What are some the unique issues faced by clients in your particular field of specialization, in terms of mental health education, care, and/or treatment?
In my experience BIPOC individuals face intersectional issues. While they are 13% of the population we compose over 50% of health disparities and incarceration rates. In my work with women of color, issues around infertility and lack of proper support around pregnancy loss and IVF process has caused grief, loss and questions about their identity and role as a women. In addition, people of color navigate many injustices which as a collective negatively impact their daily functioning. There has been collective trauma and need for healing and a call for action as a black therapist to provide that emotional space.
What do you think is the biggest barrier today for people seeking care?
I believe there has been an increase in individuals seeking therapy, specifically black indigenous people of color. Currently, a common barrier is not the access of services but finding a therapist of quality that can relate to daily stressors. The therapeutic alliance is the most crucial and salient part of the healing journey. People of color desire to have a therapist with a skill set that can allow them to unmask from the daily injustices and discriminations they face in the work place, community and systems overall. As a black therapist, I desire to acknowledge and address ways in which these systems impact daily functioning.
In what ways have your personal experiences influenced your work with your clients?
I am a black female therapist and founder of Embrace Therapy and Consultation LLC. Embrace Therapy and Consultation LLC is reclaiming emotional and mental wellness for BIPOC folks through unapologetic authentic vibes and healing. As a licensed mental health counselor, I am passionate about serving the BIPOC community. It is often in these communities people have suffered through systemic oppression and having their voice stifled or overlooked in spaces where they make the most impact. I am intentional about creating a space that provides validation , advocacy, safety and empowerment to help individuals and families find their voice and power toward being their most unapologetic self.
Specialties
Depression
Depression often causes people to feel sad, empty, or hopeless, and can cause a lack of interest in life. It can also affect a person's thinking patterns and physical health.
Anxiety
Anxiety can mean nervousness, worry, or self-doubt. Anxiety disorder is a mental health disorder that entails excessive, repeated bouts of worry, anxiety, and/or fear.
Loss/Grief
Grief is a reaction to an emotionally significant loss and often comes with symptoms of depression or anxiety. These symptoms can remain intense and last for a long time after a loss, making it difficult to move forward with a healthy lifestyle.
Communication issues
Source of communication challenges in circumstances and relationships that can have a negative impact on mental health. Misunderstandings and misinterpretations often lead to arguments in personal, platonic, or professional relationships.
Life transitions
Positive and negative change can be difficult, including things like moving, breaking up, adjusting to parenthood, or changing careers. It’s normal to feel stressed, however, life transitions can inhibit people from living healthy lifestyles.
General Expertise
Self-Esteem
Self-esteem is the degree to which a person feels confident, valuable, and worthy of respect. Feeling low self-esteem can influence overall well-being and be linked to anxiety and/or depression.
Race & Cultural Identity
Challenges around race and cultural identity vary enormously, including issues related to discrimination, racism, and intergenerational trauma.
Attachment issues
Children that experience parents and/or guardians that are avoidant, ambivalent, or resistant from an early age, may develop attachment issues. This can manifest as difficulty forming or maintaining friendships, romantic relationships and empathetic bonds throughout life, as well as other issues.
Caregiver stress & support
Caring for a friend or family member (paid or unpaid) includes emotional support, housework, help with finances, medication management, and shopping. Can be stressful, making caregivers more vulnerable to things like anxiety, isolation, and fatigue.
Child mental health
Children can be impacted by things like anxiety, depression, ADHD and more. However, they can be difficult to identify because kids aren’t always able to communicate effectively. Untreated, child mental health issues can have long-term effects.
Fees
$150
First Session
$175
Family Therapy
$175
Couples Therapy
$75
Group Therapy
$150
Individual Therapy
Types of Therapy
Family Session
Couples Session
Individual Session
Clientele
Young Adults (18-24)
Adults (25-65)
Adolescents (13-17)
Treatment Approaches / Modalities
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Mindfulness Practices
Culturally Sensitive Therapy
Family Systems Therapy
Motivational Interviewing
Multicultural Therapy
Licensure
NY, LMHC, 009765
Education
CUNY City College MA in Mental health counseling 2015
Location
600 Broadway Ste 200, #1829, Albany, 12207, NY