Alison Mariella Désir, LMHCA (she/her)
“I used to think I was the strangest person in the world but then I thought there are so many people in the world, there must be someone just like me who feels bizarre and flawed in the same ways I do. I would imagine her, and imagine that she must be out there thinking of me, too. Well, I hope that if you are out there and read this and know that, yes, it’s true I’m here, and I’m just as strange as you.” ~ Frida Kahlo
Perhaps you’ve been feeling alone, misunderstood, as if you are the only one in the world experiencing a sense of hopelessness, stress, and sadness. You may be overwhelmed by recent changes in your life and wondering how you will possibly cope. Maybe old patterns that you thought you had moved past are creeping back into your life and you’re beginning to feel out of control. You are not alone. I’m here to help!
The therapeutic relationship is critical to creating change. Together, we will create a space for safety and comfort that will allow you to see new possibilities and ways of approaching problems. I’m very direct and warm, which I believe will help you feel comfortable showing up as your full, authentic self.
Outside of the therapy room, I’m a mother, an author, an activist and often found outside doing something (running, hiking, trying new things). I also enjoy building communities centered around wellness. I’m originally from New York but, after four years, am beginning to feel like Seattle is home.
My approach to therapy
I work in person and virtually with teens and adults. I approach my personal and professional life from a feminist and social justice framework. In therapy, this means that we will examine and address the ways that gender roles, power dynamics and social inequities impact your mental health and well being and identify the ways in which mental distress is often caused by simply existing in this world.
In therapy I also draw from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), relational and somatic/movement approaches. I believe that the personal is political. I believe that all human beings are capable of change and deserve to live full lives. I believe deeply in the positive connection between mental and physical health and the opportunity to get outside.
Areas of focus
Postpartum and perinatal clients
Perimenopause
Experiences of racial trauma
Education and training
Master of Education in Counseling Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University
Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University
Credentials
Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate (#MC61577906)