Pronouns: He, Him
License: LMFT
Education: Macalester College, St. Paul, MN, Bachelor of Arts in Spanish Area Studies; Antioch University, Los Angeles, CA, Master’s Degree in Clinical Psychology
I believe that deep down we all make sense, and that while life can feel overwhelming and our problems too great to solve, real change is possible.
My approach to therapy integrates strength-based modalities that are tailored to the unique needs of each client. Together we will identify your untapped sources of courage and resilience to break through doubt, shame and fear. With care and curiosity, we will explore and begin to heal the often hidden wounds inflicted by our experiences, families and society.
This process is especially important in our community, where the corrosive effects of internalized and familial homophobia, biphobia and transphobia frequently result in lifelong struggles with sexual shame, feelings of being “the outsider,” and perfectionism in all its forms.
Prior to becoming a therapist, I spent 20 years in a high pressure creative position in the corporate world. I have firsthand knowledge of the difficulty of navigating toxic work environments while still having time and energy left for ourselves and our relationships.
Born and raised in NYC, I received my BA in Spanish Area Studies from Macalester College in St. Paul, MN. I earned my MA in Clinical Psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles with a specialization in LGBT Affirmative Therapy. I have additional training in Motivational Interviewing (MI) for clients who are struggling with substance use and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP). My work with couples blends elements from my post graduate training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and Collaborative Couple Therapy.
I am passionate about creating an environment of safety and security, where clients are able to feel supported and understood. Working together, we can change old patterns of feeling and thinking that are no longer working and empower your authentic self. I invite you to enlist me as a caring and committed ally in your process of healing and transformation. Hablo Español.
Meet Bailey, LGBTQ Therapist at GTC
In your opinion, what’s the most crucial aspect of a successful therapeutic relationship?
Trust. And a sense of humor. Fortunately, the right kind of laughter builds trust.
How do you differentiate between self-care and self-indulgence?
That’s between me and Häagen-Dazs.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of therapy for you, as a therapist?
Sharing the excitement of a client seeing themself in an important new way that they didn’t think was possible.
What is your greatest strength as a therapist?
My world famous humility. A lifelong fascination with how we experience ourselves and the world probably doesn’t hurt either.
Let’s break the stigma! Share a myth about therapy you’d like to debunk.
That it’s only about “fixing what is broken.” I find that exploring and strengthening what is already working creates a sense of optimism and purpose that helps to break through the rigid patterns that lead us to therapy in the first place.
In therapy, we explore emotions. Which emotions do you notice people struggling with the most?
Sadness and anger, which not surprisingly often go hand in hand. The fear of being overwhelmed by either can be terrifying.
Share a self-reflection prompt to spark meaningful introspection.
“What is going on with me right now? Does this feel familiar? Will I care about this tomorrow? In a week?”
Share an activity or hobby that helps you unwind and relax.
A while back I started swimming laps a couple of mornings a week. There’s something about actively avoiding drowning that simultaneously focuses and frees my mind in ways that don’t happen anywhere else.
Share a book or resource that has significantly influenced your perspective on mental health.
Attachment Theory completely revolutionized my understanding of how we relate to other people. It also helps provide a basis for compassion when trying to figure out why it is that we can respond to certain situations in such radically different ways.
How do you practice self-care after a challenging therapy session as a therapist?
I like listening to classical music. Preferably while enjoying something cheese-based.
