ABOUT IRIS

Hello, and welcome — I’m glad you’re here. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate supervised by Lori Martin, LPC-S. I’m passionate about creating a safe, non-judgmental space for people who have often felt judged, excluded, or misunderstood. My practice is built to serve clients from non-traditional backgrounds, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, sex workers, those practicing ethical non-monogamy (ENM), and those involved in kink and BDSM communities. I also love working with military veterans and bringing a deep, lived understanding of their unique struggles.

As a Black and Puerto Rican woman, I understand firsthand the unique challenges that communities of color face, including navigating discrimination, cultural stigma, and systemic barriers. Growing up in a low socioeconomic neighborhood, I also carry lived experience with poverty, resource insecurity, and the long-lasting emotional and physical effects these struggles can have. This intersection of identities fuels my passion for providing culturally affirming, trauma-informed care that acknowledges the realities of race, class, and oppression. I am deeply committed to helping clients of color find healing and resilience in a world that too often overlooks their needs.

Before becoming a therapist, I served as a military intelligence analyst in the U.S. Army, which gave me a unique perspective on resilience, identity, and mental health, especially within veteran and LGBTQIA+ communities. I have been out as LGBTQIA+ for over 25 years, and for more than two decades, I’ve been active in kink (23 years), polyamory (13 years), and as an educator in both kink (15 years) and sex and polyamory education (10 years). My background also includes personal and professional experience with various aspects of sex work, and I strive to offer informed, stigma-free care to sex workers of all kinds.

One of my greatest passions is helping people build healthier, more secure connections in their relationships. I’ve developed a unique psychoeducational program for polycules (polyamorous relationship networks) that blends systems theory, attachment theory, and practical tools to foster healthy, sustainable relationships. I’m currently writing a book and workbook on this framework, which will be published soon. I particularly love working with couples and polycules and have significant experience supporting their growth and healing.

Academically, I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in LGBTQ studies and a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from the University of North Texas. As a member of MENSA, I bring critical thinking and depth to my practice while keeping my approach down-to-earth, compassionate, and relatable. Soon, I will also be offering Ketamine-Assisted Therapy as another pathway to healing.

I would be honored to work with you if you’re looking for a therapist who honors your whole self without judgment and deeply understands alternative lifestyles and diverse experiences.