Home/Team / Ayana Session

Therapeutic style & presence

Licensed Social Worker Specializing in Addiction Recovery, Emotional Wellness, and Personal Growth

My approach in a nutshell

Therapy That Honors Your Whole Self—Mind, Body, and Spirit.

Client Experience

I’m ready when you are. Take the first step to start your transformative journey together.

My therapeutic mantra

Reclaim Your Story. Restore Your Health. Rediscover Yourself.

Highlights

Licensed Social Worker Trained therapist Diverse, culturally informed practices  Mindfulness and meditation  Client-centered Holistic

APPROACH & FRAMEWORK

Holistic  Empowering Creative coping strategies (e.g., journaling, art as therapy) Mindfulness and meditation Client-centered approach Personable Evidence-based

compassion, respect, and empowerment.


I believe in meeting each client where they are—honoring their unique experiences, cultural backgrounds, and individual strengths.


Trauma-informed care is central to my approach, ensuring that safety and trust are prioritized throughout the healing process.


I am committed to using evidence-based practices while embracing holistic methods that support the whole person.


Collaboration is key; I see therapy as a partnership where clients are active participants in shaping their journey toward resilience and recovery.


Ultimately, my work is grounded in the belief that you are the expert in your own life. My goal is to use my therapeutic expertise to help you tap into your own knowledge and wisdom, supporting your growth throughout our work together and equipping you with tools to sustain that growth long after therapy ends.

  • Trauma Recovery
  • Addiction & Substance Use
  • Mindfulness-Based Therapy
  • Holistic Mental Health
  • Emotional Regulation (DBT Skills)

I cultivate a foundation of trust and safety first. When clients feel genuinely heard and respected, they are more open to exploring difficult truths and stepping outside their comfort zones. I listen deeply to understand each person’s readiness and pace, encouraging clients to venture into their growth zone without pushing too hard into stress. Using a collaborative approach, I help clients identify patterns or beliefs that may be keeping them stuck. This balance ensures that challenges are framed as opportunities for empowerment rather than criticism, fostering resilience and self-discovery in a compassionate way, ultimately expanding your comfort zone and shrinking your stress.

I take an integrative approach to therapy, blending evidence-based practices like DBT and mindfulness with holistic methods such as journaling, art therapy, and body-based awareness. My goal is to help you reconnect with your inner strength and build sustainable tools for healing—emotionally, mentally, and physically.

You’ll find a safe, inclusive, and nonjudgmental space where your story is honored.


We’ll work collaboratively—at your pace—to explore patterns, build insight, and empower lasting change.


I respect your autonomy and believe in tailoring therapy to meet your unique needs and values.

  • Trauma-Informed Care
  • Equity
  • Strengths-Based & Client-Centered
  • Cultural Humility & Awareness
  • Existential and Humanistic Perspectives

Top Approaches

Relational-Cultural Theory Trauma-Informed Care Humanistic Therapy Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) Constructivist Supervision Internal Family Systems-Informed Feminist Therapy Narrative Therapy Values-Based Work Mindfulness-Based Approaches Strengths-Based Supervision Harm Reduction
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
  • Addiction Counseling
  • Attachment-Based Therapy
  • Bibliotherapy
  • Clinical Supervision and Licensed Supervisors
  • Client-Centered Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)
  • Culturally Responsive/Affirming Therapy
  • Culturally Sensitive Therapy
  • Culturally-Responsive & Culturally-Sustaining Therapy
  • Eclectic Therapy
  • Existential Therapy
  • Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP)
  • Exposure Therapy
  • Feminist Therapy
  • Habit Reversal Therapy
  • Harm Reduction
  • Holistic Health
  • Holistic Therapy
  • Humanistic Therapy
  • Lifespan Integration
  • Mindful Self-Compassion (MSC)
  • Motivational Interviewing
  • Multicultural Therapy
  • Narrative & Strength-Based Approaches
  • Narrative Therapy
  • Person-Centered / Rogerian Therapy
  • Person-Centered Therapy
  • Social Justice-Oriented Therapy
  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)
  • Strength-Based Therapy
  • Supervision Services
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy

AREAS OF CARE

Trauma Recovery  Addiction & Substance Use  Identity Exploration  Grief and Loss Support  Grief and Loss Support  Holistic Behavioral Health  Emotion Regulation

I believe therapy should evolve as you do. From the start, I take time to understand your goals, preferences, and comfort level so we can create a personalized plan that feels right for you. Whether you’re drawn to structured skill-building, open reflection, or creative, holistic practices, I adapt my approach to fit what works best for you.

I regularly check in with you to make sure we’re aligned and that you feel supported, challenged, and empowered. Progress isn’t always linear, so we’ll celebrate wins, reflect on setbacks, and adjust our work together when needed. My goal is to give you tools you can carry with you—long after therapy ends.

Addiction and Recovery, change management, and life transitions.

I received specialized education in this area of psychology and have worked with people experiencing these and related issues across settings. I have cultivated a practice that focuses on supporting individuals through all stages of the healing process—from harm reduction to long-term sobriety.

My approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and grounded in both clinical expertise and an understanding of the complex emotional, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.

