I am a transmasc, queer therapist. Through much of my life, I identified as lesbian though I knew in my mid 20s I was trans. Back then the financial and emotional costs were prohibitive. I was looking at years of psychological testing and therapy and, as a requirement of receiving care, I would have to renounce my community and “quit being queer,” which I just couldn’t do.
Making the transition finally became accessible in my 50s, and I decided to take the plunge while I still had the chance. In doing so, I worked past the anxiety and addressed the shame I’d experienced throughout my life and brought myself more into congruence with myself. It was the best decision I ever made! My ongoing, personal journey of exploration definitely informs my work as a psychotherapist.
I’ve been working as a mental health professional for over two decades, initially providing case management services for queer people with symptoms of chronic and severe mental illness, and HIV/AIDS or who were struggling with discrimination and animosity from the larger community. I have been helping people navigate systems and life changes throughout my career. It is my passion! My goal is to ensure that everyone feels valued and supported in my practice – gay, lesbian, bi, queer, exploring, neurodivergent, polyamorous, kinky, ASE, intersex gender expansive, genderqueer, transgender, nonbinary, and those who are exploring – I want everyone to feel safe, seen and heard in my office.
The focus of my work over the past 25 years has been on fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for individuals across the LGBTQIA+ spectrum – especially those who are questioning or wanting to explore their queer and trans identities in a safe, inclusive space. I’m deeply committed to seeing the queer and trans communities thrive, to be healthy and well and not feel like they’re left to bear their burdens alone, without someone who cares supports them.
In my career I have worked in queer/trans mental health agency as a mental health case manager, a therapist and as hospital liaison to ensure culturally appropriate care for queer and trans adults experiencing symptoms of severe mental illness or HIV/AIDS. I created and gave presentations to college students and faculty for a queer advocacy group while in college and have devoted my entire career to working with and supporting the queer and trans communities through my work in the mental health field and as an HIV/AIDS test counselor and advocate. This is my community and I am devoted to caring for it.
I provide individual and couples therapy and work with youth who are exploring their gender identities. I write letters of support for a fee.