Salima Al-Alwi, LCPC, Clinical Supervisor

(She/Her)

Therapy for adults navigating culture, identity, and the pressure to hold it all together.

If you’re a BIPOC woman, a child of immigrants, or someone moving between multiple cultures—and you’re carrying anxiety, trauma, or the constant feeling that you should be doing more—I’m glad you’re here. I work with adults who are trying to feel steadier in themselves, more secure in relationships, and more confident saying “no” without guilt.

Specialties:

  • Trauma, depression, and anxiety
  • Intrusive thoughts and overthinking
  • Relationship patterns and attachment styles
  • Boundaries and assertiveness
  • Emotional attunement and self-awareness

What To Expect

I like structure because it creates continuity and momentum between sessions—while still leaving room for what’s most real and present that day. Typically, we’ll start by identifying what you want to focus on, checking in on any between-session work, and picking up where we left off. In the first session, I’ll do a holistic intake—getting to know your lived experience (family, relationships, work, trauma, hobbies, culture) and clarifying what you want from therapy. Between sessions, I often offer practical tools—anything from a self-care exercise to a CBT worksheet—so you can keep building progress in real life.

We Might Be a Fit If You Often Think…

  • “I don’t tell them ‘no’ because I don’t want to hurt their feelings.”
  • “I can’t sit still, and I feel bad when I rest because it’s unproductive.”
  • You’re dealing with trauma, intrusive thoughts, anxiety/depression, or anxious attachment patterns that show up in relationships.

A Little About Me

My core belief is that people aren’t resistant to change—they’re protective. Most behaviors developed for a reason, and healing happens when we understand what something once did for you, rather than trying to force it to disappear. I bring a trauma-informed, culturally responsive lens and draw from psychodynamic therapy, person-centered therapy, and CBT to help you understand patterns and build new options. I also often recommend mindfulness meditations when anxiety spikes—learning to sit with a feeling can help it pass more quickly.

I’m a daughter of an immigrant who grew up on the East Coast—and when I’m not enjoying the lake, you can find me reading on the couch with my cat. If you’re ready for therapy that’s real, supportive, and growth-oriented, I’d love to work with you.

*I may not be the best fit for personality disorders, severe OCD, or severe eating disorders.

If you’re ready to stop carrying everything on your own, set boundaries without guilt, and feel more grounded in who you are, therapy can support that shift.

Schedule a Session