Healing from trauma—whether rooted in childhood, relationships, or life events—by building safety, self-awareness, and emotional resilience.

Navigating addiction and recovery, including relapse prevention, self-compassion, and rebuilding a grounded sense of self.

Managing overwhelming emotions, such as anxiety, anger, or sadness, using mindfulness, DBT, and practical coping tools.

Reconnecting with identity and purpose after feeling disconnected, stuck, or lost—especially during major life transitions.

Learning to set boundaries and prioritize self-care without guilt, especially for those who tend to over-function or put others first.

I bring years of experience and specialized training in supporting clients through some of life’s most challenging moments. My approach blends evidence-based therapy with holistic, culturally responsive care to meet you where you are and help you grow at your own pace.

Together, we’ll work to empower your strengths, honor your story, and foster meaningful, lasting change.

Trauma Recovery & Complex PTSD: Helping clients heal from past wounds and build resilience.

Addiction & Substance Use: Guiding individuals through recovery with compassion and practical tools.

Mental Health in Communities of Color: Centering the experiences of the Black community and other communities of color with culturally humble, anti-oppressive care.

LGBTQ+ Affirming Therapy: Creating a safe, supportive space for queer clients to explore identity and thrive.

Emotional Regulation & Coping Skills: Teaching mindfulness, DBT skills, and creative tools like journaling and art therapy to manage overwhelming emotions.

