I am a Master of Social Work (MSW)–trained mental health professional with clinical training and experience providing trauma-informed, affirming care to LGBTQ+ individuals across the lifespan in both rural and urban settings. My professional approach is grounded in social work values of the person’s dignity and worth, social justice, cultural humility, and ethical practice, with a strong emphasis on creating psychologically safe, respectful, and inclusive spaces for all clients.

My clinical perspective is shaped by work with individuals experiencing co-occurring mental health conditions, substance use disorders, complex trauma, and identity-related stressors, including stigma, discrimination, minority stress, and barriers to care. I have experience supporting LGBTQ+ clients navigating anxiety, depression, trauma histories, family rejection, religious or cultural conflict, relationship concerns, and recovery-related challenges. I am particularly attentive to the ways systemic inequities and social determinants of health impact LGBTQ+ individuals differently in rural versus urban communities, including access to affirming providers, transportation limitations, confidentiality concerns, and availability of community support.

I utilize evidence-based and affirming approaches, including trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, cognitive-behavioral strategies, strengths-based practice, and person-centered engagement. My work is informed by current research on LGBTQ+ mental health disparities, minority stress theory, and best practices for inclusive and affirming care across healthcare and behavioral health settings. I consistently use inclusive language, respect clients’ self-identified names and pronouns, and honor diverse gender identities, sexual orientations, and family structures.

My professional experience includes supporting LGBTQ+ individuals in substance use recovery and dual-diagnosis treatment settings, where identity-affirming care is essential to engagement, retention, and long-term wellness. I am mindful of the additional stigma LGBTQ+ individuals may face within healthcare and recovery systems and work to ensure care environments are affirming, nonjudgmental, and responsive to individual needs.

My LGBTQ+ education and professional development include graduate-level coursework, clinical training, and continuing education focused on cultural humility, trauma-informed care, ethics, and inclusive practice. I am committed to ongoing LGBTQ+-specific education, training, and advocacy to stay aligned with evolving best practices and community-identified needs. I value interdisciplinary collaboration and community partnerships to support holistic, coordinated, and affirming care.

I am an MSW candidate currently completing clinical training, with expected graduation in May 2026. I view LGBTQ+-affirming care as an ongoing practice rooted in reflection, accountability, and responsiveness. I welcome feedback from clients and colleagues and strive to ensure that LGBTQ+ individuals feel seen, respected, safe, and supported in their healthcare and mental health experiences.