Therapist
She/They

Phone: 304-249-4999
Email: whitney@nurturebalancewv.com

Whitney Bender is LGSW in the state of West Virginia. Whit’s areas of expertise include Anxiety, Depression, Mood Disorders, Gender Identity, and LGBTQ. 

Education and Counseling Philosophy

Through supportive connection and partnership, I believe recovery is possible; and I am enthusiastic about being a part of that process.  Having graduated from Shippensburg University with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Gerontology, I obtained my Masters in Social Work after working in the mental health field for over a decade. My experience includes working through symptoms of trauma, anxiety, schizophrenia, depression, bipolar, and other mood disorders.

I passionately serve folks on the autism spectrum, and in the LGBTQ+ and aging populations. I recognize and enjoy the challenges that come with working with diverse populations and I work to dismantle the power dynamics that interfere with the therapeutic process. I am at my best when working with those who need elevated levels of support and those experiencing persistent mental health needs.

My person-centered, strength-based approach to therapy includes a focus on anti-oppressive empowerment, grounded in partnership. Believing that you are the expert in your own life allows me to embrace cultural humility and seek an openness in understanding those I serve. I believe in self-determination, empowering you to make your own choices and to find success within yourself.

When I am not in the therapy room, I am spending time with my spouse, playing with my three cats, and expressing myself creatively through music. Give me a call to discuss how we, together, can take your mental health symptoms from being the star of the show, to the sidelines.