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LGBT therapists in Akron, OH

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Akron, OH

Headway connects LGBTQIA+ individuals in Akron with affirming mental health providers who understand your unique experiences and challenges. Our network of 603 licensed providers offers virtual and in-person sessions, with many accepting insurance to keep care affordable. Find a provider who gets you.

Dr. Nancy Grau

Dr. Nancy Grau

Psychologist

Virtual • Ohio


“Nancy uses an integrated approach to therapy based on trauma-informed, psychodynamic, emotion-focused, and cognitive-behavioral therapies.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 13 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Megan Wolowicz

Megan Wolowicz

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I take a neuro‐affirming, trauma‐informed approach to therapy, honoring each person's lived experience and the ways their nervous system has learned to protect them.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Noble Barkley

Noble Barkley

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I feel that counseling is most effective when the client and the clinician connect in a way that encourages honest feedback and empowerment for the client.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Hope Striving

Hope Striving

Therapist

Virtual • Chillicothe, OH


Sometimes life looks fine from the outside,

while inside you're overwhelmed, stuck,

disconnected, or wondering what happened

to the person you used to be.

Maybe you're dealing with ADHD, anxiety,

depression, relationship challenges, low

self-esteem, identity questions, or a major

life transition. Maybe you're starting over

and aren't quite sure what comes next.

You don't have to have everything figured

out before coming to therapy.

I'm Hope Striving, LPCC, and I believe

therapy should feel human. I offer a warm,

affirming, judgment-free space where you

can be honest, explore what's really

going on and feel genuinely heard.

I work with adolescents and adults,

with a particular interest in ADHD and

neurodivergence, LGBTQIA+ concerns,

identity development, relationships,

self-esteem, trauma, grief, and life

transitions.

I also believe there should be room

for humor, creativity, and authenticity

in therapy. My goal isn't to tell you how

to live your life, it's to help you better

understand yourself, recognize your

strengths, develop practical coping

strategies, and create meaningful

change that fits who you are.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Dr. Sindhia Colburn

Dr. Sindhia Colburn

Psychologist

Virtual • Ohio


“I'm a licensed psychologist who loves supporting children, teens, young adults, and the caregivers who show up for them every day.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Joseph Rifici

Joseph Rifici

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


Hi, I am Joe, a licensed mental health therapist. I believe that people are capable of change, which is why I do what I do. It's understandable if you come to therapy feeling low and unmotivated. This is normal. Your first step in coming here is a big deal and not an easy decision or task. That right there is motivation. I believe in a collaborative approach and meeting you where you are in your life. I am not an expert on you, but we can work together to understand what is getting in the way of your goals and make plans to address these areas. I am here to help you figure out what needs to change and to guide you through the process of improving your mental health and growing as a person. I am a caring, open, and non-judgmental person, who loves cats, music, reading, and video games. I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, especially around a bon fire.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
LaTasha Washington

LaTasha Washington

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“A sound mind, balanced emotions, with total wholeness are my main goals of when working with others to become their best selves.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Katie Pate

Katie Pate

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I'm a trauma sensitive, neurodivergent therapist who is committed to creating a safe and judgment-free space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
LaToya Phillips

LaToya Phillips

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Ohio


I have been a nurse since 2009 and bring years of clinical experience and a deep commitment to healing and long-term wellness. My personal experiences—including overcoming challenges, navigating trauma, raising a family, and being a grandparent—have shaped my empathy and ability to connect with patients from diverse backgrounds.

My goal is to empower patients with the knowledge, support, and tools they need to build resilience, improve their mental health, and enhance their overall quality of life while honoring each individual’s unique story. You are not placed in a box; individualized treatment plans

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Brittany Stone

Brittany Stone

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“With over a decade of practice as a mental health therapist, I believe we can work collaboratively to help you reach your goals and improve your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Kamay Gaboda

Kamay Gaboda

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“Clients can expect to have me as a trusted partner in their healing journey and walk away feeling capable and empowered.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eric Soeder

Eric Soeder

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I am a licensed independent social worker who emerged from his own mental health and substance abuse challenges with the desire to help others do the same.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Madison Joseph

Madison Joseph

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe every person deserves a safe, supportive space where they feel heard, respected, and valued.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Identity issues
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Veronica Price

Veronica Price

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I became a therapist because I wanted individuals to be truly seen, heard, and respected—so that their words feel valuable.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Energetic, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Janeane Grisez

