Therapists in New York

I am an Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NY, CT, and NJ. I have worked with clients to help them overcome stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ identity, and depression. I enjoy working with individuals who want to work on healing to become a better self and accomplish their goals. I specifically love working with men who identify as gay and/or bisexual having increased stress and need talk therapy.

I am a licensed therapist in NY State and have been practicing social work for over 20 years. Therapy is a journey and a relationship. Each client is their own expert and is steering the ship when they work with me. I am the navigator. I will consistently give you honesty, respect and a space to be fully heard and validated. The directions we go and the goals we set will be up to you to decide. Therapy can be very intense at times, bu it does not have to feel like work. I am here to help you carry the load and lift the weight of your problems off your shoulders.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker conducting sessions virtually in New York, New Jersey, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Nevada. I specialize in people that are going through tough times and need coping skills to manage. Life might have thrown you curve balls, and you might not be accepting of the uncertainty and the change. I'll be here to tell you that bad situations can be temporary and life changes can also be great. I specialize in helping people who fall down but get back up. I'll help you to talk about your feelings and help you to make treatment goals that you have been wanting to reach.

Walesca Marmolejos is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has over a decade of experience working with individuals and groups across the lifespan. Walesca's approach is holistic, relational, collaborative, and trauma informed. Walesca is also a certified yoga instructor who believes in focusing on the whole individual (mind AND body), not just their circumstances. Walesca's approach is open, relational, and collaborative. An environment that is safe and non-judgmental, where a person can develop a sense of trust and well-being is a priority and of utmost importance. Together, we take a deeply personal journey, exploring possibilities and facing what has been difficult. The goal is to help you heal and guide you toward increased self-knowledge and emotional comfort. Walesca offers supportive counseling and psychotherapy for individuals including children/adolescents dealing with stress, depression, grief and loss, and family issues and one of my chief areas of interest is in the field of trauma. I offer evening hours and virtual sessions only.

Whatever obstacles and struggles someone may be going through in life, I consider it a privilege to help them cope. I understand that the clients I see are entrusting me to give them the right resources to guide them down a new path, with a new perspective, so they can achieve their own goals. With a healthy balance of listening, guiding, and even learning, I take pride in using my own experience and resources to help people really start off on the right foot on that path. Whether you, or someone you know struggles with something like anxiety, or simply wants a different outlook on their life, it’s something to work through together, and by setting up a consultation, we can get started.

I have been working with adults for approximately 15 years. On the first visit, my job is to listen to your description of what is going on in your life. What are the stressors, what are the protective factors? Also, what are your strengths and challenges? We then collaborate on what it is that you want to change. We look at behavior/thinking,feeling patterns that may get in the way of a better quality of life. I come from a place of I'm okay and you're okay, meaning that we both have value and mutual respect.

As an empathetic listener, I am dedicated to following your cues in our sessions, ensuring that your journey is the priority. I uphold the core values of trust, respect, empathy, warmth, and genuineness, which have consistently led to profound insights, healing, change, and growth in my clients. My culturally sensitive approach allows me to navigate the diverse layers of difference among the populations I work with, fostering a sense of understanding and appreciation.

Hello! I'm Shenay, a dedicated therapist passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journey. With a compassionate, client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My therapeutic style is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy, tailored to meet your unique needs. I believe in the power of building a strong therapeutic relationship and working collaboratively towards your goals. Together, we will focus on enhancing your well-being, fostering resilience, and empowering you to lead a fulfilling and balanced life. I look forward to supporting you on this journey and helping you achieve positive and lasting change.

I am an LCSW with a private practice in NY and CT. I have earned a BA in Psychology and an MSW in Clinical Social Work, both from New York University. I have over 20 years of experience working with children and adults of all ages with a focus on cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, strength based and mindfulness approaches.

Takira Victorin is a warm, non-judgmental psychotherapist who works collaboratively with clients to strengthen communication, nurture emotional intimacy, and regain a sense of emotional balance. She helps individuals and couples break free from painful, repetitive patterns by building greater self-awareness, emotional insight, and clarity around needs and boundaries. Whether you're navigating anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles, her approach is compassionate and practical, focused on helping you create healthier, more fulfilling connections with yourself and others.

I am a NYS Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with clients to manage symptoms of Depression, Anxiety, Grief. I also helped people dealing with domestic violence, trauma, school issues, challenges with relationships, work stress, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I use a strengths based approach as well as CBT interventions and techniques. I have worked with people of all ages.