Top Areas of Care

Intersectionality Framework Narrative Therapy OCD and Anxiety Care (ERP-informed, trauma-conscious) Motivational Interviewing Art as therapy Trauma Recovery PTSD, & Complex PTSD Addiction & Substance Use Mental Health Support for Communities of Color (especially the Black community) LGBTQ+ Affirming Care Emotional Regulation & Coping Skills Development
  • Abandonment
  • Abuse (General)
  • Academic / Psycho-educational Testing & Evaluation
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Addiction
  • Addiction (General)
  • Addiction and Substance Use
  • Adoption
  • Adjusting to Change
  • Adjustment Disorders
  • Adulting (Young-Adult Life Skills)
  • Aging & Geriatric Concerns
  • Aging Parents
  • Agoraphobia
  • Aggression & Violence
  • Alcohol Use
  • Alcohol Use Disorder
  • Anger
  • Anger / Anger Management
  • Anger Management
  • Anorexia Nervosa
  • Anxiety
  • Anxiety (General & Death Anxiety)
  • Artist-Related Stress
  • Artists & Creatives (Creative Blocks, Writer’s Block)
  • Asperger’s Syndrome
  • Asperger’s Syndrome
  • Assertiveness
  • Athletes & Sports Psychology
  • Attachment Issues
  • Autism
  • Autism / Asperger’s / Spectrum
  • Autism Testing / Assessment
  • BDSM / Kink-Affirming / Sex-Positive (Sex-Positive, Kink-Allied)
  • Behavioral Issues
  • Betrayal
  • Binge Eating Disorder
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Bipolar Disorder / Patterns
  • Bisexual
  • Blindness / Vision Loss
  • Blindness / Vision Loss (overlaps Medical)
  • Blended Families / Step-Parenting
  • Body Dysmorphia
  • Body Image
  • Body Image Issues
  • Body Positivity
  • Body Positivity / Neutrality / Acceptance
  • Body-Focused Repetitive Behavior
  • Borderline Personality (BPD)
  • Borderline Personality Disorder
  • Bulimia Nervosa
  • Bullying / Cyber-Bullying
  • Burnout
  • Cancer
  • Cannabis Use
  • Career Coaching / Counseling
  • Career Coaching / Guidance (also above)
  • Career Guidance
  • Career Transitions
  • Career, School & Productivity
  • Career-Related Stress
  • Caregivers
  • Caregivers & Caregiver Stress
  • Child-Free & Childless People
  • Children of Parents with Addiction
  • Children of Religious Leaders
  • Chronic Illness
  • Chronic Illness & Pain
  • Chronic Impulsivity
  • Chronic Pain
  • Chronic Relapse
  • Climate Anxiety
  • Codependency
  • Cognitive Communication
  • Commitment Issues
  • Commitment Obstacles
  • Communication Issues (Couples & General)
  • Community, Diversity & Social Justice
  • Community-Based Trauma (e.g., cults, exile)
  • Complex Trauma / C-PTSD
  • Compulsive Behavior
  • Compulsive Shopping / Spending
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Coping Mechanisms / Coping Skills
  • Coping Skills
  • Counterdependency
  • Couples / Marriage / Relationship Issues
  • Couples Communication Skill-Building
  • Creative Blocks
  • Criminal Justice / Forensic Issues
  • Cultural & Systemic Oppression
  • Cultural Adjustment & Resistance
  • Cultural Competence
  • Cults & Cult Survivors
  • Dating
  • Dating Issues
  • De-Gaslighting & Boundary Setting
  • Deaf & Hard-of-Hearing
  • Death, End-of-Life & Bereavement
  • Dementia
  • Dementia / Alzheimer’s Disease
  • Depression
  • Developmental & Attachment Trauma
  • Developmental Disorders
  • Disordered Eating & Food Relationships
  • Dissociative Disorders (DID)
  • Divorce
  • Divorce / Separation / Discernment Counseling
  • Domestic Abuse
  • Domestic Abuse / Violence
  • Domestic Violence
  • Dread
  • Drug / Substance Use
  • Drug Abuse
  • Dual Diagnosis
  • Eating Disorder
  • Eating Disorders
  • Eating Disorders (General)
  • Ecological Grief
  • Education and Learning Disabilities
  • Emotion Regulation (overwhelm, shutdown, expression)
  • Emotional Disturbance
  • Emotional Intelligence
  • Emotional Overwhelm / Flooding
  • Emotional Shutdown / Expression
  • Entitlement
  • Entrepreneur Mental Health
  • Ex-cult Support
  • Executive Function Coaching
  • Existential Crisis & Meaning
  • Existential Crisis or Transition
  • Family Dynamics
  • Family of Origin Issues
  • Family Planning
  • Fat Positivity & Body Liberation (Body Neutrality, Acceptance)
  • Fear
  • Fear of Failure
  • Fertility
  • Fertility Treatment (IVF / IUI)
  • First Responders
  • Food-Related Stress
  • Forgiveness
  • Foster Care
  • Gambling
  • Gambling Addiction
  • Gambling/Crypto Addiction
  • Gamers & Gaming Culture
  • Gaslighting
  • Gender Identity
  • Geriatric and Seniors
  • Gifted / Twice Exceptional
  • Globally Mobile People / Third-Culture Kids
  • Goal-Setting
  • Goal-Setting & Productivity
  • Grief
  • Grief & Loss
  • Grief and Bereavement
  • Habit Reversal (hair-pulling, skin-picking, etc.)
  • Hallucinations / Hearing Voices
  • Harassment
  • Highly Sensitive Person
  • Hoarding
  • Houseless / Unhoused People & Displacement
  • Human Trafficking Trauma
  • Hyper-Sexuality / Sexual Compulsivity
  • Identity Issues
  • Identity Issues & Self-Exploration (combined)
  • Immigration
  • Immigration / Acculturation Concerns (incl. Immigration Evaluation)
  • Imposter Syndrome
  • Impulse Control Disorders
  • Incarceration & Re-Entry
  • Indecision
  • Indigenous & First-Nations Issues
  • Infidelity
  • Infidelity / Affair Recovery
  • Infertility
  • Inner Critic / Superego / Self-Persecutory Issues
  • Insomnia
  • Intellectual & Learning Disabilities
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Intercultural / Interfaith Relationships
  • Intergenerational & Historical Trauma
  • Internet / Gaming / Social-Media Dependence
  • Internet Addiction
  • Intimacy
  • Intimate Partner Sexual Violence
  • Intrusive Thoughts
  • Intuitive Eating / Anti-Diet
  • Irritability
  • Isolation / Loneliness
  • Jealousy & Rejection
  • Lesbian
  • LGBTQ+
  • LGBTQIA-Related Stress
  • Life / Wellness / Productivity Coaching
  • Life Coaching
  • Life Purpose
  • Life Transitions
  • Life Transitions (General)
  • Life-Purpose Coaching (duplicate kept for nuance)
  • Loneliness
  • Maladaptive Personality Patterns
  • Marital & Premarital
  • Marital & Premarital Concerns
  • Masculinity-Related Stress
  • Meditation & Mindfulness (practice)
  • Medical Detox
  • Medical Professionals’ Mental Health
  • Medical Trauma
  • Medical Trauma & Healing
  • Medication Management
  • Memory Loss
  • Mid-Life Crisis
  • Midlife Stress / Crisis
  • Migraines or Chronic Headaches
  • Military / Combat Trauma
  • Military / Service Members / Veterans
  • Mind-Body Connection
  • Missing Children / Women / People Trauma
  • Money & Finance Stress
  • Money-Related Stress
  • Mood
  • Mood Disorders
  • Mood Issues / Mood Disorders (General)
  • Multicultural Issues / Concerns
  • Multigenerational Family Systems
  • Narcissistic Personality (NPD)
  • Nerd & Gaming Culture (distinct from Gamers category above)
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Neurodivergence (general)
  • Neurodivergence (ASD, HSP, dyslexia, etc.)
  • Neuropsychological Assessment
  • Nonspeakers / Nonspeaking People
  • Non-Traditional Romantic Stress
  • Nutrition Concerns
  • Obesity
  • Obsessive Thoughts & Behavior (OCD-related)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Open Relationships & Non-Monogamy
  • Open Relationships / Non-Monogamy
  • Oppositional Defiance (ODD)
  • Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD) / Demand Avoidance (PDA)
  • Panic Attacks / Panic Disorder
  • Paranoia & Delusions
  • Parenting
  • Parenting & Parent Coaching (incl. Co-Parenting / Solo)
  • Peak Performance
  • Peer Relationship Issues
  • Peer Relationships
  • Perfectionism
  • Performance Anxiety
  • Perinatal / Infant Loss
  • Personality Disorders
  • Personality Disorders (General)
  • Pet Grief
  • Phobias & Fears
  • Physical Disabilities
  • Political Climate Stress
  • Polyamory & Alternative Relationships
  • Positive Psychology & Strength-Based Approaches
  • Post-Partum Depression
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Power Dynamics (Relationships with power differentials)
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Birth & Postpartum Care
  • Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum
  • Privilege
  • Procrastination
  • Psychopharmacology / Medication Management
  • Psychosis
  • Psychotic Disorders
  • PTSD / Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Quarter-Life Crisis
  • Race-Related Stress
  • Racial Identity
  • Racial Stress & Trauma
  • Racial, Ethnic & Cultural Identity
  • Racism, Oppression & Discrimination
  • Recently Moved
  • Relationship Coaching
  • Relationship Issues
  • Relationships (General)
  • Religious Issues (faith-related struggles)
  • Religious Leaders (as clients)
  • Religious / Spiritual Trauma
  • Retirement & Later-Life Adjustment
  • Romantic Life
  • School Issues
  • Schizophrenia Spectrum
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
  • Selective Mutism
  • Self Esteem
  • Self-Actualization
  • Self-Care
  • Self-Compassion
  • Self-Criticism
  • Self-Doubt
  • Self-Esteem
  • Self-Harming
  • Self-Reflection
  • Sense of Meaninglessness
  • Sensitivity / Sensitivity to Criticism
  • Sensitivity to Criticism
  • Sex Addiction
  • Sex Therapy
  • Sex-Positive, Kink Allied
  • Sexual Abuse
  • Sexual Abuse / Assault
  • Sexual Addiction
  • Sexual Dysfunction
  • Sexual Fear or Addiction
  • Sexual Identity
  • Shame & Guilt
  • Shame, Self-Esteem & Insecurity
  • Sibling-Related Stress
  • Skills Groups
  • Skin Picking / Excoriation
  • Sleep Issues / Insomnia
  • Sleep or Insomnia
  • Smoking / Tobacco Use
  • Social Anxiety
  • Social Justice
  • Social Life
  • Socio-Economic Inequity & Poverty Trauma
  • Somatization
  • Spiritual Coaching
  • Spiritual Crisis or Transition
  • Spirituality
  • Spirituality (General)
  • Sports Performance
  • Stalking / Cyber-Stalking
  • Stress
  • Stress (general & work-related)
  • Student Athletes
  • Student Support (Academic, College, Graduate)
  • Substance Use
  • Substance-Related & Addictive
  • Suicidal Feelings
  • Suicidal Ideation
  • Swallowing Difficulties / Dysphagia
  • Tech-Industry Stress
  • Tech-Industry Woes / Stress
  • Teen Violence
  • Terminal &/or Chronic Illness
  • Testing and Evaluation
  • Thinking Disorders
  • Thought Disorders
  • Transcending Dysfunctional Family Systems
  • Transgender
  • Trauma
  • Trauma and PTSD
  • Trauma-Focused Therapy / Resiliency
  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Trichotillomania
  • Trichotillomania / Body-Focused Repetitive Disease
  • Troubled Teen Industry Survivors
  • Trust Issues
  • Values Clarification
  • Veteran-Related Stress
  • Veterans
  • Video Game Addiction
  • Voices, Visions, or Perceptual Disturbances
  • Vulnerability
  • Weight Loss
  • Weight Loss & Management
  • Women’s Issues
  • Women’s Obstacles
  • Work Stress & Work–Life Balance
  • Worthlessness
  • Young Adult / Early-Career Issues
  • Young Adulthood

