Oswald Dinwiddie

I love connecting with others on a personal level

I take a laid-back, friendly approach to relate to clients and help them feel comfortable opening up. Many people are understandably fearful of being judged or questioned. I provide a non-judgmental environment to speak about your experiences, thoughts and feelings and work through stigma and shame.

I listen to and accommodate for clients’ unique needs

I know how difficult it can be to navigate the world when you’re neurodivergent. As an autistic person, I understand the unique struggles that come along with this diagnosis and identity. Being on the spectrum is both beautiful and frustrating at times, and I will do everything I can do to make you feel comfortable and heard.

My lived experiences inform how I can help you

If you’ve ever had to educate a therapist or clinician about your identity, you’re not alone and you shouldn’t have to. My identities as a member of the LGBTQ community and survivor allow me to practice empathy and compassion for those who have experienced trauma and may not have a support system who understands these issues.

My therapy specialties

My training as a mental health provider prepared me to work with a wide range of clients. However, I’ve gained particular experience working with specific types of clients. Some of my specialties as a therapist include:

• Trauma and PTSD

• Depression

• Anxiety

• Relationship issues

• Intimate partner violence

• LGBTQ+ identity

• Autism & ADHD

My professional experience in the field of mental health

During my time receiving my Bachelor of Psychology, I worked at the MU LGBTQ Resource Center and helped facilitate a support group for transgender college students. I have also had experience as a counselor at the Integrative Behavioral Health Center from July 2022-May 2023. I completed my Masters of Social Work, clinical track, at the University of Missouri-Columbia in May, and received my LMSW in September. 

Why I became a therapist

I have always loved helping people from a young age. I originally came to college as a journalism student, but I quickly realized I wanted to study psychology. After my undergraduate career, I decided to go into the field of social work. Throughout my journey, discovering my identities and working through trauma, I grew to have a passion for social justice and wanted to use my skills to advocate for marginalized communities. I also want to make sure that my identities are represented in this field, as there is a great need for LGBTQ+ therapists that can help with those unique struggles.

My approach to therapy

My approach to therapy is a laid-back, non-judgmental atmosphere. I want therapy to be a safe place for you to speak freely and not be intimidated! I am very open to learning things and will meet you where you are at. I believe in appropriate self-disclosure and am open about myself, because I don’t want to seem like a mysterious figure. I like to be casual and friendly in my interactions with others. As a therapist, I am passionate about helping people find their place in the world and practice radical self-acceptance. 

As a therapist, I embrace the following philosophies:

• Every human is capable of healing and growing.

• Diversity of all kinds is beautiful and should be celebrated.

• While I have training in mental health, you are the expert of your own experience and feelings, and I am here to listen.

Fun facts about me

• I’m really into 80’s new wave/pop, but I love all kinds of music.

• In my free time, I like to draw, play video games, and make playlists.

• I have a cat named Momo who is an emotional support animal and I love cuddling with her.

• I enjoy creative writing and creating characters and stories.

Ready to start therapy with me?

It’s difficult to ask for help, but by reading this you’ve already taken a huge step to healing. Schedule a free 30-minute consultation appointment with me where you can share what you struggle with and we will explore how I can help. To begin therapy, follow these steps: