Debbie Missud (she/her)

I seek to create a safe and trusting environment for my clients to explore, gain insight into, and develop tools for life’s challenges. I have seen first-hand how pressure from our environments can create a cycle of self-doubt, anxiety, and maladaptive behaviors that impact one’s self-esteem, relationships, and work. I also know how past stressful experiences, such as complicated family dynamics, toxic relationships, or “Big T” traumas can stick with us and unexpectedly emerge in seemingly unrelated situations. My work is committed to helping individuals overcome the mental health challenges that arise from, or are exacerbated by, past and present high-stress environments. I am an active participant in therapy - I am not the “blank-slate” therapist sometimes seen on TV. I will function as your soundboard, advocate, and challenger. Most importantly, I am a fellow human here to help you navigate the challenges life may throw your way, and empower you toward a new way of being.

I believe that people have inherent capacity for change. On the surface, we can develop tools to modify our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. On a deeper level, I am a firm believer that our past experiences have a way of informing our present, and that we must unlearn the harmful messages we've internalized in order to move forward authentically in our present and future. As a holistic practitioner, I value the connection between mind and body, and I incorporate many nervous system regulation techniques to address the physical impact of our mental distress. As an immigrant and "third-culture kid" myself, culturally competent practice is at the forefront of my work. I am an open advocate for dismantling systems of oppression, and I value discussions around identity and social justice as they influence one's mental health.