Rachel Ryan, LMFT
Offering in-person sessions at Columbus (Polaris) and online sessions at Columbus (Polaris), Middleburg Heights, and throughout Ohio State.
Ages Served: 13+
“Pain travels through families until someone is ready to feel it.”
—Stephi Wagner
Hi, I'm Rachel Ryan, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) passionate about helping individuals, couples, and families build and maintain healthy, fulfilling relationships. I believe that working as a therapist with a person requires comprehending their environment and the vast network of people who influenced their lives, positively as well as negatively. My goal is to guide clients out of their own heads and help them see how their past impacts their present, fostering improved relationships and personal growth.
I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, and my Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. I moved to Columbus to pursue a PhD in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) at the Ohio State University. Throughout my career, I have gained extensive experience working with diverse populations, from those in severe mental health crises to couples seeking premarital therapy.
Who I Work With
I predominantly work with clients ages 13 and up, including individuals, couples and families. I have a special interest in working with couples and am particularly passionate about supporting sexually and relationally diverse clients, including LGBTQIA+, polyamorous, and kink-identified individuals, couples, and families. I am also skilled in involving partners and family members in the treatment of life challenges and mental health issues, including:
Anxiety
Life transitions
Depression
Peer/school challenges
Bipolar disorder
Parent/Child relational issues
Couples therapy
My Approach
I employ a blend of contextual therapy, narrative therapy, and humanistic/client-centered psychoeducation, tailoring my approach to each client's unique needs, striving to create a warm and supportive space where clients can be their most authentic selves. My philosophy is that when individuals, couples, and families can see themselves and each other more fully and truthfully, they can rebuild the trust necessary for stronger relationships.
Originally from St. Louis, Missouri, I have lived in Columbus for two years with my spouse and our two dogs. In my free time, I enjoy watching comedy TV shows and drama/horror movies, listening to podcasts, and reading. As a queer woman, I am especially dedicated to creating a welcoming and inclusive space for those with queer and/or trans identities.
Professional Experience
Crisis Intake Clinician at Mercy Hospital, St. Louis: Worked with patients in the emergency room with severe mental health issues, collaborating with medical teams for the best treatment.
MFT Trainee at OSU Couple and Family Therapy Clinic: Worked with couples, families, and individuals.
Therapist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital: Supported teenagers struggling with anxiety and mood disorders.
I'm excited to walk alongside you on your journey toward better relationships and personal well-being. Together, we can face the truths of your past and work towards a brighter, healthier future.
Supervised by David Bowers, PhD, IMFT lic# F.2000127
Accepted Insurance
Aetna
Anthem
BCBS
Medical Mutual
Optum
OSU—Faculty and Staff
OSU—Student Health Insurance
United Healthcare
Molina
OhioHealthy
Oscar
AmeriHealth Caritas
CareSource
UHC Community Plan
HUMANA
