Mx. Brighton Brooks
M.ED, R-DMT, LPC
Why somatic therapy? I have experienced radical healing through the power of art and dance. Befriending my body helped me tolerate discomfort and stop second-guessing my thoughts and actions. Through expressive art processes, I noticed I not only felt safer and more confident but was also better able to explore different facets of my identity in a more authentic way. Studying group processes, in particular, helped me develop trust in the context of relationships and healing in community.
TLDR
Background in music, art, dance, writing, choir, theatre & teaching
Queer, trans, & neurodivergent affirming
Offering body/brain based individual and group therapies using trauma-responsive movement & expressive arts
Experience with teens/adults/elders on anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, dissociation, & trauma
Virtual appointments available in Alaska & Minnesota
Accepting Premera BCBS, & out-of-network benefits (see Therapy page for more info) or cash-pay/self-pay
My Experience
The bulk of my professional experience is sitting alongside queer, transgender, and neurodivergent teens and adults, dancers and artists providing individual and group psychotherapy as well as career counseling. I specialize in working with anxiety, depression, trauma recovery, neurodivergence, and identity from a neurobiological perspective to facilitate discovery and practice of embodied wellness skills. I do not have specific training working with PWUD (people who use drugs), OCD, or active disordered eating. Choice, play, connection, humor, and compassion are key components in my work as a therapist and workshop guide.
I earned my Psychology BA (2005) and Masters of Education in Counseling (2009) from UAF while studying modern group improvisation and international dance styles from around the world. Most recently, my studies with Embodied Neurobiology (2019-2024) allowed me to complete all requirements to become a Registered Dance/Movement Therapist as well as a Licensed Professional Counselor. I’ve also completed Phase I of Brainspotting and the Trauma Research Foundation’s intensive course in trauma-informed Neurofeedback.
What is it like working with me?
Some people feel stuck in their heads, or experience times when words are not enough. Somatic therapies offer unique “bottom up” opportunities using movement, breath, and neurobiology to understand what you are experiencing and how to better support yourself holistically. Particularly in working with trauma recovery, we can explore and practice ways of being present to create a different perspective and relationship to events in the past. Expressive arts provides yet another tool for “getting things out” and challenging our own preconceived notions about trust, self-worth, and safety.
At any given session I will work with where you’re at that day and can be as flexible or structured as you need. That said, I am a less directive therapist and I do not practice out of workbooks or offer cookie-cutter solutions. I work best with clients who know what they are looking for but feel stuck or lost. I am also not a “forever therapist” as I feel this creates and reinforces unequal power structures. If you’re looking for someone to offer advice and map out SMART goals I may not be the best fit for you, but would be happy to help you find someone who is. I will always do my best to empower you, center your voice, and help you access the magic within you!
Chat with me
I welcome and encourage questions! To find out if we’re a good fit or decide which service is right for you, please contact me for a free 20 minute discovery call.