Van (they | elle) is a queer, non binary, trans, Egytpian, Jewish, Latine, autistic individual with dynamic disabilities and many more historically excluded identities. With a passion for social justice, they are dually licensed as both a Marriage & Family Therapist and a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. Van thrives on holding space for people to explore and embrace the full spectrum of their identities.
Driven by a deep commitment to social justice, Van believes in the transformative power of self-awareness and resilience. They focus on helping others navigate the complexities of their lived experiences with trust, validation, and compassion. Through an anti-oppressive positionality, Van is dedicated to individuals to explore their unique paths of growth, healing, and self-discovery.
In addition to their clinical work, Van is a passionate advocate and educator. They provide trainings on topics including supporting trans and non binary identities, LGBTQPIA2S+ inclusion, disability justice, neurodiversity, harm reduction, and more. Van is the founder of No More Gatekeeping, a national initiative that connects trans and non binary individuals with providers who engage in a one time letter and assessment. They also authored Exploring My Identity(ies) (2020) and produced the documentary Do Something: Trans & Non Binary Identities (2021).
Van also organized the Do Something: Identity(ies) Conference in May 2022 and May 2024, where every person involved was paid and a trans, non binary and/or another non cis identity. These conferences, along with the No More Gatekeeping app—designed to support providers with trauma-informed, identity-affirming care—were both personal projects, separate from Van’s work with their nonprofit.
Van is the Executive Director of Do Something: Identity(ies) 501(c)(3), a nonprofit that advocates for the rights and well-being of trans, non binary, and many more non cis people. The organization works to improve access to life-saving care, facilitates training to combat transphobic behavior, and is creating resources such as a database of affirming providers.
When they’re not advocating for systemic change, Van serves as the Director of Behavioral Health at the Transgender Health & Wellness Center, where they continue to make a positive impact on the lives of trans, non binary and many more non cis individuals.
To learn more about Van’s work, access conference recordings, or inquire about training and resources, please reach out at DiversityAndIdentities@gmail.com
