A bit about me, personally

Before becoming a therapist, much of my work and learning was rooted in supporting youth, families, and communities through education, research, and frontline care. I completed my undergraduate degree in Childhood and Youth Studies with a minor in Psychology, where I became deeply interested in how people grow, form their identities, and are shaped by the relationships, communities, and systems around them.

During this time, I explored the impacts of the adultification bias and the disruption of Black girlhood. This research looked at how Black girls are too often perceived as older, less innocent, and less deserving of care and protection within systems that are meant to support them. This work was both academic and personal for me. It deepened my understanding of how systemic harm can shape someone’s sense of self, safety, and belonging, and it strengthened my commitment to advocacy, representation, and equity in mental health care.

Representation has always mattered to me. Growing up, and even moving through different spaces of care and support, I did not always see myself or my community reflected in the ways healing was talked about or offered. That absence stayed with me. It became part of why I chose this path and why I care so deeply about making therapy feel more accessible, approachable, and culturally responsive.

Over time, my experiences working with youth, families, and individuals navigating crisis, identity, emotional pain, and relationship challenges led me to psychotherapy. I came to see how meaningful it can be when someone has a space where they do not have to shrink, explain away parts of themselves, or carry everything alone.

At Duré Psychotherapy, my hope is to cultivate a space where people feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued. I strive to offer care that is inclusive, affirming, and grounded in respect for the many identities and experiences people bring with them. This includes African, Caribbean, and Black-identifying individuals, People of Colour, members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, neurodivergent individuals, and anyone seeking a space where they can feel supported in their full humanity.

I believe therapy is not about having all the answers right away. It is about creating room to pause, reflect, reconnect with yourself, and move toward healing in a way that feels meaningful to you. My role is to walk alongside you with care, curiosity, and compassion as you navigate your journey toward growth, connection, resilience, and a deeper sense of belonging.