Our Team

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, EMDR, 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

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.

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!

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.

Sarai Koster-Stetson

(SHE, HER, HERS)

As a middle school teacher for 20+ years, and now an elementary school social worker, I have a wealth of experience with meeting children and teenagers 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 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 also offer parenting focused therapy for adults.

I believe that young 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!) With older children and teenagers I incorporate Motivational Interviewing, CBT, ACT, and Exposure Therapy for OCD, always matching the intervention with client needs and preferences. 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 hold both a Bachelor degree in Fine Arts and a Master degree in Education from Eastern Michigan University, as well as a Master degree in Social Work from the University of Michigan. In my free time, 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.

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!

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!

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. 

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.

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, EMDR, 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 and enjoying nature. 

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.

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.

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!

Al Wauldron

(they, them, theirs)

If you are seeking a therapist to support your navigation through difficult experiences, personal growth, or life transitions, we’d make a great team. Let’s work together to make sense of your experiences and curate your path towards a meaningful, 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 helping clients build self-knowledge. I am an LGBTQIA2S+, neurodivergence, & poly affirming therapist, and I work to uphold lenses of anti-racism, anti-ableism and intersectionality frameworks into my practice.

I incorporate therapeutic approaches such as Psychodynamic therapy, attachment theory, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. I hold a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Michigan (2022).

I look forward to meeting with you!

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.

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).

Anangabii Stewart

(they, them, theirs)

Hi! My name is Anangabii (uh-nung-uh-bee). I strive to create a space for clients that is safe and collaborative. My therapeutic approach prioritizes the client’s perspective, validating the intersections of their identity and building on their individual strengths and community support. My life experience as an Anishinaabe (Indigenous) and Two Spirit/trans-non-binary person influences my approach to therapy. I focus on providing a holistic approach (spiritual/cultural, emotional, mental, and physical health) in sessions and strive to show up curious and affirming. I aim to help people of all ages who struggle with adjustments, trauma/PTSD, depression, anxiety, communication, attachment issues, and more!

I graduated from Grand Valley State University with a B.A. in Integrative Studies focusing on Indigenous Sustainability and Leadership. Throughout undergrad, I co-led various programs for Indigenous students and summer camps for Indigenous youth. After undergrad, I was a long-term substitute teaching Ojibwe language and culture to youth aged 5 to 14. Currently, I am attending the University of Michigan for a Master’s in Social Work and co-organize the LatinX and Indigenous Social Work Alliance.

In my free time, I enjoy learning Anishinaabemowin, being with my community, hiking, going to the beach, and trying new restaurants. If you think we might be a good fit, please reach out so we can schedule a free consultation!

Macauley O’Connell

(he, Him, his)

Hi there! I’m Macauley (yes, kind of like Macaulay Culkin) but I typically go by Mac. In a previous career, I spent years traveling all over North America as a Sales Engineer. Longing for a profession was more meaningful for me and desiring to offer the same treatment that led to my own recovery, I returned to school to complete my bachelor’s degree in social work from Oakland University. After graduating, I worked as a Child and Family Case Manager and Support Coordinator in Flint for two years in a community mental health setting. I have experience working collaboratively with LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers. I also have experience working with caregivers and children experiencing symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, ODD, and ADHD. I am a graduate student at the University of Michigan and will graduate with a Master of Social Work degree in December 2024.

  I aim to provide a collaborative atmosphere of unconditional, positive regard for clients to support them in navigating life's rugged, confusing, and often unpredictable terrain. I have an interest in working with adolescents, young adults, and caregivers because I know what it is like to struggle with mental illness as an adolescent and as a young parent. Reaching out for treatment can be uncomfortable and frankly, sometimes just downright inconvenient with the many obligations and struggles we face on a day-to-day basis it can seem like we have enough work to do already. However, I am here to let you know that you are not alone, your mental health is important, and it would be my pleasure to be a part of your healing journey.   

In my spare time, I like to be out on the lake paddleboarding and fishing and spending time with my wife and two boys ages 10 and 2, When I get time to myself I enjoy reading up on social theory, philosophy, and history.      

Amanda Webster

(she, her, hers)

Hello! I'm Amanda, and I'm passionate about creating a safe, supportive, and empowering space for my clients. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process where your input is valued, and I’m open to feedback and new perspectives to ensure we’re working together effectively. My goal is to help you navigate challenges, embrace transitions, and celebrate your successes, no matter how big or small!

I work with teens, young adults, and adults on various issues, including anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, life transitions, and LGBTQIA2S+ experiences, among others. In our sessions, you can expect a compassionate environment tailored to your unique needs and experiences.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan, where I engaged in research, trained as an intergroup dialogue facilitator, and led peer mental health support groups. My background includes youth empowerment programming and social justice education work, and these experiences have shaped my approach to therapy. I am currently pursuing my Master’s in Social Work, with an anticipated graduation in August 2025.

Outside of therapy, I enjoy painting, playing piano, building Lego sets, and crafting specialty coffees. If you’re curious about whether we’d be a good fit, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation!

Ry Kron

(THEY, THEM, THEIRS)

Hello, my name is Ry (like the bread). I’m a non-binary and neurodivergent graduate student therapist, and as a proud member of these communities, I know just how hard it can be to find a provider who understands. That’s exactly why I’m here. I work with adults and relationships of all ages and identities, but I’m particularly passionate about working with queer male and AMAB people who are exploring their sexual orientation and/or gender identity, navigating relationship issues, or coping with divorce and other major life transitions. I’m equally passionate about assisting adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, AD/HD, and trauma.

