Therapists near me in Kettering, OH

I’m a therapist who helps people slow down, make sense of their inner world, and build lives that feel more aligned and sustainable. My style is collaborative and down‑to‑earth; I focus on creating a space where you can be honest without judgment and explore what’s getting in the way of the life you want. Whether you’re navigating stress, relationships, identity, or major transitions, I work with you to uncover patterns, strengthen resilience, and move toward meaningful change.

Hello, I am a licensed mental health counselor currently licensed in Florida, Idaho, New Jersey, Nevada, Indiana, Wisconsin, Colorado New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Vermont. I have 10+ years of experience with all ages. I love to do parent training for people who struggle with their children regardless of their mental health, neurological, or developmental condition. My first love is behavior therapy for people with autism however, I have extensive experience in mental health and substance use disorders or all severities.

Life can feel heavy sometimes—and trying to hold it all together gets exhausting. If you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns you can’t seem to break, you’re not alone. I help adults work through anxiety, stress, trauma, and relationship challenges in a way that feels real, supportive, and actually helpful. My approach isn’t one-size-fits-all—we focus on what you need and what works in your day-to-day life. No pressure, no judgment—just a space to process, gain clarity, and move forward. My goal is simple: help you feel more like yourself again, but stronger, more confident, and in control.

I have been licensed as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2004, and have held a supervision designation since 2015. I have also held a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor with a supervision/training designation license since 2018. I have maintained a private counseling practice in Chillicothe since 2000, and I continue to work with individuals and families in that capacity. I have dedicated my career to helping others and to working with the community to ensure the well-being of families and children. My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Christian Therapy, but I am proud to be able to use a multitude of approaches, dependent on what works best for the client(s) involved. I value the individual and the couple regardless of age or philosophical approach to their life or relationship. I see my goal of treatment as improving the individual or couple to be the best they want to be. My communication tone or approach tends to be direct but laid back. We are in session to work together, not have me tell you what to do or where you need to go.

I am licensed in Ohio with over 9 years of professional work experience. In my experience working with wonderful clients I am truly amazed by the desire clients have to grow through barriers and break through to better levels. Whether the client is an individual or a couple, whether dealing with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression, I have learned that humans want a better life and will work to get there. This brings such respect, sensitivity, and compassion to each person as your journey is like no other. I will tailor our dialogue and treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. I will do my all to assist with you taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process. I do work with clients here in a talking/coaching style. I am a certified life coach as well and I will use my skills to assist you in any way, however, behind every conversation and response is a clinical therapeutic heartful approach.

I’m Michael Woods Jr., a licensed professional clinical counselor with over 15 years of experience. I help people who are dealing with stress, pressure, and feeling stuck—even when things on the outside look like they should be working. My approach is real and straightforward. I’m not just here to listen—I’m here to help you understand what’s actually going on and give you practical tools you can use in your everyday life. I focus a lot on how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are connected, and how to start responding differently instead of reacting on autopilot. A big part of my work is helping people build awareness, take ownership, and develop the mental skills needed to handle challenges more effectively. I also bring in my background in athletics and performance, so there’s an emphasis on consistency, discipline, and doing the work—not just talking about it.

Sometimes life feels overwhelming—whether you’re navigating stress, anxiety, relationship challenges, life transitions, or feeling disconnected from yourself. I specialize in working with adults, including young adults, using a strengths-based, client-centered approach tailored to your unique needs. I create a supportive, collaborative space where you can better understand your thoughts and emotions, build effective coping skills, and strengthen your sense of self. Together, we’ll focus on practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety, improve relationships, and cultivate greater self-worth and self-trust. My goal is to help you gain insight, feel more confident and connected, and move toward a more balanced, fulfilling life—creating meaningful, lasting change. I welcome the opportunity to support you in that process.

