LISW, 16 years of experience
Hello, I’m Gina — and I’m glad you are taking the next step! If you’re navigating life with complex challenges, know that you don’t have to do it alone. You’ve found a safe, affirming space. I offer a trauma-informed, affirming space to process complex emotions, reduce stress, and build resilience. My approach is compassionate, real, and personalized — drawing from evidence-based practices and years of hands-on experience. You deserve a therapist who truly sees you. Let’s work together to create healing and growth on your terms. With over 16 years of experience, I specialize in working with people who often feel overlooked or misunderstood in traditional mental health spaces. My approach is compassionate, straightforward, and tailored to your needs. I combine evidence-based practices with a strong dose of real-world experience. I believe that healing doesn’t always look the same for everyone — so we’ll work together to find the tools, strategies, and pace that feel right for you. Above all, I’m here to offer a space where you can feel truly seen — not judged.
The first session is going to be the most structured—think of it like an interview. You’re figuring out if I’m the right fit for your team before we dive into deeper work. I’ll ask a lot of foundational questions to get to know you, your background, and what you want to get out of therapy. You can expect a space that’s open, nonjudgmental, and curious—where we’re building a foundation for trust, honesty, and growth.
What sets me apart is that I’ve lived it. I bring not just clinical experience—from hospitals to community settings—but a deep, personal understanding of the challenges my clients face. I’m down-to-earth, honest, and not afraid to be direct (or crack a well-timed, slightly dark joke). I’ll go the extra mile to make sure our work together is meaningful, and I’ll always keep it real—because that’s how real change happens.
I’m especially drawn to working with queer and trans clients, people living with HIV, and foster or adoptive parents navigating the complex terrain of identity, family, and healing. My ideal client is someone who’s open to talking, ready to grow, and not afraid to laugh—even if that laughter is a little dark. If you’ve ever thought, “Is it okay to say this out loud?”—the answer is probably yes, here. You don’t have to show up perfect—just curious, real, and ready to get unstuck.
1 rating with written reviews
July 7, 2025
I chose her because she felt the safest match for me, and Im grateful I did because I think I was right.
Gina Elston offers therapy covered by UnitedHealthcare/Optum - Medicaid in Ohio.
In my practice, I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients recognize how their thoughts influence their emotions and behaviors. Together, we explore patterns that may be holding you back and develop practical, evidence-based tools to shift those patterns. I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel empowered to challenge negative thinking and build healthier, more effective coping strategies. Whether you're managing anxiety, depression, or life transitions, CBT can offer structured guidance and measurable progress toward your goals.