Early on, I knew I wanted to work with those who are regaining their lives after something most would prefer to not even think about. However, it is all too common for this to become a part of our narratives. These were narratives I grew up with partially due to being born into a Russian-American family. I heard about wars, famine, forced and voluntary migration, family (of choice and blood), love, and hope. I noticed, as you may have in your own life, the people who were more open about their experiences had more fulfilling relationships and less addiction. Seeing these differences allowed me to see the power of human connection, communication, and of unspoken secrets.

For years I have been a clinical service provider collaborating with individuals who have survived trauma. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, gaining my Master's of Social Work at Howard University. When starting I worked with refugees supporting them in transition to the DC metro area. Then worked in clinical settings specific for those who experienced interpersonal violence including but not limited to sexual assault and/or dating violence. In many of these settings, I noticed that fewer services were centering LGBTQ+ and Black folks. This was in DC! I ensured that I would affirm, and continue to build the skills and knowledge to best collaborate with survivors reclaiming their agency. This was critical when supporting those who survived forced and coerced labor.

I have settled in the Bay Area with my spouse, dogs, and cat. I fell in love quickly with the Bay Area and continued to collaborate with those who have been impacted by trauma and oppression. I will be taking parental leave from July 2023 until January 2024; not seeing clients during this time however will still providing clinical supervision.