I didn’t think that I would become a therapist when I was growing up. Before Antioch, I was even enrolled for 2 years in a PhD program in environmental toxicology. Along the way, I came out as transgender and I knew I wanted to be in a field where I was celebrated rather than just tolerated. Coming out changed my life trajectory significantly. I first became an LGBT activist, but I knew my passion could not sustain me in such an extroverted career and I found AULA’s LGBT Specialization.
As a student in the LGBT Specialization, I learned how my internalized homo/bi/transphobia keeps me from a more fulfilled life. It taught me about the beauty and wonder that comes with the unique, special LGBTQIA soul and essence. But I still didn’t understand the power of psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy until I started my own psychoanalysis with an LGBTQIA affirmative psychoanalyst. As an MFT trainee, I utilized psychoanalysis to address vicarious traumatization from working with other transgender and gender non-binary people dealing with trauma. Through the containment and working through negative transference, I was able to explore my past and challenge my own internalized homo/bi/transphobia.
I’m excited to share my knowledge and expertise about LGBT affirmative therapy and learn from all of your journeys as we co-create an educational and transformative experience that is unique to the LGBT specialization at AULA.