Q & A

I combine evidence-based therapeutic techniques with holistic, culturally responsive care to create a truly personalized healing journey. I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all therapy—your unique background, identity, and lived experience are central to our work together.

I prioritize creating a safe, affirming space where you can be fully yourself without having to explain your personhood. By integrating mindfulness, DBT skills, creative expression, and trauma-informed care, I help you build practical tools that support emotional regulation and resilience in everyday life.

Above all, I am deeply committed to continuous learning about cultural contexts and social justice, ensuring that the therapy I offer respects and honors the complexities of your story. This dedication allows us to focus on healing from a place of empowerment and authenticity.

Gain deeper insight into your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, helping you understand the roots of your challenges.

Develop practical skills for managing stress, regulating emotions, and coping with difficult situations through evidence-based practices.

Experience a safe, affirming space where your identity, culture, and experiences are honored without judgment

Build resilience and self-empowerment, learning to set healthy boundaries and make choices that align with your values and goals.

Make meaningful, lasting progress toward healing from trauma, addiction, or life transitions at a pace that feels right for you.

Cultivate tools and strategies that support your wellbeing long after therapy ends, fostering ongoing personal growth and self-care.

grounded in trust, mutual respect, and radical acceptance.

how the world we live in impacts our mental health and how that world does not stop spinning because we are overwhelmed, overworked, undervalued, still trying to heal from the last thing that knocked us down, or simply trying to improve. I understand that theoretical therapy practices can be amazing, but only when paired with real, practical understanding and change that have a place in our real lives and not just within a therapy session.

