Trauma and PTSD therapists & psychiatrists in Westlake, OH

Hi, I'm Mara! Therapy can be extremely intimidating but you should be proud of yourself for taking this step! I work with clients that have post traumatic stress disorder(PTSD), depression, anxiety and mood disorders. I also have a passion for working with adoptees as I am adopted myself. I'm currently licensed in Florida (LCSW) and Ohio (LISW). I am currently accepting clients!

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.

I am a licensed Independent Social Worker with over a decade of experience working with adults, who experience anxiety, depression and Trauma. As well as working various populations; Veterans, adults with disabilities, substance use and recovery, and Women's Issues. I have experience and a strong passion for working in the field of gerontology. I have a strong focus on holistic healing, nature and how we can utilize all treatment modalities for a more balanced and healthier version of self. It can be overwhelming and scary navigating life at times; we can walk through that together.

You deserve care that honors all of who you are. I'm Denise, an LPCC in Ohio with 30 years of experience supporting adults through trauma, grief, ADHD, chronic illness, and more. I'm affirming and welcoming to LGBTQIA+, transgender, and neurodiverse clients. I'd love to connect.

My background is in special education, which is why neurodiversity like Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, dyslexia, and learning differences are areas where I have real depth, not just familiarity. I've spent years understanding how neurodivergent brains work - and how the mental health system often misses them. I also work with clients who've been hurt by their church, their pastor, or their faith community - what many people now call "church hurt." This is a profoundly underserved area of care, and my training at Trinity Seminary means I'm not approaching it from the outside. I understand the language, the culture, and the specific kind of grief that comes with spiritual betrayal. I treasure my global experience and look forward to working with multi-cultural people, including immigrants and refugees.

I am trained in EMDR to assist individuals to heal past trauma and grief. I offer ADHD testing and counseling for youth and adults. I treat individuals with depression and anxiety. I have been a licensed professional clinical therapist for over 8 years.

I earned both my Bachelor of Science in Social Work and Master of Social Work from The Ohio State University. My background includes experience in university disability services as well as several years working closely with children and families in foster and adoptive care. Since transitioning into outpatient therapy, I’ve focused on providing thoughtful, accessible mental health care that meets clients where they are.

I work with children and adolescents (ages 11+), adults, couples, and families navigating concerns such as ADHD, behavioral challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship or family stress. My experience in foster and adoptive care gives me a strong foundation in attachment, identity, and family systems, allowing me to support both individuals and families in meaningful ways.

I have been licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2004 and have held a supervision designation since 2015. I have also held a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with a supervision/training designation license since 2018. I have maintained a private counseling practice in Chillicothe since 2000 and I continue to work with individuals and families in that capacity. I have dedicated my career to helping others and to working with the community to ensure the well-being of families and children.

My communication style

My communication tone or approach tends to be direct but laid back. We are in session to work together not have me tell you what to do or where you need to go

I think it is important to know that I am a very genuine person who strives to make the counseling space feel warm and safe.

I have an LISW-S and a degree in Special Education. I have worked for 27 years with various populations in hospitals, outpatient, and school settings. I am trained in many different approaches and use them to assist my clients in achieving goals and improving their life situation. I have special training and experience in the treatment of childhood disorders.