Janeane Grisez

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“Together we will develop skills to begin managing your feelings in a healthy way while you enjoy a calm, safe and inviting space.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Emily Bonawitz

Emily Bonawitz

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My goal is to offer you a sanctuary—a place where your story is met with radical empathy instead of critique.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Dr. Llena Carter

Dr. Llena Carter

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


My name is Dr. Llena Carter. I am originally from the southside of Chicago. I have lived in four different states and traveled to over 40; including teaching/traveling abroad for multiple summers. I have been a therapist for over 20 years and have a breadth of experience. I see therapy as a sacred space where trust and nonjudgment are essential. I am specifically passionate about providing support for persons of color and oppressed populations where therapy may be otherwise stigmatized. I would be honored to walk, even a small part of your journey, with you.

In my 20-plus years of clinical experience, I have worked with individuals, families as well as with couples and groups. My experience has stemmed from a variety of settings including domestic violence shelters, psychiatric units, juvenile detention centers, college campuses and private practice. Consulting work has included Suicide Prevention, DEI trainings, Intergroup Dialogue, and Groups geared toward de-stigmatizing mental wellness for communities of color. All are welcome here.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Direct, Empowering, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Kristie Pressler

Kristie Pressler

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe the most important factor in therapy is the relationship between therapist and client and have spent 17 years empowering my clients to feel confident in their ability to navigate life with calm clarity and to develop self-compassion that...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. Maya Akinfosile

Dr. Maya Akinfosile

Psychologist

Virtual • Ohio


“I aim to never take for granted how much of a privilege it is to have clients share their stories and experiences with me.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Eleni Davis

Eleni Davis

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Worthington, OH


“I aim to create a therapeutic relationship that feels genuine and safe, letting you know that I am invested in you and your wellbeing.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression, End of life care
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Sasha Grundfast

Sasha Grundfast

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe therapy should be an affirming, empowering experience where you can show up as you are—without explaining or justifying your lived experience.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Samantha Mathews

Samantha Mathews

Psychologist

Virtual • Ohio


In my work with my clients, I strive to practice radical genuineness, meaning I work hard to connect with you as a real live person. To do this, I share pieces of my life such as my interest in drawing or Dungeons and Dragons, parts of my identity including being a transgender person with ADHD, and how I feel in the room, as in if I feel sad or excited about something we talk about. I have found that being present and transparent with my clients has helped me foster trust and build relationships which have led to feelings of belonging and experiencing meaningful change.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Eating disorders, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. DJ Griffith

Dr. DJ Griffith

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


I am a non-binary human and a licensed psychotherapist in California, credentialed as an LPCC. I have an ongoing dedication to staying at the forefront of best practices and advocating for ethical and inclusive counseling standards. With a history of driving positive change and fostering growth, I hold my clients' growth in the highest regard.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Direct, Empowering
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Scott Mills

Scott Mills

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I am trained in a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Sarah Boesger

Sarah Boesger

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I am a very direct, solution-focused therapist, and I believe psychotherapy should be more like physical therapy than chatting with a friend.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues, Identity issues
Challenging, Direct, Solution-oriented
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Douglas Hickey

Douglas Hickey

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Beavercreek, OH


“I am passionate about providing a supportive, nurturing, and non-judgmental environment to hold space for clients so they can navigate life challenges.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Holistic, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Emily Mays

Emily Mays

Therapist

Virtual • Beavercreek, OH


“I have a holistic approach to counseling and am well versed in treating anxiety, depression, trauma and physical health concerns which impact mental wellness.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Humorous, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Michaela Epperson

Michaela Epperson

Therapist

Virtual • Woodmere, OH


“I encourage clients to identify and provide the compassion that they needed at the time of the loss or traumatic experience.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Empowering, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Dr. LaTonya Whipple

Dr. LaTonya Whipple

Psychologist

Virtual • Ohio


Are you someone who is feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or uncertain about navigating life’s challenges? Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety, stress, relationship struggles, questions about gender/identity, or lingering effects of past experiences. Or perhaps you feel disconnected from yourself or others, struggle with self-doubt, or find it challenging to manage your emotions in a healthy and balanced way. As a licensed Psychologist at Psychworks Clinic, I provide therapy using interventions grounded in research and best practices.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Syed Alam

Dr. Syed Alam

Psychiatrist

Virtual • Streetsboro, OH


“I believe in truly understanding each patient as a whole person. My work is grounded in empathy, respect, and open communication.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 10 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joshua Smallwood

Joshua Smallwood

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I have a deep belief that therapy only works if the client can trust their clinician and that is what I will aim to foster from the first session.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression
Affirming, Humorous, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Dr. Shannon Powell

Dr. Shannon Powell

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Ohio


( I currently only provide medication management no individual therapy)

I am a dual-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 15 years of experience in healthcare. My background spans primary care, urgent care, and mental health, allowing me to approach each client with a comprehensive understanding of both physical and emotional well-being.

