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 where as an MFT trainee, I was able to address vicarious traumatization from working with other transgender and gender non-conforming people. Through the containment and working through negative transference, I was able to explore my past and challenge my own internalized homo/bi/transphobia. I started to value myself, asking for what I wanted/needed, opened up to new levels of intimacy, became a stronger therapist, and healed wounds that I didn’t even know existed.
In addition to teaching at Antioch University Los Angeles, I have a robust private practice under the supervision of Ken Scott, PsyD where I mostly see patients who are transgender and gender non-conforming in Glendale, CA.
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.
