Dear Neighbors, 

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We too often brush the issues of privilege that arise in healing work together under the rug, and in doing so we (the white and privileged) further subjugate you, our black, brown, and LBGTQIA+ neighbors. 

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First and foremost, I want to be explicit that therapy with me is a safe space for you. While I work to challenge and empower you, I will not invalidate your experiences, and will not undermine the unique challenges you face. You will never hear me say anything in the form of, "are you sure you're perceiving that right?" when it comes to your experiences. As a queer identified therapist, I try to be aware of microagressions, knowing personally how impactful and hurtful these can be.

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Secondly, I think it is important for you to know that I understand the history of white women "helping" black and brown people, playing into a white savior complex. There are so many systems-level things that have led me to this profession, and in an ideal world, there would be enough black and brown therapists, counselors and coaches that we would not be the ones doing this work. However, again because of the systems in place, this is not the case. Throughout our sessions, I will check-in around this history and how it is showing up in our sessions together. 

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Lastly, I am continually working to update my knowledge about the language I use and the stereotypes that might impact the questions I ask and the way we approach you. While I do not expect the folx I work with to teach me, I will check-in regularly to make sure you are continuing to feel safe, supported and understood as we work together, which means ensuring that my knowledge fits your own experience. 

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If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out. As always, thank you for being.

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Warmly,

Linnea