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Sonya Bolden
About
Hi, I'm Sonya Bolden, a licensed clinical social worker in Tennessee. I'm so glad you're here, and I want to share a little bit about who I am and what drives my work. I truly believe in the power of a strong therapeutic relationship and creating a safe space where you can feel seen, heard, and supported.My journey to becoming a provider is deeply personal. Over the years, I've dedicated my career to helping people navigate some of life's most challenging moments. I've seen firsthand how difficult experiences, especially trauma, can impact a person's life. This is why I've specialized in evidence-based therapies like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), the Trauma Systems Therapy (TST) model, and the Rapid Trauma Resolution (RTR) model. My goal is to help you process what you've been through and build the tools you need to heal and move forward.Beyond my clinical work, I'm passionate about community and giving back. I'm the founding board chairperson for The Hope Network, a nonprofit dedicated to suicide prevention. I've also had the privilege of writing a book, The Other Woman, to share stories and insights that I hope can help others on their path to healing.I'm here to walk alongside you on your journey toward well-being. My approach is client-centered, meaning that you are the expert on your own life. I'm here to provide guidance, support, and a non-judgmental space as we work together to help you achieve your goals.
The path that led me to specialize in working with autistic and neurodivergent individuals is a deeply personal one. For me, neurodivergence isn't just a clinical term; it's a fundamental part of the human experience that exists on a beautiful, diverse spectrum. Throughout my life, my closest connections have been with people who think, feel, and process the world in unique ways. In many regards, my people are the neurodivergent people.This lived experience has given me a unique perspective. I've seen firsthand the challenges that come from a world not always built for neurodivergent people, but I’ve also witnessed their incredible strengths, creativity, and resilience. I saw a need for a more understanding, affirming, and supportive approach—one that doesn’t try to “fix” or "change" who someone is, but instead empowers them to thrive as their authentic self.This is why I am so passionate about providing neurodivergent-affirming care. I believe that therapy should be a space where you don't have to mask or conform, but can instead explore your identity, process your experiences, and build strategies that truly work for you. It's a privilege to be a part of this journey with my clients, and I am committed to creating a therapeutic relationship where you feel truly understood and valued.
I believe that every single person holds an incredible amount of strength and resilience, often more than they realize. In our sessions, my focus isn't on what's "wrong" or what challenges you face. Instead, we'll spend our time identifying, reckoning with, and building upon the unique strengths, skills, and passions that already exist within you. You are more than a diagnosis or a list of symptoms; you are a complete individual with a rich inner world. My commitment is to create a compassionate and affirming space where you can fully realize your potential and build a life that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.This is a core part of my approach, which is why no two sessions with me are ever the same. You are an individual, and our work together will be as unique as you are. We won't follow a rigid script; instead, we'll collaborate to tailor each session to your needs, your goals, and your pace.As a bisexual, neurodivergent woman, I also understand the importance of finding a provider who can relate to your lived experiences and identity. I'm committed to providing a safe space for all individuals, and I welcome the opportunity to work with clients from all backgrounds, particularly those from marginalized communities.
