Grace Byrnes, MSW, LISW
My name is Grace Byrnes and I’m a Licensed Independent Social Worker. I have a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a Master's degree in Social Work, both from the University of Akron. I have experience counseling children ages 12 and older, adolescents, and adults with a variety of concerns and diverse backgrounds.
My approach to therapy is holistic, collaborative, and affirming. I believe that mental health is influenced by many interconnected factors, including our nervous system, environment, relationships, identities, and lived experiences. I am committed to understanding each client within the context of their whole life and working together to build insight, develop practical coping strategies, and foster meaningful, lasting growth and healing.
My passion lies in supporting individuals navigating trauma and PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, and concerns related to identity, relationships, and self-understanding. I have particular expertise in working with neurodivergent individuals, including children, teens, and adults with ADHD and individuals with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder. I also enjoy helping clients navigate challenges related to executive functioning, burnout recovery, fatigue, and sensory processing.
I have particular expertise in EMDR therapy and trauma-informed treatment, helping clients safely process difficult or traumatic experiences and reduce the ways those experiences continue to affect their thoughts, emotions, physical responses, and everyday lives. I value a mind-body approach that recognizes the connection between our experiences, emotions, nervous system, and physical responses as they influence our overall well-being.
In addition to these areas, I work with clients experiencing anger, grief, relationship changes, divorce, social anxiety, self-harm, parenting concerns, and women's issues. I also provide affirming support for LGBTQ+ and transgender clients and individuals exploring sexuality, identity, or spirituality.
I value creating a life rooted in authenticity, curiosity, creativity, and connection. I believe therapy is a space for you to truly “come as you are.” My personal experiences with neurodivergence have deepened my appreciation for the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel welcomed, accepted, and understood. I strive to honor and affirm the unique identities, backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, relationships, and lived experiences that shape each person.
In my personal time, I appreciate moments of joy, exploration, and creativity. I love singing and dancing around my home, laughing along with stand-up comedy, completing jigsaw puzzles, playing board and card games, spending time in nature, and diving into creative projects whenever inspiration strikes. I treasure time with my family, friends, and my cat, Onyx.