Discovering one’s racial identity is a process of introspection, an outward understanding of the social and political privileges in the world, and recognizing the implications that each has on one another as they relate to that individual.
Therapists and counselors make space for clients of color and white clients to understand how their racial identity impacts their lives, what privileges they do and do not have related to race, and how that impacts their mental health.
People exist at different stages in recognizing their racial identity, with some people unaware of how race affects their lives and others acutely aware due to the pervasiveness of discrimination.
Available Treatment Options
Counseling interventions include processing emotions related to racial identity, understanding the implications of the effects of race, and supporting growth and empowerment.
Therapists Who Specialize in Helping Those Who Struggle With Racial Identity
I believe that therapy works well when it is a collaborative process. Finding a therapist you trust is key, as I see the relationship between therapist and client as the foundation for positive change. I have been described as warm and approachable while also real and direct. I am trained in the creative arts and use these tools when they support healing and growth. I offer individual, group, a...
If you are someone who, by nature of identity or through your experiences in this world, find yourself in the grip of anxiety, grief, depression, or any other symptoms that make it hard to function in this world, I would be honored to work with you, to help you, and to journey together with you towards whatever goal you may set yourself. I am passionate about working with clients who feel like...
With sensitivity and compassion, I aim to empower clients to make meaningful changes in their lives. It is completely normal to get stuck in a rut and need some guidance on how to move forward in a positive direction. You don't have to go through this alone not knowing what to do. Change is possible and there is hope. In my practice, I work with individuals, couples and families. My goal is to...
I believe each of us can benefit from therapy as a space to grapple with life’s difficulties. My ideal client is anyone who is motivated to explore their relationship with themselves and others. I work with adults to address relationship issues, adjustment to life transitions, identity, stress, anxiety, as well as eating and body image concerns. I enjoy working with those who identify as member...
I think that in many ways, mainstream culture opposes our aliveness. Our belonging suffers because of the narrow boxes prescribed to us. If you feel stunted, stuck, or like you can't get it together, I don't believe there is anything wrong with you; I believe that you've adapted to a context. As an embodiment-based, relational therapist with a neurobiological lens, I am here to help in the...
I have a passion to help others live a better life and guide them through their journey of self-exploration and change. I believe in providing a safe place for clients to be, to experience unconditional acceptance and genuineness. I believe in the importance of using different therapeutic techniques depending on client’s needs and the situation. My counseling techniques include person-centered,...
You are not a drop in the ocean, You are the entire ocean, in a drop (Rumi). Despite the serious nature of issues that lead many individuals to seek counseling, my sessions are creative and collaborative, fostering hope and compassion. Whether you are struggling with overwhelming feelings, a loss or bereavement, a strained relationship, excessive demands at work or home, unresolved difficulties...
**Accepting new clients** Starting therapy can be a difficult and scary task which is why I bring compassion and warmth to the therapeutic relationship. Engaging in therapy is a bold and courageous step towards increasing your awareness of yourself so you can live a more empowered life and be who it is you want to be. I utilize an eclectic and strength focused approach tailored to each...
We all have one lifetime to live, to explore and to experience. It is my belief our past and our present greatly impact the future we will have. As we all know, past experiences cannot be altered. However, it is my firm belief, together, we can explore better ways to deal with our emotions and thoughts that no longer serve us. I specialize in stress and anxiety management, trauma, women issues,...
Acacia Counseling and Wellness is a leading provider of outpatient, university mental health support. We specialize in providing high quality mental health services to university students, faculty and staff, as well as the greater community. Our office is conveniently located near UC Santa Cruz, and our therapists are trained across a variety of issues and modalities. We also now provide...
"Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced"- James Baldwin. My personal and professional experiences with individuals (predominantly minorities) who experienced various traumas in their lives that had gone untreated and undiagnosed inspired me to become a clinical psychologist. There is a consistent misunderstanding of how life experiences can imp...
Life is ever-changing and evolving in manifold ways. We all go through life changes and unforeseen roadblocks that create imbalance within our minds. It is quite empowering to seek out help when our inner self wants to “talk” and respect that need. This is where I come in as a vessel of support to aide in your journey of knowing your inner self and what challenges or changes you might be going...
With over 20 years of experience, my approach to therapy is founded on compassion and respect for my client. I feel privileged working collaboratively in order to achieve significant goals. My aim is to provide meaningful, comprehensive care, based on the idea that we all come with our own unique history, life views, culture, and values. I wish to create a safe space and a holistic environment...
My role is to honor your decision to take steps toward a healthy mind, spirit and lifestyle. I am offering therapy that is tailored to your specific needs, an empathetic ear, and a therapeutic relationship based on full acceptance and mutual trust. My office is a space where all who enter can be fully-authentic. A place where hope is instilled, healing takes place, and lives are changed for the...
You are here because you have been noticing more and more arguments between you and your partner. You just haven't been getting along lately and if possible you wanna save the relationship. There has been so much Anger, Pain, Hurt, and Betrayal that you are almost ready to give up. However you still have some curiosity to see if the love is still there although the relationship has been through...
