Sula Malina (they/them/theirs) is a trans, non-binary Therapist in Training at The Gender & Sexuality Therapy Center in Manhattan, NY.
In today’s world—and particularly for those of us who hold marginalized identities—having compassion for our hearts, minds, and bodies is increasingly difficult. Many of us struggle with feeling “not enough,” and learn to mold or hide parts of ourselves to make it through the day. I believe that everyone deserves to show up to life (and therapy) in their entirety, without need for explanation or justification.
My practice is centered around empathic listening—which asks how you would like to be heard. I center you as the expert of your own experience, and take a strength-based approach to our work together as I accompany you through the processes of growth and cultivating self-compassion and self-love. In my life and in my practice, I value collaboration and the power of community, and believe that much growth takes place in relationships—including in the therapeutic relationship.
Together, we will build an environment in which you can work through past experiences, identify goals for the future, develop coping mechanisms, and build self-reliance, while learning to be gentle with yourself in the process.
I have specialized training and expertise in working with: trans and non-binary identities, gender, sexuality, poly/non-monogamy, kink, BDSM, eating disorders, body image and body dysmorphia, queer and trans youth, parents and caregivers of queer and trans youth, HIV/AIDS, navigating gender transition in the medical industrial complex, depression, anxiety, relationship conflict, infidelity, and trauma
Education: Master of Social Work, Advanced Clinical Track at Columbia School of Social Work, concentrating in Health, Mental Health, and Disabilities, in progress
Certifications & Training: Certification in Motivational Interviewing from Columbia University