Find a therapist, counselor or psychologist in Riverside, OH

"As a provider and receiver of therapy, I recognize that asking for help is the hardest and bravest thing many of us will ever do in our lives."

Lauren Shaak is a Licensed Professional Counselor with 4 years of experience helping adolescents, adults, and seniors manage anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, addiction, stress, and self-esteem challenges. She offers individual, couples, and family counseling to clients who are open, motivated, and ready to change their lives for the better. Lauren believes treatment should invite discussion of diverse issues, needs, and goals, and that a positive dynamic between therapist and client is key. The ability to connect with all clients is at the heart of her philosophy of care.

Lauren has a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Alvernia University. She utilizes a variety of approaches including acceptance and commitment therapy, existential therapy, culturally sensitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and narrative therapy.

Starting therapy can be daunting, but the healing journey doesn’t have to be scary. Lauren offers a space to be seen, heard, and validated at a time when feelings of fear and vulnerability may be at their peak. Please consider the benefits of beginning a healing, therapeutic journey with a counselor who can offer support, empathy, and perspective.

"As a social worker of color, I don't just treat symptoms; I witness strength, survival, and the courage it takes for our communities to heal."

I am a licensed independent social worker (LISW) with 20 years of experience in the mental health field. I specialize in supporting children, adults, and families navigating trauma, substance use concerns, anger management, violence, and homelessness. My work focuses on serving women and people of color while creating a safe, supportive space where clients can process challenges, build resilience, and work toward meaningful and lasting change.

I earned my master’s degree in social work from The Ohio State University. I am trained in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. My professional background includes working in a variety of settings and providing both short-term and long-term therapeutic support.

My goal is to provide compassionate, high-quality mental health care while helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness. I will work collaboratively with you to identify your strengths, develop effective coping strategies, and create a treatment plan that supports your healing, growth, and overall well-being.

"I am committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space for individuals from all cultural backgrounds, genders, and identities. My approach is genuine, empathetic, and tailored to meet each client’s needs, fostering a sense of trust, understanding, and growth."

Peggy Lucas is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 30 years of experience. She has had the privilege of working with diverse populations across the lifespan, including children, adolescents, parents, young adults, and seniors. Peggy specializes in supporting individuals and couples dealing with concerns including loss, grief, relationship challenges, anxiety, depression, trauma, severe mental illness, and chemical dependency. She maintains a safe, non-judgmental, and inclusive environment, welcoming individuals of all genders and cultures.

Peggy has a Master’s in Community and Agency Counseling from Ohio University. By using evidence-based techniques like dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and motivational interviewing, she empowers clients to achieve self-actualization, manage symptoms, overcome addiction, and cultivate self-care skills.

If you're navigating challenging emotions or facing difficult life situations like divorce, parenting struggles, academic difficulties, or community issues, you are welcome here. Peggy is committed to offering guidance, support, and encouragement to help you overcome obstacles, reach your full potential, and become the best version of yourself.

"As a person driven by effecting change in humanity, I understand the need for healing in our communities and therefore seek to support healthy positive efforts to be the change that I want to see in the world. "

I am a clinical mental health and substance abuse therapist with the licensures LPCC, LICDC, in the state of Ohio as well as a certified somatic therapy foundations practitioner. I provide clinical therapy to individuals, couples & families. 

I primarily use implementation of evidence-based cognitive, behavioral motivational family systems and reality-based therapeutic tools to support guidance through a journey towards empowerment for a happy healthy balanced well-being. 

I close out each session by asking clients if they have any questions, giving a summary wrap-up of the discussion, thanking them for taking a huge step toward the healing process and allowing me to be a part of it, and giving them the steps for setting up follow-up appointments. 

"Getting help and admitting we need help is not always easy but the fact that you are here right now and you are reading this means you have decided to take action to have your concerns addressed and that is signifiant!"

Theo is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, school issues, and sleep/insomnia. He is passionate about providing quality, compassionate, and comprehensive mental health services to adults. As a PMHNP, Theo's role is multifaceted, including educator, mental health advocate, therapist, and medication manager.

Theo completed his Master of Nursing Degree (MSN) at The University of Toledo. Theo possesses strong clinical skills and a natural ability to build rapport with patients and families. In addition to medication management, he incorporates cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), culturally sensitive, emotionally-focused, motivational interviewing, and person-centered techniques into treatment.

Now is as good a time as ever to have your mental health concerns addressed! Theo is confident that he would be able to support you on your journey to gain new perspectives and techniques that allow you to cope with whatever you may be struggling with. If you are ready to get started, schedule an appointment with him today!

