Buckeye Health Plan Therapists in Ohio

Accessing mental health services with Buckeye Health Plan can make finding quality, affordable care simpler and more accessible. With 57 verified therapists in Ohio who accept Buckeye Health Plan, you have access to therapeutic approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, supportive counseling, and family therapy to address needs such as anxiety, depression, or family dynamics. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is currently open to new clients and has upcoming availability, helping you connect with in-network support that aligns with your Buckeye Health Plan coverage.

Availability updated: 6/30/2025

Sherri Dragovich

(she/her)

Sherri Dragovich, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I'm Sherri. Have you been feeling overwhelmed or lost lately? Is it easy to feel stuck or powerless, isolated from others even when you are not totally alone? Life can be challenging to navigate, especially right now in a world that often feels out of control and overwhelming. I can help you navigate through life's stressors and together we can work to empower you to manage the challenges life throws your way. I primarily work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship, and life stressors. I am a certified financial coach. I also have a strong connection to the first responder community and their families. As the daughter of a firefighter/paramedic, I have a unique understanding of this population and the challenges they face, and enjoy working with this clientele as well. My goal is to help you find hope and strength to take control of your life and shape it into what makes you happy and fulfilled. I can't wait to work with you! Schedule your appointment with me today!

Dr. Ashley Lowe-Simmons

(She/Her)

Dr. Ashley Lowe-Simmons, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

LISW
12 years of experience
Virtual
Dr. Ashley Lowe-Simmons has extensive training and education in working with many populations, but she is most passionate about working with Black and Hispanic families headed by single mothers. She is certified in financial social work, so financial health is a priority in her practice. She aspires to help everyone understand that mental health is the foundation of our being.

Melena Slaven

(she/her)

Melena Slaven, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am licensed mental health counselor with a Master of Arts in Counseling and 20 years of experience. My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and client-centered, grounded in cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused techniques, and interpersonal therapy. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship, meeting clients where they are, and tailoring each session to their pace and needs. I incorporate humor into my work, helping clients navigate challenges one step at a time. You will feel at ease in your first session. I recognize the challenges of deciding to get therapy and will help you stay motivated to continue. I lived overseas for 18 years, so I believe that I bring an open-minded perspective and a deep appreciation for diverse experiences. I have had the privilege of helping individuals from various backgrounds find clarity, resilience, and hope. I became a therapist to guide others through life’s difficult moments in a safe, supportive way. Together, we'll set achievable goals, work toward meaningful change, and leave feeling empowered and more at peace.

Kimberly Smith

(she/her)

Kimberly Smith, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
30 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Independent Social Worker based in Ohio. I received my master's degree from Walden University and my bachelor's degree from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. I have been working in the field of social work for 30+ years. I help youth and young adults struggling with a variety of different issues like self-esteem, anxiety, independent living, family issues, problem sexual behaviors, juvenile delinquency and non-suicidal self-harm. An interesting thing about me is that I have worked with youth who were living as Vampires, no judgement, just interesting!

Carla Darnell

(she/her)

Carla Darnell, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
30 years of experience
Virtual
I have always been fascinated by how people work. As a child I loved learning about how the body works. As I got older my focus shifted to how minds work and how people function in this world. My education centered around mental health how to help people with their problems. I have an MS in Life Span Development and an Med in Counselor Education, both from Purdue University and am now a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Ohio. I enjoy gardening, traveling and learning new things. I am an optimist. My general way of relating to people is one of listing intently enough to be able to see things from their point of view, and to show respect, warmth, and humor. I believe that establishing a strong, supportive relationship is of utmost importance in therapy. Respect and honesty are essential for effective therapy. Together we can solve problems and improve bad situations.

