Hey! I’m Akua Genfi, a Black, Fat, Queer licensed mental health counselor who believes in the power of identity, community and healing through nurturing connections. I work with adults navigating depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and life transitions and so much more. My goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you feel supported and deeply understood.
Specialties & Who I Work With
I specialize in supporting people who are:
- Coping with shifting moods/emotions, negative self talk
- Struggling with complex family dynamics, relationship issues, communication patterns or poor boundaries
- Moving through age, natural life/ role transitions, or career changes
- Navigating self identity, queer identities, gender transitions and sexual needs
I often work with individuals who are looking to better understand themselves and others . Some begin their journey after struggling with anxiety, continued conflicts with loved ones, following a life changing transition (a breakup, a career shift, parenthood) or when feeling overwhelmed by all the roles they hold.
Many of my clients carry cultural expectations, intergenerational trauma or unique experiences that shape their world . Others are navigating self comparison to peers, or the quiet weight of depression. Sessions with me offer a space to lay these burdens down and begin to relate to yourself in adaptive and compassionate ways.
Therapy Approach
My therapeutic style is informed by a passion for creating diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments while utilizing a holistic, intersectional, and person-centered approach. It incorporates a trauma-informed lens and strengths-based perspective to support clients in learning healthier ways of being.Together, we’ll explore connections between your mind, body, emotions and community. I integrate methods such as Psychodynamic therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance- Commitment Therapy, Music Therapy and Somatic practices to support healing and growth. Therapy with me is collaborative, meaning we move at your pace while building capacity to go deeper for greater insights.
Background & Training
I earned my Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from St John’s University. I’ve worked in community mental health clinics, addiction treatment centers and on specialized crisis and treatment teams, across the boroughs of New York City, which has shaped my commitment to inclusive and culturally affirming care. I am a nationally certified counselor, accredited by the National Board for Certified Counselors. I am kink aware professional with extensive knowledge and lived experience in alternative relationship styles and sexual needs.
Location & Availability
I connect with clients virtually across New York State. I accept Aetna insurance, offer sliding scale options, and provide superbills for other plans. Sessions are available during after work/evenings hours and on the weekend