Ali Kafka, LMSW
Therapist at Tranquil JC
Education:
School & Date Graduated - University of TN 2024
● Certifications
Trauma Treatment 2024
●Years Practicing - 4
●Specialty - Rural mental health, trauma, older adults, addiction
About Me
Once upon a time I made my living as a busker (street musician) and a house cleaner. Cleaning houses was an unexpected introduction into mental health work- it can at times be an intimate window into peoples' worlds, and the relationships that developed at times felt a lot like offering therapy. After hearing time and again about how I "ought to consider counseling", I decided to take the plunge and pursued a master's in social work. I chose social work specifically because I wanted to find a way to help the most underserved populations, and I specialized during my education in studying the intersection of rural social work and the effects of trauma. I got my start working as a behavioral health case manager in Mountain City, which will forever be one of my favorite jobs I've ever had. It was through that position I began to really develop a heart for those with severe or complex mental health conditions, people who many others considered "too complicated" to treat. My mission is to help people tap into a well of self-compassion so that they never have to feel "too" anything- and that starts with a compassionate, non-judgmental, warm environment in the therapy room and an approach that normalizes all of the different ways being a human can manifest.
In my free time I can be found enjoying the company of my 4 dogs, working in my flower garden, or at a pickin' party with musician friends.
My Approach
It is my belief that most issues can be improved through building self-compassion, reducing shame, and learning new approaches so that we can have more choice in the paths we take. I pull influence from DBT, ACT, EFT, and other modalities that I have learned aspects of- however, your sessions will be tailored to your unique needs.
I welcome you to this next step along your journey and strive to offer a place to come as you are without the burden of judgement. Being a human is hard, no matter what you have been through! All of us deserve support.
My Message to You
I am excited to begin serving clients at Tranquil JC! I enjoy supporting adults in their journeys to address trauma, stuck patterns, insight and skill-building. I serve individuals and couples. All backgrounds, beliefs, and identities are welcome here, all struggles are welcome here. What we will always have in common in this space will be a dedication to honouring your experiences, your goals, and your ideas for what makes a meaningful and fulfilling life.