My name is Sandy Baker, I am a licensed Mental Health Counselor. I enjoy empowering my clients to cultivate the tools they need to produce a healthier self. I work with different ethnicities, backgrounds, genders. My experience and background guides me to provide the clients a safe space to learn about their mental health, symptoms, triggers and goal-setting. Together we will work to address the changes in life using approaches and techniques that help address each member's challenges so that they can take effective control of their lives.

I’m a licensed mental health counselor, based in New York. I have been in the mental health field for over 10 years, working in different settings from transitional housing for individuals with severe mental challenges to our patience services. I believe my experience helps me in taking a holistic approach. My aim is to help my clients develop the necessary skills to effectively address life’s challenges and barriers.

Hello, I'm Cassandra David and I have over seven years of experience treating professionals. I specialize in working with adults navigating anxiety, low self-worth, attachment wounds, depression and the lasting impact of family and cultural expectations. My approach is functional, addressing factors such as movement, nutrition, and sleep hygiene to improve mental health outcomes. I often work with clients whom have been in therapy before and have a good level of awareness. They understand "why they think this way" but are looking for "now what do I do about it".

I'm a New York Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I received my masters degree from the Silberman School of Social Work and Health & Life Coach Certificate from the Health Coach Institute. My practice is dedicated to working with individuals in various walks of life to become more independent and confident versions of themselves. I have over 20 years experience working with adults with various diagnosis, in both inpatient and outpatient settings. I am fully bilingual in Spanish and English.

I will let people with whom I worked over the years tell you about me: "Joel focuses on the issues at hand, because he listens very intently. Doesn't get into any psychobabble and provides clear insight to moving forward. Joel encouraged positive takeaways from all sessions." "He s attentive, professional, personable, and kind." "We were able as a family to have Joel's ear as an outside observer. He could extract the most important take away from all that we were working on together and put them into concrete terms. It helped bring clarity and structure to all the things we were trying to do. Having appointments with Joel also helped us to be accountable for the work. Therapy is work. We have to consciously make changes to see the improvements... Joel helped us to stay accountable. " When I came to see Joel I was in a bad place - personally and professionally. I was dealing with unresolved grief and that was impacting my habits and behaviors. After a few short sessions with Joel I started the road back to being the person who I believe myself to be. It has been about 6 months since my first session with Joel - I am now working a good job, I have returned to a hobby that I love and I just completed my first semester of a degree program towards a more rewarding profession (and earned a 4.0 GPA!). Joel helped me realize that I had the ability to determine my own course in life and helped me develop positive habits to achieve my goals." If you want to know more you can visit www.0to10.net.

My motto is absolutely unconditional, positive regard when working with each client. If you are looking for a kind, attentive, and nonjudgmental therapist, then work with me. My name is Lisa Gray. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 22 years of experience. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, which is making connections between our thoughts, moods, and behaviors. I also specialize in solution-focused therapy, finding practical solutions to your identified problems. My approach is to partner with you to reach your therapeutic goals. I am team "YOU" all the way. During my 22-year career, I have worked with adolescents, children, and adults. I have worked in hospitals, crisis units, mental health centers, and public schools. Throughout my journey as a helper, I have prided myself on being right there with you. Sometimes, when we are depressed, we lose hope. My job is to hold the hope for you until you are ready to take it back. I am passionate about helping people and would love to work with you. LGBTQIA Friendly

I am a licensed mental health counselor. I have been in the field for 11 years. I have worked with high risk populations, inpatient as well as community mental health. Because of my work and personal experiences, I have found that the best technique is to meet people where they are currently in life. Therapy can be intimidating. It is important to me to build a rapport so that we can successful meet your treatment goals. I specialize in working with those who suffer from Anxiety, Depression Bipolar Disorder and Trauma.

Hey there, I'm Saila Akhtar. Do you find yourself overthinking and analyzing every little details of events that has happened to you? Do you feel like you are always on autopilot and unable to feel relax? Are you struggling to connect with people in your life? Do you have a hard time showing grace and self-compassion? I help my client manage their day to day stress, anxiety and depression. Together, we can identify what's not working and come up with a plan that can improve your quality of life. We'll use a overall wellness approach addressing the needs of your mind, body and spirit. My counseling style is interactive. I believe in building good rapport with my clients and providing a safe space to have open dialogues about their concerns. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness, attachment theory, psychodynamic, and person-centered. Whether you're dealing with feelings of being overwhelms, relationship concerns, cycles of anxiety and depression, I'm here to support your growth. It takes courage to be aware of your needs and to seek out support to change. If you are ready to take that step I am here to partner with you and work towards the change you want. You deserve a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques so you can overcome the challenges that are holding you back. I look forward to work with you!

