About Me

Akilah Martin (she/her)

Clinical Intern

Master of Counseling Candidate

PRIMARY LOCATION

Grant Street, Z Place - both in-person and virtual

EDUCATION

- University of Denver - Master of Arts - Counseling Psychology. Emphasis on Clinical Mental Health

- Colorado State University - Bachelor of Science in Psychology

PROFESSIONAL JOURNEY

Growing up, therapy was not something my family talked about much. We experienced our fair share of heartaches, depression, anxiety, grief—everything! Yet, we never discussed it. When I got to college, I went through many dark times and never felt comfortable talking to my family or someone I barely knew. I didn't trust people, which led me to lose control of my emotions and allowed others to cross my boundaries. It wasn't until I joined the psychology program that I started to see how necessary therapy is and noticed the lack of clinicians of color in the field. I realized many other kids and people who look like me were going through similar situations and didn't feel like they had anyone to talk to. So, I knew I had to do something about it.

APPROACH TO THERAPY

My approach with clients is holistic, person-centered, and psychodynamic. I believe it's essential to meet clients where they are in their process, always prioritizing their goals and desires. Additionally, I focus on helping clients navigate and work through past situations and discrepancies that have impacted them, enabling them to move forward effectively.

AGE SPECIALIZATION

5-11

12-18

PRESENTATIONS OF EXPERTISE

Although Akilah is still discovering her niche as a clinician, she has experience working with clients presenting with the following:

Anxiety

Trauma

Neurodiversity

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

PREFERRED TREATMENT MODALITIES

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)

Person Centered

Psychodynamic Therapy

COMMUNITIES

I enjoy working with communities of color, embracing diversity without regard to socioeconomic status, religious background or denomination, educational history, gender, or sexual orientation.

PERSONAL INTERESTS

I enjoy hiking, working out, shopping, exploring new restaurants with friends, and watching movies.

FAVORITE QUOTE

"There are parts of me that I didn’t know exist, that are still healing. I’m still learning my wounds. I’m learning that healing comes in stages. I’m learning that wounds need air to heal. I’m learning to release fear and welcome growth. I affirm it."

— Billy Chapata