Person Of Color (POC) Therapists in Ohio

For individuals of color, connecting with a therapist who shares or deeply understands your experiences can enrich the therapeutic journey. With 8 therapists of color in Ohio, you can access culturally responsive care that honors your unique identity and challenges—whether navigating identity, addressing microaggressions, or managing stress and mental health concerns. Each Grow Therapy-verified therapist listed below is accepting new clients and offers timely availability, providing inclusive, compassionate support tailored to your needs.

Amara Emenari

(he/him)

Amara Emenari, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$200/session
LPCC
10 years of experience
Virtual
My clients have laughed, cried, practiced new things, and worked very, very hard. The only thing I ask, as a therapist, is to have hope and do the work. Each client is a functioning part of a larger whole that wants to stay the same. I see no sense in blaming a person for situations they did not create; it's what each person does that counts.

LaKendra Johnson

(she/her)

LaKendra Johnson, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$145/session
LPCC
11 years of experience
Virtual
I am a licensed mental health and substance use counselor with 11 years of experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Over the years, I’ve supported clients facing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, life transitions, imposter syndrome, and self-esteem concerns. My approach to therapy is collaborative and compassionate. I meet you where you are, taking the time to understand your unique experiences and goals. Together, we’ll explore the changes you’d like to see in your life, whether that means navigating a relationship transition with greater understanding and grace, building a stronger sense of self, or developing tools to better manage life’s ups and downs. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgmental space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to work toward the growth and healing you deserve. Let’s take the first step together.

Deborah Cielto-Busi

(she/her)

Deborah Cielto-Busi, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$150/session
LISW
8 years of experience
Virtual
Hello, I’m Deborah. I became a Clinical Social Worker (licensed in Delaware, Ohio, South Carolina, and Arizona) because I have a deep passion for helping others. With extensive experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am dedicated to guiding individuals through life’s challenges with compassion, expertise, and a client-centered approach. My work focuses on helping clients identify and break free from limiting beliefs—often deeply ingrained from past experiences—that impact self-worth, relationships, and overall well-being. I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. Therapy is a vulnerable experience, and I strive to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can be their authentic selves. My goal is to empower, uplift, and motivate those I work with, helping them recognize their strengths and build resilience.

Janay Bankston

(she/her)

Janay Bankston, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$145/session
LISW
5 years of experience
Virtual
I can be your cheerleader, your reality check or your coach. I'm capable of transforming into many roles, but my purpose remains consistent: to help you become the best version of yourself. I excel at assessing individuals and helping them to understand who they are and what they want. I recognize that every client requires a tailored experience. Together, we’ll identify your goals and vision, or I can assist you in discovering them. I’ll help you pinpoint the root of your challenges and understand the barriers you face. I will hold you accountable for integrating practices into your daily life that will help you achieve your objectives. My support includes helping you understand your behavior, identify your feelings, find motivation, and gain a new perspective.

Natasha Nichols

Natasha Nichols, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$100/session
LPCC
6 years of experience
Virtual
Are you ready for a change? Are you ready to start working on addressing those thoughts and behaviors that have been a part of your life that are no longer serving you? If so, you may be ready to work with me. I work with youth from age 12 and adults. I support youth and young adults in addressing life stress, loneliness, anxiety, and organizational concerns. I assist my clients with identifying triggers and discovering new ways to address concerns to break patterns of behaviors that have not been beneficial. I am a passionate therapist dedicated to supporting you in reaching your personal goals. I have supported many and utilized clients' personal interests to support reaching therapy goals. I have provided individuals with support in creating strategies to manage life stress, increase self-care, and identify triggers.

Ashley Halasa

(she/her)

Ashley Halasa, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$110/session
LISW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I’m Ashley, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with 10 years of clinical experience in Ohio. I’ve worked with individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including life transitions, anxiety, depression, confidence building, family dynamics, and navigating neurodivergence. My eclectic approach includes cognitive-based mindfulness strategies, psychodynamic, and intentional living, offering a safe and non-judgmental space to explore your path forward. Let’s work together to turn life’s transitions into opportunities for growth and joy.

Richelle Walker, LPCC

(she/her)

Richelle Walker, LPCC, LPCC - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy

Frequently rebooked

$109/session
LPCC
9 years of experience
Virtual
Hi, I'm Richelle. I'm a licensed professional clinical counselor with over eight years of experience helping individuals improve their mental health and quality of life. I have worked in a variety of settings, including online therapy. Right now, life may feel hard. You’ve faced many challenges that seemed to have come out of nowhere, and you're constantly doing your best to navigate through them. You struggle to set healthy boundaries and often feel overwhelmed. Asking for help isn't always easy. You may say to yourself, “What will people think? I can figure it out on my own.” It’s tough because you usually go at it alone, carrying the load and bearing the burden. However, deep down inside, you know that something isn't quite right and that you could use some support. Does this sound familiar? As someone who has been there before, I understand how tough it can be to take that first step to reach out. While you may feel like you have to handle everything yourself, these are the times when reaching out for help can give you some direction and help you find your path forward. The truth is, it takes strength and courage to say, “I need help.” And when you do, you'll find that you have the inner strengths and abilities to make meaningful change in your life. Together, we can work to discover those strengths and create a path forward that's tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Kimberly Hayes

(she/her)

Kimberly Hayes, LISW - Ohio Therapist at Grow Therapy
$110/session
LISW
10 years of experience
Virtual
Kimberly completed her Master’s Degree in Social Work at the University of Louisville. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across a variety of settings including outpatient specialty clinics, crisis intervention, structured outpatient programs, inpatient psychiatric facilities, large non-profits, and private practice. Kimberly has also taught social work and related courses at the Eastern Kentucky University and Kentucky State University. ​ Kimberly has a broad range of clinical experience working with individuals and groups during her professional career in the following areas: Depression Bipolar Disorder Anxiety Disorders Substance Use Disorders Anger and Stress Management Trauma and Abuse Suicide Assessment and Risk Reduction Group Psychotherapy Couple’s Conflict

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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 insurance?

When booking you’ll be asked to verify with your Member ID. However, if you don’t have any of the insurances available 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.