Hi, I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Western New York, with over 13 years of experience in the mental health field. Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, which helped me discover where my heart truly lies—supporting women through life’s many transitions. Are you navigating the uncertainty of post-college life, wondering who you are outside the classroom? Have you recently started a new job and find yourself second-guessing every move? Maybe you’re a mom juggling countless responsibilities, trying your best while feeling stretched thin. Change can be overwhelming—especially when it’s accompanied by self-doubt, confusion, or shame. My passion is helping women better understand themselves, build confidence, and improve their mental health as they move through life’s inevitable shifts. My counseling style is warm, patient, and open-minded. I am trauma-informed and draw on a range of evidence-based modalities to support healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges. Above all, I aim to create a safe, supportive space where you feel empowered to grow.

Hello I'm Madelynne, My training and experience has instilled in me a strong belief in my clients' ability to change their lives with support, understanding and compassion. My journey in this field is driven by my passion for facilitating safe experiences for clients' growth, and I feel fortunate to be able to continue to work with clients to gain valuable insights and to assist them on their own life's journey. I believe it is critically important to establish and build mutual trust in the therapeutic relationship and I prioritize this in sessions.

Hi! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-R with many years of experience in psychotherapy, substance use counseling, domestic violence, medication adherence, HIV counseling, and couples counseling. I enjoy my chosen career path in social work because we are trained to address patient's needs holistically. I believe in client-centered treatment because everyone is perfectly imperfect and needs to be heard and allow to grow.

My name is Latanya. I am a licensed mental counselor in New York. I completed my studies at NYU and have worked and interned in various settings. They range from community preventive work to private practice. Currently, I primarily serve adult individuals and couples. I aim to create a warm and inviting environment, that way my client feels safe and comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings.

Hello, I am a licensed clinical social worker in New York state working with children, youth, and young adults for over 10 years. I am Black and originally from Ghana in West Africa. I am a wife and a mother of two young teenagers. I live in New York with my family. I have practiced clinical social work in various settings, including psychiatric hospitals, residential treatment facilities/centers, and an outpatient clinic. I am also an adjunct social work professor and enjoy teaching when I am not doing clinical work. My treatment approach and types of therapy used include acceptance and commitment (ACT), attachment-based, cognitive behavioral (CBT), compassion-focused, emotionally focused, exposure and response prevention, family systems, and trauma-focused therapies.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC). I received my Masters in Social Work from Adelphi University and have been in practice for 8 years. I guide clients through life transitions and help them to grow and heal into the best versions of themselves. I believe that therapy can provide the guidance necessary to work through transitions and ultimately, reach your utmost potential. I work collaboratively with clients and utilize a client-centered, strengths-based approach to help them feel empowered to reach their personal goals. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe and welcoming environment, where clients are supported and guided through this process.

Hi there. I’m Marlene, I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Florida and licensed in Florida and New York. I work with young and older adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, loneliness, family issues, relationship issues and loss. I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Strength- Based Therapy and Psychodynamic Therapy to help you make progress and start feeling better. Throughout my over 15 years of experience, I have been fortunate to work with children, and adults including home-bound adults, and seniors. Some of my areas of specialization include mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues, family issues, working to reduce depressive symptoms and strengthening self-esteem. I am certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and a Certified Grief Informed Professional.

I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of New York and Indiana. I have a Masters degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University-Los Angeles. Previously, I had a 30 year career in the Film & Television industry. My passions were, the Film business & Psychology. I said to myself, the day I become disinterested in the Film business, I'll go to graduate school, get my degree in psychology and become a psychotherapist. That day came and here I am. I have been practicing since 2009.

Do you often feel stuck in life? Or have a hard time getting to where you KNOW you can be physically, mentally, or emotionally? Navigating the complexities of life, dealing with anxiety, depression or any other mental health challenges can be extremely tough & take a toll on you functioning at your best. We are taught to just push through & everything will be fine, but you know that this rarely works. So here you are asking the question "Can this person actually help me?" To that question, I want to start by introducing myself. My name is Destiny & have spent my 6+ years career as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, gaining the passion to facilitate the process of healing and hope to individuals who navigate symptoms of anxiety, depression, & trauma-related issues. I also work well with those in need of support with self-esteem issues, stress, and navigating their spiritual walk. Together, we will foster a mindset of resilience, confidence, and self-compassion, allowing you to navigate life's challenges with grace and authenticity. The journey towards healing & growth, starts & will continue with one step at a time.

I have worked for years as a clinician in an acute, inpatient psychiatric setting and have learned that I find working with trauma and stress related issues to be particularly rewarding in addition to working with clients to help manage mood, anxiety, OCD and depression so that individuals, couples and families can live an optimally functioning life. I believe clients are the experts on themselves and I work collaboratively to identify and implement strengths, needs and changes (as well as acceptance when change is not possible).