Michelle Hartenstein

Michelle Hartenstein, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Michelle Hartenstein MSW, LISW-S is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a Master's Degree from the University of Cincinnati with an emphasis on Specialized Mental Health across the lifespan. She completed her Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Northern Kentucky University. Michelle brings over 20 years of experience working in various therapeutic settings ranging from community mental health, dual diagnosis settings, inpatient, and psychiatric services in both residential, private practice and acute hospitalization settings. She began her career working with SES children and families in the foster care and dependency court system in Southeastern Ohio. Michelle currently enjoys working with adolescents, adults, and couples utilizing a multidimensional approach. In addition, she has provided Clinical Supervision for Master's-level interns and dependently licensed professionals. Michelle's areas of expertise include individual and relational issues, anxiety, depression, trauma focused and personal growth. Michelle believes therapy is a very individualized journey where each individuals biological, psychological, social, and spiritual needs are thoroughly assessed. Michelle provides Christian counseling upon request. Michelle believes in the power of vulnerability and the beauty of resilience. She begins each day with the Serenity Prayer asking the Lord her Savior to not only provide her with the courage, strength, knowledge, wisdom and patience but to also be with each and every client she encounters to assist them in overcoming their hardships. Therapy is a self-discovering journey, I look forward to embarking on this adventure together. When Michelle is not working she seeks adventure in the beauty of nature, often found traveling, photography, health and fitness and spending time with her Husband and son.

Beth Litz

(she/her)

Beth Litz, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
14 years of experience
Virtual
Greetings! I'm Beth, a Licensed Independent Social Worker based in Ohio. I received my Masters Degree at Cleveland State University and have been practicing for 14 years during which time I have worked with a wide variety of populations to help individuals living with addictions, anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, ADHD, aging, and various other life problems we face.

Patricia L McGee

(she/her)

Patricia L McGee, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, my name is Patricia and I have been a mental health counselor since 2013. I have had the privilege of working in several different agencies including traditional outpatient and telehealth settings and with a range of individuals and families. My journey started at Baldwin Wallace University where I received a bachelor’s of science in psychology and then my master’s in mental health counseling at Kent State University. I have provided therapy to college students at a university counseling center, adults and seniors at The Free Clinic in Cleveland (now Circle Health), primarily children at Beechbrook, and most recently I worked at The Centers for Families and Children with clients ranging from age 5 to adults and seniors. I have worked with clients with problems from situational life stress and changes, to mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, PTSD, Personality disorders, and relationship issues.

Angi Olson

(she/her)

Angi Olson, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Angela (Angi) Olson. I have 20 years experience as a licensed clinical social worker. I have experience working with people of all ages and backgrounds in assessment, crisis management, and brief therapy, and I am now branching out into virtual therapy work. I try to create a safe space for people to be their authentic selves so that we can work together to heal and to grow. I am licensed and based in Michigan, and am also licensed in Indiana, Kentucky, West Virginia, Maine, Massachusetts, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Vermont. Some of my favorite quotes: • “No pride for some of us without liberation for all of us.” — Marsha P. Johnson • “We deserve to experience love fully, equally, without shame and without compromise.” — Elliot Page • “Who you are is beautiful and amazing.” — Laverne Cox • “Hope will never be silent.” — Harvey Milk • “I hope that people feel like themselves when they’re around me and feel safe to be themselves when they’re around me. And maybe that makes people think it’s me that they love, but it’s really themselves that they love.” - Tracee Ellis Ross

Danielle Norris

(she/her)

Danielle Norris, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
3 years of experience
Virtual
Feeling overwhelmed by the challenges of adolescence or early adulthood? Are you searching for a space where you can truly be yourself and explore your identity without judgment? As a social worker specializing in LGBTQIA+, adolescent, and young adult population, I’m here to offer the support and understanding you need during this transformative time. I am dedicated to working with adolescents and young adults to navigate the complexities of self-discovery, societal pressures, and mental health. My goal is to provide a safe and affirming environment where you can address your concerns, build resilience, and find your path forward. My approach includes modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and strength-based methods, all tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. By fostering a supportive and collaborative relationship, I aim to empower you to embrace your identity and tackle life’s challenges with confidence. As a queer-identified therapist, I am deeply committed to creating a safe and affirming space for individuals of all gender identities and sexual orientations. I offer support for a wide range of concerns including life transitions, depression, adjustment disorders, family conflict, anxiety, stress management, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ specific issues.

