SOCIAL JUSTICE /
SOCIAL JUSTICE AND ISSUES OF DIFFERENCE
Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) suffer profound psychological harm from deeply ingrained racist inequalities that exist in our systems and institutions. In addition to historical and ongoing violence and disenfranchisement, they are hurt by subtle and often unconscious or unintentional behaviors that express a prejudiced attitude. These experiences leave BIPOC feeling unsafe, anxious, diminished, shame, and anger. Over the course of a lifetime, their experiences adversely shape their identity, self-esteem, and confidence making it harder for them to form and maintain healthy relationships and to succeed in school and in their jobs.
I strive to create a safe space in which we can talk about issues of difference in our therapy relationship, as well as, your experience in the world. My approach is culturally centered, which means I welcome and respect your unique identities, life experiences, and context. With curiosity and genuine interest, I notice and honor the numerous ways in which we are different and the same. I do not take a “one-size-fits-all” approach. I believe certain feelings, thoughts, and behaviors may be described as unhealthy or problematic for a person in one context, but may be completely fitting to a person in another context.
I work with BIPOC to help them understand how their life experiences have influenced the way they see themselves and the world. This awareness can help bring a sense of relief that there is a reason why you feel anger and other intense emotions and a sense of empowerment that you can have loving and joyful relationships, success in your work and school, and a safe and secure home and community.
I work with White People who believe racism is a divisive force in our society. I help them explore their implicit biases regarding race and racism as well as their privilege. I help them identify and overcome feelings of shame, fear, and other powerful emotions that trigger them when their perspectives and advantages are challenged.
I strive to create a safe space in which we can talk about issues of difference in our therapy relationship, as well as, your experience in the world. My approach is culturally centered, which means I welcome and respect your unique identities, life experiences, and context. With curiosity and genuine interest, I notice and honor the numerous ways in which we are different and the same. I do not take a “one-size-fits-all” approach. I believe certain feelings, thoughts, and behaviors may be described as unhealthy or problematic for a person in one context, but may be completely fitting to a person in another context.
I work with BIPOC to help them understand how their life experiences have influenced the way they see themselves and the world. This awareness can help bring a sense of relief that there is a reason why you feel anger and other intense emotions and a sense of empowerment that you can have loving and joyful relationships, success in your work and school, and a safe and secure home and community.
I work with White People who believe racism is a divisive force in our society. I help them explore their implicit biases regarding race and racism as well as their privilege. I help them identify and overcome feelings of shame, fear, and other powerful emotions that trigger them when their perspectives and advantages are challenged.
