Biography | Shay Gonzales, LCSW, CAADC
My approach to therapy is guided by a strong anti-oppression lens and an emphasis on the wisdom of lived experience. I incorporate integrative, feminist concepts with applications of Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support clients in making desired changes in their thinking and behavior.
I work with adults - individuals, couples, groups - seeking to improve their communication, build more fulfilling relationships, manage anxiety or depression, connect with and honor their emotions, and heal from trauma.
As a trans, non-binary therapist, I have a special affinity for working with the LGBTQIA+ community. We explore gender identity and practice gender-affirming care from an informed consent model. Rather than the narrow diagnostic lens, care providers committed to informed consent acknowledge a diverse variety of experiences, recognize trans people are able to make their own choices about their bodies and seek to place the life stories, expertise and needs of the trans individual first. I am invested in partnering with people impacted by stigma from mental health providers, including those who seek assistance with problematic substance use, chronic relationship distress associated with complex trauma, and experiences of psychosis or other altered states.