My name is Alder and I grew up in Westchester, New York. I obtained my Bachelors and Masters at Columbia University;  my Bachelors is in English and Masters is in Social Work. 

I have experience working with individuals who identify as BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, sex workers, non-monogamous/polyamorous, and those living with HIV and other chronic illnesses and/or disabilities. My work has centered on supporting adults grappling with trauma and chronic illness and/or disabilities, as well as depression, anxiety, substance use, eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and borderline personality disorder.

I strongly believe that techniques and styles should adapt to each individual I work with, as no two people share the same exact needs. My therapeutic style is collaborative, informed by the understanding that each person is an expert of their own lived experiences. I believe knowledge is power. My work with clients is grounded in their learning how to thrive regardless of what life throws their way.

I am interested in historical trauma and its impact on the mind, body, and spirit. I look forward to further developing my narrative and emotion-focused therapeutic skills, as well as learning more about the internal family systems model. I am also interested in adopting additional mindfulness-based practices into his work as well. 

I identify as a Black, biracial, queer, transgender, non-binary, and a neurodivergent little guy. I am the oldest of two children of a first generation Jamaican Brooklynite and a French immigrant. I have always held multiple marginalized identities, as well as privileged ones, and this nuance offers the lens through which I do therapeutic work and connects with others. I speak English and French fluently.

I love to sing, write songs, and play the piano and guitar. I enjoy painting flowers and urban landscapes with watercolors. I sew, embroider from time to time, and tailor my own clothes. I adore plants and maintains a garden at home of herbs, flowers, and vegetables. Ir seeks the magic in everyday life.

I enjoy spending time with my friends and family as an act of self-care. Equally important is my alone time, when I can practice my creative pursuits, dance and move, journal, and tend to my garden. To unwind, I go for walks, identifies trees, and listens to the birds chirp.

I feel very close to the people, land, and creatures of the NYC metro area. There’s so much culture, art, music, and life in New York. Being in the NYC metro area allows me to thrive and live authentically as I am, showing up better for my clients, as well as my loved ones. This is and always has been my home. 

I love working with members of the LGBTQIA+ communities offering support navigating coming out. I volunteer and serve the LGBTQIA+ communities at a Manhattan based non for profit organization.