Hi, I'm Ellise, a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW) in Ohio. For the past eight years I've been dedicated to supporting adult patients with PTSD/PTSI, anxiety, depression, BPD, Women's Issues (fertility, loss, pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and menopause) and Substance Abuse diagnoses become the best version of themselves. My therapeutic approach is rooted in CBT, DBT, EFT, Somatic Experiencing and IFS, I tend to use a blend of these methods in my sessions to best target what goals you as my patient set. It's my goal to help you achieve balance in your life and become the best version of yourself.

I’m a clinical psychologist based in Ohio who works with adults navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationship issues, identity concerns, and the pressure to “have it all together.” I take a genuinely collaborative approach to therapy and put a lot of care into building a strong, trusting relationship where you don’t have to censor yourself. My work is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), which means we’ll focus less on “fixing” or fighting your feelings and more on getting clear about your values and building a life that feels meaningful to you. Instead of trying to shut emotions down, I help clients learn how to make space for feelings, respond with compassion, and use practical coping skills to stay present and move toward what matters most. I’ve spent much of my career working with college and graduate students, so I’m familiar with the unique stressors of academic life, emerging adulthood, and major life transitions. I approach therapy through a lens of cultural humility, actively honoring how your race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, neurodivergence, religion or spirituality, class background, and other identities shape your experiences. I work to create a space where your culture and identities are not just “respected,” but meaningfully integrated into our work together, and where your values and lived experience guide our goals and the way we move through therapy. As a Certified Geek Therapist, I enjoy working with clients whose “geeky” interests—like video games, anime, superheroes, board games, and TTRPGs—are a meaningful part of their lives. Together, we can use your fandoms and favorite stories as tools for insight, coping, and growth, treating them as strengths rather than quirks you have to hide in therapy.

Hello! My name is Jeyran Shahgaldiyeva, I am a licensed clinical therapist credentialed to provide services in Ohio, Massachusetts, and Florida. First of all, let me thank you for beginning this journey. Starting therapy can be empowering, confusing, or scary, all at the same time - so, please, give your self credits for being brave enough to make this big step towards improvement. Feeling better is possible. I'm here to support you.

I’m a licensed therapist who helps individuals navigate addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, and the complex experiences that come with being human. My practice is grounded in compassion, accountability, and evidence-based care. I specialize in supporting adults working through substance use, alcohol use disorder, eating disorders, and compulsive behaviors, as well as those seeking healing from trauma. I also work closely with LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, offering a space that is affirming, culturally aware, and judgment-free. My approach is collaborative and practical—we’ll identify what’s getting in your way, build coping skills that actually work, and move toward meaningful change at a pace that feels right for you. My goal is simple: to help you feel understood, supported, and empowered to create a life that feels more aligned and less overwhelming.

As a clinical social worker, I am independently licensed in Ohio and have more than 19 years of experience working as a therapist. I have worked with clients from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds who had various concerns including depression, anxiety, anger issues, traumatic experiences, moral injury, grief and loss, relationship and parenting issues to name a few. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I will tailor our dialog and treatment to meet your unique and specific concerns.

I graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Master of Social Work degree in 1992. I am dually and independently licensed in mental health (Licensed Independent Social Worker-Supervisor or LISW-S) and substance abuse (Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor - Clinical Supervisor or LICDC-CS). I started out working with children and families, foster care, and adoption at non-profit agencies, helping families to overcome obstacles to success. For the past 25 years, I have worked with men and women who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, anger, relationship issues, mental health issues, substance use issues, and other issues, to learn the skills and thought processes needed to become successful. I specialize in Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Anger Management, Life Transitions, Stress Management, Women's Issues, and Ethnicity/Diversity Issues.

Many people turn to psychotherapy or counseling for help with anxiety, depression, trauma, and painful relationship patterns, or simply because they feel something is missing from life. At times, we may lack the words to describe our struggles or suffering. By gaining insight into past relationships and experiences, many people begin to make progress toward overcoming these difficulties, becoming more effective in both their work and their personal lives. I am a licensed clinician with 20 years of experience helping individuals achieve a more fulfilling life.

