reflections and meditations
from along the way…
Working with survivors of sexual assault for the past 10 years has offered me the chance to learn from a wide breadth of stories and experiences. I am grateful to every person who has allowed me to witness and be with their pain for even the briefest moment. Everyone’s story is unique, but I have been reflecting on the common desire among many survivors to incarcerate people who hurt them.
Read MoreSince I began my social work career nine years ago, I have worked closely with survivors of sexual violence. Even before that, like everyone else, I grew up in a world where rape culture and sexual violence are the air that we breathe. Discussing sexual trauma brings up a range of emotions like disgust, sadness and fear but I primarily become enraged. I’ve been a social worker for a long time, but I’ve been pissed off for longer.
Read MoreRelationship anarchy reminds us that relationships outside of family can be just as powerful and sometimes more powerful, depending on the person. We do not have to rely on the idea that relationships prioritized by the state and cultural norms are the most important ones
Read MoreWhen I learned January is Self-Love month, I sort of giggled. Whoever minted that the theme of this month knew exactly what they were doing. During this time of year, we are surrounded by narratives of making great change aimed at self-improvement, and so much of that has to do with our bodies. January may be officially Self-Love month, but I usually feel sad about how many people openly yet implicitly talk about disgust and disappointment with their bodies
Read MoreI wanted to share my experiences in attempting to brace myself ahead of traumaversaries because we sometimes underestimate the impact these dates can have. Here are some of my strategies I rely on every year.
Read MoreA lot of folks don’t realize that you are allowed to talk to your therapist about aspects of their therapeutic style or approach that don't work for you.
Read MoreThere is something truly magical about a long-term relationship with an amazing therapist who feels like the perfect fit for you. And taking the time to periodically re-evaluate the relationship is a good habit to get into. Here are some questions you might ask yourself to reflect on your relationship with your therapist:
Read MoreAs we near the end of another calendar year, your therapist might initiate a conversation with you about your therapeutic relationship. They might ask questions like…
Read MoreThe game of winning or losing elections completely overshadows the real issues that affect people’s daily lives. None of the parties that have the most power and influence propose or implement policies that people desperately need, like affordable housing and accessible healthcare.
Read MoreMy journey as a social worker started with supporting those who have experienced interpersonal violence and trauma. I'm also passionate about working with individuals 14 and older who come from diverse backgrounds and have a wide range of life experiences.
Read MoreMost of us have settled into what seems to be the constantly changing new normal while also grappling with the fact that the old normal isn't coming back.
Read MoreWe are at a critical time with respect to the spread of the coronavirus. The actions we take today could be the difference between life and death for thousands of people. The time to implement social distancing and isolation is now.
Read MoreThere is increasing global concern regarding the new coronavirus and COVID-19. Here are some immediate precautions you are encouraged to take.
Read MoreLove finds a way, into the shadows of doubt and questioning. It opens a window, turns on a light, throws open the doors, and sets up shop. And invites the inquisition over for tea.
Read MoreMy recent Instagram posts about white supremacy, anti-racism, and decolonization were prompted by a “diversity training” I attended a couple months ago.
Read MoreRecent years have seen an uptick in the wellness and mental health community calling for self-care as the antidote to burnout. I'm calling bullshit.
Read MoreWhere did you learn that you weren’t enough? Who told you that you were lacking? When did you stop believing in the implicit worth, dignity, value, completeness, and beauty of your soul and personhood? Do you even remember?
Read MoreNo. Just no. No need for explanations or alternatives. Let them misunderstand. Let them speculate. Let them judge. You don’t always have to explain yourself. No matter how uncomfortable you feel.
Read MoreWhat will you do with the cards you’ve been dealt?
Read MoreMaybe your story is not “being written”; maybe you are the one writing it. And perhaps these are the moments when the universe hands you the pen and you get to tell your tale of extraordinary courage.
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