LPCC, 24 years of experience
Hello, I'm Dr. Aja King, a Counseling Psychologist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor practicing in Minnesota. I view therapy as a collaborative journey with someone who comprehends life's complexities. Despite the challenges, I believe in the potential for recovery, inner peace, and clarity. With 23 years of experience in mental health, spanning various states including Alabama, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and Minnesota, I've had the privilege of working with diverse populations, including geriatrics, addiction, trauma/crisis, families, and those affected by domestic violence.
During our initial therapy session, we'll start by introducing ourselves and engaging in a relaxed and inviting conversation. Our aim for this session is to establish a sense of comfort and rapport, laying the foundation for a trusting therapeutic relationship to flourish.
With over two decades of experience in mental health, I've discovered my effectiveness lies in normalizing the challenges encountered in therapy while fostering accountability. I emphasize the importance of setting measurable goals and progressing with compassion and patience. This approach ensures a supportive environment where clients feel understood and empowered on their journey towards healing and growth. I also offer retreat services for those who are seeking opportunities to escape, relax and recharge. I currently offer retreats for couples and singles.
I am energized by the opportunity to guide individuals who are embarking on their therapeutic journey, whether they are newcomers or seasoned clients. While I value working with all clients, I particularly appreciate collaborating with professionals who are committed to enriching their lives through meaningful engagement and striving for holistic wellness goals. I firmly believe in the significance of nurturing mental wellness and achieving equilibrium across various facets of life.
In my work through Brave Defiance Consulting, I’ve found that many clients don’t respond well when therapy stays only on the surface (symptom management, cognitive reframing, or behavioral strategies). They often say: “I understand it in my head, but I still feel stuck in my body.” Internal Family Systems (IFS) shifts this dynamic by: Honoring all parts of the client, even the ones they’re ashamed of. Allowing the protective parts (like irritability or dread) to have a voice. Helping clients access their Self-energy — the calm, compassionate core that naturally brings healing. I use IFS because it lets me say: “There’s nothing wrong with you. Every part of you has been working hard to protect you.” That message lands deeply with people who already feel isolated, misunderstood, or exhausted.
Faith-based therapy integrates spiritual beliefs and practices into the therapeutic process, recognizing the importance of spirituality in mental health and well-being. Therapists in this approach may draw from religious texts, prayer, and meditation to help clients find meaning, hope, and strength. It can be used to address a wide range of issues, including depression, anxiety, grief, and relationship problems, while also providing a framework for clients to explore their values and beliefs.
Culturally sensitive therapy acknowledges and respects the diverse backgrounds, beliefs, and values of clients. By integrating cultural factors into treatment, therapists can create a more inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment. This approach helps clients feel understood, validated, and empowered, leading to enhanced trust, rapport, and ultimately more effective therapy outcomes.
Motivational interviewing is a client-centered approach that helps individuals explore and resolve ambivalence about change. By eliciting the client's intrinsic motivations and strengths, therapists can facilitate positive behavior change. This method is effective in therapy as it empowers clients to take ownership of their decisions, enhances their self-efficacy, and fosters a collaborative therapeutic relationship conducive to meaningful and sustainable progress.
Mindfulness-based therapy incorporates mindfulness practices such as meditation and focused awareness to cultivate present moment awareness and acceptance. This approach can be effective in therapy by helping individuals develop greater self-awareness, regulate emotions, and cope with stress more effectively. By teaching clients to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, mindfulness-based therapy promotes psychological well-being and fosters a deeper understanding of oneself, leading to lasting positive change.
4 ratings with written reviews
April 19, 2025
She make you feel able to be open to discuss my concerns.
February 19, 2025
I love how open she was on my first meeting and made me feel welcome.
January 30, 2025
video quality was great