“When you choose yourself, you show the world what you truly deserve”. Choosing ourselves is not always met with ease, acceptance, or understanding; however, it does not come without reward! Welcome to the other side of life, where healing resides. 😊 I am a self-proclaimed “hope dealer” with a passion for black culture and mental health. I gained unparalleled experience by working collaboratively with child welfare and juvenile justice systems for approximately 8 years. My experience and areas of expertise include but are not limited to, abuse and neglect, post-traumatic stress, race-related trauma and discrimination, challenging strong black woman schema, sexually harmful behaviors, mood and anxiety disorders, challenges with maintaining a positive self-image, and attachment disorders. Driven by ethics, creativity, and humor, I take pride in creating a therapeutic space that resembles a conversation at your kitchen table. Therapy should be an experience that allows you the unique opportunity to regain focus on the part of yourself oftentimes lost in the noise of others. Life, responsibility, and finding matching socks is hard enough, therapy shouldn’t be, too. At least not all the time 😉 I am beyond grateful you chose me to guide you through your healing journey. In the words of Lauryn Hill, “How you gon’ win when you ain’t right within?!” Here’s to no longer having to wonder!

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

My ongoing mission is to create a space that takes the stigma away, especially for the African American community! Clients can expect to feel validated, supported, informed, and challenged (most healthily), lol. Therapy can mean so many things to so many people, but I always hope my clients leave knowing and trusting themselves a little more than before. I do assign homework because the real work takes place outside of sessions, but I love chances to great creative and create assignments that are engaging and tailored to the client's interests, hobbies, and personality!

What treatment methods and tools do you utilize?

Although I utilize an eclectic approach, I am a CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) believer at my core! :) I strongly believe there is a unique relationship between our thoughts and emotions that influence our actions. I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma-Focused CBT, and incorporate other therapies that are innovative, strength-based and person-centered. Therapy definitely isn't one size fits all!

Explain to clients what areas you feel are your biggest strengths.

I am interested in using creative therapies (incorporating music, art, creative writing, etc) and understanding trauma-related cultural, racial, and historical impacts on human behavior. I'm also most passionate about mental health and trauma in the black community, establishing healthy relationships, mood disorders, and improving self-esteem and image!

About Nicole S Anderson