Charles Thompson-Shealy

The search for a therapist who understands can be difficult and long. I encourage you to stay motivated to find the right fit. I know from my own work that therapy only works when there is a solid working relationship between me and my client. Let me share a little more about how I work. Flexibility to meet my client’s needs is a core value of mine. While my educational background is psychodynamically focused that does not mean that I am limited to only “talk therapy”. I understand that not every experience can best be explored intellectually. We can often increase our awareness through art and movement. The images in our mind’s eye or the shapes our bodies take are rich sources of insight. I have developed an anti-oppressive practice understanding that the traumatic effects of experiences of oppression are not studied enough in the field of psychotherapy. From my work with queer and trans folk, and specifically from my work with queer and trans folks of color I have developed an understanding of hate violence and intimate partner violence outside of the context of heteronormativity and within the context of intersectionality. And how historical, generational, and the ongoing trauma of systemic oppression deeply impacts our experiences and responses in the here and now. One thing I’ve learned is that the tools of liberation can only be crafted with both creativity and care because we don’t know what they look like and the tools readily available to us are those of oppression. Have you ever wondered “where am I and where am I going?” or “why do I have these relationships?” Do you want to understand how your past is affecting your present? Let’s figure out how you can grow toward your dream future.