Locations: Telehealth
Welcome—I’m Iris Anderson, a Couple and Family Therapist passionate about creating a space where people feel truly seen and supported. I know that reaching out for therapy can take courage, and I want to honor the step you’ve already taken by being here. My practice is rooted in inclusivity and authenticity, with a special focus on supporting clients of color and queer individuals. At the same time, I welcome people from all walks of life into the therapeutic space, meeting each client with openness, warmth, and curiosity. Whether you are seeking therapy for the first time or returning to it after previous experiences, I want you to know you are not alone—I’m here to walk alongside you in your journey toward healing and growth.
Background
My path to becoming a therapist began with a deep belief in the power of stories and relationships. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I’ve had the privilege of working with individuals, teens, couples, and families to help them navigate challenges and discover their strengths. My training is rooted in systemic thinking, meaning I view people in the context of their relationships, environments, and the larger cultural and social systems that shape their lives. My personal background also informs my work: I bring the perspective of a queer Black/African American woman who grew up in a Catholic household and later embraced a broader spiritual orientation. This layered identity helps me approach therapy with empathy, humility, and an understanding that healing looks different for everyone. I’m committed to holding space for clients’ diverse lived experiences and honoring the resilience that comes from navigating complex identities and systems.
Approach
In our work together, I will collaborate with you to shape a therapy process that feels useful and empowering. My style is direct yet supportive—I want you to always understand the “why” behind the questions I ask or the interventions I suggest. I draw from Narrative Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), weaving these approaches together in a way that fits your goals and personality. I believe therapy is most effective when it reflects you: your interests, your learning style, and your values. My approach is also systemic, meaning I pay attention not only to your inner thoughts and feelings but also to your relationships, identity, community, and the broader social and cultural structures that impact your wellbeing. I see change as something that can start with behaviors, beliefs, or mindset shifts—but the most lasting and transformative change often comes from reframing the way we view ourselves and our stories. Feedback is an essential part of my process, and I actively invite clients to share what works and what doesn’t so that we can adjust together.
Closing
I believe therapy is not about “fixing” you—it’s about supporting you as you step into the life and relationships you want to create. My hope is to help you discover new perspectives, build resilience, and feel empowered to make meaningful changes. I often say that the hardest part of therapy is showing up, and if you’re reading this, you’ve already taken an important first step. I welcome clients who are willing to try, even when it feels difficult, and who are open to taking a deep breath and leaning into the process. Outside of therapy, I recharge by spending time with family and friends, watching TV shows, reading, moving my body through walking, hiking, or yoga, and finding joy in small acts of self-care like getting my nails done. I bring this balance of personal joy and professional dedication into my work, striving to create a therapeutic space that feels human, hopeful, and grounded. If you’re ready to begin your journey of growth and self-discovery, I’d be honored to walk alongside you. Let’s take that first step together.
