Dana is queer and trans non-binary (they/them/their). They provide LGBTQ / LGBTQIA+, polyamory / non-monogamy, and BDSM / kink-affirming services. Dana is neurodivergent (Autistic / ADHD / 2e) with a history of complex PTSD. They believe in the importance of valuing lived experience and peer support when working with marginalized communities.
Education and Professional Experience
Dana has a background in Theatre and a MA in Performance Studies from Texas A&M University.
Dana is a Registered Drama Therapist (RDT) through the North American Drama Therapy Association (NADTA). They currently hold the title of Assistant Director of Psychodrama from Centerwood Institute.
They are also a member of the TRACC4Movements Healing Network, and are currently certified in Movement Trauma Healer Training (Level 1).
Dana has experience working with mood disorders (including depression and anxiety), trauma and complex trauma, domestic violence, neurodivergence, and chronic illness/disability.
They also have experience with compassion fatigue/burnout. Dana is passionate about supporting helping professionals in creating sustainable wellness practices.
Community Outreach
Dana collaborates with Chronically Queer – Austin to facilitate peer support and social events, coordinate community outreach/education about LGBTQ+ and disability issues, and build mutual aid networks for queer and disabled adults throughout Central Texas.
They offer post-diagnosis support, develop and present workplace training, and facilitate peer support social groups in collaboration with Thriving Autistic.
Dan is an Equity Evaluator for the Equity Consortium.
Dana spearheaded an independent working group to explore Queer Drama Therapy and is a member of the Coalition for Queer Creative Arts Therapies. They also coordinate and facilitate peer support and supervision groups with other drama therapists.
They are a member of the Therapist Worker Cooperatives working group.
Dana served as the 2022 Chair of the Cultural Humility, Equity, and Diversity Committee (CHEDC) of the NADTA. They are also a member and facilitator of CHEDC’s Disability Justice Working Group.
They were a member of the inaugural cohort (2021-2022) of the ACT LEND program at UT Austin.