Monica Yost Kiss

Welcome! You have already started the process of improving your mental health just by being here. My name is Monica and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) in Ohio with nearly 20 years of experience providing mental health therapy to individuals, families and groups. I completed a dual Master's degree program at the University of Michigan where I earned my Master of Social Work (MSW) in Mental Health & Interpersonal Practice and my Master of Public Health (MPH) in Health Behavior & Health Education with a concentration in Reproductive & Women's Health.

Over the course of my career I have worked in numerous settings - community health agencies, college campuses, hospitals and private practice - with hundreds of clients facing a variety of challenges. In 2019 I started my own private counseling practice, Monz Counseling LLC, of which I am the sole owner. I frequently see young adults who are coping with major life transitions, managing mental health diagnoses, and may have a history of trauma, including sexual assault and domestic violence. I also often work with people who are trying to become parents, recently became parents, and those who are parents of children with special needs as I have extensive with these issues personally and professionally.

I look forward to meeting with clients who are ready to make changes to improve their quality of life and need the appropriate tools and support to help identify their strengths, problem-solve challenges and meet their goals.

First and foremost I want to help you feel comfortable in the therapy process, learn more about you and how I can help. What or who lead you to seek therapy? What are your challenges and goals? How do you view mental health? What & who do you love (including yourself)?

As both a therapist and a person, others often describe me as a warm & welcoming as I use humor & candor to "keep it real." I do not hesitate to address the tough topics when ready because I know change can be hard, even when it's for the better. I encourage my clients to build self-awareness, identify their strengths, and address the barriers in their life which may be preventing them from becoming the best versions of themselves. I strive to help my clients feel heard, understood and empowered to know their self-worth, while also being compassionate and patient with themselves.

During our first few sessions we will do a lot of information gathering so I can get to know you and what brought you to counseling. We will discuss your current concerns as well as your mental health history. I will ask a lot of questions about your personal history including your childhood, family life, relationships, education, career, interests, hobbies and more. It may seem overwhelming at first, but it's important for me to learn who you are and understand your needs. You are always allowed to express if you feel uncomfortable or unsure if about addressing specific topics. We will also discuss your expectations for therapy, identify your goals, problem areas you want to focus on what approaches work best for you.

Based on your current needs, together we will determine when and how often you would like to schedule sessions.

I primarily provide telehealth therapy via a confidential virtual platform (similar to Zoom), and can also meet in person at my office in Solon, OH. I work with my clients to coordinate busy schedules and offer some evening appts during weekdays as needed. Please reach out to me directly so we can plan a time for free phone call consultation to determine if we will be the right fit for each other to start your counseling journey. I look forward to meeting you!