My years of training in addiction and recovery. Regardless of your history with substances, we all have addictions to something. This could be food, our phones, external validation, negative self-talk, or anything else that keeps us feeling stuck. Whatever those things are for you, there is room for them in our work together. My training has given me the tools to address what people often view as their most detrimental and shameful aspects of their lives in ways that are nonjudgemental and address the issue so they are able to move out of feeling stuck and onto a life that is truly fulfilling.

BACKGROUND & IDENTITY

Lived Experience Clinical Perspective  Cultural Awareness  Inclusive Practice Intersectionality  Social Justice Focus  Storytelling / Narrative Approach

I am a life-long bookworm. This combined with my background coming from a rich tradition of oral storytellers, I grew up immersed in the worlds built by words. From an early age, I was captivated by the power of narrative. I am drawn to how it connects, heals, and reveals who we are.

I bring that same reverence into the therapy room. Listening to my clients feels like opening the first pages of a meaningful story—one that deserves to be told with care, curiosity, and respect. I find joy in helping people piece together their narratives, make sense of their experiences, and find peace within them.

I’m especially passionate about working with those who struggle to give voice to their story—whether because they don’t yet know how to tell it, have internalized shame or self-doubt, or they have had their stories silenced or rewritten by others.

Everyone’s story matters. And everyone deserves the space to tell it.

I am a life-long bookworm. This combined with my background coming from a rich tradition of oral storytellers, I grew up immersed in the worlds built by words. From an early age, I was captivated by the power of narrative. I am drawn to how it connects, heals, and reveals who we are.

I bring that same reverence into the therapy room. Listening to my clients feels like opening the first pages of a meaningful story—one that deserves to be told with care, curiosity, and respect. I find joy in helping people piece together their narratives, make sense of their experiences, and find peace within them.

I’m especially passionate about working with those who struggle to give voice to their story—whether because they don’t yet know how to tell it, have internalized shame or self-doubt, or they have had their stories silenced or rewritten by others.

Everyone’s story matters. And everyone deserves the space to tell it.

Lifelong learner, bookworm, and proud nerd

Professional from a low-income background

Black American woman navigating the world at the intersection of multiple identities

Millennial/Gen Z cusp

Neurodivergent and committed to honoring different ways of thinking and being

Queer and a willing ally and advocate for those within and outside of the community

Experienced practitioner with lived insight and professional training

Inquisitive and well-researched; I bring curiosity and humility into every session

First-hand and system-level understanding of financial anxieties and considerations, systemic oppression, Black and African-American cultures, communities of color, and womanhood

Deeply attuned to the complexities of queer identity, exploration, and affirmation

Able to hold space for clients navigating intersectional experiences with care, nuance, and cultural responsiveness

Committed to decolonizing mental health and making therapy more accessible and affirming for marginalized communities

Driven to empower clients to reclaim their narratives, identities, and sense of worth through a collaborative, trauma-informed approach

I know what it’s like to need one.

My dad died when I was ten and it felt like the world crumbled beneath my feet. In the wake of that loss, my mom enrolled my sisters and I in therapy. I was a jaded, grieving kid, skeptical of the process—but even then, I remember thinking: 

I could do this better. My therapists were great and I still value them to this day. However, I recognized how the materials and techniques seemed to better fit the other grieving kids in our therapy group.  They did not feel made with our experiences, identities, or feal-life circumstances in mind. Because of this those vital, supposedly healing sessions often left my sisters and I feeling alone, misunderstood, or even wrong.

Growing up in a low-income neighborhood, I saw firsthand how broken our healthcare system is; this includes mental health. Too often, mental health is dismissed, neglected, or treated like a luxury, both by the system and by the communities shaped by it.

But mental health is health. It quite literally affects everyone with a mind.

I became a therapist because I believe no one should have to fight so hard for care—especially not while in pain. I became a therapist for the confused, bereaved little girl I once was. And for the many others like her who deserve to be seen, supported, and heard.

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

Culturally Responsive Care  Neurodiversity-Affirming Trauma-Informed Practice  Mental Health & Addiction Specialist  LGBTQIA+ Affirming

In my work, I’ve had the opportunity to support clients from a wide range of cultural and community backgrounds—including a diversity of communities of color, newcomer populations, queer and trans folks, neurodivergent clients, and people from low-income or working-class settings. These aren’t just populations I work with. Many of these identities reflect aspects of my own identity and lived experience.

Rather than approaching culture as a checkbox, I view it as something dynamic and deeply personal. I’ve learned to enter each session without assumptions, to listen for nuance, and to honor the unique ways culture shows up in people’s stories—whether that’s in how they express pain, navigate family expectations, or define healing.

This lens has taught me to slow down, ask better questions, and co-create a space where clients don’t have to shrink or translate themselves. It’s about meeting people where they are, with curiosity, respect, and a readiness to learn from them as much as I support them.

Anxiety and anxiety-related disorders, Depression, and trauma-related diagnoses, including PTSD and Complex PTSD.


These are diagnoses I have worked with for most of my career and with which I am intimately familiar. While I have experience working with them in a myriad of ways, I recognize each individual client is different. Therefore, my approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of how these conditions uniquely impact each individual.