Anissa Mahmood recognizes that in today’s rapidly changing world, it is more necessary than ever to prioritize personal wellness and build resiliency against life’s stressors. Anissa is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in the state of Ohio with over six years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults seeking help for a variety of mental health and behavioral issues. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Bowling Green State University, graduating summa cum laude, and received her Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Syracuse University. Anissa utilizes humanistic, strengths-based, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, family systems, diversity conscious, and motivational interviewing techniques and approaches to help individuals meet their personal treatment goals. Anissa believes in the importance of developing a collaborative relationship between the client and therapist. She seeks to provide a safe, welcoming environment for individuals to feel comfortable focusing on their wellness needs.

Kelly Turle is an Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Northeast Ohio who received her Master’s degree in Social Science Administration (MSSA) from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. Kelly has over 20 years experience working as a School Counselor and over 7 years experience counseling and coaching adults, mainly women, on issues regarding self-doubt, anxiety, physical wellness, and life transitions. Kelly’s counseling approach is to provide a safe and non judgemental place to share one’s concerns, worries and story. She utilizes strength based and solution focused therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and mindfulness. She utilizes holistic approaches and draws from immense experience in the Law of Attraction philosophies. Kelly approaches each client’s issues with openness, compassion and knowledge. She is an expert at building relationships and assisting people to reduce stress, overcome hardships and find some direction and clarity in their lives. She thrives on helping people feel listened to, accepted and comforted. Kelly collaborates with each client to establish goals and needs to give them a better quality of life.

"As an older adult woman, I understand the unique issues of navigating life's journey."

Peggy Myers is a Licensed Independent Social Worker with 42 years of experience in behavioral health and wellness. She has worked with young children, adolescents, families, and older adults in times of crisis, grief, and adaptability. Peggy specializes in treating anxiety, depression, stress, infidelity, trauma, and women’s issues. She understands how life can challenge us and the unique perspective that women may present in addressing obstacles. Peggy appreciates the impact of trauma and embraces the mission of identifying its impact on those that she works with.

Peggy received her Master of Social Work from Ohio State University. She is well-versed in cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, attachment-based therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, and end-of-life/hospice care.

Peggy identifies barriers, encourages goal development, and utilizes active listening to build a sense of empathy with all clients. She will hear your stories and work with you to find the best way forward. If you are ready to get started, reach out to Peggy today!

"As a queer, chronically ill, autistic counselor from the Appalachian region, I bring a deeply personal understanding of navigating diverse challenges and am here to offer a compassionate and inclusive space for your unique journey."

Alannah Bihl is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with over 4 years of experience supporting clients from diverse cultures and life experiences. They specialize in working with individuals navigating trauma, chronic illness, LGBTQIA+ issues, and neurodivergence. Alannah empowers clients to be their most authentic selves through psychoeducation and self-advocacy and is passionate about helping clients develop resilience, foster strengths, and cultivate their narratives.

Alannah earned their Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Ohio University. They utilize an eclectic approach rooted in feminist theory to foster collaboration in the therapeutic process and emphasize that the client is the expert in their own life. Alannah integrates techniques from solution-focused, cognitive behavioral, and reality therapies.

Alannah's journey has provided insight into the complexities of intersectionality and resilience. It has also fostered a deep commitment to creating an inclusive, empathetic environment for clients. Alannah is equipped with a nuanced perspective and they are dedicated to helping you find your path to healing and self-acceptance.

"As a queer femme psychologist who has specialized in working with teens, young adults, and parents, I understand that life transitions, systemic pressures, and relational dynamics can be stressful and complex."

Dr. Erin Sheplavy is a Licensed Psychologist and Drama Therapist with 7 years of experience in the mental health field. Dr. Erin has worked in various settings such as schools, partial hospitalization, community mental health, and private practice, which has allowed them to gain a wide range of skills to create individualized treatment approaches for each client. They are passionate about helping adolescents, young adults, parents, and couples explore, process, and work through patterns and behaviors that may cause stress, tension, or distress. Dr. Erin specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, gender and sexuality, life transitions, eating disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, anger management, women's issues, self-esteem, and relationship issues.

Dr. Erin completed their Doctor of Psychology in Clinical Psychology (PsyD) at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology, and their Drama Therapy training through the alternative track at the Center for Creative Arts Therapy. Creativity is an important part of their life and they bring this into their therapeutic work through working collaboratively with clients to find an individualized approach that best suits their needs in therapy. Dr. Erin's work with clients is based in dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT), relational therapy, and client-centered therapy. In working with diverse clientele throughout their career, they value exploring the various systems at play within a client's life including family rules, gender roles, racism, power dynamics, homophobia, transphobia, fatphobia, and more. Dr. Erin has training in exposure response prevention and eating disorders in which they can work with clients to foster an effective relationship with food and their body as well as help individuals gain control over their fears, worries, and compulsions. In prioritizing creating an individualized approach, they also recognize that not everyone can express their emotions and experiences through words. Dr. Erin's training in Drama Therapy allows them to create a space in which clients can explore through use of art, poetry, movement, song, and embodiment in order to express themselves.

