Noele Clayton

I specialize in trauma and mood disorders such as anxiety and/or depression related disorders. I also work with and am a culturally-sensitive ally of BIPOC and queer populations, with populations aged 10 years and older. I have a variety of different types of trauma, from the day-to-day micro-traumas of verbal abuse, emotional neglect and unfair expectations to physical and sexual abuse, grief and CPTSD. I've worked with these populations for over 12 years, and while I'll never say I've seen it all, I certainly sit and share with you in whatever you are going through.

I do my best to cultivate a safe environment where people can feel safe to discuss anything without fear of judgment, including and especially topics normally considered "forbidden" in most other places (i.e. race, gender, sex and sexuality, religion/spirituality, health, politics, etc.). Sessions tend to be more directed by you, but I can provide direction when and where appropriate. If there is something you do not want to do or feel unable to do, we can talk about that and find what the blocks are in order to get you to your goals in the way that works for you. You are always free to ask about my process (if I don't discuss that first) and let me know what does (and doesn't!) work for you. I am here for you and this is a collaboration, so rapport and communication are vital.

I primarily use a humanistic or client-centered approach to therapy, but I borrow generously from all branches of psychotherapy such as CBT, DBT, ACT and more, depending on your needs. I believe that you are the expert on your life and experiences, and that I act as a non-judgmental guide and confidant.

You tell me what you want out of therapy, and I will help clarify those goals into something tangible and reachable. Most people tend to want a reduction in unhealthy thoughts and behaviors or to improve relationships, and I just help to make those more specific so we can attain them together.

I've always been a good listener and found joy in helping others to discuss their problems and sort out their feelings, so it seemed like a natural fit for me! I am driven to continue to help people learn to help themselves so they no longer need me.

The first session is where I introduce myself and how I practice therapy, as well as discuss your rights and expectations for me as a therapist. Of course, I will also be asking a lot of questions about what you want out of therapy and about your background so I can better understand where you are coming from, but you do not have to answer anything you do not want to. This is an environment to help you, and while therapy is inherently uncomfortable at times, it should never feel unsafe.