I am Steven Gilpin, a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW), and the Founder and Clinical Director of Connecting Heals. As an LGBTQ+ affirming psychotherapist, I provide secure online therapy for adults throughout Michigan, and I oversee a dedicated team of providers who share this commitment to inclusive, high-quality care. My clinical focus centers on supporting individuals navigating anxiety, trauma, ADHD and neurodivergence, relationship challenges, and life transitions.

I believe that connection is central to healing. Therapy shouldn’t be about changing who you are. It is about creating the safety, understanding, and skills you need to live more authentically. My approach is grounded in the belief that you are the expert on your own life. My role is to provide a collaborative, non-judgmental environment where we can explore your experiences, build self-compassion, and create meaningful change.

My clinical perspective is deeply informed by my own lived experience as a gay and non-binary person. I intimately understand the importance of a therapeutic relationship where you don don’t have to educate your therapist about your identity or defend who you are. I strive to create a space where LGBTQ+ clients can openly explore topics related to sexual orientation, gender identity, coming out, family dynamics, minority stress, and personal growth. Whether you are actively navigating your identity or simply looking for a therapist who inherently “gets it,” you deserve care rooted in affirmation and belonging.

My clinical work incorporates trauma-informed, psychodynamic, and evidence-based practices tailored to your specific goals. I draw heavily from EMDR, CPT, and TF-CBT for processing single-incident, complex, and identity-based trauma. I also utilize CBT and DBT for building practical coping skills, regulating intense emotions, and managing anxiety or depression, alongside Ego State Therapy and IFS-informed practices (Parts Work) for exploring different parts of yourself, resolving internal conflict, and fostering deep self-acceptance.

I earned my Bachelor of Science in Psychology and my Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, and I am currently pursuing my Doctor of Social Work (DSW) at the University of Tennessee to further advance my clinical and leadership expertise. Over the course of my career, I have worked across public schools, higher levels of psychiatric care, and outpatient mental health settings, and I have overseen mental health teams within higher education. Today, as Clinical Director of Connecting Heals, I am passionate about improving access to effective care, mentoring emerging and experienced clinicians, and ensuring our practice remains a safe, affirming space for everyone. If you are looking for a supportive environment to process difficult experiences or step into a more confident version of yourself, my team and I would be honored to work with you.