more about myself / education

identity:

Perhaps like you, I am deeply embedded in the process of rediscovering and clarifying my sense of Self. As a Brown, biracial, queer, cis-woman (she/her) living with a disability and chronic pain and illness, I commonly find myself in environments where my reality is questioned, doubted, or shamed. I spent years quieting my voice and identity to make others comfortable. As a result, I am well acquainted with the pain and exhaustion of doing so. I am still unlearning that habit, finding relief in community, and constantly learning and growing from those around me.

education/background:

I have a Master's degree in clinical mental health counseling and a Bachelor's degree in journalism and anthropology. What led me to pursue counseling? In my twenties, I worked in outdoor education—specifically working with underserved youth in wilderness settings in Alaska and Washington. Together, we discussed how we navigate spaces in marginalized bodies, celebrating stories of bravery and brainstorming tools to promote inclusion in our own communities. I continuously wanted to learn more about how to effectively support others through challenges and moments of growth, and eventually decided to go back to school to do so.

what brings me joy:

dogs, dancing, and my dear friends. I would have liked to join the circus in another life, flying on aerial silks. You can always ask me what book I'm reading/podcast I'm listening to/show I'm watching - I love a good story. And I particularly love a good mystery, crossword, or puzzle!

I believe you should know about your therapist.

I am not a blank slate.

here are some things about me...

I operate under a wide variety of experiences in & exposures to multiple cultures and communities. I self-disclose so that you can decide if you would like to work with me, and so that you can understand the lens through which I see the world around me.

I am biracial; my mom is white and my dad is Sri Lankan.
I am queer, and came out in my late twenties.
I am what they call a "third culture kid." I grew up in upstate New York, rural India, and metropolitan Thailand.
I am a Certified Body Trust® Provider, and utilize weight-inclusive and liberatory frameworks in my practice as a counselor. You can read a bit more about Body Trust here.
I have a variety of chronic illnesses that impact my energy levels, ability to move freely, and overall health. I am familiar with:
- - Lyme disease (and co-infections)
  - Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) + orthostatic intolerance
  - Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)
  - Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
  - Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome + hypermobility
  - Mold-related illnesses
  - GI issues, including small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
Because of ^that, I spend a significant time on the couch, indulging in reality television and movies. You can talk to me about Bravo content whenever you want.
I am committed to integrating active social justice, anti-racist, disability justice, and body liberation work into the counseling room. I pursue my own learning opportunities as we grow as a community and society, and I welcome being called-in if I missed the mark.

credentials & trainings

Sexual Attitude Reassessment (SAR) - Northwest Instititute on Intimacy, June 2022
Body Trust Certification Program - Center for Body Trust, February 2023 - March 2024