Therapists in Octa, OH

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with nearly 30 years of experience. I am located in Florida where I began my career in counseling in 1994 as a residential therapist in a psychiatric hospital, followed by the roles of an outpatient therapist, clinical supervisor and program director at a substance abuse treatment agency. In 2001, I relocated to Ohio, where I worked for the next 13 years as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor, program manager and program administrator for a mental and behavioral health nonprofit organization. In 2014, I relocated back to Florida where I began my online practice. If you have any reservations about online counseling, I encourage you to give it a try. It is a highly effective and convenient therapeutic modality that can be accessed from the the comfort and safety of your own home or wherever you are at any given time. I can attest to this with utmost confidence based on my clients' positive feedback after providing services here for over 8 years. My clinical philosophy is one of a humanistic nature, with emphasis on the therapeutic relationship as the most essential building block of the counseling process. My therapeutic style is warm, interactive, attentive and compassionate. I believe that genuineness, unconditional positive regard and empathy are critical to the helping process. As needed, I am also direct and structured in my approach and tend to assign therapeutic homework or tasks to enhance the progression and continuity of the process in between live sessions or message exchanges. I have the ability to tailor and pace treatment to your individual and unique needs, and I am sensitive to evolving the process at your pace and convenience while still promoting and prompting advancement toward your goals. Furthermore, I take a holistic approach to health and wellness, with emphasis on achieving balance in major life domains. I believe that when needs, desires or aspirations are unfulfilled in one significant realm, the others are affected as well and this creates imbalance in one's life, leading to stress, anxiety, inconsistency, overwhelmed feelings, lack of self-care, somatic symptoms, etc. Lastly, in terms of professional characteristics and standards of care, I operate with the highest degree. I was esteemed throughout my career for my level of professionalism, ethical conduct, organization, efficiency and grace. My educational background includes: a bachelor's degree in psychology from University of Miami, FL; a master's degree in mental health counseling from Nova Southeastern University of Fort Lauderdale, FL; and additional post-graduate coursework in career counseling, and the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of mental disorders at University of Dayton in Bexley, OH. I enjoy the ongoing pursuit of continued education, training and professional development through seminars in specialized areas, reading and self-study. I highly value knowledge, information and effective application of therapeutic theories, models, strategies, and techniques that may benefit the people I serve. My clinical experience includes working with various diverse populations and treatment modalities, and the full spectrum of issues and disorders ranging from the most simple to the most complex co-occurring conditions. I specialize in treating depression/anxiety/stress, substance abuse/addiction, emotional/physical/sexual abuse, trauma and grief/loss. I also have extensive experience with counseling issues in the following areas: LGBT, Relationship issues, Family conflicts, Intimacy-related issues, Parenting issues, Anger management, Self esteem, Career difficulties, Compassion fatigue & Addictions in general. Depression, anxiety and stress are some of the most common challenges faced by people who seek counseling. In this realm, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in residential/hospital, outpatient and community-based settings. I have provided individual, group and family services, and have facilitated psycho-educational counseling groups and workshops on coping skills, stress management/reduction, emotion regulation, self-esteem and assertive communication skills. My approach though eclectic, tends to be rooted in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which per evidence-based research, is very effective in treating these issues. This active intervention is problem-focused and goal-directed in examining the relationships between thoughts, feelings and behaviors; and modifying unhelpful or negative patterns of thinking that lead to self-defeating beliefs and actions, to improve coping and overall wellness. I also take a mindfulness-based approach to CBT (MBCBT) by encouraging the use of mindfulness practice and self-compassion. These tools help to address and validate one's personal experience with distress, pain and suffering; and diminish associated negative symptoms by focusing attention on the present moment. Learning how to self-soothe and regulate emotions through effective relaxation, calming