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LGBT therapists in Columbus, OH

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Top LGBT-friendly therapists and psychiatrists in Columbus, OH

Columbus's diverse communities deserve mental health support that celebrates who you are. Access virtual or in-person therapy with open-minded providers who specialize in LGBTQIA mental health, with sessions averaging 75% savings through insurance and some patients paying as low as $0 per session.

Patricia Bell

Patricia Bell

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My counseling style is pretty laid back. I have been described as supportive, caring, and compassionate, with a broad perspective on the stressors of life.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Elisabeth Couts

Elisabeth Couts

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My clients can expect direct communication and active engagement on my part, with humor and precision of language as we work together to get them where they want to be.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues
Direct, Participatory, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Dr. Kevin Lotz

Dr. Kevin Lotz

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My goal is that you always "feel heard and seen," that your needs are being met and feel prepared to move forward...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 9 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Erin Dye

Erin Dye

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I celebrate connecting with others. I enjoy working with all people types who are ready for a change, and I have a history of special interests in adolescents, young adults, and LGBTQIA population.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Cindy Batie

Cindy Batie

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe my clients are the experts of their lives. I try to make the counseling session a safe place for you to share what is on your heart and mind...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 14 insurance carriers
Cassie Kooser

Cassie Kooser

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Dayton, OH


“I specialize in working with youth and young adults with a history of trauma, especially those that face societal challenges due to poverty, race, disability and gender.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Barbara Hicks

Barbara Hicks

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I am a unique and creative professional that focus on building therapeutic rapport, providing support and guidance.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Direct, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Stephanie Claudio

Stephanie Claudio

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe everyone has the capacity to grow and change; sometimes we just need the right tools and a compassionate guide to help us along.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Energetic
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Michelle Perkins

Michelle Perkins

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“Most importantly I believe as a therapist you have to meet the client where they are, assist them in setting realistic goals and work with them providing education, empathy and support.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Challenging, Empowering, Solution-oriented
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
Sandy Kurka

Sandy Kurka

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe therapy is a place where you can talk about anything you need to discuss or even "dump the whole bucket out".”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 12 insurance carriers
Henrietta Whelan

Henrietta Whelan

Therapist

Virtual & in-person • Sandusky, OH


“We will work on strengths and your needs to help improve your confidence, self-esteem, and resolving trauma/issues that have impacted your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Emily Hampp

Emily Hampp

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“She is a queer and gender-affirming therapist who helps clients identify the barriers that may keep them from consistently living their authentic lives.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Jeffrey Coira

Jeffrey Coira

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I'm all about creating a safe, collaborative space where we can unpack challenges, deepen connections, and support your growth.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 13 insurance carriers
Jennifer Ruggeri

Jennifer Ruggeri

Therapist

Virtual • Columbus, OH


“My therapeutic approach is rooted in empathy and evidence-based techniques, allowing me to create a safe and nurturing environment for my clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Solution-oriented
Accepts 14 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 12 insurance carriers
Wendy Durant

Wendy Durant

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


Hi, I’m Wendy Durant-Nelson, LPC-S, PhD, N.D. New Orleans is home, and for more than 20 years I’ve had the privilege of helping adults, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My counseling style blends evidence-based care with the warmth, authenticity, and genuine connection that the South is known for; you’ll find a space where you can show up exactly as you are and feel truly heard. I specialize in anxiety, OCD, trauma, relationship concerns, depression, and women’s issues, using practical, compassionate approaches tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply ready for growth, I’d be honored to walk alongside you on your journey. ⚜️💜💚💛

LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Empowering, Warm
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Kesha Jackson

Kesha Jackson

Therapist

Virtual • Toledo, OH


“Together, we will identify behavior patterns, any negative thought perceptions and learn effective coping skills to navigate through life's challenges in a safe and non judgmental atmosphere.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Affirming, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Andrew Ryan

