Our team.

Z James, BSW, LSW (they/them), is a licensed social worker with a passion for supporting children, adolescents, and teens in navigating life’s challenges. As an affirming provider, Z is deeply committed to cultivating a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQAI+ youth and their families. They believe that every client deserves to feel respected, heard, and valued for who they are. By combining evidence-based practices with a person-centered philosophy, Z helps clients build confidence, achieve their goals, and embrace their full potential. They bring a broad range of clinical skills, with specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Client-Centered approaches. Z works collaboratively with clients to identify their strengths, set meaningful goals, and develop practical strategies that foster resilience and personal growth.

Known for their high energy, compassion, and authenticity, Z balances professionalism with approachability. They recognize the importance of meeting each client where they are, creating a therapeutic environment that is both supportive and empowering. Z values being present and serious when needed, while also ensuring sessions remain engaging and responsive to the unique needs of each client.s here

Diana is a licensed therapist who brings heart, depth, and curiosity to the therapy space. With dual master’s degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and American Culture Studies, she helps adults navigate anxiety, grief, trauma, and the big questions of life—with a style that’s affirming, creative, and grounded.

She especially loves working with folks who feel different—whether because they’re neurodivergent, highly sensitive, or just trying to make sense of a noisy world. Diana blends CBT, mindfulness, existential philosophy, and a touch of nerdy neurobiology to help clients reconnect with their values and feel more like themselves again.

She’s also a certified End-of-Life/Death Doula, and often joined in session by her adorable French Bulldog and certified therapy dog, Reuben Sandwich (who takes his job very seriously—kind of).

Starting therapy can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. My approach is warm, empathetic, and trauma-informed—I prioritize creating a space where you feel safe, heard, and understood. Healing isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey, so I tailor therapy to your needs, integrating humor, authenticity, and a deep commitment to meeting you where you are.

I specialize in working with teens, adults, couples, and families facing challenges like trauma, addiction, relationship struggles, and mental health concerns. I’m trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and incorporate Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills to help clients regulate emotions, break cycles of avoidance, and navigate discomfort in a way that fosters growth. My goal is to help you feel more in control of your story, with tools to manage life’s challenges in a way that aligns with your values. Your story is worth telling. 

“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary. The people we trust with that important talk can help us know that we are not alone.” — Fred Rogers

Hi there! I'm Mustafa (they/them) and am so glad you’ve found your way here! Before I share about myself, I have a question for you. Do you ever feel overwhelmed trying to manage all the thoughts, feelings, and memories racing through your head? If so, you're not alone! Many of us feel unsure about how to communicate with and understand the parts of us that make us human. We might be looking for ways to trust and reconnect with ourselves again or see what it's like to believe we have no bad parts. If you're looking to explore identity, strengthen relationships, and manage your emotions, then I hope you'll stick around for a bit!

My practice is collaborative meaning we decide on what methods of therapy meet you where you're at all while ensuring your care remains person-centered, trauma-informed, and humanizing. I have worked closely with college students/young adults and older adults to address major life transitions, LGBTQ+ issues, relationship issues, anxiety, and depression.

The decision to begin therapy can be hard. Having a therapist who really tries to understand your perspective can make the process just a little easier. If you're feeling ready to begin this journey with someone who will challenge and support you, I hope you’ll reach out so we can help you find your next best step forward.

Outside of therapy, you can find me painting, writing, discovering new foods, or out walking my dog, Blinken. .

Ready to take the next step in your well-being? I'm Ben Bowling (MSW, LSW), a licensed social worker with a Master's in Social Work from The University of Toledo. I specialize in working with adults facing mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, and substance use (using a Harm Reduction approach), as well as navigating significant life changes.

My practice is built on a client-centered foundation, where your goals are the priority. I utilize effective therapies such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and trauma-informed care to empower you to achieve those goals and enhance your overall quality of life. I'm committed to providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can build strength, heal, and create meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you.

Ready to build a brighter future? I'm Jess (she/her), a Licensed Independent Social Worker with a Master's in Social Work, dedicated to empowering youth, teens, young adults, and families to overcome obstacles and thrive.

I specialize in equipping young people with the tools to effectively manage anxiety, depression, anger, and adjust to life's inevitable changes. I am deeply committed to creating a safe and affirming space for the LGBTQIA+ community, offering support, connecting you with essential resources, and empowering you to navigate the world authentically.

My approach is action-oriented, drawing on Solution-Focused and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques while always centering your unique experience and strengths. I understand the weight of past trauma and provide a calm, secure environment where you can feel safe to process and heal. I also believe in engaging young clients creatively and openly, using tailored resources and interventions to help you reach your full potential.

It takes immense courage to reach out for support, and I honor that. I'm a Licensed Social Worker with a BSW from the University of Toledo and an MSW from the University of Houston, and I've dedicated my career to understanding and supporting individuals through a wide range of experiences. My background includes significant work in mental health, helping people navigate challenges like anxiety, depression, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder, and substance use. I offer individual and couples therapy, as well as group support.

I am passionate about creating affirming spaces for the LGBTQIA+ community and have actively worked to educate other professionals on providing better care. Additionally, I've shared my knowledge on intimate partner violence across Ohio and in Houston.

