At my core, I believe in the power of connection and community. I am passionate about supporting clients through their unique journeys and proud to be part of a world that embraces so many forms of identity.
Heather Leigh sees clients on weekdays virtually and in person,
and has openings available immediately!
Heather-Leigh Owens Nies is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a deep commitment to social justice, mental health accessibility, and advocacy. She holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from the University of Georgia, specializing in Marriage and Family Therapy, Nonprofit Management, and Leadership. She also has certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from the University of South Florida, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Social Work (DSW) at Tulane University.
About Heather-Leigh:
Heather-Leigh Owens Nies is a therapist driven by a lifelong passion for learning, growth, and advocacy. With a diverse educational background that blends the arts and social work, Heather-Leigh's approach to therapy is holistic and integrative. Her eclectic practice incorporates strength-based, somatic therapies, focusing on the importance of personal autonomy and intersectionality. She is particularly dedicated to supporting LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamorous individuals, valuing the unique identities and experiences that each client brings to the therapeutic space. Heather-Leigh is also a trained facilitator, offering sessions in narrative therapy, somatic practices, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). She believes in the power of collaborative healing, where the client’s expertise is honored, and the therapist acts as a guide and advocate. Above all, Heather-Leigh strives to create a warm, inclusive, and empathetic environment, helping clients explore their identity and navigate complex systems of oppression with a compassionate and informed lens.
I approach our work together with an open heart, a deep respect for your lived experience, and a commitment to collaboration.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic blend of strength-based somatic therapies, where we honor the connection between mind and body. I believe healing comes through both exploration and play, and I strive to create a space where you feel safe to explore the “sticky bits” between who you are and the systems that shape your identity.
My work is shaped by a strong social justice framework, prioritizing empathy, accessibility, and inclusivity for all clients, particularly those in marginalized communities such as LGBTQIA+, kink, and polyamorous folks.
I view therapy as a process of mutual learning, where I walk alongside you as a collaborator rather than an expert. I trust that you are the foremost authority on your own life, and my role is to provide support, tools, and insights that help you move toward growth and healing.
Whether through somatic techniques, traditional talk therapy, or advocacy, my aim is always to meet you where you are and help you cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world.
When I'm not in the therapy room, I’m likely enjoying the creative chaos of life—whether that’s through my love of theatre, dance, or spending time with my family. I’ve always believed that play is as valuable to personal growth as the hardest of challenges, and I carry that belief into both my personal and professional life.
I'm an advocate for life’s diversity, from the eclectic world of polyamory to the expansive beauty of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Outside of therapy, you might find me leading workshops, presenting at conferences, or collaborating with community groups. I also have a special fondness for the work I do with the Pagan Affirming Therapy & Healthcare (PATH) initiative, and I'm constantly seeking ways to integrate cultural competence into everything I do.
At my core, I believe in the power of connection and community. I am passionate about supporting clients through their unique journeys and proud to be part of a world that embraces so many forms of identity. And yes, I still love a good theatre production or community art project—it’s where my heart truly feels at home.