and grounding strategies are significant components of my clinical approach to addressing depression, anxiety and stress. For over two decades, I have treated teens and adults who struggle with substance abuse and dependency issues. In 1998, I was humbly honored to receive Florida Alcohol & Drug Abuse Association's Professional of the Year award. I have provided these services in various settings and levels of care from the least to the most restrictive. As an outpatient alcohol and drug counselor, I worked with self-referred individuals as well as those who had been mandated to receive evaluation and/or treatment as a condition of probation, parole, work, school or a family/community member. I provided these services in individual, group and family forums. As a clinical supervisor and administrator, I had the opportunity to develop and oversee programming and staff in the specialized area of addictions. In a training capacity, I facilitated seminars to educate clinical staff in the areas of assessing, diagnosing and treating alcohol and drug problems. I am very passionate about working with people who struggle with addictions in general, one day at a time, toward a healthy recovery and lifestyle. Maintaining a strong emphasis on healthy coping skills, positive support systems and relapse prevention planning are key to my treatment approach in this area. In the delicate area of treating the effects of abuse and trauma, I have worked with child and adult survivors of emotional/physical/sexual abuse and violence. I have extensive experience working with acute and post traumatic stress disorder and have developed and facilitated group curricula that focus on reducing isolation, guilt/shame and self-blame; building self-esteem, positive support systems and coping skills; and increasing a sense of mastery and personal empowerment. I am also well versed at teaching survivors how to implement effective relaxation, grounding and anchoring techniques to help diminish anxiety and maintain a balanced state of arousal and focus in the present moment. Encouraging self-forgiveness is also very important to me in helping survivors let go of illegitimate shame or guilt derived from any unwanted responses to, or effects from the abuse. Throughout the healing journey, I am sensitive to guiding the process at a pace that feels most comfortable and safe to each person, and promoting respite from focusing on difficult material if/when it becomes too emotionally burdensome. To help prevent any inadvertent re-traumatization from occurring during the counseling process, I am especially conscientious and attentive to providing trauma-informed care. Throughout my career, I have helped children, teens and families work through grief/loss challenges. In my professional opinion, there is no one particular formula for grieving. Though there are common elements or phases of grief, everyone grieves differently. It is a very personal experience and individual response to coping with significant loss of any kind - death, separation/divorce, relocation, retirement, job loss/change, etc. Grief occurs in stages, which may come like waves in the ocean, ascending and receding at any given time and in no particular order. I am skilled at helping people understand this phenomenon and learn how to navigate these treacherous waters. I have expertise in providing compassionate support and effective strategies to aid individuals through this vulnerable and difficult time toward a place of healing and acceptance. Working with LGBTQIA+ counseling issues is a point of passion for me. I respect, admire, embrace and promote diversity, individuality and authenticity in my personal and professional life. I am LGBTQIA+ informed/educated and have experience with bullying, coming out, internalized homophobia, gender identity affirmation and transgender support. Mental health problems are difficult enough in their own respect, let alone compounded by LGBTQ issues. I have worked with a broad spectrum of concerns in this realm ranging from depression, anxiety, shame, guilt, secrecy and confusion associated with sexual orientation/attraction and gender identity to homo/bi/transphobia and HOCD (homophobic obsessive compulsive disorder). Furthermore, LGBTQIA+ couples and families have unique issues when it comes to navigating the legal, emotional and financial aspects of raising and/or restructuring a non-traditional family. On behalf of this community, I firmly believe that more support, education and advocacy are greatly needed. With all the significant strides that have been made toward raised awareness and acceptance in our society, there is so much more that we can do to achieve full empowerment and equality for all. I want to be a part of this valuable movement and growth journey by helping one individual at a time. I genuinely admire your initiative and courage to reach out for support, and look forward to working together toward your goals. With patience and commitment and dedication to this process, this is the first step toward a happier and healthier or more evolved you.

