Matt works as a therapist within the Relationship and Sexual Violence Prevention (RVSP) Center. Matt is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with an array of experiences working with marginalized, vulnerable, and emerging adult populations. Matt has earned his Master’s degree in Social Work from University of Missouri-Saint Louis (UMSL) and Bachelor’s in General Studies at Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO).
Matt’s career path has been non-traditional which has influenced his current practice of therapy. Matt started his work with social justice, which led him to work with Queer Youth at a local St. Louis agency, Growing American Youth (GAY). It was his work with Queer Youth which prompted his professional development. During his tenure with GAY, Matt had the privilege to work with client’s who have experienced trauma that resulted from the intersections of their identities. He has been able to collaborate with individuals to create a life that was worth living.
Matt’s formal training in trauma therapy began during his yearlong practicum with Child Advocacy Center (CAC) in 2017. Additionally, during the tenure with CAC, he facilitated three therapeutic groups focused on trauma. Furthermore, Matt has direct practice working with emerging adults while working with persons experiencing homelessness in his role of Clinical Care Coordinator at local St. Louis agency. Additionally, Matt has experiences working in school-based settings as an adolescent therapist and was Community Advisor with SEMO residential life. Matt is trained in treatment of trauma that is steeped in a strength-based philosophy that promotes recovery, resiliency, and post-traumatic growth.
Matt identifies as a cisgender, queer, man of color and recognizes that a person with his identities traditionally have not worked in theses spaces. However, understanding the significance of representation both from personal and professional perspectives, he is aware that identities matter, especially in the intersection of trauma and the client’s ability to bring their whole selves to a therapeutic space. Matt is eager to partner with students to navigate both systems not designed for them and trauma to make meaning from their experiences to have a life worth living.