I specialize in working with communities of color, with a focus on supporting the Black community and queer individuals. My practice is rooted in cultural humility, anti-oppressive frameworks, and an understanding of how systemic racism, generational trauma, and marginalization impact mental health. I strive to create a safe, affirming space where clients can show up fully, without code-switching or minimizing their truth. I am committed to ongoing learning around cultural context so that my clients don’t have to backtrack or explain the basics of their identities or why something holds cultural significance. I work to ensure that the burden of education doesn’t fall on my clients—allowing us to focus on healing from the very beginning. I center your lived experience and tailor therapy to reflect the cultural, historical, and personal strengths you carry into the room.

My clinical background spans a wide range of experiences, including work with Eating Disorders, Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Dementia, Body Dysmorphia, Identity Exploration, and Psychosis.
I’ve had the privilege of supporting individuals across diverse identities and levels of functioning, and I approach each with curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for their lived experience.

OUTSIDE THE SESSIONS

Art plays a deeply personal and grounding role in my life. I turn to creative practices like drawing, painting, and writing as a way to process emotions, reflect, and reconnect with myself. I also find peace and clarity through mindful walks, meditation, and yoga, which help me stay present and open to inspiration. Music is another essential outlet—whether through listening or engaging with it more actively, it helps me navigate complex feelings. Being in community with other creatives is equally important to me; sharing artistic experiences and ideas fosters a sense of connection and mutual support that enriches both my personal growth and artistic expression.

I give myself the space to do whatever I need in the moment. That might look like dancing around my home to release energy, spending quiet time in bed scrolling and decompressing, or surrounding myself with loved ones for connection and comfort. Some days, it means singing loudly (and allegedly off-key), cathartic songs to move through big emotions, or taking myself on a solo adventure to reconnect with my own rhythm. I honor that mental health looks different day to day—and I try to meet myself where I am with compassion.

The Foundation, Gumball, Bob’s Burgers, Harley Quinn, and Abbott Elementary—a mix of sci-fi, animation, and comedy.

Outside of therapy, I’m deeply connected to creative expression. Whether I’m painting, drawing, or simply admiring the work of others, I find that art grounds me and helps me stay curious and open. Creativity is more than a hobby for me; it’s a way of staying present, processing life, and finding joy in everyday moments.

I value rest, reflection, and connection. You can often find me on a solo walk, unwinding with a favorite show, or spending intentional time with loved ones. I cherish opportunities to be in community, where shared stories and laughter feel like medicine. I believe in honoring whatever I need in the moment—whether that’s stillness, movement, or meaningful conversation.

Sharing space with fellow creatives

Quality time with loved ones

Engaging in meaningful, unfiltered conversations

Attending events or meetups that inspire growth

Finding joy in connection, even through small moments

Drawing and painting
Hands-on art (e.g. sculpting)
Dancing
Relaxing
Practicing yoga and mindfulness
Exploring art galleries and creative spaces
Taking solo adventure
Hiking
Journaling and self-reflection
Spending quality time with friends and creative communities

EDUCATION/TRAINING

I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) with extensive clinical and generalized social work experience, especially as it relates to mental health.

Formal Degrees

BSW – Bachelor of Social Work

An undergraduate degree that provides foundational knowledge in social work principles, human behavior, and community resources. It prepares graduates for entry-level social work roles and serves as a stepping stone to advanced practice.

MSW – Master of Social Work

A graduate degree focused on advanced clinical skills, research, policy, and specialized areas such as mental health or substance use. This degree qualifies professionals for clinical licensure and more complex social work roles.

Licenses

LSW – Licensed Social Worker

A professional license granted after completing an MSW, an application, and passing a licensing exam. Maintaining an LSW requires continuous education and supervision. An LSW is qualified to provide clinical social work services, including assessment, diagnosis, and therapy.

I have completed specialized training in trauma-informed care, culturally responsive therapy, and evidence-based approaches for treating mental and behavioral health concerns. I earned my Bachelor of Social Work from Colorado State University, which is ranked among the top 10% of social work programs nationally. I then earned my Master’s of Social Work with a concentration in Mental Health from the University of Denver while completing my fellowship DU’s Opioid Workforce Expansion Program, further deepening my expertise in addiction and recovery.

In addition to my secondary education I have completed trainings in Behavior analysis and culturally responsive care.

My education profoundly shapes my practice by grounding me in both clinical expertise and a deep understanding of social contexts. With a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Social Work—concentrated in Mental Health—and specialized training in trauma-informed care, culturally responsive therapy, and addiction recovery, I am equipped to approach mental health from a holistic and intersectional perspective.

Unlike some therapy professionals who may focus primarily on symptom management or specific therapeutic techniques, my training as a Licensed Social Worker emphasizes working with the whole person and contextualizing each individual within broader social systems. This means I take into account a person’s physical health, social environment, economic situation, systemic oppression, cultural identity, and access to resources. This allows me to not only address the emotional and psychological aspects of my clients’ experiences but also advocate for their social needs and empower them within their communities.

