Difference and Diversity
My Approach
Each of us has our own unique experiences and backgrounds that make us who we are. While that may include an infinite number of factors, things like gender, race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic class, disability and sexuality play a big part in how the we move about the world and how we experience others and ourselves. In addition to other therapeutic theories, I incorporate a feminist therapy approach, which means that whilst these factors may not always be central to the work we do together, the context of your positionality in society will be explored to develop understanding about all the factors that contribute to your problems, as well as your joys. Whilst my own exploration of my identity as Black, mixed-race queer cis woman (and so much more!) may help me to empathise with many different intersections of power and privilege, I treat every person as an individual with their own unique experience to be understood and explored. Seeing your life and experiences in socio-political context is essential to real, meaningful change.
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Racial, Cultural and Ethnic Identity
Whilst race, culture and ethnicity have always been a part of all our experiences, the rise of the Black Lives Matter Movement and the increasing polarisation of our society has brought these issues into sharp focus for many of us. Whether you are struggling with racial trauma, understanding your own identity or confronting your own internalised oppression, I am experienced and trained in helping you process these challenging issues. I take an empathic, non-judgemental approach with both compassion and candour. If I know little about your particular place or culture of origin, you will not be expected to teach me as I will take responsibility for my own learning as part of my ethical commitment to you and my own values of equality and respect. In a similar way, if you belong to a dominant or privileged group in our society, I will give you the same opportunity to explore how this affects you and create a safe place to develop your own understanding and consciousness about the intersections of privilege and oppression in your own life.
Gender, Relationship and Sexual Diversity
I take a non-judgemental, respectful approach to relationship diversity, such as open relationships and polyamory, and an affirming position towards gender and sexuality identities and practices. This includes a kink-positive approach as well as a non-judgemental approach to sex work. I am a member of Therapists Against Conversion Therapy and Transphobia (TACTT) and encourage anyone who is seeking help to reach out. Even if we are not able to work together I will most likely be able to put you contact with someone who can, or at least put you in the right direction. Whilst all members of the LGBTQIA+ community are welcome, so are those who are trying to learn to be more accepting and understanding of those who are different from themselves. If you are struggling to understand or accept a loved one for who they are, that is something we can explore and work on together.
Neurodiversity
Many of the traditional approaches and expectations in psychological therapies can be difficult for those who are neurodiverse. Things like direct eye contact, strict timings, and a lack of support with reminders can be stressful or even shaming. My belief is that managing our work in a way that works for you is a joint responsibility and it is not your job to do all the adjusting. My intention is that our sessions do not replicate experiences of being afraid of making mistakes or shamed for not 'doing it right'. Instead, if something isn't working, we'll figure out what we can do together to make it workable for us both.