LP, 12 years of experience
I am an African American clinical psychologist with over 14 years of experience supporting adults across the lifespan in developing healthy coping skills and effective healing strategies to navigate life's challenges. My approach is collaborative and strength-based, with a focus on fostering my patients' overall well-being. I am passionate about helping individuals heal from the effects of trauma, utilizing evidence-based treatments to guide them in confronting and processing their experiences and understanding the impact on their lives. I am a strong advocate for social justice, dedicated to addressing and dismantling systemic barriers that hinder healing. I provide culturally competent care, honoring each person’s unique cultural background and identity to ensure the best possible support. My passion lies in helping individuals achieve a greater sense of balance, fulfillment, and peace in their lives.
During the intake session one can expect a welcoming and supportive environment that acknowledges and respects their unique experiences and identity. The intake session is a crucial time for building rapport, gathering information, and setting the stage for future therapeutic work.
In clinical practice, I prioritize my understanding and focusing on the long-lasting impact of the presented experience(s). I recognize that experiences can have wide-ranging effects on individuals' lives (i.e., thoughts, emotions, behaviors, etc.), impacting not only our lives but also the lives of others we may be in community with us.
I am best positioned to serve middle-aged to older adults who are navigating significant life transitions, managing stressors, or experiencing symptoms of mental and emotional strain.
As an African American Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a keen awareness of cultural context and individual experiences, recognizing how these factors shape cognition, behavior, and emotions. In my practice, I conduct thorough assessments to understand clients' backgrounds and unique challenges, addressing issues like racial discrimination and cultural identity. By identifying and restructuring negative thought patterns influenced by societal messages, I help clients develop more compassionate self-perceptions and test new beliefs through real-world behavioral experiments. Integrating culturally relevant coping strategies, such as mindfulness and community support, I provide a holistic approach to mental health. In group therapy, I foster discussions on racial identity and societal expectations, promoting a sense of community and empowerment. Constant self-reflection and education ensure I offer empathetic, effective care, empowering clients to build resilience and a positive self-concept amid societal pressures.
As an African American Licensed Clinical Psychologist, I employ Trauma-Informed Therapy with a deep understanding of the impact of cultural and historical trauma on my clients. I begin by creating a safe and trusting environment, acknowledging the profound effects of systemic racism, discrimination, and intergenerational trauma. Through careful assessment, I identify trauma-related triggers and responses, helping clients understand how their past experiences influence their present behavior and emotions. By incorporating culturally sensitive techniques and practices, such as mindfulness, grounding exercises, and community-based support, I help clients build resilience and coping skills. My approach emphasizes empowerment, collaboration, and respect, ensuring that clients feel validated and understood as they work through their trauma and move toward healing and recovery.