Melissa Ayers

Melissa Ayers, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor -Supervisor (LPCC-S) in Ohio. I earned my Master’s in Clinical Mental Health from The University of Akron and my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of Toledo. With a diverse background in hospital settings, community mental health, schools, and private practice, I’ve developed a wide range of skills to support individuals of all ages through various challenges. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with children, adolescents, and adults, addressing a variety of concerns, such as adjustment disorders, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, autism spectrum disorder, depression, anxiety, stress, relationship distress, life transitions, and PTSD, among others. My approach is compassionate, flexible, and client-centered, tailored to each individual’s unique needs. I focus on helping clients develop coping strategies, build resilience, and work through their specific struggles. By creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment, I empower my clients to make meaningful changes, improve their mental well-being, and achieve growth and healing in their everyday lives.

Elizabeth Reigner

(She/her)

Elizabeth Reigner, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
34 years of experience
Virtual
I offer virtual, holistic, individual mental health counseling for adults. Please read further for additional information. I welcome everyone to my practice. My dream client is one that comes undaunted and is willing to "hunker down" and change. Change is difficult and sometimes painful, but it is so rewarding. You will feel stronger and braver than your wildest dreams, if only you will try. Take that step. Put your toe in the water. Dazzle yourself.

Kshema Sunil

Kshema Sunil, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
12 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisory designation licensed to practice in the state of Ohio. I received my Masters from Xavier University, Ohio and have been practicing for 12 years. I specialize in treating adult clients with co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Disorders. I utilize evidenced based interventions in providing effective care in achieving the best outcome for the clients.

Fran Weil

Fran Weil, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
24 years of experience
Virtual
You are invited to create the life you desire and deserve! Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, feeling overwhelmed, and feeling powerless to coping with life? Please know these feelings are present to warn that your attention is needed. I am an LISW, Licensed Independent Social Worker, with over 15 years experience providing clinically sound, creative, and holistic therapy services. I will partner with you in a safe, accepting, and non-judgmental setting that promotes growth and change. Happiness is something we all talk about and want dearly. The road to happiness is through being authentic, setting boundaries with yourself and others, and taking care of you. Getting the help you need is a form of Self Care. Let me help you find happiness!

Pooja McIntosh

Pooja McIntosh, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
8 years of experience
Virtual
I am focused on empowering individuals of all ages—from children to adults—through a strengths-based approach. I believe in harnessing your unique strengths and capabilities to overcome challenges and achieve personal growth. I’m a dedicated therapist specializing in supporting children and adults through life’s diverse challenges. With experience in school-based and community therapy services as well as now private practice, I offer a warm, inclusive approach that respects and values each individual’s unique experiences. My background equips me to address a wide range of issues, from childhood development and family dynamics to personal growth and navigating cultural identities. My goal is to provide a safe and understanding space where you can explore your concerns and work towards meaningful, positive change. I offer a compassionate, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. Whether you're dealing with stress, relationship issues, or seeking personal growth, my goal is to provide a supportive space where you can explore your feelings and build a path toward positive change.

Melinda Phillips

(she/her)

Melinda Phillips, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
7 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counsellor (LPCC-S) based in OHIO. I received my Associate of Arts in Biblical Studies from Ohio Christian University. Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Ethics from Mid-America Christian University, Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University. I have worked with clients ranging from 6 to 80 years of age, in community and private practice settings. I have also worked with Medical Students at Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine helping young adults struggling to become the best versions of themselves. I am a Certified Grief Recovery Method Specialist (Online Capabilities Trained). This method has allowed me and others to move through the grief recovery healing process.

