Therapists

J O’Leary (he/she/they)

Hi! My name is J. I'm excited to work with queer/trans youth and emerging adults, non-monogamous queer/trans couples, families, and groups. I believe that therapeutic change comes from the process of building and maintaining relationships while remaining connected to our sense of self, including within the therapy room. I work primarily from a relational and psychodynamic stance, meaning that I want to hear about and notice how your past informs your present and discuss how it informs your relationships. My approach to therapy is also informed by attachment patterns (how we act and feel in relationships) and somatic experiences (what our body tells us about our environment/self).

I strive to cultivate a therapeutic environment that feels warm, allows people to be their full self, and welcomes radical honesty and self-compassion. Sometimes I do this through empathetic listening and other times through playful noticing. I do my best to incorporate feedback from clients on what works for them and what doesn’t and adjust as needed.

I understand that it can be important to know what a therapist’s background/identities are and welcome discussion about mine in the therapy room. I am a white queer and trans person who practices non-monogamy. I’m from the Metro/Detroit area, have lived experience as working/middle class, and am on the neurodivergent spectrum. I was raised Irish Catholic. I enjoy working with clients from all backgrounds, though these experiences do inform my clinical perspective.

My education includes a Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work, a program that specializes in psychodynamic and anti-oppressive clinical training. I did my clinical practicums at a therapeutic high school, where I worked with queer and trans youth on the neurodivergent spectrum and with histories of childhood trauma, and in college counseling at a private liberal arts college, where I worked with emerging adults often struggling with perfectionism, attachment trauma, and adjustment difficulties. I am also trained in practices like CBT, MI, and IPT. My undergraduate studies include majors in Anthropology and Gender Studies, as well as a certificate in LGBTQ Studies.

Kristie Carpenter (she, her, hers / they, them, theirs)

Hi! I’m Kristie. I truly believe every single person is going to have a multitude of experiences throughout their life, both positive and negative, and I value the importance of making sure that we take care of our brains as well as our bodies during both of those times. I realize how beneficial an affirming therapist is, and my goal is to be that person. A large part of therapy includes the relationship and rapport between a client and their therapist. As a therapist, I strive to create an environment that is inclusive for everybody to feel understood, heard, accepted, and validated. I use a person-centered and collaborative approach while incorporating various techniques and modalities based on what each individual needs at that time. Therapy is not a one size fits all deal, and no two people will have the exact same needs during therapy (which is a good thing). I am passionate about working with a variety of diverse populations, with the majority including LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent adolescents and young adults.

I graduated from Eastern Michigan University in 2020 with my bachelor’s degree where I double majored in Social Work and Communication. I graduated from the University of Michigan in 2023 with my Masters in Social Work. In my free time I love to do photography, go on nature walks, draw, paint, do some yoga, and find new recipes to cook.

If you think we might be a good fit for therapy, please reach out and we can set up a consultation!

Zoe Steinfield (she, her, hers)

You're at a crossroads. Maybe you're ready to take your next steps, and seeking guidance. Maybe you're not sure, still doubting whether you could make the changes you know you need in your life, your identity, or your relationships. Either way, looking here is an expression of hope in the possibility of change. I enjoy working with adults and teens of any gender, and relationships and families. I have particular expertise with trans folks, dealing with transition, trauma, substance use, etc.

I believe anyone can change their life, heal and grow, if you feel safe enough to be vulnerable and you have the right support. What I offer is calm non-judgment, and navigation for healing pain, resolving ambivalence, finding joy, and facing hardships, grounded in your authentic self and values. My lens is client-centered, gender-affirming, strengths-based, intersectional, trauma-focused, and rooted in my lived experiences as a trans and queer woman. I'm an EMDR Therapist (an evidence-based trauma treatment that helps process painful memories) with a Motivational Interviewing background (a modality for strengthening one's internal motivations for change), and I borrow techniques eclectically from other approaches (such as narrative therapy, DBT, and parts work). I'm also trained in TF-CBT (another evidence based trauma treatment, for adolescents) and Solutions-Focused Therapy (a framework that helps us stay oriented toward goals and strengths, and build on past successes).

