Mental Health Matters: Blog Series Highlighting Black Therapists

Drea Pryor is a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist who practices from an attachment lens and is trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, and IFS. 

Born and raised in San Francisco, CA. Moved to Nashville to pursue BA in Sociology from Fisk University. From then I went on to pursue a Masters in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University currently working on Ph.D in Clinical Counseling at Trevecca. She has an 11 year old son who keeps her entertained with his outgoing personality and desire to be YoulTube star. She also has 2 year old Cavapoo dog named Charlie Le Frans Rocket who will one day serve as therapy dog or a good co-therapist. Who knows! Fun fact: Drea loves Harry Potter and Chocolate cake. She tells her clients that after hard days of showing up that they should reward themselves with cake because why not?! In her spare time she finds herself binge watching cool shows and catching up with loved ones. 

Drea values the therapitic relationship and hopes to walk with each client in a supportive way as they come to find themselves.

1. What led you to pursue a career in the mental health field?

Drea Pryor: I think like most others I held the belief that there was a need to help others heal and that I could be one of those individuals to help do that. The crazy part is, I’ve thought this way ever since early childhood. Now I cant say I was counseling my Barbie dolls but I was always curious about the impact of the community on one’s mental health.

2. Why does mental health matter to you?

DP: I think it just as important as our physical health. I think it shapes the way in which we view ourselves, others, and the world. Kind of the reason why I love attachment theory so much!

3. What are some areas that you specialize in?

DP: I work with a lot of individuals and couples with attachment injuries and wounds. Whether it be trauma that happened in early childhood or difficulty relating to others I work to help others heal and find health upon their own journey.

4. In your experience, what are some of the benefits of counseling? What are some of the challenges?

DP: I tell my clients all the time there are many benefits and risks to coming to counseling. I often think some of the benefits double as risks. One for certain is the ability to come in and trust someone. Often times we trust a good friend, or family member but trusting a complete stranger with your deepest darkest secrets can be offputting. It can take time to find someone that you trust enough to open up and share with. However, it can be a great benefit. Another thing I share with my client is that I can only work on and address the parts that show up in the room. If there are any parts or secrets left outside those parts don’t get to heal.

5. What are some good things to know when looking for a therapist?

DP:

a. Price- What are you willing to pay for? Keep in mind this is a recurring payment sometimes 2-4x’s per month. Find someone that fits in your budget so that you dont have to halt you healing time. Dont be afraid to ask for reduced rates or sliding scale options.

b. Client-counselor fit: Another thing I tell my clients is that there are great clients and great counselors but it doesn’t mean that every counselor is a great fit for every client. So! Try out a few, give a few a call, ask if they have free consultations whether in person or over the phone before making a decision on where to start.

c. Gender- Sometimes it matters. Think about whether or not its something that is a deal-breaker for you.

d. Distance: Although most counselors are doing telehealth now, some may convert to in-office sessions in the future. Decide whether or not the distance to travel is a deal-breaker for you.

6. Any recommendations on ways to protect your mental health during this difficult time we are in?

DP: Yes! I think its important to understand that we are in a difficult time and taking a break doesn’t necessarily mean that you are sticking your head in the sand. Take breaks from social media, go for walks, read a good book, listen to a new podcast, find a new (affordable) hobby, practice meditation- there are a ton of great apps out there that help teach the basics of meditation and have awesome guided meditations as well. The Calm app is my favorite.

7. How can someone reach out to you about making an appointment for a session?

DP: Email dreapryorcounseling@gmail.com, my psychology today page https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/drea-pryor-nashville-tn/252580, or by phone (615)525-6761. The website will be up soon.