Walter Williams

(he/him)

Walter Williams, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
12 years of experience
Virtual
I am Walter williams a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I received my Masters in Rehabilitation Counseling degree from Illinois Institute of Technology. I have over 20 years experience in rehabilitation psychology in a variety of settings. I have done crisis intervention in both inpatient and penal institutions. I have worked as a team leader for Assertive Community Treatment teams servicing chronically mentally ill people in the community. I have performed intake assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessments, and brief grief counseling in multiple settings. I help adults struggling with major mental illness and or substance abuse to manage their thoughts and understand the dynamics of feelings thoughts and behaviors through evidence based practices likE CBT and Motivational Interviewing.

Benjamin Nelson

Benjamin Nelson, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
5 years of experience
Virtual
I have had the privilege of working with with a broad range of clients for over 4 years in the counseling field. This experience has been beneficial and rewarding in my journey of understanding and providing strong clinical guidance towards a wide range people. I love to take a multi-modal and flexible approach to psychotherapy so that I can better serve each individual.

Chris Dougherty

Chris Dougherty, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
12 years of experience
Virtual
As a husband and father of five, I deeply understand the joys and challenges of family life. My journey to becoming a counselor was a personal one, born from a desire to help others navigate life's complexities. While my background as a mechanical engineer instilled in me a strong work ethic and problem-solving skills, I discovered a deeper calling in helping people find their way. I believe in a collaborative approach, where I actively listen to understand your unique needs and challenges. Drawing on a diverse range of therapeutic techniques, I strive to provide practical and effective solutions that empower you to live a more fulfilling life. Whether you're facing individual struggles, relationship difficulties, or family challenges, I am committed to walking alongside you on your journey of growth and healing.

Jessica Graziano

Jessica Graziano, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
1 year of experience
Virtual
Hello. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Mentor, OH. I graduated with my Master's Degree in Social Work at the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana and have been working in the health care social work field for 11 years. My focus has been on helping patients in the hospital come up with coping techniques to help them keep their spirits up during their stay.

Billy Bruce

(he/him)

Billy Bruce, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
15 years of experience
Virtual
Hi! My name is Billy. Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, substance abuse, stress, anger...or possibly all five? These issues are not uncommon and can be debilitating, especially when guilt or shame are added to the mix. But you can kick them all to the curb. All it takes is a willingness to change your perspectives. I've worked with thousands of clients (adults and children) who struggle with self-defeating beliefs that zap the joy out of life. And I've found that Hope and Purpose, along with healthy doses of Motivation and Creativity, crush inner demons. How do you find Hope and Purpose? It's not as complicated as you might think. We are made to help each other. We are made to communicate. We are made to have a positive impact. Sometimes, though, life attacks from all directions and leaves us feeling defeated. That's when we need help. I'm here to listen. I'm here to learn about your struggles and find ways to help you view them differently. And, who knows? I may even share some of my Blackstone Griddle secrets along the way. God Bless!

Melissa Myers

Melissa Myers, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
11 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio. I've been providing outpatient therapy to clients all over Ohio for the past 11 years. I love meeting with people and finding out their personal goals and challenges and then creating a therapeutic approach that is unique to the individual and their needs. Creating a strong alliance with each and every client I see helps me to achieve this. This is what makes therapy successful!

Ken Seeley

(he/him)

Ken Seeley, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
13 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I AM ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS FOR BOTH IN PERSON (IF YOU LIVE NEAR AKRON) and virtually in OH. I have been counseling for 10 years. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Ordained Minister and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. If you are struggling with depression, anxiety and/or psychological trauma, I want to help you. I have experience in many areas. I have worked with children, adults, those with disabilities, substance use treatment and emergency/crisis services as well as with groups in the hospital setting helping people with psychological trauma. Currently, I work with adults. I also run a Christian nonprofit for those without insurance. (Ask about this if you don't have insurance.)

