Dr. Lavonda Mickens
Greetings! I’m a Black woman who is also a mother, wife, sister, daughter and a proud community member. I believe that we all (as humans) are each others’ keeper. I’m a native Los Angelean and I practice with multiple methods but often view individuals through psychodynamic and cultural lenses. Any religious or spiritual background that prioritizes kindness is my jam.
I’m a Black woman who is also a mother, wife, sister, daughter and a proud community member.
First session
Expect to be asked what the “best case scenario” is for you in 3-6 months. I will ask about goals and what you have already tried. I will also attempt to normalize and illuminate painful thoughts or feelings that may not otherwise be easily shared.
Strengths
The ability to make an individual feel seen and offer compassion. One of my catch phrases is “Low opinion, High empathy.”
Ideal clients
Professional women, men, persons, people of color and members of the LGBQT+ community who seek personal growth and healing. A niche area are those who are new mothers or parents and/or Active Duty and Veterans.
Treatment methods
Psychodynamic
“You are worth the effort.” Early childhood experiences, trauma, defense mechanisms and self-awareness can informed our existence as humans. In my practice, we seek to understand, take accountability, accept self and other compassion, and grow. Furthermore, the cultural context of who we are cannot be understated. Candidly, my practice seeks to illuminate Black and Brown psychological and practical struggles and the experiences of those often left in the margins.
Trauma-Informed Care
My experience includes psychological first aid in Emergency Room and in community settings. I have also been privileged to work with Active Duty and Veteran families in within the Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs. Trauma-focused modalities include Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and other evidence-informed treatments.
Location
Virtual sessions