I understand sex positivity as a stance that seeks to recognise, include, and accept all individuals and the diversity of gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and kinks they may have. It's a non-judgemental and non-shaming approach that looks beyond the traditional notion and functions of sex and focuses on the consensual and pleasurable aspects of it too. As a sex-positive therapist, I attempt to normalise the wide range of human sexual behaviours and desires and validate my clients' sexual feelings and experiences. Whether it's through the language I use with clients or the environment I create within sessions, a sex-positive approach moves me to prioritise safety, comfort, and contextual sensitivity. Being sex-positive in my practise also involves helping my clients achieve self-acceptance, embrace both physical and psychological well-being, and realise their rights to sexual expression and freedom.

Being an ally of the LGBTQIA+ community means actively supporting, affirming, and advocating for the rights, dignity, and well-being of individuals within this community. As an ally, I take a stance of sociocultural curiosity- this means that I take up the responsibility to educate myself about the unique life experiences and stressors of queer folx and also attempt to be reflective about my own biases or assumptions. Allyship is incomplete without advocacy and it means striving to amplify the voices of queer individuals instead of grabbing the microphone from them- with all advocacy work, the focus should remain on promoting equality, justice, and empowerment for the LGBTQIA+ community. As a therapist working with queer clients, I ensure I use respectful and affirming language and create an environment where they feel seen and understood. I continually learn from my clients and their stories too and thus, build on my knowledge.

Since the experiences of trauma are so varied and unique to each individual, there can be no one-size-fits-all answer for this question. However, one of the key outcomes that is hoped for and worked on when a client is a trauma survivor is the re-establishment of their subjective sense of physical and psychological safety and stability. This typically involves working to increase somatic/bodily awareness and learning to regulate the nervous system better, using healthy coping strategies. Additionally, in my work, I try to help clients feel increased trust in their environment and relationships along with an improved belief in their own ability to handle challenges. Taking a trauma-informed lens with my clients means seeing them detach themselves from the shame or guilt associated with the trauma experience and build greater self-compassion.

A typical session with me lasts 50-55 minutes, allowing ample time to delve into the client's concerns without feeling rushed. Throughout the session, I maintain a flexible approach, allowing the client's needs and narrative to guide the pace and direction of our conversation. I usually begin with a brief check-in, where we discuss how the client has been since our last meeting and identify any immediate concerns they wish to explore. My work is grounded in a Person-Centred approach and borrows from the schools of Narrative Therapy and Internal Family Systems. This essentially means that the client remains the expert and teller of their life story and the therapeutic space is welcoming of all the parts and personalities of the clients that wish to surface. Each session typically involves an intentional mix of reflection, self-exploration, uncovering new perspectives, and learning adaptive coping strategies. It concludes with reflections on insights gained and potential action steps, often including activities or reflective exercises for continued growth between sessions. Techniques and strategies aside, my foremost focus for each session remains on creating a gentle, supportive, and validating holding space for my clients- one where they feel valued and confident to undertake the journey of healing and personal growth.