Grief counselors and therapists in Akron, OH

Hello, I am Darlene Neal, a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 35 years of experience. My clinical work has been devoted to Depression, Anxiety, Grief and Life Transitions.

I approach to counseling and therapy is that we're all striving to connect with our whole or "essence" self that resides within us. I see myself as a facilitator of that change. I am a holistic and trauma-informed therapist with some twenty-five years' experience.

I have served individuals experiencing mental health symptoms and co-occurring disorders for 20 years. I am a social worker, a therapist and an independent provider for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities.

I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner providing evidence-based psychiatric care through secure telehealth services. I am licensed in Ohio and board certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and I work with adolescents and adults seeking accessible, professional mental health care.

With over 20 years of healthcare experience, I specialize in psychiatric medication management and the treatment of anxiety, depression, ADHD (treatment with non-stimulant medication), bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders and related conditions.

My approach is patient-centered and collaborative, emphasizing shared decision-making, careful assessment, and individualized treatment planning.

Telehealth allows me to provide consistent, high-quality care while reducing common barriers such as travel, long wait times, and scheduling challenges. I take time to listen, explain treatment options clearly, and ensure patients feel informed and supported throughout their care.

I am committed to creating a respectful, judgment-free environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns and goals. Whether you are new to mental health treatment or continuing care, I focus on improving symptoms, supporting long-term stability, and enhancing overall quality of life.

Growing up in Africa as part of a large family with limited resources, I learned the values of resilience, perseverance, and community. My journey was not without challenges. I struggled with confidence, questioned my worth, and often felt unseen and ignored . Those experiences shaped my understanding of how deeply people need to feel valued, understood, and supported. Today, in my work as a therapist, I strive to create a welcoming, nonjudgmental space where clients feel seen, heard, and respected. Every person carries a unique story and deserves the opportunity to have their story honored with dignity, curiosity, and compassion.

I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio, dedicated to helping individuals break old cycles and reclaim their peace. Since 2018, I have provided specialized mental health therapy across diverse settings, including college-based community mental health with BIPOC programming, inpatient addiction care, and private practice. I am an in-network provider with many insurance companies, including Providence Health Plan through the Headway network. My practice focuses heavily on supporting women, students, individuals experiencing various life transitions, and those, who are exhausted from people-pleasing, overcommitting, and ignoring their own boundaries. Together, we work to heal past and present wounds to build a deep, lasting foundation of self-trust and self-love.

Hi! I am a licensed psychologist in Ohio with a Ph.D. from Indiana University. I was born in England but have lived in the USA for several decades. I specialize in individual and group therapy. I am the founder of focused brief group therapy, which is now used across the USA and internationally. I have several national awards for group therapy and am a Fellow of American Group Psychotherapy Association and the American Psychological Association.

Are you tired of what feels like the "same old" therapy?

My approach to create a space with my clients to have a more personally tailored approach utilizing a wellness approach!

Thriving instead of just surviving.

I am a strong believer in meeting those I serve where they are.

Whether you are experiencing loss, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, a life transition, stress or need a sounding board, I am here to be a support!