Hi, I’m Riley (They/Them/She/Her)! I’m a transfemme, neurodivergent mental health counselor in the state of Ohio. I received my master’s degree in mental health counseling at Northern Kentucky University. I specialize in providing therapy for people who are or suspect they may be: transgender, nonbinary, queer, neurodivergent, ADHD, or autistic. My own lived experience as a trans, neurodivergent person fuels my passion for working alongside others who hold similar identities. 

Too often those of us who hold trans or neurodivergent identities are made to feel shameful or burdensome or “too much.” We’re encouraged to hide the parts of ourselves that others are annoyed by or uncomfortable with. We’re encouraged to meet expectations, to fold ourselves into the space that others create for us no matter how bad the fit or how painful it is. As such, it’s important to me to create a space for you that feels less restrictive and more open. A space where you can refold yourself to find a shape that brings you comfort and joy. That might mean making changes to your appearance, being more assertive with others, accepting parts of yourself that were hidden, or any number of other steps. Whatever it is, I want to work with you to make it possible. 

My approach is based in narrative therapy. If you’re coming to see me, you’re likely coming with stories you’ve used to make sense of your life. Probably these stories are saturated with problems: internal problems such as shame, depression, anger, anxiety, self-blame, and external problems like abuse, manipulation transphobia, and ableism. Problems that would have you believe that you are powerless or worthless. I’ll work with you to identify these problems, where they came from, and what effect they’re having. More importantly, I’ll work with you to develop new stories. Stories that highlight the way you have resisted problems or found ways to survive despite problems. Stories that help you to get back in touch with what you want and what’s important to you. Stories that envision a future worth living for. 

During this process of story development, I maintain that you are the expert on your own life and have final storytelling rights. I’m alongside you as a support and as a resource, but not as an authority on your life. This is especially true when it comes to your identities: you have the final say on what fits and what doesn’t. If you think I might be a good fit for you, please reach out. I’d be honored to help you foster an identity and a life you feel proud of.