LCSW-C, 10 years of experience
Greetings, I am Dr. Akilah Muhammad. I possess a clinical license, Master of Social Work Degree, and Doctor of Public Health degree. I combine my education to provide mental health therapy that encompasses mind-body connection through holistic and alternative practices for wellness beyond clinical approaches. For example, I utilize talk therapy through CBT and I also incorporate sound therapy, art engagement, and meditative practices as supportive approaches along the wellness journey. I find these approaches to be practical and easily implemented by the client once they gain experience. This way, clients can add new calming and introspective methods to their tool bag. I especially enjoy serving clients who are seeking support around self-esteem, Early childhood trauma, and Adverse Childhood Experiences can deeply impact self connection further impacting self love and self esteem. I am also well versed in Nutrition methods for depression. I am also well-versed in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders.
In the first session, clients can expect to provide information about their current needs from therapy and provide background information about their life. I will provide information about myself and practice as a clinician. We may complete mental health questionnaires for diagnosing, and I will assess readiness for change. I will be available to answer any questions.
My greatest strengths as a provider are my empathy, ability to provide hope, knowledge about evidence based alternative practices for wellness (meditation, movement, nutrition etc.), and my genuine desire to see others thrive.
I am best positioned to serve clients that are actively willing to demonstrate self-determination by being active and ready to shift behaviors and perspectives. Therapy only works if you allow it to work. Meaning that when individuals put forth the work and effort to be active in their change process, they will see change. I am positioned to serve individuals struggling with self-love and self-esteem. I provide support around overcoming barriers that stem from early childhood trauma and Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). I am also positioned to serve women of African Descent who are struggling during and after pregnancy around anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and self-love. Existing research shows that women of African Descent are underserved as it relates to mental health support around Perinatal Depression (during pregnancy and post birth) and I am here to assist. I am open to individuals who demonstrate that they are ready to collaborate and work toward their goals.
My approach is rooted in mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral therapy, nutrition, and movement. I work collaboratively with clients to help them identify their strengths, overcome limiting beliefs, and develop practical strategies for achieving their goals. I believe that every individual has the potential to live a fulfilling and purposeful life. Therefore, I center myself around helping clients cultivate self-awareness, identify their values and goals, and create actionable steps towards achieving them.