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Lisa Gladden
I was born in Brownsville, Brooklyn, NYC and raised by my mother’s mom. I am Black-American. In 2018 I graduated from the College of New Rochelle with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. I am a graduate of Long Island University and graduate degree is an MSW, I graduated in May 2022. I have provided therapy to Black and Brown women and girls for over a year, but also have a lifetime of experiences which help me in my professional role as a therapist.
In my community, going to a therapist was never recommended, even taboo. A lot of Black and Brown folks were labeled crazy if they discussed speaking to a therapist. I’ve noticed many people in my community not getting the proper and professional help they needed. A lot of people around me self-medicated, which for the most part turned out deadly. I want to show them that not only is it ok to seek help but to also see that the person helping, looks just like them.
For over 20 years, I have worked for the New York City Housing Authority. I deal with residents with issues such as financial hardship, domestic violence and those who may need Social Service referrals. I don't have a problem working with any nationality. But as my grandmother would say “Charity begins at home and then spread abroad” meaning all races have their issues, however, let me start with the one that resonates with me.
I have dealt with racism in my life. What I realize is people are afraid of what they don't know about. A lot a lot that people who are racist or judgmental stems from learned behavior. Some don't know why they hate. They were just taught to do it, like it's a family heirloom passed down from generation to generation. Honestly speaking, I wish for one day the shoe was on the other foot. I also wish that people would have gotten to know me for me and not for the color of my skin, or the texture of my hair.
In terms of being a therapist, for me, a little conversation goes a long way. People want to be heard, someone who's willing to listen. My approach is to be extra observant with my ears if that makes sense.
I’m hoping they will see I’m open and honest and here to help them navigate and reach their goals as well as help find and utilize the tools they need to heal. I've been told I’m cool, easy to communicate with, have a good spirit and great energy and inspire them to go on.
Steve Harvey wrote a book “Think like a success, Act like a success”. One thing from his book that caught my attention was he said “We all have a gift and a talent”. They do not always correlate. For me mine does. I am a Poet, Author, and a screenwriter and soon to be fully licensed therapist. I realize that through words I heal so my gift and talent definitely coincide.