In my practice, it is my goal to support clients to embrace all the parts of them in healing from trauma. When working with those that have experienced trauma, I've found that individuals can feel shame over how they've survived, what they've experienced, or who they are. In our sessions, we come together to learn the various ways you've survived and understand how they serve you currently. You don't need fixing or saving; instead, we work together to find deeper understanding, compassion, and acceptance of yourself. I focus on building an empathic relationship with my clients to align their physical, mental, emotional, and social goals with therapy.

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I also currently am accepting members for Our Resilience, a healing group for survivors of sexual assault, abuse, and violence. 

Life can be messy, chaotic, and complicated; therapy reminds me of spring cleaning.

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Together, we take stock of what brings you joy and what you can let go of. We discover things that might've gotten lost over time. And most importantly, we take time to compassionately tend to areas of yourself that need a little care.

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 I'm a 

After graduating with a BA in Psychology from the University of Miami in 2014, I served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in South Africa from 2015-2017**. After my service, I was drawn to social justice and working with communities and pursued a Master's of Social Work. After graduation, I worked as a project manager for Cancer Support Community but felt a deeper connection in working directly with individuals. This led me to work with and support incredible individuals in the DMV area at the Viva Center and now at Our Collective. 

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Recently, I have been exploring alternative methods of healing and have begun to develop a deeper connection to yoga and breathwork. I was certified in breathwork in July 2022 and now integrate this modality into my work with clients. Read more information on breathwork on my website, alexswales.com.

When I’m not in therapist mode, I enjoy running, paddleboarding, baking delicious gluten-free treats (I have celiac) and being close to the water. I love spending time with my friends and family. In non-Pandemic times, I love to travel and so far have been to 33 countries. I am dedicated to un-learning and dismantling capitalism and racism through my practice.