We live in a society that prioritizes productivity, perfection, grit, and perseverance, which can create unattainable standards and high levels of stress. Life is filled with transitions, loss, growth, and expectations that can make it difficult to find clarity in your wants, needs, and identity. Dr. Erin is ready to support you in working through these experiences in order to build skills, insight, and perspective that can help you lead a more authentic and effective life.

"As a person-centered therapist, my job is making the therapeutic experience work for you."

Whitney McSparran is a Licensed Professional Counselor who specializes in working with young adults, adults, women, and LGBTQIA+ folks coping with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, educational challenges, occupational problems, gender and sexuality-related issues, and the stress of everyday life.

Whitney received her Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Temple University and is licensed in both Ohio and Pennsylvania. She has worked in many mental health settings including outpatient, community behavioral health, and residential treatment settings, but her passion is providing individual and couples counseling.

Whitney's superpower is supporting people new to therapy and helping those who have struggled in the past to find the right therapist. She uses techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectic behavioral therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing techniques but is a person-centered therapist at her core. Whitney believes that each person is an expert on their own life and is dedicated to empowering each individual to shape their own path in therapy.

Debora Van Romer is a licensed professional clinical counselor. She has over 16 years of experience providing counseling services for individuals, couples, and families. Debora utilizes an eclectic and holistic therapeutic counseling approach, utilizing a variety of techniques and tools with clients because, “one size does not fit all”. She has a foundation in cognitive-behavioral therapy and a strength in adapting therapy to each client’s unique needs. Debora has spent many years working with individuals using trauma-focused therapy, guiding clients through the healing process from trauma and abuse experiences. One of Ms. Van Romer’s primary goals when working with clients is to provide a confidential, supportive, and non-judgmental space for them to explore and process life problems, experiences, and trauma. Debora is committed and dedicated to each client’s ongoing growth, change, and well-being, as she works with every client to improve the whole person. Debora works to empower her clients, so they can recognize their strengths, build their confidence and skills, which leads to more productive, peaceful, and happier lives.

Melinda “Mindy” Sponseller is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor LPCC) in Ohio and Kentucky with over 20 years experience working in the mental health field in some capacity, including therapy since 2006. Mindy has worked in a variety of settings including in-home, schools, private practice, and community mental health facilities assisting individuals overcome and deal with life's challenges. Her scope of practice includes general mental health issues (anxiety, depression, etc.), relationship issues, life transitions, work/life balance, career, grief, anger management, and more. Mindy completed her Bachelor of Arts (BA) at Morehead State University and her Master of Education (MEd) at Xavier University.

Mindy likes to meet her clients where they are, create goals, and work toward achieving those goals through establishing a therapeutic relationship. Her approach includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), client-centered, and solution-focused modalities, but can be eclectic based on your needs. Mindy enjoys empowering her clients to work towards change and how challenges can be an opportunity for change and/or growth. She provides a safe, nonjudgmental environment for you to express emotions and deal with life's challenges. Mindy believes that humor in therapy, from time to time, can alleviate stress and provide a sense of normalcy. Thanks for reading Mindy’s profile. This is the first step. Together with Mindy you can explore your emotions, challenges, and strengths to assist you with living a long and happy life!

"As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 10 years of experience, I’m passionate about helping people feel truly heard and understood while working together to find an approach that helps them feel more like themselves."

I’m Ashley Collins, a board-certified Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with 10 years of experience. I work with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other mental health concerns. I provide thoughtful, collaborative medication management focused on helping you feel heard and supported.

I believe good psychiatric care starts with listening. I take time to understand the full picture, explain options clearly, and make decisions with you rather than for you. You can expect a thoughtful, practical approach with ongoing attention to what is working, what isn’t, and how treatment can best support your goals.

Seeking psychiatric care can feel like a big step, and you deserve a provider who takes your concerns seriously and helps you feel comfortable asking questions. Wherever you are in your mental health journey, I’d be glad to meet you there and work together toward feeling your best. I invite you to schedule an appointment when you’re ready.

"While I don't claim to have all the answers, I want to walk beside you on your journey, whether that journey is through the past, through the current social stressors that are scary for many of us, or through hopes for your future."

Jen started out working with adjudicated youth in a day program, and then spent ten years working with both youth and adults in an outpatient mental health agency. During those ten years, Jen worked with people of many different ages, races, social groups, and gender identities. This experience was invaluable as she learned that everyone is different, has different needs, and has more potential than they may realize.

In addition to years of volunteering in her community since she was a teenager, Jen has a Bachelor of Psychology and a Master of Marriage and Family Counseling, both from Wright State University. Jen interned, worked, taught, and later managed at an agency that provided therapy, day programs, group therapy, case management, and substance use treatment for people of all ages.

