Golden Rule Therapists in Ohio

Kiersten DeFord, LISW-S : Licensed Independent Social Worker Supervisor Designation After receiving my masters in social work from Wright State University, I have had the privilege of walking alongside individuals for the past 8 years as they navigate both the heaviness, and hope life brings. Their challenges and the quiet transformations. Based in Dayton, I serve clients across Ohio through virtual therapy, and I’m passionate about creating a space that feels safe, kind, and human. My approach is deeply reflective and rooted in kindness. I believe therapy is less about “fixing” and more about creating space for discovery, healing, and growth. Together, we’ll explore the patterns, emotions, and stories that shape your life—at a pace that feels safe and honoring to you. My goal is to help you not only manage difficult seasons, but also cultivate deeper self-understanding, resilience, and compassion for yourself. I see therapy as a space where you don’t have to carry things alone. My role is to sit with you, listen deeply, and help you untangle the thoughts and feelings that may feel overwhelming. I’m not here to tell you who to be, but to walk alongside you as you figure out what feels right for your life. Clients often describe me as grounding, and compassionate, with an energy that makes it easier to open up. I strive to create a space where you can breathe, reflect, and feel truly heard—like talking with someone who cares about you and your story, and supports you while you reconnect with your strengths and move toward the life you want to create.

I am an Ohio based mental health therapist with 15 years of professional work experience. I currently hold an LPCC-S license in the state of Ohio and have worked in a variety of mental health settings including school based, home based, community based, residential, and private practice and have specialized in treating survivors of human trafficking for 7 years. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, depression, sexual based traumas, relationship issues, transitions into adulthood or parenting, personality disorders, codependency, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and non-traditional relationship dynamics.

My name is Amber. I am a licensed professional clinical counselor in the state of Ohio. My role is to empower you on this journey of self-actualization. I bring authenticity, warmth, and a solution-oriented approach. We will be working side by side to identify your goals, values, and strengths. From there, we will process past experiences to help you move on to becoming your best self. I have been helping clients achieve their goals for the past several years. These clients range from the age of one-year-old to over fifty-years-old. About 60% of my clients are 12 and under. In working with younger children, I have had the most success using telehealth when parents are present to monitor, arrange a predictable environment, and assist with any technical issues. In working with younger children, the parents’ role is vital. I work as a team with parents and caregivers to build a healthy relationship and find the appropriate strengths-based parenting strategies for the child. Recommended parenting techniques are largely based on the Conscious Discipline model which encourages mindful parenting. With younger children, the parents’ cooperation is imperative to reach desired behavioral goals. I also draw from the approaches outlined in Working with Challenging Youth by Brent Richardson, Ed.D.

Sometimes life can be challenging, but it doesn't always have to be. "You're not failing, you're healing" from Yvonne's book, Healing Between Sessions: An EMDR Supplemental Workbook. You may just need someone to talk to, to help you work out your problems and to listen. You may also be experiencing recent or past trauma that you, "just can't get over", so you suffer in silence, being re-traumatized. Well, you don't have to work through these difficult times alone. Let's Talk. As a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I treat individuals living with PTSD/Trauma. As an adoption/foster care therapist, I have experience working with individuals living with attachment issues, related to negative interpersonal experiences. I use meditation practices and active listening in a holistic approach.

Welcome! You have taken an important step by beginning the process of finding the right therapist for you. Reaching out can feel scary, vulnerable, or uncertain at times. My hope is to create a safe space for you to explore your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, experiences, and goals. My approach is to work alongside you with compassion, respect, and curiosity. I am committed to maintaining your confidentiality and supporting you in a nonjudgmental manner. I look forward to getting to know you and supporting you on your journey.

Welcome to my practice. I am dedicated to creating a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can explore challenges, build on your strengths, and work toward meaningful change. My approach is collaborative and solution-focused — I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and together we’ll identify practical steps to help you reach your goals. Whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationship concerns, or personal growth, my goal is to help you find clarity, resilience, and a sense of balance.

