About Roya
My own journey through abandonment, complex PTSD, internalized oppression (race, culture, homophobia), and attachment wounding drew me to look for that which would help me to accept myself exactly as I am while holding myself accountable to grow, shift, and heal in relation to both myself and others. I view this work as deeply sacred and powerful, and my role as a "wilderness guide" through the terrains of the soul, whatever that may mean to each person.
I love working with folks who know they need a change in how they are relating — to themselves, others, and the world around them. I get excited when clients say they have tried everything they know how to do to manage anxiety and PTSD symptoms and relational challenges and those things aren't working anymore — this opens the doorway to experiencing new, creative ways to be in yourself and in relationship, we just need to uncover what that is for you. I welcome folks who have experienced deep invalidation in their truth from those closest to them; please know that you did not deserve to feel that way and that your truth is beautiful and has an important place in this world — and we can help you to build that sense of acceptance deep within yourself.
I am a first generation, biracial, multicultural, queer cis-woman from a multiracial, multicultural blended family. I grew up in a family system that was heavy in trauma and chaos, and learned from those experiences to be messy in many ways. I came to this work because I knew I had to grow and change. I know what it means to hold oneself accountable for who we are in the world despite what we have gone through; our relationships with ourselves and others depend on that accountability, compassion, and ability to face ourselves honestly. I am deeply curious and am passionate about healing through deepening a relationship with our own bodies and the world around us, down to the tiniest organism. Isn't it awe inspiring that the mycelium network exists? And that wolves shape riverbeds in an ancient reciprocity?
I draw from a variety of frameworks and modalities, including Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Shifting Consciousness through Dimensions®, and Attachment Theory, as well as wisdom passed down from elders and communities through oral traditions, poetry, myths, and beautiful writing.
Specializations
Attachment Styles & Anxiety
Identity Development
BIPOC, LGBTQ+, Neurospicy
Acute & Complex Trauma
Therapeutic Style
Three words: warm, direct, curious.
Warm and nurturing, direct and structured, collaborative, challenging, laid-back and conversational, psychoeducational. When clients get stuck, my instinct is to sit with the discomfort.
Communities I Serve
Age groups: Teens (13–17), Young adults (18–25), Adults (26–40), Midlife adults (41–60), Older adults (60+).
In Roya's Words
"Hey! If you want to laugh together while exploring what it means to be fully alive in this world — messy and all — call me!"
Something I say a lot in session: "Of COURSE you feel that way! That makes total sense!"
I love crafting! I make messy art and once had a college 2-D art professor tell me that it's clear I just have "clumsy hands," which I laugh about now because I think they are right. I love nature and taking quiet walks in the forest and on the beach, and love-love-love my two dogs, Bear and Emerson.
Before Your First Session
I'm so glad you're here! It takes courage to come to therapy, and you came to the right place. No matter how uncomfortable the process may be, please know that the home and trust you will grow within yourself is well worth the discomfort of exploring the harder parts. I would love to connect and hear more about how I can support you in beginning this phase of your journey together.