, we’ll unpack the stuck points, challenge shame-based narratives, and co-create space for connection that feels affirming.
As a queer therapist, I offer affirmative therapy rooted in the belief that healing happens when we feel truly seen and supported—especially for LGBTQ+ folks and those navigating the complexities of non-traditional relationships.
I am passionate about moving folks from disconnection to deeper understanding. I bring a sex-positive lens to therapy because intimacy matters—and for many, it’s intertwined with identity, pleasure, and vulnerability. Together, we’ll unpack the stuck points, challenge shame-based narratives, and co-create space for connection that feels affirming.
I’m queer, gay, neurodivergent, & a non-linear thinker.
There really is a deep wisdom in being queer, neurodivergent, kinky, poly, etc. We hold a deep truth that the world is often too scared to nurture: we choose our own limitations & can choose radical vitality and joy. With me, Gestalt & somatic therapy is a path toward repairing your relationship with your inner wisdom so you find your power to be free.
I’m queer, gay, neurodivergent, & a non-linear thinker.
There really is a deep wisdom in being queer, neurodivergent, kinky, poly, etc. We hold a deep truth that the world is often too scared to nurture: we choose our own limitations & can choose radical vitality and joy. With me, Gestalt & somatic therapy is a path toward repairing your relationship with your inner wisdom so you find your power to be free.
You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, supported, and safe to explore what’s been weighing on you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, a major life change, or relationship challenges, therapy with me is a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll build understanding and find practical ways to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control of your life.
You deserve a space where you feel truly seen, supported, and safe to explore what’s been weighing on you. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, depression, a major life change, or relationship challenges, therapy with me is a place to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with yourself. Together, we’ll build understanding and find practical ways to help you feel more balanced, confident, and in control of your life.
See more therapy options for Columbus
Nearby LGBTQ+ Therapists Searches for Columbus
- Bexley
- Blacklick
- Dublin
- Gahanna
- Galloway
- Grandview
- Grove City
- Hilliard
- Reynoldsburg
- Upper Arlington
- Westerville
- Worthington
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.