In practice, this means I integrate evidence-based clinical interventions with a commitment to cultural humility, social justice, and client empowerment—helping clients navigate not just their internal worlds but also the external barriers that affect their well-being. I don’t just work with clients in session. I also advocate for them outside of those confines and help them to better advocate for themselves as well.

PROFESSIONAL INTERESTS AND PROJECTS

Trauma-Informed Care  Emotional Regulation & Resilience
 Identity & Mental Health
 Counselor Development Culturally Responsive Therapy

I’m most passionate about trauma-informed care, emotional regulation, and the intersection of mental health with identity and life transitions. Trauma can profoundly shape how individuals experience the world, relationships, and themselves. Furthermore, this shift in experience makes it difficult to fully understand the extent of the impact or how to address it. I’m deeply committed to helping clients get a bird’s eye view to understand these patterns, build resilience, and reconnect with a sense of safety and empowerment.

I’m also drawn to work that supports emotional regulation and self-awareness, as these are foundational skills for healing and lasting change regardless of what area of your mental health feels most impacted. I find it deeply meaningful to guide people in developing practical tools to navigate their anxiety, stress, and life challenges as a whole.

I have a strong interest in how mental health intersects with aspects of identity and how major life transitions can present both challenges and opportunities for growth. Supporting people through these pivotal moments with clarity, authenticity, and self-compassion is at the heart of why I do this work.

I stay inspired and continue learning in my profession by staying curious, seeking out ongoing education, and staying connected to my community. I regularly attend trainings, read research, seek out guidance from accomplished professionals, and speak to members of my community about what is and is not working for them. This allows me to deepen my knowledge and stay current with emerging research and practices. Most of all, I’m inspired by the people I work with. Their resilience, insight, and willingness to grow continually remind me why I do this work and push me to keep learning and evolving in order to show up fully and effectively for them.

Currently, I’m focused on several goals in my professional practice. One is deepening my expertise in trauma-informed and culturally responsive care, particularly through advanced training and supervision that explores how systemic factors and identity shape mental health. I’m also working toward expanding my skill set in somatic and mindfulness-based approaches to support clients in regulating their nervous systems and reconnecting with their bodies in healing ways. Additionally, I’m aiming to build more collaborative spaces—whether through group work, workshops, or community partnerships—that foster connection, education, and empowerment. Overall, my goals center on continuing to grow as a thoughtful, effective, and inclusive clinician who meets clients with both compassion and clinical depth.

Trauma-Informed Care

– Specializing in helping clients recognize and heal trauma-related patterns

– Pursuing advanced training in trauma treatment modalities (e.g., somatic, EMDR, or parts work)

Emotional Regulation and Self-Awareness

– Facilitating skill-building for managing anxiety, stress, and interpersonal challenges

– Incorporating mindfulness-based and somatic practices into therapeutic work

Mental Health and Identity

– Exploring the intersection of mental health with cultural, gender, and personal identity

– Providing affirming, culturally responsive care to diverse populations


Life Transitions and Personal Growth

– Supporting individuals through major life changes with a focus on resilience and self-compassion

– Designing psychoeducational resources or workshops for navigating transitions

Ongoing Learning and Professional Development

– Attending trainings, conferences, and consultation groups to stay current with clinical best practices

– Engaging in reflective supervision to strengthen therapeutic insight and effectiveness

Community Engagement and Collaboration

– Developing or participating in group therapy or community workshops

– Collaborating with other professionals to create inclusive, trauma-informed spaces

CLINICAL PRACTICES

Trauma-Informed Therapy Somatic (Body-Based) Approaches Mindfulness-Based Interventions Narrative Therapy  Flexible Structure  Culturally Responsive and Identity-Affirming Care  Strengths-Based and Resilience-Oriented Frameworks  Relational and Attachment-Based Therapy  Supportive Therapy for Life Transitions

My approach integrates several evidence-based and holistic practices to support your healing in a way that feels grounded, empowering, and personalized.

Trauma-Informed Therapy helps us understand how past experiences may shape current patterns, without retraumatizing or pathologizing your responses. 

Somatic (Body-Based) Approaches reconnect you with your body’s signals and help regulate your nervous system through breath, movement, or grounding techniques. 

Mindfulness-Based Interventions support present-moment awareness, helping reduce reactivity and build emotional resilience. 

Narrative Therapy allows us to explore and re-author the stories you hold about yourself, creating space for growth, agency, and new perspectives. 

Psychoeducation for Emotional Regulation gives you practical tools and understanding to manage anxiety, stress, or overwhelm more effectively. 

Culturally Responsive and Identity-Affirming Care ensures your lived experience—across race, culture, gender, and more—is honored and integrated into the work. 

Strengths-Based and Resilience-Oriented Frameworks help us build on what’s already working, even if it doesn’t feel obvious at first. 

Relational and Attachment-Based Therapy focuses on how your early and current relationships influence your sense of safety, connection, and trust. 

Supportive Therapy for Life Transitions offers a space to navigate big changes—whether they’re welcome, uncertain, or painful—with clarity and self-compassion. 