Are you dealing with the life stressors of being a teenager or emerging adult? Feeling stuck? Depressed? Anxious? Well, you’ve already passed the most difficult part which was seeking help. I empower teens and emerging adults (ages 13-40yo) to overcome daily struggles and live in their best potential at the best version of themselves. Together, we will work to identify your strengths and get you back to your higher self with balance. We will use a client-centered and strength-based approach to address the needs of your mental health. I also utilize a lot of cognitive behavioral techniques to assist with getting your mind, body, and spirit aligned. I love to incorporate lots of therapeutic activities with a primary focus on building self-efficacy. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Cleveland State University. My passion for becoming a therapist was rooted in a desire to increase access to culturally responsive mental health care and to help people of color navigate the therapeutic space with greater comfort, understanding, and empowerment. Throughout my career, I have been committed to creating a safe, affirming environment where clients feel seen, heard, and valued. I believe therapy should be accessible, authentic, and culturally informed, and I am dedicated to helping individuals build resilience, develop insight, and create meaningful change in their lives. You deserve to be the best version of you. Let me help you by offering a safe, therapeutic space for you to heal. What are you waiting for? Book me if you’re motivated to make change!

Hi, I’m Marie — a therapist who believes that change is always possible, no matter where you are in life. My goal is to help you feel better emotionally, think more clearly, and move toward a future that feels fulfilling and peaceful. In our sessions, we’ll work together to understand what’s been holding you back and find practical ways to move forward. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you notice how your thoughts affect your emotions and actions—and teach you tools to shift negative thinking. I also use a solution-focused approach, which means we’ll focus on your strengths, celebrate what’s working, and create small, realistic steps that bring real progress. I often work with adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, or major life changes—like adjusting after a loss, a new diagnosis, or changes that come with getting older. My approach is supportive and empowering. I want you to feel heard, encouraged, and equipped with the tools to handle life’s challenges with more confidence and hope. As an immigrant and a bilingual therapist speaking both English and French, I understand the importance of culture, identity, and belonging. This lived experience allows me to better connect with clients from diverse backgrounds and support them through challenges related to identity, adjustment, and navigating different cultural expectations. My background helps me approach therapy with openness, cultural sensitivity, and a deep belief in the resilience of the human spirit.

To be honest, turning to therapy can be a difficult first step toward personal growth. The decision to turn to someone to help you look within for answers to life problems and challenges can be one of the biggest decisions a person can make. However, you are not alone. Therapy has helped millions create a safe space to heal and grow. In our sessions together, I'll meet you with compassion and evidence-based techniques to assist you to release your fears and drop the habits that keep you from living your best life. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have served clients of all ages, and of various diverse backgrounds address their life challenges. Utilizing my therapeutic abilities, trainings and experience we will explore solutions to what troubles you most.

Hi, I’m Demetria Agharese, and I help people who are tired of feeling overwhelmed, stuck, anxious, or disconnected from themselves find their way forward. My ideal clients are adults who may look like they have it all together on the outside but are quietly struggling on the inside. You may be the person everyone depends on while privately battling anxiety, intrusive thoughts, OCD, self-doubt, burnout, relationship difficulties, or the pressure to constantly “hold it all together.” Maybe your mind won’t shut off. You overthink every decision, question your feelings, replay conversations, worry about what might happen, or feel trapped by thoughts you wish you could turn off. Maybe you’re navigating a breakup, divorce, major life transition, low self-esteem, or simply wondering, “How did I lose myself?” You don’t have to continue living that way. I offer a warm, genuine, culturally responsive, and judgment-free space where you can put down the weight you’ve been carrying and talk openly about what’s really happening. I don’t believe therapy should feel like sitting across from someone who simply checks boxes on a diagnosis list. I believe you deserve to feel heard, understood, challenged when needed, and supported throughout the process. Using evidence-based approaches such as CBT, ERP, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, behavioral strategies, and mindfulness, I help clients break unhelpful cycles, face fears, manage difficult emotions, build confidence, establish healthier boundaries, and become less controlled by anxiety and uncertainty. Most importantly, therapy with me is collaborative. I’m not here to tell you who you should be. I’m here to help you discover who you are, understand what matters to you, and develop the confidence to live accordingly. If you’re ready to stop simply surviving and start creating a life that feels more peaceful, authentic, confident, and meaningful, I’d be honored to walk alongside you.

