I have lived in and traveled to over 40 countries and across the U.S., and because of this, I have developed an eclectic worldview. I incorporate this-worldly, culturally competent perspective into my work by exploring the narrative of my clients seeking to understand the intricacies and uniqueness of every individual. My approach to psychotherapy is relational, mindful, and holistic, and my goal is to help every client achieve healthy tools and coping skills for daily living. In addition to learning about cultures around the world, I have completed various anti-racist workshops where I analyzed the structures of power and privilege that hinder social equity and learned to be an effective social justice ally to issues such as racism, classism, homophobia, transphobia, ableism, and religious oppression.

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I self identify with many of the communities I work with - queer, kinky, polyamorous, disabled, and neurodivergent. 

 

I obtained my MSW from Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College, where I studied clinical social work with a focus on individuals, youth, and families. Since 2011, I have been working with the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual/Aromantic (LGBTQIA+) community who have been dealing with a variety of concerns — gender identity, sexuality, immigration, family & relationship concerns, trauma, life transitions, polyamory, intimacy/sexual issues, domestic violence, cancer, HIV, chronic illnesses and mental health issues...to name a few. I have also completed over 150 hours of required sex therapy classes to receive a certification as a Certified Sex Therapist (CST). I am also certified in Urban Tantra. Urban Tantra could be best described as conscious breath which can be used as a healing and facilitating tool. Erotic touch and sensual touch is another big part of Urban Tantra. Teaching clients how to use the Urban Tantra technique in sessions will allow clients to becoming more conscious around their touch, body, and sexuality.

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I have also completed required classes to become a trained Attachment-Focused EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. AF-EMDR is a clinically-proven powerful therapeutic method which uses Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) for healing trauma-based problems. AF-EMDR stresses the importance of creating safety for the client as well as being flexible to adapt treatment according to client-centered cultural and individual needs. AF-EMDR has high efficacy rates for depression, anxiety, PTSD, borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses.

 

Previously, I worked with HIV+ clients to help them on a path of self-sufficiency, healthy living, and empowerment through using harm reduction techniques, counseling, and advocacy. Before that, I worked as a community sexual health educator for Planned Parenthood at low-income schools in Cleveland and San Francisco for four years. I have also taught classes and workshops at City College in San Francisco, NYU Silver School of Social Work, and the Silberman School of Social Work at Hunter College. Additionally, I have published articles in various local NYC periodicals and magazines about LGBTQI+ health disparities.

 

If you think I could be of help to you at this time, please email me at erin@expressyourselftherapynyc.com to set up a consultation.