LGBTQ+ Affirmative Practice Expertise
Many therapists are somewhat familiar with LBGTQ+ identities and experiences. I have spent the last 15+ years specializing in affirming clinical practice with LGBTQ+ individuals. I’ve conducted research and developed programs that have proven successful in helping LBGTQ+ youth and adults improve their mental health.
My commitment is to create a safe and nurturing therapeutic environment that fosters self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-compassion so LGBTQ+ clients can take steps toward living authentic, connected, and healthy lives. No one is too young or too old to have a safe space to explore their identity-related experiences and needs. I look forward to supporting you! I offer trauma responsive, evidence informed therapeutic support to diverse LGBTQ+ clients of all ages in an identity-affirming therapeutic setting.
Affirmative Practice with Transgender and Gender Diverse Clients
As a trauma informed therapist who is an active member of WPATH, my clinical practice with trans and nonbinary clients is rooted in a gender affirming stance. This approach helps to improve mental health and quality of life by facilitating access to gender affirming experiences (emotional, interpersonal, and physical). I support trans and nonbinary clients and their loved ones as they navigate the complex emotions and social contexts associated with living authentically. My therapeutic work with trans and nonbinary clients may include some or all of the following components based on each individual’s need: 1) Conducting comprehensive gender assessments; 2) Psychoeducation and connection to gender-specific resources; 3) Facilitating processes of coming out and/or transitioning; 4) Writing any necessary clinical letters; 5) Providing affirmative CBT to help clients develop a more positive and compassionate stance toward themselves 6) Utilizing EMDR to help clients resolve trauma that may be undermining their ability to thrive and live authentically; and 7) Helping family members understand, support, and adjust to their loved one's emerging and evolving identities.
Affirmative Practice with Transgender & Gender Diverse Clients
As a trauma informed therapist who is an active member of WPATH, my clinical practice with trans and nonbinary clients is rooted in a gender affirming stance. This approach helps to improve mental health and quality of life by facilitating access to gender affirming experiences (emotional, interpersonal, and physical). I support trans and nonbinary clients and their loved ones as they navigate the complex emotions and social contexts associated with living authentically. My therapeutic work with trans and nonbinary clients may include some or all of the following components based on each individual’s need:
1) Conducting comprehensive gender assessments; 2) Psychoeducation and connection to gender-specific resources; 3) Facilitating processes of coming out and/or transitioning; 4) Writing any necessary clinical letters; 5) Providing affirmative CBT to help clients develop a more positive and compassionate stance toward themselves 6) Utilizing EMDR to help clients resolve trauma that may be undermining their ability to thrive and live authentically; and 7) Helping family members understand, support, and adjust to their loved one's emerging and evolving identities.
Affirmative Practice with LGBQ+ Clients
I am an affirming therapist with years of expertise helping LGBTQ+ clients live more authentic and fulfilling lives; my practice is anchored in a deep understanding of the specific factors impacting the lives and well-being of diverse LGBTQ+ clients. Together we engage in therapeutic work aimed at letting go of limiting thoughts and beliefs and learning to embrace a more affirming, self-compassionate, and flexible way of thinking and reacting during difficult situations. This therapeutic approach is based on AFFIRM , an evidence-based affirmative cognitive behavioral intervention I co-developed with Dr. Shelley Craig. Affirmative cognitive-behavioral therapy successfully reduces experiences of depression and anxiety and helps LGBTQ+ clients cope more effectively with life’s stressors. In addition to providing a safe and trauma-informed therapeutic setting.
