Gaia Lee Saati

I specialize in three different and intersecting areas of therapy: • Mindfulness-Based Therapy - it is a therapeutic approach that integrates mindfulness practices, such as meditation and awareness exercises, to help individuals develop a deeper understanding of their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. It is beneficial because it promotes emotional regulation, reduces stress, and enhances overall well-being by encouraging a non-judgmental, present-moment awareness. • Trauma-Informed Therapy - is a therapeutic approach that recognizes the pervasive impact of trauma on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It is crucial because it acknowledges the profound ways in which past traumatic experiences, whether from a single event or ongoing adversity, can shape one’s current behavior, thoughts, and emotions. This therapy is beneficial because it prioritizes safety, trust, and empowerment, helping clients understand and process their trauma in a way that fosters healing rather than re-traumatization. It encourages resilience by providing tools to cope with trauma-related symptoms and by promoting a sense of control and self-compassion. • Affirming Therapy for LGBTQIA+ - it is a therapeutic approach that recognizes, validates, and celebrates diverse sexual orientations, gender identities, and expressions. It is crucial because it addresses the unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ individuals, such as discrimination, internalized stigma, and identity exploration, providing a safe and supportive environment where clients can freely express themselves without fear of judgment. This type of therapy is beneficial because it fosters self-acceptance, resilience, and emotional well-being, empowering clients to navigate their lives with authenticity and confidence.

Here are some of the work experience i gathers over the last years: • Specialized Training in Queer-Feminist Mental Health: Received training in providing mental health care tailored to the LGBTQIA+ community, focusing on queer-feminist approaches. • Adolescent and Adult Therapy: Delivered therapy to adolescents and adults, including parent guidance and consultation for welfare services. • Addiction Treatment: Provided individual and group therapy for individuals with addiction issues, supported their families, and addressed domestic violence concerns. • Meditation and Buddhist Dharma Practice: Engaged in 15 years of meditation and Buddhist practice, including extensive Vipassana retreats and a 10-month retreat at a forest monastery. • Mindfulness Training and Instruction: Taught mindfulness courses, workshops, and meditation retreats, integrating mindfulness practices into therapeutic settings. • Group Therapy for Released Prisoners: Conducted group therapy focused on reintegration and support for individuals recently released from incarceration. • Therapeutic Support for Mental Health Challenges: Provided therapy for adults with mental health issues and those experiencing co-occurring disorders, utilizing a variety of therapeutic techniques.

• Bachelor's degree (b.a) in social work from the University of Haifa, graduation with honors. • Master's degree (m.s.w) in clinical social work from the University of Haifa, Specializing in interpersonal psychotherapy with LGBTQIA+ individuals. • Certification for teaching mindfulness meditation in the MTTC program led by Christopher Titmus. • Certified Social Worker, Israeli ministry for social welfare and services (No. 41429)