I am a licensed clinical social worker and psychotherapist dedicated to supporting individuals through life’s challenges with compassion and clinical insight. With specialized training in psychoanalysis and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I work with adults navigating issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, identity, and relationship difficulties. My approach is collaborative, thoughtful, and rooted in helping you gain deeper self-awareness, improve emotional resilience, and foster meaningful change. Whether you’re seeking support for a specific concern or are interested in long-term personal growth, I offer a safe, nonjudgmental space where your experiences are met with care and respect.

Hello, thank you for learning more about me and how we might work together toward your goals. I am a licensed therapist (LCSW) in New York City and New Jersey. My approach to working with clients is strength-based. No matter what you have been through, you are resilient. I work with you to discover your truth and your authenticity within you. While my background is in trauma-informed care, I apply treatment modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Dialectic behavior therapy, DBT and Talk Therapy. I adapt most of my methods to individual needs. I am a parent and an African American woman with a deep understanding of the intersectionality of race, culture, and class. I approach my work through an anti-oppressive and social justice lens with a deeper understanding of systems of oppression as they relate to race, gender, and sexuality. I always approach diversity in the room as a gift with significant room for the clients to teach me. I am a curious person and respect the uniqueness of every human being’s background.

There are times in life when we struggle and feel hopeless. We try our best to be resilient, but sometimes we need help in finding our inner strengths and developing strategies to move forward. I am here to help encourage and support you to break general patterns to move you toward your goals. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and life transitions.

Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 26 years of experience as a therapist. I have worked with adults, adolescents, and children from various backgrounds in community mental health clinics and private practices. I understand that having the courage to seek help can be challenging. I believe in the importance of establishing a safe therapeutic relationship. I am here to support you by applying my knowledge and expertise to help you identify the core of your difficulties and effectively cope with your challenges. I use evidence-based tools that empower you to improve your overall functioning.

My name is Madeline Almonte, and I am a Bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor from New York with extensive experience in educational and therapeutic roles. My Mental Health practice is named THRIVE Wellness & Coaching, LLC, because my vision and approach emphasizes inspiring and guiding clients to THRIVE in life by realizing their true potential through self-reflection and tailored strategies. I work to enhance self-esteem and confidence, alleviate anxiety and depression, and address the impact of traumatic experiences. By focusing on positive development and personal growth, I aim to empower individuals to achieve their aspirations and thrive in all aspects of their lives. Let’s THRIVE together!

I am licensed marriage and family therapist and credentialed alcoholism and substance abuse counselor. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My approach is cognitive-behavioral strength-based approach. I focus on helping people invalidate negative thoughts and become aware of their strengths in order to improve their confidence and self-esteem. With couples, I focus on assisting with improving communication, developing a better understanding of one another, and compromising.

I’m Ana Milosevic, a compassionate therapist working with adults experiencing stress, life transitions, anger management, addiction, impulse control, self-esteem, anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship challenges. My work with individuals, couples, and families focuses on fostering personal growth, improving communication, and developing effective coping strategies. Utilizing evidence-based approaches tailored to each client’s unique needs, I support clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving meaningful, lasting change. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to move forward with confidence and clarity.

Meet me! I am a skilled and caring mental health therapist and CASAC -M. As a motivated, compassionate professional, I will extend support to you through your journey toward healing, personal growth, and well-being. At the crux of my practice, stands the goal of creating safe and empowering spaces for everyone to grow and thrive through an integrative, person-centered approach.

I am a family counselor licensed in New York, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Utah with over 15 years of experience working as a Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, social anxiety, childhood trauma, relationship issues, parenting problems, career challenges, and emotional abuse. I provide telehealth therapy and am flexible with the time needed to meet the clients individual schedule

My path to becoming a therapist started as a teenager. I was always passionate about helping others and getting to the root of how to help with solving their problems. As a teen, I worked in the behavioral health unit of a local clinic. I aspired to be like one of the therapists or nurse practitioners there. Seeing clients come in for their appointments and being able to sit in on certain group sessions was all so exciting for me. I have always been attracted to the field of psychology, which I majored in for my undergraduate degree. It was my abnormal psych class in undergrad that changed my life forever. I will never forget being so drawn to and interested in the different mental health disorders in the DSM. I spoke with my professor after class and asked how I could work with individuals who experienced mental health concerns. She mentioned obtaining a degree in mental health counseling and then a license. So, I completed grad school and obtained my license.

