Christy Nyakana, MSW, LCSW

I AM ONLY TAKING RETURN CLIENTS AT THIS TIME. BUT I AM STILL AVAILABLE FOR NEW PRE-SURGICAL BARIATRIC ASSESSMENTS (Please email me at the below address before making an appointment) Hey there, I’m glad you’re here! With over 20 years of experience as a therapist, my passion has always been helping people navigate life’s ups and downs. I know that life can be unpredictable, overwhelming, and just plain hard sometimes. It can leave you feeling lost, alone, or misunderstood. My goal is to create a space where you feel safe, heard, and supported—because you deserve that. I take a collaborative, strengths-based approach to therapy, meaning we’ll work together to help you make choices that support your well-being—physically, mentally, emotionally, and even spiritually if that’s important to you. I believe that self-acceptance and personal growth go hand in hand, and I’m here to help you build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. I have experience working with all kinds of challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, mood disorders, and life transitions. I also specialize in military service members and their families, veteran issues and pre/post-surgical bariatric counseling. I’m an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist and strive to provide a welcoming, supportive space for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. In addition, I’m kink-aware and knowledgeable about the unique experiences of those in polyamorous or ethically non-monogamous (ENM) relationships. Inclusion, diversity, and social justice matter to me. I recognize that many people—especially those from marginalized communities—often feel unheard, unsafe, or dismissed. While I can’t pretend to fully understand what that experience is like, I want you to know that I take it seriously. My goal is to offer a space where you feel respected, valued, and free to be yourself. Above all, I believe that the connection between a therapist and client is what really makes therapy work. Research backs this up—techniques and methods matter, but the trust, honesty, and relationship we build are what truly create change. My hope is to create a real, supportive connection with you so we can work toward solutions that fit your unique needs and goals. I offer online therapy for residents of PA and OH, so getting support is easier and more convenient. Whether you’re struggling with something specific or just need a place to process life, I’m here to help. If you have any questions about my approach or how we might work together, please reach out. You don’t have to figure things out alone—we can do this together. ********** Email: christy.nyakana.phc@gmail.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christy-nyakana-msw-lisw-lcsw-4640bb5/ ********** If you live in Pennsylvania and are covered by and would like to use your Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Highmark, Cigna, Cigna EAP, Optum, Optum EAP, or Independence Blue Cross insurance plans, OR If you live in Ohio and are covered by and would like to use your Aetna,, Cigna, Cigna EAP, Optum, Optum EAP, or insurance plans, please contact my intake team at Grow Therapy by copy and pasting the below URL into your search bar: https://growtherapy.com/book-appointment?id=1601&utm_source=provider-sourced&utm_medium=booking-link&utm_campaign=provider-dashboard **********