Together, these practices allow us to work with the full complexity of who you are, at your own pace.

I believe therapy should reflect the unique needs, identities, and goals of each person I work with. Rather than a one-size-fits-all model, I draw from a range of practices depending on where you are and what you’re hoping to explore:

If you’re navigating trauma, we’ll work at a pace that prioritizes safety and choice, using trauma-informed and somatic methods to gently build awareness and resilience.

For those wanting more emotional regulation tools, I offer psychoeducation, mindfulness practices, and real-life strategies you can apply between sessions.

If you’re going through a big life change, our work might center on supportive therapy for transitions, focusing on clarity, self-trust, and meaning-making.

When identity is central to what you’re processing, I provide culturally responsive, affirming care, where your background and lived experiences are seen and respected.

And for those exploring relationship dynamics, attachment patterns, or past wounds, we’ll draw on relational and attachment-based therapy to support deeper connection and healing.

No matter the focus, I approach each session with collaboration, curiosity, and care to help you move toward greater self-understanding and self-compassion.

My work is rooted in a holistic, client-centered approach that draws from a range of evidence-based and trauma-informed practices. These methods allow me to meet each person where they are, honoring their unique story, strengths, and goals.

Trauma-Informed Therapy

Somatic (Body-Based) Approaches

Mindfulness-Based Interventions

Narrative Therapy

Psychoeducation for Emotional Regulation

Culturally Responsive & Identity-Affirming Care

Strengths-Based and Resilience-Oriented Frameworks

Relational and Attachment-Based Therapy

Supportive Therapy for Life Transitions

SHARES

Therapeutic Tools & Worksheets  Trauma-Informed Resources  Identity-Affirming Support  Skills for Life Transitions  Emotional Wellness Strategies

The Body Is Not an Apology: The Power of Radical Self-Love by Sonya Renee Taylor, along with The Body Is Not an Apology Workbook by the same author 

Seeking Safety: A Treatment Manual for PTSD and Substance Abuse by Lisa M. Najavits 

Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma by Peter A. Levine, PhD 

– The Complex PTSD Workbook: A Mind-Body Approach to Regaining Emotional Control and

Becoming Whole by Arielle Schwartz, PhD 

– Radical Acceptance: Embracing Your Life with the Heart of a Buddha by Tara Brach, PhD 

– Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence—from Domestic Abuse to Political

– Terror by Judith Lewis Herman, MD 

– Healing the Fragmented Selves of Trauma Survivors: Overcoming Internal Self-

Alienation by Janina Fisher, PhD 

These resources provide valuable insights into trauma healing, emotional regulation, self-compassion, and resilience-building.

Workbooks and Journals
Structured guides that provide exercises, reflections, and tools to practice skills like emotional regulation, mindfulness, and self-compassion.
 
Mindfulness and Meditation Apps
Apps like Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer offer guided meditations and breathing exercises to support relaxation and present-moment awareness.
 
Psychoeducational Materials
Handouts, articles, or videos that explain concepts related to trauma, emotional regulation, or identity to enhance understanding and self-awareness.
 
Skill-Building Exercises
Practical tools such as grounding techniques, emotion tracking charts, or cognitive restructuring worksheets clients can use daily.
 
Supportive Reading
Books and articles that align with therapeutic goals, offering additional insights and encouragement.
 
Online Support Groups or Communities
Safe, moderated spaces where clients can connect with others facing similar challenges for mutual support and validation.
 
Creative Outlets
Encouraging expressive arts, journaling, or movement as ways to process emotions and promote healing outside of sessions.

CBT Triangle
Emotion Wheel
Values Clarification Worksheet
Self-Exploration Worksheet
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Thought Record Worksheet

5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique
A sensory awareness exercise to help manage anxiety and stay present.
Therapy Aid – 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique Worksheet 
Deep Breathing Exercises
Guided instructions on diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress.
American Psychological Association – Relaxation Techniques 
Mindfulness Body Scan
A guided body awareness meditation to foster somatic connection.
Palouse Mindfulness – Free Body Scan Audio 
Emotion Regulation Worksheets
Tools for identifying and managing difficult emotions.
DBT Self Help – Emotion Regulation Worksheets 
Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR)
Step-by-step guide to reduce tension and increase body awareness.
HelpGuide – Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Trauma & Healing:
Write about a time when you felt safe and supported. What made that moment feel healing or different from other experiences? 

Identity & Self-Compassion:
Reflect on one aspect of your identity (culture, gender, values) that you feel proud of. How does this part of you contribute to your resilience? 

Life Transitions:
Think about a major change you’re experiencing or have experienced. What feelings come up when you think about this transition? What do you need most right now to feel supported? 

Strengths & Growth:
List three strengths or qualities you’ve relied on to get through difficult times. How can you nurture these strengths moving forward? 

Narrative Reflection:
If your life story were a book, what chapter would you be in right now? What title would you give this chapter? 

Mindfulness & Presence:
Describe a recent moment when you felt fully present. What were you doing, seeing, hearing, or feeling? 

Relational Patterns:
Write about a relationship that’s important to you. What needs or boundaries do you want to honor within that relationship?