With over 21 years of experience in the mental health field, I am dedicated to helping adults navigate life’s challenges and find healing. As an LPCC licensed in both Ohio and Kentucky, I specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, and self-esteem issues. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Cincinnati, and my approach integrates a deep understanding of human emotion with a genuine desire to create meaningful change. My therapeutic style is warm, approachable, and often includes humor to help create an open and supportive space for growth. I use trauma-informed care and evidence-based practices to help clients process past experiences, build resilience, and reclaim their sense of safety and control. Validation, empathy, and humor are key tools I use to make healing feel not only possible but hopeful. Together, we work to foster lasting change, create healthier coping strategies, and develop a stronger, more empowered sense of self. Life’s challenges can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, transformation is always within reach. I am here to walk with you, every step of the way, toward a future filled with healing, strength, and peace.

I understand that starting therapy can be scary! I work hard to build a safe, non-judgemental space for my client's to feel seen and supported. Through evidence based practice, I work with my clients to challenge and change unwanted thought patterns and behaviors, specifically focusing on anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and body image disturbances. I'm a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with a Supervisor designation (LPCC-S) in the state of Ohio and have worked in Outpatient private practice, school-based, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) settings. Outside of therapy, I love being with my family and our rescue pittie, reading, hiking, and drinking lots of coffee. Thank you for taking the time to read my bio and consider me as your therapist, I hope we can work together towards making positive change.

Welcome! I'm a Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT) licensed in Ohio and Indiana. I received my Master's degree from Liberty University in 2011 and have been practicing for the past 12 years. My focus is relationship therapy, but I have journeyed with a wide variety of people, from adolescents to the elderlI entered this field later in life and it has gifted me the privilege of a broad perspective allowing me to embrace your perspective with dignity and grace.

Your story is unique and you deserve an individualized approach to care, where you feel safe and heard. I believe you are the expert in your life experiences and we will work together to develop goals and strengths to improve your overall quality of life. Our sessions will be centered around a holistic approach that aligns with your personal strengths, needs, abilities and preferences to meet your goals and build self worth, while navigating difficult emotions, relationships, anxiety, trauma and decreasing depressive symptoms

Hello, I a am Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am a certified case manager, and certified grief support professional. I hold a Masters Degree in Social Work. I continue to participate in yearly trainings and continued education in the areas of anxiety, depression, grief, individual counseling, and couples counseling. I have been in the field of assisting individuals transform their lives since 2007. I have worked with a diverse groups of individuals including adults with learning disabilities, children and families, individual counseling, couples counseling, and grief support groups. During my 15 years of service, I have worked with individuals in their home setting, office setting, and hospital setting. The one thing that has never changed is my capacity to help individuals transition to a new stage in life.

I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor who started her degree at the University of South Florida. I’ve worked from treatment assistant to supervisor. I have worked with those suffering with substance use disorders, trauma and panic disorders and even parents of children with special needs. My goal is to help people learn real time tools to help manage intense emotions and overcome pervasive patterns that prevent healthy relationships. Since I have worked in the social services for over 20 years, I have a wealth of knowledge. Asking for help is a first step toward a better understanding and improved functioning.

Hello, I'm Charles. With 24 years of professional experience, I am dedicated to helping clients navigate stress, anxiety, family conflicts, trauma, and depression. My approach is rooted in the belief that you are the expert of your own story, and together, we can harness your strengths to overcome the challenges you face. I am here to support and empower you every step of the way. I hold a Master of Arts in Community Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, both from Kent State University. As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My extensive background includes working with individuals, families, and groups, addressing a wide range of mental health issues such as PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and more. In my private practice, I focus on online individual and couples therapy, emphasizing stress management, emotional regulation, and trauma resolution. My previous role as a Residential Therapist at OhioGuidestone allowed me to provide comprehensive care for children and adolescents with severe emotional problems, develop treatment plans, and offer clinical supervision. Throughout my career, I have been recognized for my contributions to the field, receiving the Clinical Service Award in 2004 and multiple inductions into various Sports Halls of Fame. These accolades reflect my commitment to excellence and my passion for helping others. Outside of my professional life, I value open-mindedness and creativity, which I bring into my therapeutic practice. I believe in developing and communicating personalized plans for your growth and development, ensuring that our work together is both effective and timely. If you're ready to take the first step towards positive change, I invite you to reach out. Let's work together to create a path towards a more fulfilling and happier life.

Hi, I'm Natalie, Do you feel tired of not being heard, or are afraid, anxious, depressed no desire to stand up and advocate for yourself Do you feel lost, with no direction, or in the wrong direction, lacking purpose? Let me help you find your compass so that you can navigate life's present challenges with hope, peace and clarity! I provide holistic, integrative counseling and believe that the mind, body and soul are all connected. I provide a safe and inviting space where you can be you, free to explore your feelings and behaviors past and present without fear of judgment. I will tailor your sessions to address your needs, bringing in your faith if you choose, and integrating it with Mental Health Therapies. I provide services to men and women ages 18 and over, that struggle with depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, abuse, divorce, adjustment, phase of life, chronic pain, work, communication, relationship, family, school, lack of motivation, church, self-esteem and connection. I look forward to taking this journey with you!

Hi, I’m Taylor! Do you struggle with balancing the responsibilities in your life? Do you have trouble completing daily tasks and managing your relationships? Are you feeling overwhelmed day to day? Life can be difficult to manage. I love helping anyone who is trying to balance parenthood and postpartum life, but enjoy working with anyone experiencing life transitions. I mix cognitive strategies with solution-focused techniques to promote healthy coping skills, challenge negative thoughts, and create space for change to make life just a little more manageable. Whether you are facing depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or problems with executive functioning (things like focus, task initiation, prioritization, and motivation), I can help guide you to finding ways to tackle your challenges. I would love to team up and help you achieve your goals in therapy!

Hi there, I'm glad you're here! As a Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist, I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where my clients can explore life's challenges at their own pace, and maybe try processing in a new way. My approach combines evidence-based counseling approaches with creativity when it fits your goals, helping you better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change.

I'm a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience in the behavioral health field. My goal is to empower individuals to embrace their authentic selves and find comfort in their daily lives. I insist on personalizing my interventions to suit each individual's needs. I work mostly with young adults and adults (ages 18+). I believe that most of us would benefit from therapy at most points throughout our lives. We are social beings by nature and are simply not meant to struggle alone. We are our own worst critics so it takes an outside perspective of a loved one or a professional to help us recognize the strength amid chaos.

Hello! I hold a doctorate from the University of Kentucky. I bring a unique perspective to my practice as a retired military veteran and I understand that asking for help can be hard, but it is a place where you don't have to carry everything. I enjoy working with young adults, adolescents, and older adults as they navigate challenges and work toward personal growth. I’m passionate about supporting you through life transitions, and my approach is collaborative, supportive, and tailored to meet you where you are. If you're looking for a safe space to be heard, understood, and supported, I’d be honored to walk alongside you in your journey. I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, oppositional defiant disorder, borderline personality disorder, anger management, and trauma, using evidence-based approaches to help clients build resilience and develop effective coping strategies. Whether you’re managing the stress of a significant life transition, recovering from trauma, or seeking support for emotional well-being, I’m here to guide you on your journey toward healing and empowering growth.

Hello, I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) based in Cincinnati, Ohio. I received my Master’s degree from the University of Cincinnati and have over 20 years of experience in social work. I have spent 10 years working with teens and young adults experiencing mental health challenges and 11 years providing medical social work to adults and seniors with both mental health and medical diagnoses. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, stress, and self-care, with the goal of helping improve overall quality of life. I take a holistic approach to therapy while utilizing evidence-based modalities and integrating the mind, body, and spirit into your healing journey. I believe that wellness involves caring for the whole person, and I enjoy incorporating healthy lifestyle practices such as mindfulness, movement, spending time outdoors, and self-care as part of the healing process.