Andrew Ryan

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe counseling is about more than reducing symptoms. While relief from anxiety, depression, stress, and emotional pain is important, I also help clients explore meaning, purpose, values, identity, and how they want to respond to the...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Chronic conditions, Cultural & ethnic issues
Empowering, Holistic, Humorous
Accepts 15 insurance carriers
Amanda Hickey

Amanda Hickey

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I believe you are the expert of your experiences! I take this client-centered approach to provide a non-judgmental, positive, and safe space...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Affirming, Open-minded, Solution-oriented
Accepts 12 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
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
Matthew South

Matthew South

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My style is calm, curious, and nonjudgmental. Whether we're processing past experiences or navigating present challenges, I aim to create a space where growth feels possible.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Solution-oriented
Accepts 16 insurance carriers
Julia Hunter

Julia Hunter

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


You deserve support that meets you where you are. With nearly 7 years working alongside children and families, I bring an open, humorous, and affirming approach to every session. As a mother of three children with autism, I know firsthand how layered and demanding life can get. I am here to help you find your footing, and I would love to work through this with you. I have completed my undergraduate studies at Kent State, My graduate studies at Capella University where I did residency in Chicago and Atlanta. I have almost 7 years of experience in the field working in collaboration with ODJFS to help children and families. I live on a small hobby farm in Ohio and enjoy the outdoors.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Humorous, Open-minded
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Dr. Samantha Brown

Dr. Samantha Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My approach to therapy is direct, transparent, and action-oriented. I believe therapy should be more than just talking about problems—it should help you create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Challenging, Direct, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Katherine Millichamp

Katherine Millichamp

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I'm a compassionate, skilled, and open-minded therapist dedicated to empowering my clients to identify their goals...”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 11 insurance carriers
Robyn Kelly

Robyn Kelly

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I empower clients by helping them identify/develop their strengths and tools to address life stressors.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Dr. Ozzie Hairston

Dr. Ozzie Hairston

Psychiatric Mental Health NP

Virtual • Ohio


Hi, I’m Ozzie (Ohh-Zee) —a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with 26 years of experience in healthcare. I’ve worked in both inpatient and outpatient psychiatric settings, supporting individuals facing a wide range of mental health challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, and more.

In my practice, I strive to create a warm and collaborative environment where you feel heard and supported. My approach blends therapy and medication management, always tailored to your unique needs and goals. I’m here to help you navigate your journey toward healing and to help you feel more like your true self.

LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Empowering, Energetic, Open-minded
Accepts 9 insurance carriers
Diane Bernard

Diane Bernard

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“Through our work together you will gain clarity, build resilience, and leave each session with practical tools to create meaningful change.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder
Open-minded, Solution-oriented, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Oliver Gutierrez

Oliver Gutierrez

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I blend compassion with practical, real-world tools so you leave each session feeling not just heard, but genuinely equipped.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression, Identity issues
Affirming, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Rachel Cashman

Rachel Cashman

Therapist

Virtual • Columbus, OH


“I believe we all carry the answers we need deep within us. Sometimes, however, those answers become buried beneath layers of trauma, fear, and doubt.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 9 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 10 insurance carriers
Samantha Brown

Samantha Brown

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I take an aggressive approach to therapy. You have been dealing with mental/emotional issues for a while now. It is my goal to get you back to feeling like yourself in the shortest time possible.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Challenging, Creative, Direct
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Susan Belair

Susan Belair

Therapist

Virtual • Cleveland, OH


“My particular passion is facilitating healing from developmental trauma, chronic stress, or traumatic events.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Chronic conditions
Holistic, Inquisitive, Warm
Accepts 10 insurance carriers
Dr. Joshua Elliott

Dr. Joshua Elliott

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I work with adults navigating grief, stress, life transitions, identity, relationships, and the effects of difficult or traumatic experiences, with particular experience supporting LGBTQ+ and gender and sexual minority clients.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues
Inquisitive, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 8 insurance carriers
Shannon Graepel

