Tea James, MSW, LISW (she/they) is a femme presenting, white, straight-bodied, neurodivergent, bisexual person. She originally received her Bachelor's in Health Sciences to become a medical professional. After seeing and experiencing first-hand the lack of resources and discrimination towards queer and trans people in the medical field, Tea received her Master's in Social Work, where she realized she could merge her passion for therapy and advocacy together in practice. Before CCW, Tea worked in community mental health, specifically providing queer, trans, and HIV+ people with the affirming therapy they deserve. Tea has a passion for supporting clients experiencing trauma/PTSD, sexuality/gender related concerns, depression/anxiety, personality disorders, grief, and disordered eating. They use techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Processing, Intuitive Eating, and Expressive Arts Therapy.
Tea primarily utilizes a process-based therapy approach, which basically means they believe structured sessions are not always the best sessions; it’s more important to meet the client where they are, with what they have. Tea believes that therapy should address the whole person, working to find a meaningful balance between old and new behaviors. She recognizes the significance that intersectional and oppressive forces have on our mental health. You will most likely find Tea wearing slippers, playing with fidgets, and drinking coffee in sessions. Expect to laugh, talk about pop culture and books, create art, and brainstorm ways to dismantle diet-culture together (if that’s your thing). Most importantly, Tea understands that being vulnerable with ourselves can be super hard, and she will always cheer you on for doing hard things.
Ohio Counselor, Social Worker and Marriage & Family Therapist Board License #: I.2405194