Dr. Mehrit Tekeste

Licensed Psychologist

My biggest strengths as a therapist lie in my ability to build genuine, trusting relationships and to hold space for complexity without judgment. Clients often share that they feel deeply seen and understood in our work together. I’m attuned to the nuances of cultural identity, intergenerational dynamics, and the ways in which systemic and personal experiences intersect—particularly for individuals from marginalized or bicultural backgrounds. Clinically, I’m flexible and integrative in my approach, drawing from a strong foundation in evidence-based practices while remaining grounded in curiosity and humility. I listen closely—not just to the words, but to the meaning and emotion beneath them—and help clients connect the dots between their past and present in a way that fosters clarity and self-compassion. Above all, I bring warmth, presence, and a deep respect for each client’s lived experience. I believe that healing happens in relationship, and I work collaboratively to help clients feel more aligned, empowered, and at home within themselves.

What’s important to know about working with me is that our work will be a collaborative process, rooted in trust, curiosity, and respect for your lived experience. I’m not here to “fix” you—I’m here to support you in uncovering your own insights, strengths, and capacity for change. I take a relational and culturally responsive approach, which means I’ll pay attention to the larger systems and identities that shape your story, and I’ll invite those into the room when they feel relevant. You don’t always have to feel comfortable in therapy, but you will feel safe. I work at your pace—gently, but with intention. I’ll ask thoughtful questions (some that may be challenging), offer reflections, and help you explore patterns with compassion, not judgment. I believe therapy should be a space where you can show up fully—messy, complex, uncertain, and hopeful—and still feel deeply seen and supported. You don’t have to have it all figured out to start. We’ll figure it out together.

My life philosophy and treatment philosophy are deeply intertwined. At the core, I believe that all people are inherently valuable—worthy of care, respect, and belonging, simply because they exist. I don't see people as problems to be solved or categorized as “all good” or “all bad.” Instead, I try to honor the full complexity of being human: the contradictions, the messiness, the resilience, and the pain. In both my personal and professional life, I strive to meet people with compassion rather than judgment. I believe in holding space for both accountability and grace—recognizing that we can honor where we’ve been while still working toward where we want to go. This means embracing self-compassion not as a form of passivity, but as a powerful foundation for growth and change. Therapy with me reflects this philosophy. I approach each client with curiosity and respect, knowing that healing happens not by fixing who you are, but by reconnecting with the parts of you that may have been silenced, shamed, or overlooked. Together, we create space to explore, to be human, and to move toward greater alignment, wholeness, and meaning.