Empowering you to heal, grow, and live without limitations. Is it time for you to live life without limits? Do you believe therapy can be both enlightening and enjoyable? Are you ready to embrace your diagnosis instead of avoiding it? If so, you’re exactly where you need to be. Mor Rondo J. Edwards-Roberts is a Licensed Independent Social Worker (LISW-S) dedicated to helping individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered. He believes therapy should be a space where people can explore their identity, gain insight, and develop meaningful tools for real-life change. His approach blends behavioral health models with compassion, cultural awareness, and a commitment to helping clients reclaim control over their lives.

My clients have laughed, cried, practiced new things, and worked very, very hard. The only thing I ask, as a therapist, is to have hope and do the work. Each client is a functioning part of a larger whole that wants to stay the same. I see no sense in blaming a person for situations they did not create; it's what each person does that counts.

I’m a licensed professional clinical counselor with nearly 20 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life’s challenges. My approach is relational, practical, and rooted in both insight and action. I draw from a variety of evidence-based methods—tailored to each client’s needs—to address issues like anxiety, relationship conflict, family dynamics, and faith-related concerns. Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply ready for growth, I aim to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and empowered to make meaningful, lasting change.

Hello! My name is Kali Scott and I have been a counselor for the last 8 years with a combination of experience in mental health and substance abuse counseling. I emphasize in providing an empathetic experience to my clients by remaining open minded and supportive. My educational background includes a Bachelors Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling from the University of Cincinnati and a Masters of Education in Counseling and Human Development from Lindsey Wilson College. In addition to being independently licensed as a Professional Counselor (LPCC) and Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC), and owner of my private practice, Vision Board Therapeutics, I am a wife and mom of 3 kids.

Hi there, I'm glad you're here! As a Clinical Counselor and Art Therapist, I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and nonjudgmental space where my clients can explore life's challenges at their own pace, and maybe try processing in a new way. My approach combines evidence-based counseling approaches with creativity when it fits your goals, helping you better understand yourself and move toward meaningful change.

Hello, Welcome to my practice... Blessed Journey, LLC. I have been a counselor for 25 years. I work with all ages of people. I especially enjoy working with children, ages 5-12. Cognitive-Behavior Therapy is my primary modality. I also like to add methods that allow for self-expression through the arts, focusing on solutions and play. I have training in trauma recovery as well. I want clients to leave each session with a new coping skills, motivation to make a small change and feeling they have been heard.

My name is Michael Starr, and I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker. I believe therapy is more than just problem-solving, it’s a place to rediscover who you are, heal what’s been hidden, and move forward with clarity and strength. I work with individuals, couples, and families facing anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, identity questions, and emotional overwhelm. My style is honest, grounded, and deeply respectful of the human experience. I use evidence-based approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Trauma-Focused CBT, but I also hold space for what cannot always be explained, your story, your meaning, your growth. Clients often come to me feeling stuck, disconnected, or unsure of how to move forward. Together, we uncover the patterns keeping you there and build the insight, skills, and resilience to move through them. You won’t be rushed or judged. You’ll be heard, supported, and challenged when needed. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be willing to start. Healing begins with one honest conversation, and I’m here to take that step with you.

Having coped with anxiety, depression, chronic pain, and PTSD throughout my life, counseling is not just a profession for me; it is an opportunity to share the skills that I use every day. My own journey with mental health challenges gives me empathy and understanding, enriching my ability to connect with others who are struggling. I have met with 100s of clients and I would love to meet you!

