Alicia Williams
I'm a Licensed Psychologist (CT, DE, IA, NJ, PA, VA, VT, WA, and WI) and a Registered Psychologist Telehealth Provider (FL). After earning my undergraduate degree in Psychology from Princeton University, I earned my doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ. I have been a mental health provider for over 35 years.
My strengths are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic Counseling, focusing on women who have survived childhood sexual abuse and other forms of sexual violence; and issues related to women who identify as Lesbian.
I have experience practicing in inpatient psychiatric settings; inpatient forensic settings; outpatient psychiatric settings; and outpatient forensic settings; as well as private practice settings, including psychotherapy and professional consultation via telehealth. My strengths are in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Holistic Counseling, focusing on women who have survived childhood sexual abuse and other forms of sexual violence; and issues related to women who identify as Lesbian. I am an out and proud Lesbian member of the Rainbow Family.
First session
In our first session, you and I will exchange information about what you're seeking and what I can provide. There's no pressure to discuss more than for what you feel ready. We will be 2 people talking with honesty and kindness. And there may be some laughter as get to know each other in the therapy session.
Strengths
I am a powerful Black-Mixed Race Lesbian Woman. I am a survivor of long-term sexual abuse. I understand wanting to heal and embrace life while also being afraid to share personal truth. I know how to listen, not just to words but to the story unfolding before me. No matter the approach I use, your well-being is always in the forefront.
Ideal clients
I am a powerful Black-Mixed Race Lesbian Woman who is committed to helping women who have been sexually violated, women who identify as Lesbian, and women with general mental health concerns navigate this current world. I am educated, experienced, and real. I can help you on your journey to wholeness, your path to healing.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
My doctoral training focused on CBT and its application across the spectrum of mental health challenges. In addition, for over 30 years, I have worked with clients to promote understanding of the connection among thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in their identified treatment targets.
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
As a woman of mixed heritage, I am keenly aware of how one's cultural identity/identities can impact one's experiences across multiple life domains. In my practice, I work with clients to understand how they see themselves in the world and how majority culture may minimize and/or dismiss significant aspects of clients' lived experiences. I encourage exploration of cultural identity/identities when considering ways to improve client's concerns presented for treatment.
Psychoeducation
I make every effort to help improve clients' understanding of the concerns presented for treatment. I use a variety of media (e.g., music, poetry, literature, pop culture, etc.) to help frame the presenting concerns and to assist in the manner therapy is provided to address the concerns.
Reality Therapy
I work with clients to improve understanding of connection between behavioral choices and likely consequences, and how to alter behavioral choices to increase likelihood of their reducing negative consequences and increasing desired consequences.
Trauma-Informed Care
I encourage exploration of the role of trauma, esp. sexual trauma, in current mental health challenges clients identify. I manage treatment with specific and intentional focus on developing skills and understanding to reduce impact of past trauma and increase satisfying life experiences (e.g., self-esteem, socio-romantic relationships, sexual autonomy).
Location
Virtual sessions