Diversity is the intentional blending of human experiences. These experiences could arise from gender, sexuality, disability, religion, race, age, etc. Diversity allows multiple perspectives to exist in a safe space. When there is a lack of diversity, there is an overabundance of shared ideas. This creates a lack of creativity in solving complex problems.

I currently work with a woman who has been a nurse practitioner for many years. She has a great deal of experience and connects well with many patients. She does not believe in gender dysphoria or that any sexuality other than heterosexual or homosexual exists. She is very conservative, grew up in a rural area, and has strong religious beliefs that do not align with mine. However, we respect each other's differences. Her belief systems do not impact how I treat her. We regularly share casual conversation but simply do not discuss topics that we do not have in common. I will offer clients to transfer to her when they express they would prefer an older provider or a provider that can pray with them, etc. She will offer clients to transfer to me when they feel they cannot connect with her. We are able to acknowledge that differences are not wrong or bad; they just simply are.

From the first evaluation, I ensure to ask all clients what name they would like me to use and what their pronouns are. I explain there is never a right or wrong answer, particularly regarding substances or non-preferred behaviors. I am simply asking questions so I can best tailor the treatment plan to improve their safety and quality of life. When assessing for or discussing new trauma, I allow the client to lead the discussion. I give them permission to share as much or as little as they feel safe doing so. I ask if there have been any life experiences that continue to impact them today or any history of abuse. The details are not the most important; I mostly need to know if there are symptoms that could be related to these experiences that clinically I define as "trauma." I am always mindful when discussing trauma-related symptoms, to do so with caution to avoid triggering a flashback or dissociative experience during a session. In closing evaluations, I always offer an opportunity for new patients to discuss any fun facts about themselves, their hobbies, or any random facts in general. I try to make sure clients know I am a caring human that recognizes their need to be seen and heard.

I am thrilled. I currently work with a low-resource population in a less diverse region than where I grew up and attended school. I am always tickled when I find a client who is feeling lost in this region due to feeling alone in their identity and without access to supportive care.

Growing up in Houston, TX and spending time in Austin, TX, I have seen things occur towards the BIPOC population that some people do not believe is reality. From witnessing aggressive law enforcement encounters, bullying of many forms, and simply offensive speech from others, their experiences are valid.

 In my current position, I often provide some of the first education parents receive on the statistics of suicide risk related to withholding gender-affirming care for LGBTQIA+ youth. Being in a semi-rural area with limited diversity, many of the individuals I work with are not familiar with these populations, and I am happy to provide a safe place to explore their thoughts and provide education.

I am currently advocating for a young minor client who was mislabeled by the school system as attention-seeking. He had some significant disruptive behaviors in school previously. He was simply undiagnosed ADHD, hyperactive type. He was started on a non-stimulant and is no longer aggressive, and he can now sit for an age-appropriate amount of time. The school is providing online-only education in an isolated room with no access to recess or peers. The school has declined to attempt to re-integrate him into the general education classroom. They state he is being punished in this manner for the rest of the school year. I am attending IEP meetings with the parents to advocate for legal, evidence-based, safe education accommodations for their child. My current employer prefers case managers to attend IEP meetings. There is a 2-month wait for a case manager assignment, and I do not feel 2 more months of isolation is in the best interest of this child. The child's current therapist is hesitant to disagree with the school because the child did have a history of aggression. I feel strongly that a young child needs access to release physical energy in some form of recess, preferably more often than a child without ADHD. I also do not believe that punishment for an untreated mental health condition for a multi-month period is appropriate at his age. I have additionally supported the parents in contacting the state disability rights center.

Tiny Tots - Elementary School Kiddos (4 - 12yo), Young Adolescents (13-18yo), Older Adolescents to Adults (19 - 64yo)

Alcohol & Substance Abuse Disorders, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bipolar), Thought Disorders (Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective), Anxiety Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Disorders of Childhood, Adult Psychiatry, LGBTQAI+ Care, BIPOC Care, Religious Trauma, Medical Trauma, Personality Disorders, Polyamory/Nontraditional Relationship Members.

Horseback riding/training is the highlight of my week, every week. Horses are just magnificent creatures that have such strength but are so vulnerable at the same time. My backyard garden also brings me so much joy each year. The experiences and resources nature can provide bring me great joy outside of work. I am passionate about my work, but sometimes I enjoy the beauty of non-human interactions.

Hysterical! You have to laugh at life; it's a good coping skill and it's tons of fun.

Humor is an important part of my practice and the way I engage with clients.