Hi, I’m Tenisha Rigby, a Licensed Independent Social Worker with over 18 years of experience in the behavioral health field. I primarily work with adults ages 18–40, helping them navigate life’s transitions and build on their personal strengths. My goal is to create a space where you feel heard, supported, and understood — a space that’s free of judgment and filled with compassion. Together, we’ll work at your pace to explore what matters most to you and find practical ways to help you feel more balanced, confident, and fulfilled in your day-to-day life.

As a transpersonal therapist, I view therapy as a holistic healing container, in which I am a fellow traveler on the path to wholeness. My goal is to awaken the knowing that is already alive within you, guiding you to your truest self. I have been on a personal journey of self-discovery and awakening for over a decade through meditation, yoga, practicing massage therapy for 5+ years, deepening an understanding of healing through the body mind spirit connection. I arrived in the field of counseling as a culmination of my personal journey, from a desire to serve others on the path to healing and integration.

I specialize in working with adults in transition — particularly those in teaching, caregiving, service, and helping professions who are managing relationships, parenting, health changes, and shifts in life or professional status (pregnancy, marriage, divorce, menopause, illness, and career transitions). My approach is trauma‑informed, culturally competent, and grounded in more than 30 years of clinical experience and study. I create a space for open, honest, and transparent reflection where we meet you where you are. I weave understanding of trauma, culture, wellness, and healing into our sessions and draw from a range of evidence‑based approaches: trauma‑specific interventions, cognitive behavioral therapy, marriage and family therapy (systems and narrative approaches), and psychoanalytic‑informed work. I also love working with couples in a new stage of their relationship (pre-marital, considering divorce, What to expect Early sessions are collaborative and tailored to your needs. Many clients report gaining clarity about their priorities and goals and experiencing increased self‑acceptance and peace within the first few sessions. I am an active, engaged therapist: therapy is a place for insight and felt understanding, and healing continues as you live your life. I may recommend readings, reflections, or practical exercises to support progress between sessions. I attended seminary and, when invited, I welcome conversations that integrate faith into the therapeutic work.

Welcome! I’m so glad you’ve reached out. I exclusively work with adult women 35+ and would love to connect. Sometimes the deepest wounds are the ones no one else can see. What looks like “family conflict” may actually be the lasting impact of relationships that taught you to survive before you learned to feel safe. I work exclusively with women 35+ navigating attachment wounds, enmeshment, emotional abuse, chronic invalidation, childhood trauma, estrangement, and painful relationship patterns. Therapy with me isn’t about forcing reconciliation or telling you to “let it go.” It’s about understanding what happened, honoring your experience, processing what you’ve carried, and rebuilding self-trust. Your past deserves to be understood—but it doesn’t deserve to own your future. 💛

In therapy with me, there’s no judgment, no fluff, and no “one-size-fits-all” solutions. We’ll start where you are whether that’s putting out fires in your daily life or addressing deeper wounds that keep pulling you back. I combine Brainspotting, practical tools, and direct conversation to help you manage today’s struggles while healing the past. My focus areas include anxiety, depression, trauma, substance abuse, and domestic violence. I also work with therapists, first responders, and others carrying the weight of the world. My style is direct, compassionate, and grounded in the belief that healing is messy but possible. Together, we’ll create a space to explore your emotions, uncover patterns, and build strategies that work for you. It’s not about perfection it’s about progress and reclaiming your life on your terms. **If you try to book and there is no availability that works for you please reach out, directly via my website**

Hi there I'm Cheriece Moore. and I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker. First let me say, take a moment to congratulate yourself on taking this important step toward improving your or your loved one's mental well-being. It's understandable to experience a range of emotions as you begin therapy, but know that this is a brave, incredibly empowering and positive choice. And remember you're not alone in this journey. A little more about me. I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker and I have been practicing individual, group and family therapy for the past 14 years. I strive to create a safe and welcoming environment that allows individuals/couples/families to explore obstacles with concerns related to their mental, physical, emotional and spiritual health. I try to provide a holistic approach for individuals to ensure that we are able to collaborate on all areas that you may want to address. I enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life/ genders/backgrounds/religions, and many more. I also enjoy working with women. Being a woman and a person of color allows me to approach my work with profound empathy and a commitment to advocating for those who share similar backgrounds. Counseling provides a safe space to explore your inner world and discover your true potential. Therapy can be a tool to unlock your strength and create a life that feels meaningful and authentic. if you are seeking that kind of transformation, I'm ready to partner with you when you are.

Hi! My name is Jana! Thank you for reading my profile :) I want you to know a little about me so you can decide if you'd like to schedule with me. I am licensed in Ohio and I have been a Therapist for over 10 years. I have been doing teletherapy for quite awhile now and I much prefer it to in-office settings. I am a mother to 3 wild kiddos, I live in the country and I [try to] make friends with feral cats. I am very chatty, I enjoy getting to know the people that I am working with. I have a lot of experience in several areas: domestic violence, narcissism, autism, intellectual disabilities, adhd, depression, pregnancy loss, anxiety, parenting issues, life changes, bullying, etc. I like a natural conversation style in sessions so it is as comfortable as possible! FYI: I'm not currently accepting couples and I don't write recommendation letters for ESA/service animals due to the potential liability.

Starting therapy can be hard work, but it doesn't have to be. I specialize in working with individuals navigating anxiety, depression, trauma, and grief. I take a person-centered, collaborative approach to therapy, tailoring each session to your unique needs and goals. Please feel welcome to reach out whenever you feel ready to begin. I’m here to provide a safe and supportive environment where you can be yourself.

I’m Scott, a therapist who strives for a flexible and authentic connection. My goal is to create a space that feels comfortable enough to laugh in, but intentional enough to grow in. Whether we’re using DBT skills or navigating the week's hurdles, I’m here to challenge you and help you find the change that’s waiting right around the corner. When I’m not working with clients, I’m typically spending time with my boys, watching anime, or baking. So remember: 'If every porkchop were perfect, we wouldn’t have hotdogs.' Don’t wait for the 'perfect' time to start therapy, reach out today and let's get started.

Live the Life You Deserve. Everyone has times when they need support to get through life's difficulties. You don't need to do it alone. Reach out to me to see if we can identify a plan to help you live your best life. I am Donnelle Super and have helped a large number of people throughout the years to achieve personal and professional goals to live happier healthier lives.

I serve people ages 8-108 years old through individual, family, and couples/marriage therapy. I treat anxiety, depression, thought problems, grief, trauma, high-stress work environments, and lots more! I offer tele-health and in-person sessions. In-person sessions have the option of having animal-assisted therapy. If you choose equine therapy, we will be in the pasture, so be sure to wear closed-toe shoes that you don't mind getting dirty!

Hi there, my name’s Ephraim Tokar. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 20+ years of experience. My specialties consist of relationships, men’s issues, career counseling, and psychosomatic illnesses. I received my Bachelors degree in Child Psychology, working initially with the adolescent population before transitioning over to adults. I then received my Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy. Whether it's individuals or couples, I'm happy to get to work with whomever comes my way. I do my best to facilitate a warm, trusting environment. Looking forward to meeting with you soon!

Tanisha Richardson is devoted to those who want to improve their mental health. She supports and guides individuals who are facing mental anguish. Together with you, she develops a restorative approach through the use of interventions, tailored coping techniques, and personalized methods that move you forward. The therapeutic process is an intimate process to go through as we share sensitive information. It is my goal to build a great comfortable relationship with you.

I am a Licensed Independent Social Worker with Supervisor designation (LISW-S) in Ohio and a Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work. I earned my Master’s degree from Case Western Reserve University and completed a Certificate in Sexual Health at the University of Michigan. I am currently pursuing an advanced Certificate in Problem Sexual Behavior. With 30 years of clinical experience, I bring a depth of knowledge and compassion to my practice. My therapeutic approach integrates Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Interventions, and Holistic Coaching. I also utilize Affirmative Psychotherapy, meeting clients where they are and supporting growth at their own pace. Clients often describe me as passionate, caring, and infused with a sense of humor—qualities I believe help foster a safe and collaborative space for healing and change.