My approach to therapy is rooted in narratives—the stories we tell about ourselves and those we absorb from others. But because I believe in the power of writing our own stories, you can expect a warm and friendly environment that will support or challenge your narratives as needed… And a few Dad jokes along the way for balance. Sometimes our work can be very challenging and heavy, so I like to incorporate humor and lightness into sessions where appropriate. Laughter can sometimes be the best medicine!

In addition to my current work as a Master of Social Work student at the University of Michigan, I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from the University of North Carolina, and I’ve had the privilege of being enriched by a diverse professional background including roles in education, publishing, research, and political organizing. If you’re interested in seeing if we might be a good fit to work together, please don’t hesitate to reach out for a free consultation!

Gargi Patel

(she, HER, hERs)

"Hi, my name is Gargi (Gaar-gee). I value the importance of intersectionality and how the complexities of our social identities affect our day to day. I aim to create a non-judgemental environment where you can show up, be heard and understood as yourself. I will listen and continue to respect your experiences and culture as you are the expert of your life. While working collaboratively I will support you by asking difficult questions to cater to your needs. My aim is for clients to learn to empower themselves and build skills/coping mechanisms to be resilient. 

I have spent over four years working with parents, university students, youth, children and teachers facilitating dialogue around building coping skills to combat mental health concerns, exploring sexuality, maintaining healthy relationships, navigating all forms of violence and much more. I want to continue supporting all age groups navigating mental health diagnoses (such as anxiety, depression, ADHD and many more), neurodiversity, relationships, grief, and LGBTQIA+ identities. 

My therapeutic practice will take a strength and solution-based approach while drawing from Cognitive Behavioural, Dialectical Behavioral, Narrative, Interpersonal, Play, Art and Compassion-Based therapy teachings to provide a holistic experience. I hold a Bachelor in Social Work with a Minor in Disaster and Emergency Management and am pursuing my Master of Social Work. 

Outside of therapy, I like designing outfits, collecting shoes, listening to music, dancing in my room, hiking, cooking and playing basketball. I encourage you to contact me if you feel we are a good fit for each other.

Elaine Blum

(she, HER, hERs)

Hi, I'm Elaine! My goal is to become a resource for you, helping you celebrate the strengths and tools already within you, and forming a collaborative relationship to build upon them with you. I want to help you build confidence in your own voice!
I have a doctorate in Philosophy with a special focus on gender, queer theory, and trans theory. What this means for you is that I have a lot of conceptual tools at your disposal that can help engage questions of identity, intersectionality, and how to negotiate conflicting social expectations and demands. Having taught philosophy and gender for the past decade, I have worked with teens and adults and centralize my commitment to the LGBTQIA2S+ community.

I know how discouraging navigating mental health can be. My hope is that I can hold space for you, whether it be for: healing from religious trauma; anxiety and/or depression; clarifying/questioning identities such as gender and/or sexuality; navigating transitions. What can we think through together? I hope to hear from you!

In my free time, I like to play board games (especially cooperative ones!), do crossword puzzles, and crochet.

Jillian Heemer

(she, her, hers)

Hi! My name is Jillian, and I’m so glad you’re here. I’m dedicated to creating a warm, welcoming space where you feel heard, understood, and empowered. My approach to therapy is grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration, with a strong focus on finding and building upon each person's unique strengths.
I am passionate about working with children, teens, and young adults, coming from my experience in this area, including past work with children in foster care. I hold a Bachelor’s degree of social work from the University of Michigan - Flint and am currently pursuing my Master’s of Social Work from the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor with a concentration in Interpersonal Mental Health Practice.
My client-centered and holistic approach means I want you to come exactly as you are, without feeling any pressure to meet specific expectations. I offer shared decision-making power and informed consent in my sessions allowing you to be in control of your care. I offer support to those experiencing anxiety, depression, societal pressures, religious trauma, eating disorders, or other challenges. My approach will include elements of play, cognitive behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapies, and motivational interviewing.
In my free time, I enjoy reading, music, gaming, watching tv shows and movies, and hanging with my cats, Honey and Maple! Reaching out for help for you or your child can be challenging, but if you feel we might be a good fit, I encourage you to take that first step.

Ezekiel Medina

(he, him, his)

I aim to create the most safe, non-judgmental, compassionate atmosphere in session with you. Living life at this moment of time can be so difficult. My role as a therapist is to partner with you, using evidenced-based theories and modalities, to foster a space where you can exist freely in the wholeness of your being as we explore where it is you might want to go from here.

My approach includes the use of Motivational Interviewing, DBT, and a trauma-informed/healing-centered model of care. I root my practice in my lived experiences as a fat, queer, brown person. I equip decolonial theory, radical acceptance, and reparative justice in my therapeutic approach.

I received my Bachelor of Science in Latino and Caribbean Studies and Public Health from Rutgers University. I worked for a bit in a level 1 trauma center, providing intensive case management and supportive counseling for survivors of violent crimes and their immediate families. I gained experience in working with highly traumatized folks of various backgrounds, but mainly immigrant, Black, Indigenous, and other people of color. I have returned to school, working on my dual Master of Social Work and Master of Public Health degree. At the University of Michigan, I am a wellness coach and guide students as they embark on their journeys to success and achieve their personal goals.

I use a holistic approach to working with teens, adults, and partners. I have experience serving folks with PTSD, anxiety, and depression. I am queer-affirming, and love working with topics like sexuality and intimacy, kink and BDSM, self-esteem, ethical non-monogamy and polyamory, life-transitions including grief and loss, and processing trauma. In my spare time, I enjoy being in nature, being with friends, family, and chosen family, and engaging in my spiritual practice.

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.

Administrative Staff

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