I subscribe to a depathologizing view of mental health issues. I believe that most of what is diagnosed as mental illness is not a problem innate to the individual, but a predictable outcome of widespread persecution of people's identities, structural exploitation, and interpersonal and intergenerational harm and trauma. As such I believe that systemic social change through an intersectional, anti-oppression framework is part and parcel of promoting mental and emotional well-being. For this reason I stand up for the marginalized communities I belong to (trans, queer, women, Jewish, and neurodivergent people) and actively work to undermine the privileges I hold (by supporting BIPOC and Palestinian liberation, and by learning from economic and environmental justice, Disability, Fat-positive, and other movements). I assume that my clients know more about their particular set of identities and circumstances than I do, and I adopt a stance of cultural humility to align with their worldview.

Lorne Clarkson (he, him, his / they, them, theirs)

I’m interested in working with all ages and have a special interest in working with transgender and nonbinary people. I identify as a nonbinary transgender man and know how important it is for trans people to be able to see a trans therapist. I also have personal experience with chronic pain and medical disability. I’m sex positive (including asexual and aromantic positive) and supportive of poly and non monogamous relationships. You can expect therapy with me to be a judgment free and calm space where you can show up exactly as you are. 

I graduated in 2023 with a master's degree in Social Work. I have experience volunteering on a youth crisis hotline in Ann Arbor. I volunteered on the media board with the Washtenaw County chapter of the National Alliance for Mental Illness for five years. I was an intern at the Center for Anti-Violence Education in Brooklyn, NY and the volunteer coordinator at the Sylvia Rivera Law Project, a mutual aid group that supports low-income trans people of color. In my free time I enjoy crafting, playing guitar, and gardening. 

Everyone deserves support. There is no issue too small for therapy and no goal too big. If it matters to you then it matters to me. If you think we might be a good fit please reach out!

Emma Abed (she, her, hers)

Hello! I'm Emma. As a therapist, I do my best to provide a judgment-free space where you feel truly heard. I will work with you as a resource, companion, sounding board, and supporter. Together, we can build upon your strengths and develop new skills that you can take with you after our therapeutic relationship comes to an end. I will draw on a range of evidence-based therapies in our work together to best address your particular set of therapy goals: these include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, strengths-based and solution-focused therapies, positive psychology, mindfulness practices, and more.

I graduated in 2022 from the University of Michigan with a dual master's degree in Social Work and Public Health, with concentrations in interpersonal practice and health education. Prior to this, I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology and Sociology, where I researched gender and sexual diversity, and spent two years working as a sexual health and pleasure educator with adults. I have also worked as a wellness coach with college and graduate students, and have helped teach wellness skills, social science, and writing at the college level. I most enjoy working with teenagers and young adults moving through life transitions, their parents, and all who are working on their relationships and identities. I welcome and affirm clients who are LGBTQ+, people in non-traditional relationships (including polyamory), and those who practice kink. In my spare time, I like to try new food, roller skate, read, and hang out with my dog and two cats (Mr. Darcy, Frankie, and Jolene). I'm looking forward to working with you!

Toni Hughes (she, her, hers)

Hello! I wanted to use this space to share a little about myself to see if we’d be a good fit for building a therapeutic relationship. Some background information is: I received my B.S. degree from EMU in Communications, with a minor in Social Work. From there, I received my Master of Social Work degree from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH from the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences (they really like their lengthy names). I also received a Trauma-Informed Practice graduate certificate from there as well. My concentration was children, youth, and families and I have seen clients that are young children all the way to the adult population. I have a special interest in working with anxiety disorders, trauma, depression, LGBTQ+ and other identity struggles, behavioral issues, ADHD, and couple/family struggles. I have knowledge and experience in working with a wider-range of topics as well.

My therapeutic approach revolves around you, the client. I believe that you are the expert of your story, your experiences, your struggles, and your goals for therapy. I will meet you where you are and provide warmth, acceptance, and empathy. I operate from a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and gender and sexuality affirming approach (as a queer therapist, this is especially important to me). I enjoy building the modalities and interventions used based on client needs and interests as I firmly believe that not everyone is going to find the same intervention beneficial. Ones that I commonly use are CBT, TF-CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing (MI), Family/Couple Systems Interventions, and expressive therapeutic techniques (such as art, music, play, etc. activities). 