I specialize in diagnosing and treating a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, ADHD, and mood disorders. My practice focuses on providing evidence-based medication management paired with supportive, collaborative care. I believe in meeting clients where they are, empowering them through education, and tailoring treatment plans to their unique needs, preferences, and goals.

My approach is warm, non-judgmental, and holistic. I value building strong therapeutic relationships and creating a safe space where clients can feel heard, understood, and supported.

If you’re looking for compassionate, thorough, and personalized care, I’m here to help you take the next step in your mental health journey.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Open-minded
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Chris Florian

Chris Florian

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“A session with me is tailored on the spot to fit your needs, drawing from a range of techniques and modalities including: IFS, Gestalt, Somatic interventions, guided meditation, sound therapy, tapping, polyvagal-informed therapy, DBT, and CBT.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Creative, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Tarawa Pitre-Whitfield

Tarawa Pitre-Whitfield

Therapist

Virtual • Columbus, OH


“I believe that there is hope in every situation but it can be hard to see that when you are going through difficult times.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Family issues
Direct, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Oreet besner-Schrader

Dr. Oreet besner-Schrader

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


Hello, I’m Dr. Oreet Daniella Besner, a licensed marriage and family therapist, LMFT, LCSW, Psychologist, with a warm and collaborative approach to therapy. I hold an MA from Antioch University and a doctorate, PSY.D, from California School of Professional Psychology. I have 27 years of experience supporting individuals, couples, and families. My areas of focus include anxiety, depression, relationship issues, life transitions, and self-esteem. I draw from evidence-based practices like CBT, mindfulness, and solution-focused therapy to support meaningful growth. I strive to create a safe, open space where clients feel heard, respected, and empowered.

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression, Eating disorders
Empowering, Participatory, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Rebecca Caserta

Rebecca Caserta

Therapist

Virtual • Dayton, OH


“I prefer a collaborative and holistic approach to treatment, utilizing diverse techniques to help support your growth and progress on your goals.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Joseph Weikert

Joseph Weikert

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Dayton, OH


“My therapeutic approach is rooted in genuine compassion, deep empathy, and a touch of well-timed humor when appropriate.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Mary-Anne Joseph

Mary-Anne Joseph

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe every individual has unique strengths, experiences, and goals, and my role is to work collaboratively with clients by providing guidance, resources, encouragement, and support as they address barriers and make informed decisions about...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Challenging, Empowering
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Asya Mirakova

Asya Mirakova

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Ohio


“My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and goal-oriented. I integrate evidence-based techniques tailored to each client's needs, focusing on practical skills...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Sheila Stauffer

Dr. Sheila Stauffer

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“As someone with an INFJ personality, I bring warmth, compassion, and genuine dedication to every therapeutic relationship.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists in Akron, OH

Number of therapists serving Akron, OH
There are over 597 therapists in Akron, OH accepting new patients.
597+
Average years in practice
Watercolor illustration of a bookshelf
9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 98%Anxiety
  • 95%Depression
  • 90%Stress management
  • 89%Trauma
Insurances accepted
Watercolor illustration of insurance cards
  • 100%Aetna
  • 92%Cigna
  • 89%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 54%The Health Plan
Languages spoken
Watercolor illustration of languages
  • 100%English
  • 3%Spanish
  • 1%French
  • 1%Hindi
How they see their clients
Watercolor illustration of therapy session
  • 84%Online only
  • 16%In-person or online
Provider gender
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  • 80%Woman
  • 19%Man
  • 2%Non-binary
License types
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  • 45%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 25%Licensed Independent Social Worker
  • 13%Licensed Independent Social Worker - Supervisor
  • 7%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse - Certified Nurse Practitioner
  • 5%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 99%Individual therapy
  • 33%Family therapy
  • 26%Couples therapy
  • 14%Child or adolescent therapy

Frequently asked questions

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Find the right LGBTQ-friendly therapy provider for you

Headway makes it easier to connect with affirming therapists who understand your identity — from finding the right therapist, to understanding costs, to scheduling with ease.

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1 Cost may vary based on your location, age, and insurance coverage.