Eme Swaggthorne MA, LPC, ATR-P
Counselor & Art Therapist
Populations Served: individuals
Ages: 14+
Specialties: Anxiety, ASD, ADHD, bipolar, chronic illness, depression, gender identity, grief & loss, kink/BDSM, trauma & PTSD, polyamory, LGBTQ+, relationship issues, personality disorders, learning disabilities, low self-esteem, OCD, HIV/STI support, substance abuse
Availability: In-person & virtual
Pronouns: They/Them
Therapeutic Approach
As an art therapist, I empower clients to explore the transformative potential of art in their healing journey. I’m also equipped to provide a traditional therapeutic experience tailored to your needs. Taking a holistic approach, I honor your unique background, current self, and future aspirations. Together, we’ll build a collaborative partnership to help you achieve your goals. I specialize in supporting a diverse range of mental health challenges, with a particular focus on the LGBTQ+ community.
I support individuals through life transitions, grief, neurodivergence, consensual non-monogamy, sexual dysfunction and relationship issues. Also, I have extensive experience working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My approach is sex-positive, strengths-based, and person-centered, emphasizing collaboration.
“To say what one wants to say is a magnificent act of creation."
Erving and Miriam Polster
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I truly believe that therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all. Everyone shows up with their own story, strengths, and ways of processing, so I focus on being present with you and adapting my approach to meet your unique needs. I draw from person-centered and Adlerian perspectives, which help me understand not just where you’ve been, but who you are today and where you want to go. At the heart of it all, our relationship matters. I aim to create a space where you feel safe, supported, and free to explore whatever’s on your mind and heart.
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Art has a powerful way of connecting with people—beyond words, beyond background. In therapy, it becomes so much more than creative expression; it’s a tool for processing, healing, and deepening connection with yourself and others.
Art allows you to express what might be too complex or painful to put into words. It invites you to share your inner world and actively shape your healing in a way that feels authentic and empowering.
When we bring art into the therapy room, it opens doors. It builds trust, fosters self-acceptance, and offers a strong sense of agency in your growth.
At its heart, art-making creates space—space to feel, to reflect, and to just be. And in the midst of life’s challenges, that space can be profoundly healing.
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As a queer therapist, I care deeply about supporting healing within the LGBTQ+ community. I believe that real change begins with individual care, so offering LGBTQ+ affirming therapy isn’t just important to me—it’s central to the work I do.
My goal in therapy is to work with each person in a way that’s tailored to their needs, priorities, and ways of communicating. Together, we’ll shape our time so it feels meaningful, respectful, and truly supportive of what matters most to you.
LGBTQ+: I offer a safe space to explore both shared and unique challenges, supporting your growth and healing in a way that feels right for you.
Kink/BDSM: You don’t have to explain or defend who you are here—this is a space where all of you is welcome.
Autism spectrum: Art therapy can offer calming, sensory experiences that feel grounding and soothing. It also gives space to communicate thoughts and emotions that might be tough to say out loud.
Adolescents and teens: sitting and talking in a traditional therapy setting can feel intimidating or uncomfortable. But when art is involved, it can open doors. It helps build trust, encourages self-acceptance, and gives them a real sense of agency in their growth.
Intellectual & developmental disabilities: I am passionate about providing care and advocacy in a world that often creates unnecessary barriers.
Gender Identity: I provide gender-affirming care and have experience helping clients navigate the complex and vulnerable process of exploring their gender identity with support and understanding.
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I bring a sex-positive and inclusive approach to all my sessions, fostering a safe and supportive environment for exploring sexual health and wellness. Under the supervision of Stephanie Franzoni, LCPC, CST, I work with a range of sexual health concerns, including libido differences, consensual non-monogamy (CNM), kink/BDSM, sexual confidence, chronic pelvic pain, and erectile challenges.
Whatever your concerns may be, I’m committed to collaborating with you to identify your goals and develop a tailored plan to help you achieve them.
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Like you, I am a full person beyond our therapy sessions. I am an eclectic artist and musician, and enjoy spending my time engaging with the many different facets of the queer community. At home, I find peace in baking, exercising, meditating, spending time with my family, and going on walks with my dog.