Outside of therapy, I enjoy spending time playing games–both video and board games–as well as spending time with my family and friends, cuddling and playing with my dog, exploring new places, reading, watching shows, and finding the best GERD-friendly meals/foods I can. 

Ben Lemanski (he, him, his)

I am a fat, queer, Clinical Social Worker and Therapist that specializes in working with queer individuals no matter where they fall on the LGBTQIA2S+ spectrum. I have been working with queer folks for the past 6 years on issues surrounding access to health care, behavioral health, and advocacy. I also specialize in gender affirming care working with clients to access hormone therapy and procedures through advocating for their needs and letter writing. Another specialization is working with fat individuals on navigating our fatphobic/sizeist society, medical system, and internalized fatphobia.

The modalities that I tap into are CBT, TFCBT, ACT, and narrative therapy. I have worked mainly with individuals who experience depression, anxiety, PTSD, or have some sort of trauma they would like to work through. I also like to get creative with my approaches so will use parts of other modalities depending on the needs/interests of my clients.

I know what it is like to struggle with mental health. I believe that my role as a therapist is to truly partner with you on your mental health journey. I am someone who will offer support, empathy, compassion, flexibility, co-creation, accountability, and challenge you to grow. If interested, please email me at ben@connallycounseling.com

Al Wauldron (they, them, theirs)

If you are seeking a therapist to support your navigation through difficult experiences, personal challenges, or life changes, we’d make a great team. Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a fulfilling life.

As a therapist, I aim to create a deeply affirming and safe environment to support clients in their journeys towards healing and transformation. I prioritize meeting clients where they’re at and centering their strengths and experiences as core to the therapeutic process. I am an LGBTQIA2S+, nonbinary, neurodivergence, disability, kink, & poly affirming therapist, and I uphold lenses of anti-racism, anti-ableism, intersectionality, and systemic social justice frameworks into my practice.

I incorporate multiple therapeutic approaches based on clients’ needs, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), attachment theory, trauma-informed practice, and mindfulness. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan (2022) with a focus in clinical practice. I have comprehensive training in DBT and have completed certificates in trauma-informed practice and upholding values of diversity, equity, and inclusion in my work.

In my free time, I enjoy caring for my many houseplants, being outdoors, and crafting things. I look forward to meeting with you!

Nick Paron (he, him, his)

Whatever your reasons for coming to therapy, I want you to feel genuinely heard and understood. My goal is to provide a safe space where we can explore who you are, what you’ve been through, and who you want to be without judgement. I have an eclectic client-centered approach to therapy where we find what works for you. I have experience in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), where we identify and alter harmful thought patterns, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), where we recognize maladaptive behaviors and expand your toolkit for how to handle them, and Mindfulness, where we conquer past and future anxieties by remaining in the present.

I am a graduate from the University of Michigan with a Masters in Social Work. I have a background in social psychology and researching the effects of prejudice. I am passionate about providing therapy that is affirming of LGBTQIA+ identities, non-traditional relationship dynamics, and kink practices. I also have experience practicing therapy with individuals on the autism spectrum.

In my free time, I enjoy trying new foods, drawing (poorly), and playing Dungeons & Dragons with my four gay roommates.

Mike Gold (he, him, his)

Mike is a Michigan native that has long been interested in mental health and issues that affect the college community, which includes students as well as collegiate athletes. He believes that therapy is a space where you can discover, recognize and express the feelings, thoughts, and behaviors you’ve been struggling to manage alone. Mike strives to provide a comfortable, judgement-free, and open space where understanding can be expected and healing can begin. Mike believes in utilizing evidence-based practices in addition to hand-tailored interventions to help you achieve your goals.

Mike is a graduate of the University of Michigan School of Social Work where he focused on learning how to provide effective care to those struggling with mental health concerns. Mike has experience working with people that are current or former athletes, have experienced trauma(s), or are struggling with their mental health associated with being a college student or young adult.

In Mike’s spare time, he enjoys playing volleyball, cuddling with his cat, watching TV and movies, spending time with friends and family, wine tasting, cooking, and expanding his shoe collection.

