“In order to create pathways toward that which we have never seen, we have to lead with imagination.” -Eve L. Ewing
“What can we build instead?” -Mariame Kaba
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I have a bachelor’s in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from VCU, and I am a horticultural therapist. I have worked for over a decade with incarcerated individuals and I believe, as Bryan Stephenson says, that “each of us is more than the worst thing we’ve ever done.” I have extensive experience working with individuals on their recovery journeys and currently facilitate Floral Therapy within a jail-based recovery program. I have also worked with those experiencing psychiatric hospitalization and with people seeking support before, during, and after pregnancy loss or termination as a doula for reproductive justice. I have assisted those experiencing death and dying through hospice work and my end of life doula training, and I have a passion for creating spaces to process grief.
I primarily gravitate toward psychodynamic therapy, shedding light on unconscious thoughts, exploring dreams, defenses, and how childhood experiences influence our relationships and perspectives. I am deeply committed to the theory and practice of liberatory psychoanalysis, focusing on how systemic oppression is woven into the fabric of our internal worlds. I frequently utilize “parts work” to explore our internal protectors, vulnerabilities, and inner conflicts and EMDR to guide clients through processing and finding relief from trauma and distress. I also use mindfulness, guided visualizations, and nature based interventions to facilitate awareness of body-mind connections and the growth of self love.
I do not view therapy as a way to fix people but rather, I believe my job is to support you in better understanding and discovering yourself. As a long-time recipient of therapy, I know the courage it takes to seek mental health services and I take my job seriously! I am so glad you’re here and I look forward to working alongside you as we clear the weeds and find your path together.
Currently practicing at WHOA Behavioral Health in Richmond, VA.