Peg Kubiak

Peg Kubiak, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LISW
20 years of experience
Virtual
Hello! I have worked in the mental health field for over 20 years and transitioned to private practice in February of 2020. Throughout my career, I worked closely with the Lucas County Juvenile Court and other community mental health agencies, assessing, diagnosing and treating a variety of emotional and behavioral issues. I have been privileged to have worked with adults, adolescents and children as they have navigated through various traumas and other life challenges. My therapeutic focus is based on assisting my clients by finding and maintaining a healthy Mind/Body/Spirit healing and balance. This involves using appropriate therapeutic interventions based on diagnosis to stabilize symptoms and use of coping strategies and self-care to maintain and thrive!

Dr Phyllis Mogielski-Watson

(she/her)

Dr Phyllis Mogielski-Watson, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
LPCC
25 years of experience
Virtual
Hello & Welcome, I am Dr. Watson and I am happy to see you seeking services and reclaiming your joy. I commend you for taking the first step to improving your life. As a licensed psychotherapist in IL, AZ, CO, and OH. I have over 25 years of experience working with teens, adults, and seniors, I look forward to partnering with you through your transition and supporting you in getting back into your journey of life. I specialize in working with people in transition including integrating better balance, managing life stressors, addressing health challenges, rediscovering wellness, and mid-life changes. Other areas of specialty include grief and loss, women’s issues, post-partum adjustment, multiethnic identity development, and generalized life struggles. Together we will explore obstacles and hurdles while exploring and finding manageable strength-based changes that will improve your whole self - mind, body, and spirit. I partner with you on your journey and assist you in reclaiming your best self. Through mind-body connection and holistic approaches, I embrace creative therapeutic tools including talk, movement, music, art, and other creative avenues to ease expression of the challenges while finding your strengths and successes. My goal is to assist you in finding and retrieving your purpose while living with meaning. My clinical practice motto is “Love YOUR Journey ~ Live YOUR Life.”

Frequently asked questions

Why filter by Ohio rather than a city like Columbus?

When looking for online therapy, you can see anyone that is credentialed in the state. We want you to find the best fit, therefore, Grow Therapy shows available therapists across Ohio from Cincinnati to Cleveland! If you’d rather see someone in-person, you can change the filter from virtual and find a therapist near you in Ohio.

Will my therapist take Buckeye Health Plan?

Yes! If you use Buckeye Health Plan you’ll be asked to verify your Member ID at the time you book the appointment. However, if you don’t have Buckeye Health Plan you can select cash. Our therapists will have their cost of appointment on their profile. Individual session costs will vary.

How does the Specialty Filter work? Can I find a therapist that focuses on a specific issue?

The specialty filter is optional. You don’t need to check any boxes to see a provider. However, fit is very important when selecting an online therapist. If you have knowledge or experience to recognize what specialties you may need.

What are the "Clients say I'm" badges?

Grow Therapy asks patients about their experience with therapists after they have had a certain number of sessions. After enough responses, we add those characteristics to their profiles to help you find the best online therapists for you. We're still working on collecting this information from all our therapists.

Why use Gender, Age, and Identities filters?

Finding a provider with a similar life experience can be beneficial because it can be easier to establish rapport and potentially be understood quicker and clearer.

What to expect during your first session?

Your first therapy session is for you and your therapist to meet each other and to ask any questions that you have about the counseling process. This is where you can expect your therapist to do the same as they will ask questions to gain insight into your specific situation. In this first session the therapist is doing their part to gather as much information so they can better assess if they are able to meet your therapeutic needs.

Depending upon your provider's specialty, you may also discuss the methods the therapist will use. For additional information on therapy methods, please visit the Grow Therapy Help Center. Some people feel nervous before their first appointment, and that is totally normal! Coming prepared with a list of questions for your therapist may help. Remember, you're taking a brave step by seeking therapy, and it is okay to be nervous as you try something new.