Mari Alvarez (they, them, theirs)

Are you looking for an insightful and compassionate therapist? Then I may be the therapist for you. Together, I hope to build a supportive environment where you feel safe to unpack your feelings and experiences. I am knowledgeable in various modalities and therapeutic methods, with a particular fondness for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS), Exposure Therapy, and Trauma-Focused CBT. I use intersectional feminist and anti-racist frameworks to shape my practice, and my expertise is in working with adolescents and adults who identify as LGBTQ+ or Disabled and Chronically Ill. Ultimately, my role as your therapist is to help you meet your goals and discover how you can heal and grow.

In 2021 I graduated from the University of Michigan with a Masters in Social Work and a Masters in Public Health. Additionally, I received a certificate in Trauma-Informed Practice. In 2019, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Gender and Health and a minor in Community Action and Social Change. With over 4 years of supporting and educating LGBTQ+ adolescents and adults, I have experience working with people of different gender identities, gender presentations, and sexual orientations. As a public health practitioner and gender studies scholar, I view health from a holistic lens and recognize mental health as a large part of health.In my downtime, I enjoy snuggling my resistant kitties, dancing, and crafting. I also enjoy spending time with loved ones as we talk over and takedown a giant charcuterie board.

James T. Capellaro (he, him, his)

Hello reader, and welcome to my bio. My name is James. The purpose of this bio is to give you some sense of what you might be able to expect from me as a person but, more importantly, as a therapist.

The important stuff (credentials/experience): I received a Master of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health and Trauma from The University of Denver (DU). During my time with DU, I worked in various roles providing Mental Health Care in Community Health Organizations, Partial Hospitalization Programs, etc. to children, adolescents, and adults. 

I am an EMDRIA trained psychotherapist. This means that I am qualified per the EMDR International Association to perform EMDR therapies with qualifying clients.

The other important stuff (to me, and maybe one of you): my approach to therapy is first and foremost transparency and authenticity. I strive to foster an environment of safety, comfort, and support within the work that I do. I also practice through a lens that is informed by many different therapeutic modalities (types), neurobiology/neuroanatomy/neuropsychology (all the helpful brain stuff – made to make sense!), and most importantly, evidence-based empirical research (yay science). But, at the end of the day, there is one other tenant of my practice that I find even more important than anything else: your leadership. You are the expert of you, even if it may not feel that way now-and-again.

My hope, should this reading turn into a call, into a consultation, into a session…is that I can be a resource to you. That through our collaboration you can better tackle the challenges that come your way, discover the things you wish to discover, and experience the things you hope to experience. Afterall, your curiosity and your strength led you here – congratulations on taking the first step.

Nate Schmall (he/ze/they)

If you're willing to step into a space where you can be present with your pain while moving toward what matters most to you in your life, I might be the therapist for you. If you've reached a point in your life where difficult thoughts, feelings, memories, or bodily sensations pull you away from living your values, it would be my privilege to join with you in exploring ways of relating to those experiences in ways that heal, are meaningful for you, and bring you into a deeper sense of connection to yourself, others, and the world.

I take a non-pathologizing approach when working with clients. A treatment outcome that I believe is of critical importance is when clients can more frequently experience the spontaneous emergence of their authentic selves, rather than trying to "fix" what appears "broken", and in that space begin to direct warmth and compassion inward to heal. My experience as a therapist, and fellow human, tells me that when we are able to accomplish this we can direct our energy toward what is truly fulfilling and sustaining.

I will endeavor first and foremost to listen with genuine interest, and with respect and permission, to build a therapeutic relationship that is based on collaboration, safety, autonomy, and honest feedback.

In my free time I like to meditate, create, travel, host friends at my home in Ypsilanti, spend time with my cats Adam and Binki, and dog Nova, watch movies, listen to music, read philosophy, and when the time calls for it, stare at the clouds and trees.

Angela Bonham (she, her, hers)

Angela earned her MSW from the Michigan State University School of Social Work and her BSW with a minor in psychology at the University of Michigan-Flint where she worked for the Center for Gender and Sexuality in peer education. She has gleaned experience working with at-risk youth in both residential treatment centers and community based after-school/summer programming where she was successful connecting with young people through art and crafting projects. Angela also works in HIV prevention as an HIV test counselor and helping those living with HIV reduce dependence on tobacco.

