We were lucky to catch up with Traci Medeiros recently and have shared our conversation below.

Traci, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.

The decision to start Gather & Grow OC stemmed from a deep-seated desire to create a safe, affirming space for the LGBTQ+ community in Orange County. As a queer therapist, I recognized the pressing need for specialized mental health services that truly understood and celebrated diverse identities.

My Co-Director, Jacqueline Plante, and I recently discussed our decision to focus our practice with one of our clinicians. They were concerned about potentially isolating themselves by marketing directly to a niche community. We helped them process the importance of visibility for minoritized communities, how this approach demonstrates their capacity to support diverse individuals, and the value of releasing attachment to clients who might not be a good fit.

While running a practice that focuses on the needs of communities experiencing oppression can be challenging, especially in the current climate, we’ve always felt positive about this decision. It has helped us build a practice of like-minded individuals we work with and serve. Even on harder days, we always feel connected to our purpose.

For new clinicians considering specialization: Embrace your authentic self and experiences, don’t fear focusing on specific communities, and remember you’re creating a safe space while filling a crucial need. Stay connected to your purpose and continuously educate yourself about the communities you serve.

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 back background and context?

I’m Traci Medeiros (she/they), a California Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Relationships Coach, Educator, and Consultant. For over two decades, I’ve been dedicated to serving the LGBTQ+ community, evolving from a community educator to my current roles.

At Gather & Grow OC, the practice I co-direct and co-own, we provide trauma-informed LGBTQ+ affirming services to adults within the LGBTQ, non-monogamous, kink, and sex worker communities. We also educate mental health providers on cultural competence. Our services span CA, FL, and OR, with education accessible nationwide.

What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to inclusivity and deep understanding of intersectional challenges. We create a supportive community and work towards broader societal change through education and advocacy.

I’m proud of the safe haven we’ve created at Gather & Grow OC and our work in training LGBTQ+ affirming therapists. At the core of my work is a belief in the revolutionary power of compassionate healing and connection. As a queer therapist, I bring both professional expertise and lived experience to my work.

In everything I do, I strive to uphold individual dignity, nurture compassion, build agency, and prioritize liberation for LGBTQ+ folks. If you’re seeking a therapist, coach, or educator who truly understands and is committed to your growth, I’m here to help.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

Building a reputation in the LGBTQ+ affirming therapy field has been a journey of intertwining personal identity, passion, specialization, and continuous education. As a queer therapist myself, my lived experiences have provided a foundation of understanding and empathy that resonates deeply with clients. This personal connection to the community has been invaluable in establishing trust and rapport.

However, personal identity alone isn’t enough. Specialization has been crucial in developing expertise. By focusing specifically on LGBTQ+ affirming therapy, I’ve been able to delve deep into this community’s unique challenges and experiences. This specialization has allowed me to offer more targeted, effective client support, which has helped build my reputation.

Equally important has been my commitment to continuing education. The field of LGBTQ+ mental health is constantly evolving, with new research and best practices emerging regularly. I’ve provided cutting-edge, evidence-based care by consistently engaging in professional development, attending conferences, and staying current with the latest literature. This dedication to learning has improved my practice and positioned me as a knowledgeable resource in the field.

Ultimately, I believe the combination of these elements—personal identity and passion, focused specialization, and ongoing education—has been instrumental in building my reputation. Each aspect reinforces the others, creating a holistic approach to LGBTQ+ affirming therapy that clients can trust and rely on.

If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?

If I could go back, I would choose the same career and specialty! Working with and being part of communities historically underserved by the mental health industry has come with its challenges. Still, these challenges have ultimately shaped a successful and deeply fulfilling career.

These challenges have included navigating limited resources, adapting methodologies, and confronting societal stigma. However, they’ve also driven innovation, continually pushed me to educate myself, and deepened my understanding of LGBTQ+ needs. Being part of the community I serve has provided a unique perspective and sense of purpose.

While the path hasn’t always been easy, it has been undeniably worthwhile. The challenges have shaped not just my career but also my personal growth and my understanding of the vital importance of affirming mental health care. So, if given the choice again, I wouldn’t change a thing. This career and specialty have allowed me to make a real difference in a community I care deeply about, which I’ll always be grateful for.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.gatherandgrowoc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatherandgrowoc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatherandgrowoc/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/90712318/admin/dashboard/