How We Work Together
We live in a complex multicultural world, where complexity lies the intersection of our identity as individuals and the systemic challenges many face. I am a mixed-race, gender-fluid therapist, and I believe many factors impact our ability to seek therapy and heal from small and/or complex trauma. I provide queer-affirming therapy and address race-based stress and trauma as applicable.
In taking the step to further your healing journey, we work together to understand the impact trauma has on the body and the false narratives we may have learned in order to cope. Learning ways to manage persistent stress, anxiety, PTSD, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, grief and loss, societal pressures/issues facing our Black, Indigenous, People of Color, and LGBTQIA+ communities. My approach is one of authenticity. I do my best to work with candor and compassion in every session.
I have worked with clients who were children, teens or adults facing an array of issues, including those dealing with complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), stress, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, codependency, grief and loss, trauma and/or abuse, relationship struggles, vicarious trauma relating to working with trauma-impacted individuals, and issues pertaining to LGBQIA+ and/or gender identity and transgender transitioning.
As we now know, the “body remembers” trauma and a part of our work is using somatic practices to understand and release this burden. Using trauma-sensitive yoga, mindfulness, and movement/vocalization exercises, you have the option to learn skills that may increase the ability to self-regulate during distress and strengthen awareness of the mind-body connection. These tools are offered according to your interest and desire to engage with them.
An additional mainstay trauma treatment tool within my practice is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I am trained on and frequently use this technique that is "strongly recommended" by The Department of Defense/Department of Veterans Affairs Practice Guidelines and placed in their highest category, “A” for treating trauma. You can learn more about the practice of EMDR at emdr.com. Although I use many modalities in session, I consistently apply a humanistic psychology framework of unconditional positive regard, placing emphasis on your inherent wisdom and ability to heal.
Nature Therapy
As part of the healing journey, I believe that nature has so much to offer and sometimes incorporate nature walks as part of the therapeutic process.