Using compassion and empathy, Angela offers a space to feel safe while being heard. She provides a kink aware and polyamory affirmative perspective for individuals and couples. She is trans, gender nonbinary, and gender fluid affirming

In these uncertain times Angela offers a space, via telehealth, where feelings and thoughts can be examined, interpreted, and addressed in a relaxed and open climate.

Angela is known for advocating for those whose voices may not be heard with the understanding they deserve.

Kathleen Roeder (she, her, hers)

I am excited to partner with you in this phase of your journey. My goal as your therapist is to walk alongside you as you discover your own voice, passions and healing. I believe you have everything you need within you to cope. Through an eclectic approach of attachment theory, CBT, transpersonal theory, internal family systems and mindfulness practices, we will explore the experiences that led you to therapy. There are many reasons to seek therapy- unfulfilling relationships, trouble with self-image, difficult family dynamics, life transitions, traumatic experiences or loss, and all can be explored in a supported setting.

I work with teens, couples and adults. I am experienced in working through gender and sexual identity exploration, navigating neurodivergence and social expectations, processing loss or trauma, exploring ones relationship with body and food, identifying relational conflict and how to communicate more effectively as well as unpacking religious trauma.

Throughout the therapeutic relationship, I believe it is important to have a space to practice having a trusting relationship where vulnerability and transparency can happen, even when it’s challenging. I hope to offer that space to you. I also note the importance of intersectionality, and acknowledging the privilege and oppression we experience at a societal level and how that contributes to our experiences and the therapeutic process.

In my spare time, I enjoy going to new restaurants, singing loudly in the car, exercising, writing poetry and enjoying nature. 

Maddy Mayer

(they, them, theirs)

Navigating the journey of life can be challenging. If you find yourself feeling lost, confused, sad, worried, or dissatisfied with certain aspects of your life, you've come to the right place. As a therapist, my role is to guide you in discovering the tools necessary to improve your life and relationships. I offer a calm, non-judgmental space where we can explore both hardships and joys together.

My strengths-based approach draws from evidence-based practices including CBT, DBT, ACT, trauma-informed mindfulness, and motivational interviewing. My practice is also influenced by queer theory, Black feminism, disability justice, and radical acceptance. Overall, my priority is the therapeutic bond that we will cultivate together. Only you know what path is right for your life, and I look forward to supporting you as we navigate the road together.

I work with adults, teens, partners, and families. Some topics I enjoy working with include anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma and PTSD, grief and loss, LGBTQ+ concerns (including gender, sexuality, ethical non-monogamy, and polyamory), kink and BDSM, religious struggles, life transitions, self-esteem, and relationship issues.

My educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Latin American Studies with minors in Psychology and African Studies from Dartmouth College. Prior to entering the field of therapy, I worked as a teacher and wedding cake decorator in New Orleans, LA. In 2023, I earned my Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan (UM). While at UM, I worked as a student therapist as well as ran workshops related to queer sex education and Minority Stress Theory. Outside of work, I enjoy meditating, baking hamantaschen, watching movies, and spending time with my friends, family, and cat.

If you think we might be a good fit for therapy, please feel free to reach out!

Graduate Student Therapists

Connally Counseling is proud to be a practicum site for University of Michigan and Michigan State University second year Masters of Social Work (MSW) internships. All graduate student therapists are supervised by a fully licensed LMSW (Licensed Master of Social Work).

Mustafa Ilgin

(he, him, his)

Hi! My name is Mustafa and I am so glad that you’ve found your way to my bio! We all have life experiences that help shape us into the people we are today. Whether we like it or not, some of these experiences can stick with us and may even be challenging to carry. Together, I hope we an work on making your experiences easier to carry and get you on the road to achieving your goals!

As a therapist, I do everything I can to build safe and affirming spaces that foster your well-being and lead to genuine healing and growth. I believe we are equal partners on this journey and I do what I can to make sure our relationship is validating and supportive.

I am currently attending the University of Michigan where I am completing my Master’s of Social Work. Previously, I graduated from the Ohio State University with a B.S. in Social Work and minors in Political Science and Human Rights. In the past, I have worked in a private practice, community clinic, and transitional living program. While I deeply enjoyed my time working with folxs from across the lifespan, I have extensive experience working with adolescent and young adult clients who are neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, from immigrant families, or are unhoused/housing insecure.

In my free time, I enjoy writing, painting, taking care of my house plants, and exploring new places! If you think we might be a good fit, please feel free to contact me for a quick conversation about what therapy with me will look like! I hope to talk with you soon!

Cat Madish

(She, Her, hers)

I do my utmost to create a safe, supportive, and calm environment where we can collaborate to help you thrive. I strive to be non-judgmental, open-minded, and curious. As someone who is non-monogamous and pansexual, I understand how important these qualities are.

I am passionate about providing therapy that is sex-positive, affirming, and collaborative. I have a special interest in working with sex workers, the kink/fetish community, non-monogamous individuals/people in non-traditional relationships, and people experiencing relationship issues. I hope to help people who struggle with communication, attachment issues, ADHD, guilt/shame, PTSD/trauma, and more.

Outside of the office, I enjoy reading light novels (too many), watching anime, swing dancing, petting my cats, trying new foods (sorry wallet), listening to podcasts, and belting music while cooking or cleaning (not cleaning enough).

If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out so we can schedule a free consultation!

Nicholas Holterman

(he, Him, they)

Hello! I'm Nicholas. As a graduate student therapist, my goal is to provide you with the time,  space, respect, and consideration you need to feel safe, listened to, and accepted unconditionally. My approach to therapy is free of judgment, focused on empowerment, and informed by each client's identities and positionalities. Here, I want to acknowledge my own personal identities as a queer, white, cisgender man and to note that I build upon my training by attending to points of intersectionality, privilege, oppression, and social justice in my praxis; I believe all our unique life experiences are shaped by our multiple identities.

During our time together we'll pull from an eclectic toolbox of evidenced-based practices to support you in working toward your goals. I'm particularly interested in working with individuals of all ages, families, couples, and non-monogamous partners who experience anxiety, disordered eating, depression, and questions of sexual orientation and gender identity. 

In addition to my work as a Master of Social Work student and therapist, I hold a PhD in French literature from the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor and I have been a teacher at the university and high school levels here in Michigan, Texas, and in my home state of New York for the last 10 years. My research explored how video games can help us reimagine the medieval past, and how play can be a powerful interpretive tool as well as a mode of living. In my free time I love playing games and watching movies with my partner, reading nonfiction, and birding in my backyard.

I'm looking forward to chatting with you soon!

Sarai Koster-Stetson

(SHE, HER, HERS)

"All behavior is communication". My therapeutic approach begins with “What struggle is the child or adolescent communicating about through their behavior, and how can we work together to make adjustments”.

As a middle school teacher for 25 years, I have a wealth of experience with meeting children where they are while also supporting their growth and development. My approach to this process begins with non-judgmental, compassionate, and curious questions to get to know each child and family. As we move towards exploring solutions together, I like to use the strengths that already exist in each family to guide us. My focus as a student therapist is supporting children and adolescents (and their families) who are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, any neurodiversity, gender and sexual identity exploration, and general life stresses.

I believe that children make sense of their world, and share that knowledge with adults, through play, so I incorporate art, legos, social stories, and games into our sessions. (I am also well versed in Minecraft and happy to discuss it at length!) I have had training in TF-CBT (treating trauma in children) and bring a mind-body connection and mindfulness perspective to my work with children and adolescents. I believe that children and adolescents, like adults, are their own experts on themselves, and as such, their identities should be valued and supported as they explore their developing self.

I am a certified teacher and I hold both a Bachelors in Fine Arts and a Masters in Education from Eastern Michigan University. I am currently pursuing a Masters in Social Work at the University of Michigan. When I’m not teaching, learning, or seeing clients, I enjoy hanging out with my children doing art projects, exploring parks, building with legos, playing video games, doing karate, walking our dog, and swimming.

