It feels authentic to first acknowledge potential barriers to felt safety and trust. I am a bi-racial (black/white) cisgender, heterosexual, married, middle-aged man. The environment I grew up in was not LGBTQ+ friendly or affirming, despite having many family members who identify outside the “straight” norm. This non-inclusive environment never fully sat well with m, though it still took years into my adult life to divest myself from. For roughly the past 20 years, I would describe myself as open to working with, and affirming of, clients of all gender/sexual identities. My past work included nearly 7 years working in college mental health, and I sought out and completed Safe Space training during that time. As a therapist it is part of my job to bring curiosity and non-judgment to my client’s inner worlds. I am grateful to have the opportunity to walk alongside my clients for parts of their journey, and am aware that I continue to learn more about the lived experiences of others. I know it is my responsibility to continue to learn. While most of my continuing education is focused on progressing my skills as a therapist, I complete at least 3 CEU’s every two years focused on diversity.