Ali Kafka, LMSW
Therapist at Tranquil JC
Education:
School & Date Graduated - University of TN 2024
● Certifications
Trauma Treatment 2024
●Years Practicing - 4
●Specialty - Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Trauma, Neurodivergence and shame. Offers DBT as well!
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. 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. 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
Do you sometimes feel you may be "too much" or "not enough", "too complicated" to fit in with the world or overwhelmed by emotions in a way that feels like it keeps you from the life you're meant to have? Perhaps it's time to finally get the support you deserve. I am here to serve individuals and couples of all stripes. I have a background in helping those whose are "othered" by society- people with diverse identities, neurodiverse individuals, people who are in substance use recovery, or who are/have been in the justice system.
My approach is humanizing and highlights your inherent strengths, guiding you toward self-compassion. With couples my approach is attachment-focused. I am currently working through certification for EMDR which is a somatic approach to help heal trauma in the brain. I am also working toward certification in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, which is an attachment-based approach that helps heal persistent negative relationship cycles.
I am also trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy for those seeking an individual or group skills-based approach.
My Message to You
Helping you feel safe and supported to tackle difficult issues is always the first step! I take an empowering approach that includes a focus on psychoeducation. We will always tailor sessions to your unique needs and base our work on your goals and feedback.
I am happy to consult with you to see if we may be a good fit!