Kirk Shepard (they/he)

Much of my work is anchored by Relational-Cultural Theory (RCT) and supported by Interpersonal Neurobiology(IPNB). I am a Certified Group Psychotherapist(CGP) and Daring Way Facilitator (CDWF). I teach Group Work for graduate students, early career professionals, or anyone else who's interested in facilitation and the unique growth opportunities that come with group dynamics. I also know that group shenanigans isn't everyone's jam. It can be super intimidating and bumps up against all kinds of stuff. I have over a decade of experience working with individuals, couples, and thruples too! I have a particular humility when doing this work with folks. I tend to pay close attention to trust building in the first several sessions. I am unapologetically collaborative in my approach. I can be pretty direct sometimes. I don't pretend to know you better than you know yourself. I strive to be transparent and relational about what I'm observing and experiencing in our sessions.

I believe that relationship and connection is a primary source of motivation in our lives. Strategies of avoidance, self-denial, and compulsive action are ways that we numb and cope with being alive in the world today. As a white bodied, queer, and gender non conforming person, I think it is essential to challenge the sociopolitical forces of disconnection that impact our existence and quality of life. Solidarity is power. We are living in unprecedented times. Sharing strategies to live more sustainably and meaningfully with each other is imperative for our emotional and relational health, as well, for the health of the planet.