
Cottonwood Counseling
Dana Reichman, LCSW
About me
I’m a queer therapist, social worker, and endlessly curious human being. I became a therapist because I’m genuinely interested in each person’s unique strengths, challenges, and story, and because I especially value serving communities that have been historically marginalized and mistreated by mental health professionals.
In my free time I am most often found gardening, relaxing with loved ones, telling my cat how cute she is, or eating something delicious. I’m an avid reader, especially of contemporary romance and social justice related non-fiction, and a novice video game player.
I Work With
Adults and teens 14+
The LGBTQ+ community
Depression and Anxiety
ADHD/Neurodivergence
Relationship Difficulties
Trauma
Life transitions
Grief and Loss
Negative body image, disordered eating, and eating disorders
Exploration of gender and sexuality
Polyamory, nonmonogamy, and kink
My Approach
My approach to therapy is warm, down to earth, and collaborative. Therapy can be difficult and heavy at times, but it can also be a space for curiosity, play, and laughter. I think that the best therapy is built through collaboration between you and your therapist and is a place where you are able to bring your full range of emotions and all of yourself.
As someone who has definitely wondered if feeling your feelings is really necessary, I understand how difficult it can be to sit with uncomfortable or frightening emotions. Together we can create a space that is safe enough and strong enough to hold whatever it is you might be experiencing.
I’m mindful of the ways that our personal histories and the systems of oppression we interact with impact who we are and how we show up, both inside and outside the therapy room. Sometimes the pain or difficulties that we experience aren’t a result of “doing something wrong,” but are instead the result of having to function within systems that aren’t built for us or are actively hostile to us. Being able to tell the truth of our lived experiences is profoundly liberating, and having a compassionate witness is an important part of healing.
My approach is relational and grounded in attachment theory and interpersonal neurobiology, as well as in anti-racism and social justice. I also incorporate elements of parts work, mindfulness and self-compassion, and practice from a fat positive/Health At Every Size perspective. I am sex and sex work positive and kink and polyamory affirming and knowledgeable.
Being a person is hard for all of us at times and you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone. While there’s a lot I’ve learned through my education and practice as a social worker and therapist, I’m not here to tell you what to do or how to be. I’m here to help guide you through the process of learning about yourself, growing, and getting more of what you want out of life.
To schedule your free 15-minute consultation to see if we might be a good fit, please contact me through the form linked below.