I am Cerina N. Woodall, a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 11 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges, heal from past experiences, and discover their capacity for growth. I believe that everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, valued, and empowered. Life presents us with obstacles, but no one should have to navigate those storms alone. My therapeutic approach combines professional expertise, lived experience, cultural understanding, and evidence-based practices to create a safe, supportive, and judgment-free environment. I specialize in helping clients address trauma, family conflict, low self-esteem, emotional distress, and difficult life transitions. My goal is not simply to help you manage your symptoms but to help you better understand yourself, recognize patterns, develop healthier coping strategies, and create a life that reflects your values and aspirations.I believe healing begins with understanding, growth begins with self-awareness, and meaningful change becomes possible when we recognize our own strength.

Welcome, and glad you are looking for someone to walk with you on your journey. I am an LPCC-S here in Ohio and have been working in the mental health and addiction worlds for almost a decade as a therapist, graduate professor, overdose first responder, and clinical researcher among other roles. During my travels through these and other experiences, I have been honored to develop along with my clients an expertise in an array of Narrative and Somatic practices, that when combined together we have found to often be helpful when navigating many of the ways that Pain shows up in our lives.

My practice was born from the understanding that people who struggle often have filled their day to day lives with survival mechanisms: habits, actions, and thoughts that may have helped in the moment but become burdensome over time. The lasting effects of trauma can create an overwhelming sense of self-blame, leaving individuals questioning, "Am I the problem?" or "Did I do something wrong?" My practice exists to help individuals build a healthier "life worth living". Where pain, fear, sadness, anger, and memories can be honored rather than suppressed. It is a place where healthier coping skills are developed, empowering clients to create lives filled with resilience and meaning. I am a licensed clinical social worker who has six years of experience and graduated from Case Western Reserve University with a dual degree in Social Work and Nonprofit Organizational Management. Outside of work I love to travel, cook, and craft.

I am a licensed independent marriage and family therapist (IMFT or LMFT) in the state of Ohio and Florida with two decades of experience in the field, working with individuals, families, couples and groups. I’ve worked in Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHPs), Outpatient settings, Residential treatment centers, Crisis centers and Private practice, helping clients with anxiety, addictions, depression, family conflicts, couple's issues and many other challenges. Using an eclectic approach that draws on Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and the Gottman Method, I help my clients discover patterns of positive behaviors that can be replicated to achieve their desired outcomes and discover their self-fulfilling paths. I aim to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and emotions can be explored without fear of judgment, meaningful solutions can be discovered and habits can be positively structured or restructured for a desired narrative. It takes courage to seek out an uninhibited and more fulfilling life. I am here to support & empower you where ever you may be on that journey.

I am an art therapist and LPCC-S (Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor). I have been working in the mental health and addiction world for over 20 years. I have had the pleasure of joining forces with children from the age of 3, to children the age of 87. I come from a family that has a long line of veterans and first responders. I have a strong passion for supporting our veterans and first responders but am open to partnering with anyone wanting assistance in life. I welcome any in person sessions as I am very much an empath and thrive when I can feel each person’s emotions in person. I own my own practice, Freedom Wellness Center LLC, in Canal Fulton, Ohio. The link to my website is at the bottom of this page. If you have Medicaid insurance, you must contact me first to schedule an appointment with me. I have had a high amount of people not showing for their appointments and had to put a hold on all new Medicaid referrals until I can speak to you in person first to ensure you are serious about attending your appointments.

As a Licensed Mental Health Professional and Owner of a Telehealth-based Treatment and Training Center, I bring over 15 years of expertise in utilizing CBT and DBT therapeutic approaches to address a wide range of mental health concerns, including Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Dual Diagnosis, Grief, Parenting, and Relationship issues. Specializing in individual counseling, I offer tailored support for those seeking a Christian or faith-based perspective. My commitment is to provide compassionate, client-centered care that fosters resilience and empowers individuals to achieve meaningful change.