Who I Help

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I'm a LGBTQIA+ and relationship affirming therapist who loves working with adolescents ages 11 and up, as well as adults (ages 18+). I love working with clients experiencing  difficulties surrounding depression, anxiety disorders, existential anxiety, gender identity, sexuality, autism spectrum disorders, life transitions, perfectionism, non-traditional relationship types (CNM, ENM, poly), self-esteem, stress management, and other LGBTQIA+ related concerns. I have personal lived experiences as a pansexual, polyamorous, and transmasculine nonbinary person, and I can bring those lived experiences into the therapy room if you feel it would be useful.

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Gender Identity

As a trans person myself, I've personally experienced the social, emotional, medical and legal challenges of transitioning and living as a transgender person in our cisgender society, and I have presented clinical work on trans youth navigating these challenges. I'd love to support you in your journey with a nonjudgmental, person-centered approach, to help you explore your goals and support your ability to live a truly authentic life--because it IS possible. If you don't need to work on issues surrounding your identity, and simply want a therapist who you know will not only fully accept you and your identity, but is also LGBTQIA+ and trans-competent, I'm here for that too.

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Anxiety

Our brains and bodies are wired to protect us from threats, which is super useful when the threats are tiger-based. The problem is, some of our brains go into the same level of "threat response activation" mode for things like school assignments, going to restaurants, and spending time with those we love. Which is... not so useful.

 

Together, we will work to explore anxious thoughts using a variety of CBT techniques, as well as using distress tolerance and a bodily focus to begin challenging those anxious thoughts and feelings. We will work to find the source of some of that anxiety, and then  work to resolve it so that it feels like you are working with yourself rather than against yourself.

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If phobias or panic attacks are preventing you from living the life you desire, we will work together to help 'rewire' your brain to respond to triggers with calm instead of fear. By harnessing your brain’s natural processes, we will take a step-by-step approach toward achieving a life that is freer and less burdened by fear.

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Existential Anxiety

Hey, it's really hard out there right now. It's sometimes hard to think that therapy would even be worthwhile when things in the world are so bad--what is changing your own life supposed to do? I get it. I do. Therapy won't fix climate change, or Covid-19, or anti-trans laws. What it can do, however, is help you figure out a place for yourself that feels meaningful and a life that feels authentic, even amidst the chaos and decay. Let's talk about it. This is your spot to let it all out honestly and openly. You are not feeling this fear alone.

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What Can You Expect?

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I enter every therapy session as my authentic self, bringing empathy and positive regard. I will be a warm, nonjudgmental partner working alongside you on your therapy journey. Most importantly, I will adapt my approach to what YOU need, and we can work to figure out what that is together.

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In my own life, prior to receiving mental health treatment, I firmly believed that the world was terrible, that I was terrible, and that there was simply no way for me to have a future. Now, thanks to the help of other mental health professionals, I am living authentically as myself and finding meaning in my life. I've seen that change in myself and others over and over again, and there is nothing more fulfilling than helping other people reach a place of greater authenticity and hope.

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I have a very supportive and empathetic therapy style. I am very genuine with everyone I have the opportunity to work with, and you will always play an active part in the decision making process throughout therapy. I adapt my style to fit whatever you may need in the moment--no two people are alike, and those unique experiences and needs are honored here.  Are you new to therapy, or maybe feeling extra guarded in this moment (which is okay!)? If so, the humor that I bring into the therapy room may help you become more comfortable as we begin this process and get to know each other more. It's important to me to take into account how folks respond to different levels of therapist involvement, and can pivot and show up in the room accordingly.

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“We're each of us alone, to be sure. What can you do but hold your hand out in the dark?”

― Ursula K. Le Guin

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 When I'm not at Open Space CCW, you may also find me...

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Playing board games or Dungeons and Dragons, baking, or hanging out with my cat, Bagel!

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Call us, send us a message via our contact form below, or email us to get started.

724-777-1433

hello@openspaceccw.com