Kelly Pajares (she/her)

Trauma is a word with a lot of meaning behind it. When we say someone has experienced trauma, most often the person will deny it. “My problems aren’t that big.” However, trauma isn’t exclusive to those who have been through wars. We view trauma as any adverse experience that left you with a belief about yourself that is inherently untrue and inherently painful. It is also important to note that trauma can also happen on a societal or even global scale. Oppression can often lead to trauma.

Grief is involved in almost every aspect of our human experiences. Loss may be present after a life transition, after a breakup, or after a trauma. The year 2020 has presented us with several different forms of loss and trauma. Whatever the loss, you can expect that we will be patient, compassionate, and empathic when listening to your story. We will take this entirely at your pace. Know that you do not have to face this burden alone.

Whatever your struggle, I will support you in an LGBTQIA+ affirming manner. I embrace you and your identities in our efforts to help you meet your goals. This includes work addressing the negative impact that transphobia, homophobia, and heterosexism play in your life. You may have dealt with discrimination or violence and have created coping mechanisms to survive. My goal is to help you be who you want to be in the world. I also offer assistance in the gender confirming process.

I believe that meeting my clients where they are and assisting them in a pace and direction that feels right to them is the most important thing we can do as clinicians. Every person sets the pace at which they will achieve their own change. My job as the counselor is to get curious with you about where you would like to go and assist you in a collaborative manner in reaching your goals.