Nikita Fernandes
Mental Health Counselor - LP
About Me
Our intersectional identities affect our distinctive experiences as human beings. The unique experiences I have had as a brown, queer, Indian woman, coupled with my knowledge of Sexual and Gender Minority theory, impact how I approach counseling. I strive to create a gender-affirming, safe, and, caring space for my clients.
My clients hold intersectional identities and are insightful and willing to acknowledge their challenges and strengths. I provide them with an affirming space to be their authentic selves. They are then able to advocate for themselves and voice their needs. In session, we explore systemic injustices and how they impact our lives. I begin with a multicultural feminist theory approach. Because every client is unique I use an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from relational-cultural theory, cognitive behavior therapy, feminist theory, humanistic theory, internal family systems therapy, and narrative therapy when beneficial. A trauma informed, client centered and strength based approach is central to my work.
My clinical identity lies in supporting people who are looking for culturally sensitive, poly & kink-friendly, and gender-affirming therapists. I also specialize in helping people and couples navigate relationship and dating anxiety, and in helping people working through past trauma. I work to create a secure environment in which clients can discuss difficulties with their sexuality, kink, and non-monogamy. I draw on my own firsthand knowledge of navigating kink/sex-positive environments.
In the past, I have had the privilege of working in higher education LGBTQ+ spaces providing resources to LGBTQ+ students. I have also worked for the Trevor Project and other therapy practices that center on communities of color.
I completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at New York University with am Advanced Certificate in LGBT Health, Education, and Social Services.I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a background in Women and Gender Studies from George Mason University. I am also currently undergoing sex therapy training at The Modern Sex Therapy Institute.
Schedule an appointment with me today to get started! Please also feel free to get in touch via email at nikita@mwr.nyc or phone at 347-903-0410 with any questions about the process. I look forward to holding space for you.
My clients hold intersectional identities and are insightful and willing to acknowledge their challenges and strengths. I provide them with an affirming space to be their authentic selves. They are then able to advocate for themselves and voice their needs. In session, we explore systemic injustices and how they impact our lives. I begin with a multicultural feminist theory approach. Because every client is unique I use an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from relational-cultural theory, cognitive behavior therapy, feminist theory, humanistic theory, internal family systems therapy, and narrative therapy when beneficial. A trauma informed, client centered and strength based approach is central to my work.
My clinical identity lies in supporting people who are looking for culturally sensitive, poly & kink-friendly, and gender-affirming therapists. I also specialize in helping people and couples navigate relationship and dating anxiety, and in helping people working through past trauma. I work to create a secure environment in which clients can discuss difficulties with their sexuality, kink, and non-monogamy. I draw on my own firsthand knowledge of navigating kink/sex-positive environments.
In the past, I have had the privilege of working in higher education LGBTQ+ spaces providing resources to LGBTQ+ students. I have also worked for the Trevor Project and other therapy practices that center on communities of color.
I completed my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at New York University with am Advanced Certificate in LGBT Health, Education, and Social Services.I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a background in Women and Gender Studies from George Mason University. I am also currently undergoing sex therapy training at The Modern Sex Therapy Institute.
Schedule an appointment with me today to get started! Please also feel free to get in touch via email at nikita@mwr.nyc or phone at 347-903-0410 with any questions about the process. I look forward to holding space for you.