I am a member of, and advocate for, the LGBTQIA+ community. I am proud to provide affirming therapy and I have expertise in working with the experiences of sexual and gender minority individuals, and couples using CBT, DBT, and the Unified Protocol for emotional disorders. Together we can explore the impacts of coming out, internalized stigma, minority stress, intersectionality, discriminations, difficult family-of-origin relationships, giving and receiving support, families of choice, intimacy, sex, gender/sexual fluidity, identity, transitioning, and so much more. Together we can navigate the challenges of living in an oppressingly heteronormative world in order to form a healthy and affirming queer identity. Or, we don’t explore it at all - but we remain aware that they are out there and remain mindful. I am also proud to consider and provide capacity evaluations and letters of support for my transgender clients seeking gender affirming surgery.
I practice from an affirming, feminist, and anti-racist philosophy. This means that I unconditionally accept and value my clients’ gender, sexual, racial, cultural, and other identities. My practice takes into account each person’s unique experiences within contexts of social and systemic oppression, and the impact on your relationships. I practice from a place off cultural humility and allyship to black, indigenous, and other people of colour.
I have expertise in treating relationships and individuals navigating the impact of minority stress and discrimination. I practice affirming therapy that explores greater awareness and understanding of the ways in which emotional experiences and responses to experiences contribute to what is going on for you and your relationships. Navigating these challenges in your life has promoted strength and resilience in coping, paving the way for creative and successful approaches for managing future challenges. I help clients see these strengths in themselves, and create harmony and balance in their lives. I bring a stance of genuine curiosity and cultural competence that includes your different identities and their intersectionality.