To me, therapy is a journey we embark on together. I believe that while struggles are a universal part of life, seeking support outside of our immediate circle requires vulnerability and strength. My aim is to create a safe and accepting environment where you feel seen, heard, and understood, without judgment. It's a privilege to witness your story and support you as you heal and grow into your most authentic self.

With over 15 years of experience in the mental health field, Paula Rettig (MS, LPC, LCDC II) offers a supportive and insightful therapeutic experience. While her journey began with a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education from BGSU, Paula's passion for individual well-being led her to earn a Master's in Mental Health Counseling in 2016. Throughout her career, she has been a strong advocate for individuals and families in diverse settings.

Paula's client-centered philosophy ensures that your therapy is tailored to your specific needs and goals. She utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, ACT, SFT, and Narrative Therapy, to provide comprehensive support. Known for her genuine connection with adolescents, emerging adults, and older adults, Paula's clients often describe her as compassionate, accessible, authentic, humorous, resourceful, and refreshingly unconventional. She is committed to meeting you exactly where you are, offering guidance and practical tools as you explore your inner landscape and work towards the goals you define.

Gaby Hawkins is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Ohio. She has been working as a licensed professional since 2019. She received an undergraduate degree in Social Work in 2018, and a Master’s Degree in Social Work in 2019, with a focus on mental health.

Gaby has experience working in the community mental health field with all ages. She has worked in both group and individual therapy, and in community outreach and advocacy. Gaby’s specialization is in skills building with adolescents and adults to assist in managing challenges with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and environmental and occupational stressors. She utilizes solution-focused techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques, motivational interviewing, and approaches her practice from a person-centered and strengths-based way. She also enjoys incorporating mindfulness and muscle relaxation in her sessions to promote a calming and supportive environment.

Gaby hopes to cultivate an environment where her clients can feel supported and accepted just as they are. Her style can be best described as client driven, compassionate, eclectic, and goal oriented. Gaby hopes to help her clients reach their goals through exploring their strengths and utilizing those strengths to assist them in managing their challenges.

Seeking a supportive and creative space for healing? Meet Lee, a Independently Licensed Social Worker in Ohio who holds a Master's in Social Work from Simmons University (2019) and a Bachelor of Music from Bowling Green State University. This unique background allows Lee to bring both therapeutic expertise and creative expression to their work.

Lee's early career focused on supporting traumatized children and families, leading to a specialization in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). They are currently pursuing advanced certifications in both TF-CBT and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Lee's therapeutic approach also incorporates the valuable insights of The Polyvagal Theory and Internal Family Systems Therapy.

With experience working with diverse individuals, Lee believes in the power of creative methods, integrating art, music, and play into their client-centered and strengths-based practice. Creating a safe and validating environment is paramount for Lee, where your unique story and identity are honored. Their specialized interests include providing support and healing for those impacted by abuse and trauma, anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Malakai (Kai) is a five year old Bernese Mountain Dog/Siberian Husky mix. He is a certified therapy dog with Alliance of Therapy Dogs. When he’s not working, he enjoys running, swimming, and hanging out with his moms and (animal) siblings. Kai is a great listener, an avid cuddler, and an all-around positive support pup.

Looking for a collaborative and empowering therapy experience? Emma Southwick (MSW, LSW) brings 7 years of expertise in behavioral health to her work. She specializes in partnering with clients to understand how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors intertwine and impact their lives through insightful conversation. Emma is dedicated to ensuring you gain practical takeaways from each session, identifying positive actions you can implement to improve your well-being.

Known for her compassionate, humorous, and non-judgmental approach, Emma creates a comfortable and supportive space for clients from all walks of life. She has extensive experience working with students, veterans, and those facing substance use challenges. Emma is currently accepting new clients, including adolescents, adults, and adult couples seeking relationship counseling.

With over two decades of experience in therapy, mentoring, and counseling, Cara Swain (MSW, LSW) deeply believes that you are the expert of your own story. Cara approaches everyone with profound respect and unwavering belief in their inherent worthiness of love, regardless of past or present challenges. As your therapist, Cara sees their role as a journey of discovery alongside you, offering steadfast support and genuine encouragement.

Cara is dedicated to creating a brave and authentic space where you can truly be yourself, free from judgment or external expectations. Recognizing that communication is the cornerstone of healthy relationships at every level, Cara works with individuals of all ages, as well as couples and families. As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Cara brings a unique understanding and sensitivity to their work.

Ever feel like your inner world is a bit of a chaotic cartoon? Meet Jason Morris (MSW, LISW-S), an IFS Level Two trained therapist with a playful spirit and a knack for bringing clarity and compassion to your inner landscape. Think of him as your friendly neighborhood "Gangster Carebear" – ready to give shame the Carebear Stare as you bravely explore and resolve those inner conflicts that are tripping you up.

Jason specializes in helping you connect with all those different "parts" of yourself with a whole lot more kindness. He's also your go-to guide for navigating relational issues, healing attachment wounds, and strengthening your couple connection. With advanced training in the Gottman Method (Level 2), Relational Life Therapy (RLT), and IFIO (IFS Level 2) for couples, and a touch of wisdom from The Couples Institute, Jason brings a wealth of knowledge with a lighthearted touch. Clients often describe him as warm, humorous, open, and deeply compassionate. Get ready to explore your inner world with a therapist who's serious about healing, but never takes himself too seriously!