Ishara Pinkney-Lee, M.A.
Clinical Counselor
I hold a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a Child and Adolescent Development certification. I have professional experience in mental health, working with individuals, couples, families, and groups, as well as in crisis and trauma intervention. As of now, my therapeutic approach is dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), rooted in a combination of behavioral and humanistic approaches to addressing client issues. I have experience supporting these individuals dealing with LGBTQIA+ challenges, depression, grief and loss, anxiety, and relationship issues.
My personal philosophy is to uphold the practice of unconditional positive regard: the idea that we are all doing the best we can with the tools we have at all times. Creating safety and security is the first step to developing a therapeutic alliance with my clients; the second is utilizing a strengths-based approach by encouraging them to be active collaborators in the work we do and the skills they learn. Additionally, The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz offers principles that I share with my clients to put into practice a mindset that can offer freedom to many in times of mental and emotional strife. “Be Impeccable with Your Word, Don't Take Anything Personally, Don't Make Assumptions, Always Do Your Best.” - Don Miguel Ruiz.
In my free time, I enjoy cosplay, video games, reading (when I have the focus to do so), and learning about different cultures and folklore. I also enjoy watching movies and use media examples at times to illustrate relatable points in my work as a therapist.
Beginning therapy can feel like a big step, and it's completely normal to have questions or feel a little nervous. My goal is to make the process as comfortable and transparent as possible, so you'll know what to expect every step of the way.
Step 1: Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation
We'll begin with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation. This is an opportunity for us to briefly discuss what's bringing you to therapy, answer any questions you may have, and determine whether we're a good fit to work together. This conversation is also a chance for you to learn more about my approach and decide if you feel comfortable moving forward.
Step 2: Complete Your Intake Paperwork
If we decide to move forward, you'll receive access to the secure TherapyNotes® Patient Portal, where you'll complete your intake paperwork before your first appointment. This includes:
Personal and contact information
Payment information
Informed Consent
Confidentiality and HIPAA documents
Professional Disclosure Statement
Intake questionnaires and background information
Completing these forms ahead of time allows us to spend more of our first session focusing on you.
What to Expect in a Session
with Me
Step 3: Schedule Your First Session
Once your paperwork has been completed, we'll schedule your first therapy appointment. Sessions are available either virtually through the secure TherapyNotes® Patient Portal or in person during designated office hours.
Step 4: Your First Therapy Session
Our first session is all about getting to know you. We'll review any questions you have about the TherapyNotes® Patient Portal, discuss important practice policies, and go over any intake information you'd like to clarify.
From there, we'll begin exploring your story—your experiences, strengths, current challenges, and what has led you to seek therapy at this point in your life. Together, we'll identify your goals for therapy and begin creating a personalized treatment plan that reflects your unique needs, values, and hopes for the future.
Above all, the first session is about creating a safe, supportive space where you can begin building a trusting therapeutic relationship. There's no pressure to share everything at once—we'll move at a pace that feels comfortable for you.
Our Story
Another part of the inspiration for the practice is the Japanese philosophy of kintsugi- “Rather than trying to hide the damage, kintsugi highlights the repair. The imperfections are what make it beautiful and valuable. A broken piece put back together has more of a story, seems more authentic and real, and is stronger and more resilient than something that has stayed pristine. The breaking of what once was, the layered and time-consuming process of putting it back together, and the mending it with gold all contribute to its value. And surprisingly, it becomes more resilient after it has been mended by kintsugi, even stronger than it was before.”
Oya Therapy is a practice that believes healing is transformative. In the Yoruba tradition, Oya is the Orisha (a divine spirit or deity central to the Yoruba religion of West Africa) of storms, wind, and the marketplace. She is a fierce warrior, a protector of women, and a powerful goddess of transformation. She wields the machete and the horsetail whip, clearing the way for new beginnings. Oya governs the winds of change, bringing both chaos and renewal.
Our philosophy is that healing is fundamentally a battle against the old ways of doing things to make way for new ways of being and living. Oya Therapy embodies the spirit of Orisha Oya, empowering our clients to be the change they want to see, fight for, and step into a new version of themselves.”