I help successful, world-class achievers who feel disconnected, frustrated and unsatisfied in their lives, to transform their relationships - to themselves and to others - to create the love, connection and fulfillment they desire deep down. If you are tired of feeling stuck, misunderstood, and unsatisfied with yourself and/or your relationships, despite your other successes and achievements, I am here for you. I hold two master’s Degrees from Columbia University and am the inventor of Life Therapy™, a combination of Psychotherapy & Coaching + Mindfulness & Meditation. For almost 18 years I've had an out-of-pocket only practice, and recently created a concierge model so that you can get a portion of your experience covered by insurance!

Hi ! I am a licensed clinical social worker who has worked in the field of mental health and healing for over 15 years. I love hearing the life stories of others and exploring with them how they can get some healing from life's challenges. I am also big on looking at one's strengths and accomplishments in life. I believe that many people already are on their journey.

I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in New York I’m dedicated to empowering clients. I provide a compassionate space for healing and voice. I help clients identify the emotions that keep them stuck. I am here to help you unlock that potential. Together, we will forge a path toward confidence, empowerment, and healthy coping strategies. From age 15, my dedication to psychotherapy became evident. I passionately believe in the transformative power of healing and resilience. My life's mission is to support those navigating trauma, anxiety, significant relationship challenges, and self-doubt.

I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in NY and Connecticut. I have over a decade of experience working with adults and women's mental health. I help clients struggling with depression, anxiety, codependency, perfectionism and self-esteem challenges. Becoming a therapist has been a lifelong journey for me. I began my career in social services, supporting children and families. While this work felt fulfilling, I longed to support my clients in a deeper and more meaningful manner, which led me to become a licensed therapist. Providing counseling to clients in mental health settings provided me with valuable experience and cemented my desire to help people struggling with their mental health. I continue to engage in growth and learning, expanding my knowledge in the somatic and experiential therapies, mindfulness and inner child healing work.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Florida and New York. I received my Masters from University of Tennessee, Knoxville and have been practicing for over 20 years. I have worked with diverse clients from childhood through end of life. My passion has been assisting clients, and their families process their addictions and traumas so they can live their most fulfilled life.

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who is of Christian faith. I serve all people and remain objective to my client's need. I provide a warm, welcoming (and oftentimes comedic) atmosphere to the counseling setting, but we will always be working together to satisfy your need. I would like to be the passenger with the map, but allow you to drive.

I am a non-dualistic therapist but before any label, I am a human being who experiences the same ups, downs, emotions and life challenges as every other human does at some point. So, I understand and work from the perspective of our sameness. I listen to each clients unique story and use my skills and intuition to assist each to inquire what is actually happening from the minds point of view so that they can consider alternative ways of thinking and navigating whatever they are struggling with.

Hi, my name is Jennifer and many people call me Jen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in NY and PA, and have truly enjoyed my work for many years now. I graduated from CUNY Lehman College in 2007 with an MSW. I have worked with clients from a variety of backgrounds and age groups, helping them manage stress, depression, anxiety, relationships and medical difficulties. I began working with younger folks and their families, and most recently have been working a great deal with adults with a variety of behavioral health and medical needs. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including a number of years in nursing homes and primary care. Having this variety of experience over the years has allowed me to work well with many different clients.

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist Candidate based in New York. My aim as a psychotherapist is to walk with you on your journey towards greater self-awareness, improved outlook, and to help you develop the skills you need to better manage your own challenges to live a more fulfilling life with renewed empowerment.

I like to consider myself a behavioral Psychologist who has deeply studied and is very familiar with the science of behavior and science in general. I use humor, informality and warmth to help people work towards feeling and functioning better. A passionate dog lover, I am the proud owner of English Springer Spaniels. My practice is unique in its pet-friendly approach, encouraging patients to bring their dogs to sessions. I also specializes in pet bereavement, offering dedicated support to those dealing with the loss of a beloved pet.

With over 17 years of experience as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I specialize in helping teens, young adults, and women navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship dynamics, or major life transitions, I provide a compassionate and supportive space where you can explore emotions, build coping skills, and create lasting change. I understand that feeling stuck or overwhelmed can be frustrating, and sometimes, you may not even know where to begin. That’s where I come in. My approach is rooted in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), person-centered techniques, mindfulness, and strength-based modalities, allowing me to tailor therapy to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work to identify triggers, develop effective coping strategies, and implement behavior modifications that empower you to move forward. Beyond techniques and strategies, I believe in the power of connection. Therapy is not just about working through struggles—it’s about feeling heard, validated, and supported. My mission is to provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings while gaining insight into your journey. I am passionate about working with women, particularly women of color, as I deeply understand the importance of cultural identity and lived experiences in the healing process.