J Gold, MSW, LADC

Practice philosophy: Therapy is a collaborative process. I use empathy, humor, metaphor, and empowerment to establish a safe environment to work towards personal growth. I help people find new ways to cope with life’s stressors, and heal from past traumas. I work with people who are in abstinent recovery, who practice harm reduction, and who are interested in exploring the impact of substances on their life.

What are you passionate about and why? I am passionate about providing culturally responsive services. I practice from the perspective that my patients’ social identities can have a significant impact on their lives and health. In my role, I incorporate this understanding into the work we do together.

If you weren't a health care provider, what would you be? I’d be a woodworker and/or have a small farm.

Why did you become a provider? When did you know this was the career for you? I believe that everyone has innate potential to make positive changes in the world, and we all need a little help sometimes. I believe that my skills are best suited to helping others.

What is something you have learned from your patients? I learn so much from my patients every day. In order help someone, I have to understand their perspective and experiences. I also get some of the best food recommendations from my patients.

What is one of the challenges of this career you enjoy? And why? I can’t change anyone’s mind. I can’t make anyone stop drinking or using drugs, but I can help people meet their own goals - because people know themselves far better than I ever could.

What is your personal health goal? I prioritize continuing to truly like myself.

What is the best thing you've done for your health or the best health advice you've received? Early in my career someone told me “never trust a therapist without a therapist.” I make it a priority to take care of my own mental health so I can continue to be fully present for my patients.

What are you most proud of? I’m proud to be a nonbinary and transgender therapist. In a world where the rights of people like me – and different from me - are continually challenged, I believe that professionals in the field of mental health should reflect the diversity of identity and experience of the people we serve.

What are a few of your personal achievements? I'm a proud parent of a pit bull and 3 cats. In recent years I've learned to grow food. I speak at conferences about working with trans people, and LGBTQ+ people more generally.