Emma LaBarre

(she, her, hers)

Hi! I’m Emma. As a therapist, I aspire to create a space that is calm and centered, even when life feels overwhelming. I will utilize a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment theory, grounding exercises, and psychoeducation to create an approach that is tailored to your individual needs. I hope that even if we are dealing with difficult issues, I can be someone that you look forward to talking to.

I am passionate about providing mental health services for adolescents and young adults. I will bring to our sessions knowledge about sexual trauma, eating disorders, and mental health issues. Additionally, I am an innately curious person, so if there is a topic you want to discuss that I am not experienced in, I will happily complete research so that we can navigate it together.

I graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Psychology and Social Relations & Policy and I am currently in the Master of Social Work program at the University of Michigan. During my undergraduate education, I had the opportunity to volunteer at a variety of mental health-related centers. I volunteered at the MSU Center for Survivors, where I provided crisis intervention via hotline services to survivors of sexual assault. Additionally, I was a medical advocate, which involved providing support to survivors during SANE exams. I also volunteered with the Senior Ambassadors Program, where I met weekly with a senior in the East Lansing community in order to reduce loneliness and foster inter-generational relationships. Finally, I was a Research Assistant in the Klump Lab where I helped run assessments for research on eating disorders. All of these experiences helped me gain the skills and knowledge that I need to provide support to individuals seeking therapy.

When I’m not at Connally Counseling, I love to knit, check independent bookstores off of my bucket list, binge watch every documentary that Netflix suggests, and spend time with loved ones.

Shelby Baker

(she, her, hers)

Hi I’m Shelby. I seek to create a welcoming and non-judgemental space where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts and emotions. Creativity and self-expression guide my therapeutic approach. I take a humanistic and strengths-based approach to therapy that emphasizes self-exploration and individuality. I believe that clients are the experts of their own experience, and that together we can find pathways towards achieving your goals. 

I am passionate about providing therapy to adolescents, young adults, and couples. I hope to help individuals who are seeking services for generalized anxiety, social anxiety, relationship issues, and sexual identity exploration. As a queer woman, I carry my experiences into sessions to provide a space that is always queer-affirming. 

I graduated from the University of Michigan with a B.A. in Psychology and Spanish and a minors in Gender & Health. Throughout undergrad, I spent summers working at a local day camp for children with a wide range of mental, emotional, and intellectual challenges. I’m currently attending the Master’s of Social Work program at the University of Michigan, where I also work as a graduate student instructor for introductory psychology courses. 

In my freetime, I enjoy teaching figure skating classes at my local ice rink, baking, journaling, and making art. If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out so we can schedule a free consultation!

Dr. Dalton Connally (she, her, hers)

Founder and CEO

Connally Counseling was founded to provide a safe place for exploration and healing specifically for the LGBTQIA community in Ann Arbor and the surrounding area. My life's work is helping people live a happy, fulfilling life. I am passionate about social justice, LBGTQIA equality, and helping folx struggling with issues related to sexual identity, gender, and oppression. I believe in achieving therapy goals through a social justice lens, using tried and true methods while adjusting course based upon individual needs and the desired outcomes of my clients. I work with all populations of people, across the lifespan. I have an expertise in helping clients process identity (gender, transgender, intersex, gay, lesbian, bisexual, asexual), and those that struggle with depression, anxiety, autism, sexual problems, interpersonal relationship challenges, and particularly queer relationships.

Today, the majority of my time is spent in administration, clinical supervision, and assisting new clinicians in their professional development. We are expanding our counseling services to provide psychotherapy for folxs on the Autism Spectrum. Research has shown that a large percentage of the LGTBQIA population is neurodiverse, often undiagnosed, creating another opportunity to help our community.

In 1996 I earned my master's degree in Social Work at the University of Texas at Austin and my Ph.D. in 2001 from the University of Texas at Arlington. I became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1996. I have been a featured presenter at several national conferences and published numerous articles about gender variance, youth issues, trauma, secondary traumatic stress, and related therapeutic topics. I have lived in Southeast Michigan for 12 years. My wife and I are raising our son in the Ann Arbor area. I enjoy traveling, reading, theater, and camping.