Tamara Nelson
Hi there! I’m Tamara Nelson (she/her)! I am a first-generation American with family roots in Barbados and Jamaica. I graduated from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in May 2014 with a Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Counselor Education-Mental Health Counseling track. I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) with the state of Florida, Qualified Supervisor (QS), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT-200), and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I have extensive experience working with primary and secondary survivors of sexual trauma, abuse, and other traumatic circumstances. My professional experience also includes working with substance use disorders, HIV/AIDS population, LGBTQ+ community, college mental health, religious/spiritual concerns, and concerns specific to the Black community and other communities of color. I specialize in supporting adults from Black/African American and other communities of color who are seeking support for concerns related to sexual trauma and other various traumatic circumstances, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), race-based traumatic stress, multicultural concerns, and overall mental and emotional wellness.
First session
In your initial session we will begin by discussing your goals, concerns, and what you hope to achieve from our therapeutic journey. Your experience is centered on your unique needs and preferences, as we work together to pave the way for your personal growth and healing.
Strengths
My strengths lie in my person-centered approach, which fosters a warm and empathetic therapeutic environment. I excel in helping clients cultivate deeper insight into their experiences. My holistic perspective, combined with my background as a registered yoga teacher, enables me to integrate mind and body in our work. I'm dedicated to serving the unique needs of the Black community and other communities of color, ensuring culturally sensitive and affirming support for every individual I work with.
Ideal clients
I am passionate about working with Black/African American individuals, People of Color, and first-generation Americans navigating the complexities of identity, cultural expectations, and intergenerational experiences. I offer a culturally affirming and trauma-informed space where clients can explore issues related to racial identity, acculturation, family dynamics, and systemic stressors. My approach is rooted in understanding each client’s unique background while promoting healing, self-awareness, and empowerment.
Treatment methods
Cognitive Processing (CPT)
I use Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to help clients work through trauma by identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts that keep them stuck. Through structured sessions, we explore how trauma has impacted their beliefs about themselves, others, and the world. Using specific exercises, clients learn to reframe these thoughts, reduce distress, and develop a more balanced perspective. CPT is especially effective in addressing guilt, shame, and fear, empowering clients to regain a sense of control and move forward in their healing journey.
Cognitive Behavioral (CBT)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients understand the connection between their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Together, we identify unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to distress and work on developing more balanced and constructive ways of thinking. Through practical exercises and coping strategies, clients learn to challenge negative beliefs, manage difficult emotions, and make meaningful changes in their daily lives. CBT is a structured, goal-oriented approach that empowers clients to develop healthier coping skills and build resilience.
EMDR
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and heal from distressing memories and trauma. EMDR is a structured therapy that involves guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess traumatic experiences in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. Throughout the process, clients work through negative beliefs and emotional distress while strengthening more adaptive and empowering perspectives. EMDR can be highly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and other trauma-related challenges, allowing clients to move forward with greater resilience and emotional well-being.
Person-centered (Rogerian)
I use Person-Centered Therapy to create a supportive and nonjudgmental space where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered in their healing journey. This approach is rooted in the belief that individuals have the capacity for self-growth and change when provided with genuine empathy, unconditional positive regard, and authenticity. Rather than directing the conversation, I offer guidance and reflection, helping clients explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences at their own pace. By fostering self-awareness and self-acceptance, Person-Centered Therapy supports clients in making meaningful changes and developing a stronger sense of self.
Trauma-Informed Care
I use a Trauma-Informed Care approach to ensure that clients feel safe, supported, and empowered throughout their healing journey. This framework recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and prioritizes creating a therapeutic space that is built on trust, collaboration, and choice. I integrate an understanding of how trauma affects the brain and body, helping clients develop coping strategies while honoring their resilience. By emphasizing safety, empowerment, and a strengths-based perspective, Trauma-Informed Care allows clients to process their experiences at their own pace while reducing the risk of retraumatization.
Location
Virtual sessions
Identifies as
Top specialties
Other specialties
Serves
Licensed in
- FloridaLicense MH14842