Accepted insurance & self-pay
About Donisha
Donisha Austin is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) who has over 3 years of experience working with children, teens, adults, and seniors. She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral issues, family and relationship conflict, and chronic stress.
Donisha received her Bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in Human Development and Family Studies. She received her Master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from the University of Cincinnati. Her professional and life experience have equipped her with the appropriate tools to support and guide others through various challenges and transitions. Donisha utilizes many treatment approaches including but not limited to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT ), humanistic approaches, existential therapy (ET), person-centered therapy (PCT), multicultural therapy, solutions-focused therapy (SFT), and much more.
Choosing therapy can be challenging, but Donisha believes there is power in stepping into your challenge zone. Trusting a stranger with your most vulnerable pieces can be scary. There is power in being emotional or squishy as Donisha likes to call it. Donisha provides a calm and safe space where she encourages you to be courageous. Schedule an appointment with her today!

"As an African American cis-gender female who used to be a silent sufferer, I understand the difficulty, fear, and stigma of trusting a stranger to help you explore your feelings."
What clients say
These testimonials are from real clients who completed a satisfaction survey after their sessions and agreed to share their feedback. Results may vary.
Donisha meets me after business hours either in person or over the phone, going on two years now. She's young enough to be my daughter, and has a different perspective on life and....
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Donisha
Convenient hours, unconventional approach, stellar memory of previous discussions, doesn't enable, bridges generation gap.
A Thriveworks Client, verified client of Donisha
Get to know Donisha
Why did you decide to become a counselor?
I grew up in an African American Family which had a very negative view on therapy. They did not believe in putting a stranger in your business. I also watched my family pass on generational traumas, struggle with undiagnosed mental illnesses, struggle with relationships, etc., and I was everyone's go to person. Mental health has had a very special place in my heart since I was knee high to a grass hopper! Once I got to college, I fell into the major of Human Development and Family Studies. I absolutely fell in love with how individuals grow and develop physically, emotionally, and mentally. Watching the transformation individuals go through as they grow and change and accept themselves, is one of the most beautiful things to witness because it is possible, no matter how challenging life is.
What types of clients do you work with best?
I work best with individuals who are ready to put forth the effort. It doesn't matter what stage of change, gender, or age as long as you are willing to show up to sessions, complete homework assignments, and be present and engaged in sessions.
What type of clients are you most excited to work with?
I'm always most excited to work with clients who are open minded and ready to work and try new perspectives and techniques!
What's one thing you wish all clients knew?
I wish all clients knew that your story is just that, your story- not your definition, and it is possible to become your own author and create whatever ending to your story you want no matter how it began.
Why did you choose to practice at Thriveworks?
I chose Thriveworks because it is a clinician owned organization. I believe it is important for CEOs to understand the importance of the work we do. Thriveworks cares about the experience of their clients and clinicians!
What inspires you?
People who have been given every reason to give up, but they keep going inspire me and nature inspire me. They both remind me that the world is so much bigger than I can comprehend at one given time. I think humans have so many commonalities with nature. I think that is what allows me to have such an open mind and different perspectives on a lot of things.
What can clients expect in their first session with you?
During their first session, clients can expect the first part of the session to consist of us getting to know one another. This part can be very laid back. I like to know who you are, what you like to do, etc. During the second half of the session, I will gather information about what brought you to therapy, and if you've participated in therapy before. If so, what worked well for you and what didn't you like? I will ask questions about your history including your childhood, education, relationships (family, romantic, friends), your current living situation, and your career. We will discuss the ins and outs of patient confidentiality. We will discuss what sessions will look like moving forward. I will also answer questions you may have.
What do you want to accomplish with an individual in their first session?
My main goal during the first session is for us to get to know one another and to build rapport. I also hope to accomplish my client leaving the first session with understanding of expectations and boundaries, and what they can expect in future sessions. That way when they leave that first session, they can reflect on how they felt during the initial session and afterwards. I really aim for my clients to leave the first session feeling safe, respected, accepted, and comfortable in the environment and with me.
What should clients know about you before scheduling a first counseling session?
I like my clients to know that I am straight forward, I am honest, I give homework assignments, and sessions with me are a collaborative process between the two of us which means I will not put in more work than you.
What do you do for fun/on your time off?
I love being out in nature, working out, reading, trying new food places, and spending time with my loved ones and dogs.
What's one thing about you that defines you (non-professional)?
One thing that defines me is my resiliency.
Other areas of focus
Education and training
- Years in practice
- 3 years
- Graduating institute
- University of Cincinnati
- Graduating degree
- Master of Arts Clinical Mental Health Counseling
