LGBT therapists in Dearborn, MI

I work with people navigating life's challenges using an approach that draws from real-life experience and evidence-based methods. I'm trained in DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy, and Trauma-Focused CBT, and I tailor my work to fit your unique needs and goals.

I'm genuine and create a safe, non-judgmental place to process life's difficult moments. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I'm here to support and empower you on that journey.

Hello, and welcome. My name is Jessica Banford, and I am a Licensed Master Social Worker / Clinical Social Worker with experience providing support in both emergency and outpatient mental health settings. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with compassion, understanding, and practical tools for change. I earned my Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana Wesleyan University and my professional background includes working in hospital emergency departments, where I have completed behavioral health assessments, crisis intervention, and care coordination for individuals experiencing acute mental health concerns. This experience has strengthened my ability to remain calm, supportive, and solution-focused during difficult moments. I specialize in working with individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, emotional dysregulation, and life stressors such as relationship difficulties, financial stress, and transitions. I also worked a outpatient community health center providing therapy to all populations including all ages. I also have experience supporting adolescents and young adults, as well as collaborating with families and support systems. My approach to therapy is client-centered and strengths-based. I often incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), focusing on building coping skills, improving emotional regulation, and increasing overall resilience. I strive to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported. I look forward to working together to help you reach your goals and improve your overall well-being.

Career counseling focused on mental health in the workplace is my specialization. I help college students, job seekers and working professionals who are feeling burned out, anxious, or overwhelmed reconnect with their strengths and bring their best selves to work or school. Many of my clients juggle high expectations, relationship challenges at work or college, and feel stuck, frustrated, or held back by negative self-talk. Together, we work on recognizing these patterns, challenging self-imposed limitations, and building healthier, more confident ways of thinking.

I am a board-certified PMHNP with extensive experience in the field of mental health. With a comprehensive background spanning child and adult inpatient and outpatient settings, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise into practice. Committed to providing holistic and compassionate care. I combine psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy to address the unique needs of each patient.

I offer support and skills to those exploring identity, intimacy, or relational complexity—whether in gender, sexuality, kink, or deocolonized relationships. They may be sitting with grief, unraveling the impact of trauma, or feeling the weight of past experiences in their body. They long for connection but struggle with vulnerability, trust, or belonging. Some feel stuck in cycles of overwhelm, while others are questioning the stories they’ve been told about who they are. They seek a space where they can be seen without judgment, process their experiences, and make sense of the systems shaping their lives.