I am a clinical counselor and art therapist who specializes in the clinical treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss. I special in treating Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). I obtained a bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University in psychology and a master’s degree in art therapy from Ursuline College. I am a member of the Buckeye Art Therapy Association (BATA) and the American Art Therapy Association (AATA). My previous experience includes adjunct professor in the master's program for art therapy and counseling at Ursuline College and working with adults and children in inpatient and outpatient settings. I also have an online practice with adults who are experiencing trauma depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder and life transitions due to family relationship issues, gender issues, grief and chronic illness. I enjoy getting to know the individual and match my skills with the best therapeutic approach that meets their unique needs. I have a holistic approach to treatment and my goal is to assist individuals in gaining insight and to gain coping skills that will improve the quality of their life.

I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in Arizona (LPC) and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Ohio (LPCC) and I have been working in the counseling field since 1987. I have, also, been an Adjunct Professor in the Counseling Department at Paradise Valley Community College since 2014. I have experience conducting individual, couples, family, and group therapy, in-office and online working with clients presenting a wide range of issues including, depression, stress, anxiety, self-esteem concerns, relationship and parenting issues, family conflict, and teen concerns. I have worked with clients that present issues that include, grief/loss, insomnia, addiction, trauma, abuse, as well as personal growth, adjustment issues, coping with life changes, and work-related issues. I see every person (client) as unique and having special personal qualities. I treat everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don’t believe in stigmatizing labels. My counseling style is warm and interactive and I am an excellent listener. My person-centered approach combines, solution-focused, cognitive-behavioral, humanistic, psychodynamic, and rational emotive counseling. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to set goals to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to support and empower you I look forward to working with you!

Let me be your mirror, by providing you with a reflection of who holds all the tools for solving your problems. I believe that we all have the answers within us. My job as a therapist is to support and provide different approaches to discovering those answers. I work to provide a safe and warm environment, where we can talk and work together at uncovering any questions you may have. I believe in taking a collaborative approach, utilizing the strengths and insights of each person, to help make positive change and provide hope for the future. My clients find me trustworthy, reliable and compassionate. We will work together to construct a plan that fits your own uniqueness. I consider myself to be an eclectic counselor. I’ve worked in the college, prison, school system and community setting.

I am licensed in Ohio with 8 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, family conflicts, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Hey! My name is Dustin Cooley and I am a Clinical therapist from Ohio. I have worked with people in every walk of life who have struggled with many things including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, relationship problems, work related stress, life coaching, career development, and so much more. I thoroughly love my job and take pride in helping others through these tough times of life. Outside of my professional life I am the worlds most mediocre guitarist, nature enthusiast, retro game nerd, husband and father. If there is anything I can help you with please reach out! I look forward to working with you.

I am a LPCC-S in the state of Ohio with over 20 years of professional work experience. I have worked with adults and children in a variety of settings including community, residential, hospital and school. My experience includes working with individuals with stress and anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, self esteem, and confidence as well as with coping with life changes. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Hello! My name is Jan Ricks and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and a Licensed Independent Social Worker in Ohio. I recently moved back to Florida from Northern Kentucky where I lived for 16 years. I taught at the University of Cincinnati in the School of Social Work and when I retired (as an Emeritus Professor) we moved back to Florida. I am now focused on living my dream of providing therapy. I have been a Professional Social Worker for over 30 years, and I also have over 10 years of professional therapy work experience. I have experience working with many different populations including individuals and families, to inclued teens and adults: the elderly the LGBTQ+ community including any gender variant person (Transgender, Intersex...). I have extensive experience helping people move forward in a productive way. I have worked with people experiencing life changes, grief and loss, women's issues, and many other life challenges. I have traveled to many places in the State of Ohio and Florida, conducting workshops for the employees of the State who required recertification. I have also conducted workshops and classes for private agencies providing education about Transgender, Gay, Lesbian and Intersex communities. I recently taught at the University of Central Florida as an Online instructor in the MSW program for the School of Social Work. After leaving the University of Central Florida I began working as a therapist at Better Help. I truly enjoy my work and have found online therapy to be very effective. It offers many opportunities that are not available in an office setting. Most important is I believe in the resilience of the human spirit and the power of change, and I also believe that people have many strengths that will help them overcome challenges they are facing. I utilize a variety of therapeutic methods including Cognitive-Behavior therapy to help create the change that people need. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage and I am grateful to have the opportunity to be a part of creating that change. I am here to support you in that process. I also want to say that a therapist must be a good fit and I understand that reaching out can be difficult. I encourage you to take the leap! I look forward to meeting you!

I am licensed Independent in Ohio with 16+ years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, parenting issues, anger management, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. · Extensive knowledge and training in Evidence Based Practices such as: Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

I am licensed in Ohio with 10 years of professional counseling experience and over 23 years in the Mental Health field. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, abuse, & parenting issues. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!