Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Linda Baker. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your background and context?

I completed my undergrad at the University of Colorado at Boulder, then went on to earn a Master’s (MA) degree in International Disaster Psychology at the University of Denver. During that time, I worked for the World Health Organization and in refugee/asylum-seeker clinics specializing in both manmade and natural disaster relief. I continued at the University of Denver earning a Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) degree where I specialized in forensics at the Denver County Jail and community mental health.

I consider myself an expert at providing safety and security. I value inclusivity and ethical therapeutic practice above all else. I work hard to ensure that I am a source of consistency, reliability, predictability, unconditional positive regard, and judgement-free analysis for my clients. I want everyone on my caseload to trust that their well-being is my priority.

While I welcome clients from all walks of life, I find it most rewarding to work with introverted, “nerdy”, and neurodivergent individuals, LGBTQ folks who are exploring their sexuality and gender identity, and those who have experienced narcissistic abuse, childhood trauma, attachment issues, and spiritual or religious abuse.

A few things that set me apart are that I am approved to practice telepsychology under PSYPACT across most of the United States. I’m also an approved provider of the Association for Size Diversity and Health (ASDAH) meaning that I specialize in treating those who have suffered the effects of fatphobia and anti-fat bias. I am also published in the areas of feminism, international disaster psychology training, and disaster response.

In my free time, I draw flowers. : )

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

If I could go back, I would choose the exact same profession and specialties. I love this work and adore my clients. I glean so much admiration from the folks I get to work with. You know, getting help and working on the self is so very brave and it requires incredible tenacity and determination. I am inspired everyday with the deep-dive work my clients are willing to get into. Observing someone change, grow, and self- actualize is a beautiful thing. It is truly the most gratifying job.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

I think the most helpful element to succeeding as a psychologist is maintaining a solid relationship with yourself. As I mentioned earlier, it is tempting to show up and just “do the job,” but so much is lost in that way of being. I work really hard to ensure that I am “with” myself before I can be with others. That looks like intentional introspection, self-reflection, and getting support when needed. It can also look like talking walks, drinking coffee, meditating, journaling, or drawing. Any way that I can make sure that I am good and that I have room to really attune to another person is what matters most in this line of work. Sometimes I’ll close my eyes and take deep breaths while I imagine sprawling open space that goes on forever. This visual helps me access the unlimited capacity that I (and each of us) has to sit with someone even in their darkest moments. It is such a privilege to get to be there for others that I don’t want to miss a moment of it. Before each session, I remind myself to be present, open, and tapped into the undercurrent of abundant of love that flows within us.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://unstucktherapy.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUZXAqtAKP4/?igsh=MW96NXIxMWd5dHhvMw==
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnstuckTherapy/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlindabakeratunstucktherapy
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/unstuck-therapy-denver
• Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/linda-baker-denver-co/168004, https://shoutoutcolorado.com/meet-dr-linda-baker-licensed-clinical-psychologist-unstuck-therapy/