
More Provider Information
So maybe you want to know more about Zack and his background, but you’re too nervous to ask?
For those who want to know more about me and my background, here’s a closer look:
I earned my Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Cleveland State University in 2018, following a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the same institution in 2015. During my graduate studies, I completed two pivotal internships: a 600+ hour internship at an outpatient alcohol and drug treatment center, and a 100+ hour internship at a college counseling clinic. At the same time, I worked on campus in the College of Business, where my skills in technology and data processing led to a prestigious assistantship in a department outside my field of study.
These diverse experiences have equipped me with a broad range of skills and insights that I bring to my counseling practice today.
My commitment to professional growth is reflected in over 30 hours of continuing education focused on diagnosing and treating problem gambling, along with extensive experience providing telehealth counseling services. During graduate school, I specialized in gender/sexuality and chemical dependency, while also receiving training in career counseling, psychopathology (diagnosis), psychopharmacology, personality disorders, and applying counseling theories in practice.
Beyond formal education, I’ve dedicated significant time to self-directed learning in areas such as supporting marginalized populations, veterinary professionals, and exploring various counseling approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, trauma-informed care, and motivational interviewing.
I’m passionate about integrating geek/nerd culture into therapy and continually expanding my counseling toolbox to better meet the needs of my clients.
My practical experience includes over 6 years working in outpatient mental health centers, where I provided treatment, assessments, and contributed to program development. In 2021, I earned my Independent License after completing 4,000+ supervised field hours and passing the licensing exam through the National Board for Certified Counselors. That October, I opened my private practice after serving as the interim head of an outpatient psychiatry department at a community mental health agency. Currently, I run my private practice full time and work part time for a community mental health agency as an intake assessment specialist.
Before becoming a counselor, I explored various careers, including retail, food service, construction, security, automotive, clerical, and creative fields. This diverse work history has given me insight into the unique stressors of different industries, allowing me to better understand and support my clients’ experiences.
In June 2022, I earned the Training Supervisor designation for my Ohio counseling license. My mission is to provide supervision to fellow counselors, helping to reduce the education gap in working with transgender clients, neurodivergent individuals, and harm reduction practices for addiction. In Fall 2022, I completed an intensive course to become a certified EMDR therapist.
In March 2025, I was able to obtain my Licensed Mental Health Counselor license in Massachusetts and working to become more familiar with the services available in the state.
In Fall 2025, I will continue my education to pursue my doctorate in Counseling Psychology to further my skills and ability to provide quality services to my clients.
Beyond traditional counseling, I have over four years of experience with Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), supporting both voluntary and mandatory clients. I’ve presented on topics such as my lived transgender experience, queer issues, and compassion fatigue.
Advocacy is central to who I am. At my university, I played a pivotal role in policy changes benefiting LGBTQIA+ students and graduate students. After graduation, I served on the Board of Advisors for my fraternity. I also spent two years volunteering for the Cleveland Rape Crisis Center’s Hotline, completing 40+ hours of crisis intervention training. To expand access to mental health services, I’ve actively called and written to Congress, advocating for Medicare coverage for licensed counselors and license portability across states. I believe deeply in equity and fight against systems that oppress others. In my practice, I strive to reduce clients' financial burdens by offering affordable rates and advocating for my clients with insurance providers to cover services.
I also value personal growth and self-care, understanding how mental health impacts every part of life. I aim to set an example for my friends, partner, family, and clients by prioritizing my own well-being.
Outside of work, I’m a proud nerd who loves gaming, spending (perhaps too much) time on YouTube, and reading about my many interests. Traveling with my partner of over 7 years is one of my greatest joys and hope to continue our dream of visiting every national park in the country. Our home is filled with the energy of our 3 guinea pigs, and a rotation of foster animals. We were not immune to the “foster fail” pitfall, adopting a hefty cat with behavioral issues and a rat who charmed us by opening his cage, but staying in it to show us he was cool. You may see the rat in session as he stays in my office, helping keep me on task. We recently adopted 2 additional rats to help our oldest rat make new friends.
Above all, I’m dedicated to providing authentic, genuine care. If you’re wondering whether we’re the right fit, feel free to call, email, or text. I’m here to support you on your journey to mental well-being—your peace of mind is my priority.