Shannon Graepel

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I work with adults and seniors, and I'm proud to create a genuinely affirming space for LGBTQIA+ clients.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Depression, Family issues, Grief or loss
Affirming, Empowering, Open-minded
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Summer Figueroa

Summer Figueroa

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered to make meaningful changes in your life.”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, Cultural & ethnic issues, Depression
Empowering, Holistic, Warm
Accepts 7 insurance carriers
Brittani Davis

Brittani Davis

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I offer to stand beside you as we process and uncover, discover, resolve, find healing and explore what it looks like to be you, whole and authentically you.”
LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Depression, Family issues
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 6 insurance carriers
Maury McCoy

Maury McCoy

Therapist

Virtual • Middletown, OH


“I create a supportive and non-judgmental therapeutic environment - a safe space for you to land and heal.”
LGBTQIA+, Anger management, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions
Affirming, Empowering, Holistic
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

Offers free consultationsView profile and book
Allison Griesdorn

Allison Griesdorn

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


“I draw from systems theory, strengths-based approaches, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to empower clients...”
LGBTQIA+, ADD/ADHD, Anger management, Anxiety, Depression
Empowering, Open-minded, Warm
Accepts 5 insurance carriers
Nicole Craig

Nicole Craig

Therapist

Virtual • Ohio


I am a seasoned therapist of 30 years, and I learn something new with each individual I connect with. My goal is to address the issues of life we all face with grace, compassion and a little humor. I might not know all the answers... but together we will develop strategies to make a better life.

LGBTQIA+, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, Chronic conditions, Depression
Creative, Energetic, Humorous
Accepts 7 insurance carriers

About our LGBTQIA+ affirming therapists located within 20 miles of Columbus, OH

Number of therapists within 20 miles of Columbus, OH
There are over 24 therapists in Columbus, OH accepting new patients.
24+
Average years in practice
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9 years
Top specialties offered
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  • 100%LGBTQIA+
  • 100%Anxiety
  • 96%Stress management
  • 96%Depression
  • 92%Grief or loss
Insurances accepted
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  • 96%Aetna
  • 71%Cigna
  • 71%Carelon Behavioral Health
  • 67%The Health Plan
Languages spoken
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  • 100%English
How they see their clients
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  • 96%In-person or online
  • 4%In-person only
Provider gender
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  • 75%Woman
  • 21%Man
  • 4%Non-binary
License types
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  • 33%Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
  • 21%Advanced Practice Registered Nurse - Certified Nurse Practitioner
  • 17%Licensed Independent Social Worker
  • 17%Licensed Independent Social Worker - Supervisor
  • 8%Clinical Psychologist
Treatment approaches
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  • 92%Individual therapy
  • 38%Family therapy
  • 17%Couples therapy
  • 8%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.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an LGBTQIA Therapist in Columbus

Searching for LGBTQIA+ therapists in Columbus starts with finding care that clearly centers affirming support. Look for therapists who list experience with LGBTQIA+ clients, gender-diverse care, affirmative therapy, or WPATH-informed training in their profiles. These signals can matter when you want support related to identity, relationships, family dynamics, anxiety, depression, or stress. A therapist’s listed specialties, training, and approach can help you understand whether their background matches what you want to address.

Columbus has many therapy options, which can make it useful to narrow your search by more than specialty alone. Some people prefer an office near work, school, or home, while others use virtual appointments to expand access to affirming therapists across Ohio. You can also compare appointment times, whether a therapist is accepting new clients, therapy style, and personal fit signals like background or identity. Reading therapist bios before booking can show how they describe their work with LGBTQIA+ communities and what you may expect from sessions.

Therapy in Columbus can be a significant cost without insurance. Using in-network insurance is one of the most reliable ways to reduce session costs and understand what you may pay before care begins. Headway helps you search for LGBTQIA+ therapists in Columbus who are accepting new clients, compare bios and availability, and see estimated out-of-pocket costs after entering your insurance details. From there, you can book directly when you’re ready.

Find a provider - your way

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