Jen brings her years of experience and her education to the session to partner with her clients. While she is the professional in the session, she sees her client as the expert in their own life. Jen and her client work together to explore and identify the problem, what they want to do about it, and how to work toward that outcome. Some people come to therapy struggling with shame or embarrassment, and need to connect with their therapist before they can open up about the really hard stuff. Jen encourages her clients to set the pace, and empowers them to speak up if they need something different. Schedule your intake appointment to start your partnership.

"As a queer trans man, I understand the challenges and unique perspective the LGBTQIA+ community has when navigating the world, and the need for a therapist who understands."

Emerson Fetty is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) with over 5 years of experience. He specializes in issues related to the LGBTQIA+ community, gender and sexuality issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, stress, life transitions, and more.

Emerson completed his Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) at Youngstown State. He utilizes a variety of treatment approaches including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), motivational interviewing (MI), solutions-focused therapy, and of course strengths-based therapy (SBT).

Emerson views the opportunity to work with clients as an incredible gift and will work hard to create a relationship where his clients feel safe and able to freely express their needs. Taking that first step to engage in therapy can be difficult for many, but his hope is that you will be glad you did.

"Reaching out for help is hard for a lot of folks, so as a clinical therapist, I think it's important that I not only bring my clinical expertise and authentic self to a session, but that my clients are provided relaxed, down-to-earth space where they can finally catch their breath and begin their healing journey."

Hi, I'm Mary Schehl, LISW (Licensed Independent Social Worker) with over 25 years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families, who are overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, relationship stress and unresolved trauma. I've worked in a variety of settings such as inpatient, home and community-based and for the past 11 years I've been in private practice. I bring my clinical expertise, authenticity and some light humor to our sessions together, providing a warm, non-judgmental space, where you can unpack what you're going through. 

My approach is collaborative and grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness practices. You are the author of your own story and I'll go wherever you take me, while helping you build practical tools and have a better understanding of the root of your patterns.

It isn't easy to change one's perspective, nor does it happen immediately. It's a healing journey, not just a "process", and I would be honored to accompany you on this journey. If you think I'd be a good fit for what you're looking for and need in a provider, I invite you to take the next step by scheduling an appointment.

"I build genuine professional relationships by listening with intention, communicating openly, and creating an environment where people feel respected, heard, and valued."

I’m Thandiwe Ballard, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over a decade of behavioral health experience. I work with adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized, helping clients feel heard while developing practical strategies to improve their mental health, strengthen relationships, and regain confidence and quality of life.

My approach is compassionate, collaborative, and individualized. I combine evidence-based medication management with therapeutic strategies, education, and genuine connection. Clients can expect to feel heard, respected, and supported while working toward greater stability, confidence, and meaningful progress.

You don’t have to navigate this journey alone. I’m here to meet you with compassion, without judgment, and at your own pace. Your mental health matters, and meaningful change is possible. When you’re ready, I invite you to take the next step and schedule an appointment.

"I believe you deserve to be understood as a whole person, not defined by a diagnosis; as a minority psychiatric nurse practitioner with cultural training, I provide an inclusive and supportive environment where I listen to your unique story and tailor therapy and treatment to help you achieve the wellness you desire."

I'm STAR, DNP, a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with more than 20 years of experience in psychiatric and behavioral health. I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, mood changes, trauma, stress, and other mental health concerns. Whether you need medication management, therapy, or a fresh start, I meet you where you are and partner with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs, experiences, and goals. My approach is compassionate, culturally informed, and inclusive, and everyone deserves care that supports meaningful and lasting wellness.

My approach is collaborative, compassionate, and individualized. I take time to understand each client's concerns and goals before developing a personalized treatment plan. I specialize in psychiatric evaluation, medication management, and therapy for anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, trauma, and mood disorders. Clients feel heard and supported.

Taking the first step toward mental health can feel difficult, but you don't have to navigate it alone. I'm here to listen without judgment, meet you where you are and support you throughout your journey. Your story matters. If you're ready for positive change, I invite you to schedule an appointment and take that first step toward feeling balanced and well.

"We all go through times in life when we struggle with our mental health- You are not alone and I am here to help you reach your mental health goals. "

Danielle Ginter is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) and a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practioner (PMHNP) with over 7 years of experience assisting adult clients who need help coping with the effects of anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress, Trauma & PTSD.

Danielle received her Master's degree in Nursing from Northern Kentucky University. She'll approach your concerns with care and professionalism, ensuring that your psychiatric needs are met as you both learn the best management techniques that fit your personality and lifestyle.

Partner with Danielle to start making progress towards your mental health goals. She is a great listener and treats each client as the unique individual that they are. As a PMHNP, Danielle also enjoys utilizing therapeutic skills as well as medication management, when needed.