Anne-Stuart Bell, M.Ed.

• Ph.D., Counseling Psychology, Texas A&M University (in progress)
• M.Ed., Educational Psychology, Texas A&M University
• B.A., Psychology and Women’s & Gender Studies, Sewanee: The University of the South

My therapeutic perspective stems from the belief that people construct their understanding of themselves and the world through their cultural lens, lived experiences, and interactions with others. As humans, we are capable of change and growth when given the space for reflection, experimentation, and story-telling. I take an integrative orientation to therapy, primarily centered on the culturally-informed social justice framework of Narrative Therapy, with the application of behavioral and skills focused interventions through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. My approach to working with clients is that therapy is collaborative.

Culture and identity is embedded in everything we are and do – our interpretations, perceptions, and actions are all based on this core of ourselves. Understanding ourselves means not only understanding our own identities and beliefs, but being open and curious about the values, beliefs, and experiences of others. I believe that every person holds their own perspectives and biases, but I also believe that with intention, effort, and humility, we are capable of working to better ourselves and our relationships with people dissimilar from us. As a person and a counselor, I aim to be aware of the impact of culture and intersectionality in my personal and professional work and wish to work with clients to further explore how their own culture shows up for them in their own lives. In doing so, my goal is to ensure that all clients feel welcomed and safe as we work to process their unique understanding of themselves and the world.