Local Therapist Honored for Contributions to LGBTQ Mental Health

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A serene environment for therapy sessions focused on mental health.

News Summary

Jenn Pohle, owner of Nettle & Ash Therapeutic Services in Providence, is recognized at the 2025 Business Women Awards for her impactful work in mental health, particularly for LGBTQ and neurodivergent youth. Her practice focuses on empowerment and resilience, offering tailored support to help clients navigate personal challenges. Pohle’s commitment to women in mental health and her extensive expertise make her an inspiring figure in the community.

Providence, Rhode Island – Jenn Pohle, the owner of Nettle & Ash Therapeutic Services, has been recognized as an achievement honoree at the 2025 Business Women Awards for her significant contributions to mental health support, especially among young individuals in the LGBTQ community and those who are neurodivergent. Pohle’s work is particularly pivotal as it addresses essential mental health needs through her practice, which was established in 2023.

Nettle & Ash Therapeutic Services operates across four major hospital campuses and includes multiple offsite facilities such as ambulatory care and MRI buildings. The name of her practice, “Nettle & Ash,” symbolizes resilience and empowerment, with nettles representing versatility and strength, while the ash tree embodies grounding and longevity. Pohle’s strategic approach to mental health care focuses on providing a safe and supportive environment for her clients, enhancing their capabilities to manage everyday challenges effectively.

Primarily serving clients aged 11 to young adults, Pohle specializes in therapeutic methods for conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, dyslexia, and autism spectrum disorder. Her practice offers a range of services, including weekly group or one-on-one sessions, and workshops aimed at helping clients navigate social situations, stay organized, and foster meaningful friendships.

Pohle’s focus on empowerment is evident in her commitment to teaching clients how to handle changes in their routines and express their thoughts and emotions. Many of her clients have experienced trauma and may display symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, in addition to dealing with anxiety stemming from the current political climate. By emphasizing a client-centered approach, Pohle seeks to instill confidence in her clients while ensuring that they feel heard and understood.

Before transitioning to a career in mental health, Pohle was a baker at Whole Foods Market. She holds a master’s degree in applied behavior analysis and, in 2014, co-founded a traditional behavioral health practice that grew to employ over 45 staff members. Despite initial success, she felt increasingly disconnected from the queer community that her practice served. This realization led her to establish Nettle & Ash in Providence, providing a tailored focus on young clients who could benefit from her expertise.

Beyond her work with clients, Pohle is an advocate for women in the mental health profession, coaching 50 practitioners, predominantly women, who aspire to start their own counseling practices. Her passion for supporting women led to her commitment to empower them to establish successful businesses and overcome self-doubt. She has observed a marked transformation in her clients’ sense of empowerment as they work towards establishing their practices.

The winners of the Business Women Awards will be announced on June 2, 2025. Currently, nominations and applications for the prestigious awards are open, inviting community members to recognize the impactful contributions of women like Jenn Pohle in various fields, including healthcare and mental health.

Nettle & Ash Therapeutic Services continues to make strides in providing essential support to vulnerable populations, reflecting Pohle’s dedication to improving mental health access and services. With her contributions being highlighted through this award, Pohle stands as a role model for aspiring mental health professionals and advocates for systemic change within the industry.