Avery Neal, MSW, LSW

Hi, I'm Avery Neal (they/them), a neurodivergent, nonbinary licensed social worker based in Ohio. I specialize in providing anti-oppressive mental health care, particularly to neurodivergent individuals. My work centers on supporting adults who face the cumulative effects of microaggressions and systemic oppression, including racism, colorism, ableism, queerphobia, transphobia, fatphobia, and other marginalizing forces.

As a therapist, I blend deep compassion with practical strategies to help clients break free from patterns that leave them feeling stuck. While my approach is eclectic, I’m EMDR-trained and committed to using trauma-informed methods that are tailored to your unique experiences. I focus on helping clients clarify their most cherished values, set firm boundaries, and, when necessary, end relationships that no longer serve them.

I’m honored to help clients work through past traumas, reclaim ownership of their bodies and choices, and feel empowered to live safely and authentically in the present moment. My ultimate goal is to help people find safety, liberation, and peace within themselves, even while navigating a world that can often sow seeds of fear and isolation.

Do you find yourself masking your neurodivergent traits even when you're in a safe space, no longer pressured to code-switch? I am committed to cultivating a space for people to feel accepted, safe, and heard as their most authentic selves. Do you feel exhausted trying to explain how the many aspects of your identity shape your daily life? While I don’t claim to know everything about anyone’s lived reality, I approach each session with humility, a presumption of your competence, and a deep commitment to listening to you. Do you feel unsure of your values and have difficulty maintaining boundaries? Let me affirm your right to protect yourself from harm no matter how inconsequential others may make you feel. Do you still feel remnants of unresolved trauma rattling in your brain and body? Let’s process why that is using trauma-informed approaches and work towards the possibility of peace for yourself.

I earned my Master of Social Work from Miami University. My practice is informed by diverse experiences, including my background as a public education teacher, case manager for Disabled individuals, and my involvement in community organizing. These roles have helped me develop skills in active listening, creative problem-solving, and clarifying personal goals to create actionable plans.

When I’m not in session, I enjoy stand-up comedy and birdwatching. I am a lover of animals — especially dogs and geese.

If any of this resonates with you, I’d love to connect. Let’s work together to create the space you need to thrive.