Brodie Roland, Master’s Level Clinician

Education:

University of Florida Mental Health Counseling

At a Glance: 

I specialize in using an existential-humanistic and narrative framework when working with clients, and I also frequently incorporate techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy. I am trained in working with LGBTQ+ populations and providing affirming care that integrates clients within community resources and systems. I am led to work with individuals who are exploring identity, processing trauma (familial, political, legal, religious, etc.), facing legal or workplace struggles, exploring career options, experiencing family issues, or going through the process of inviting others into their queer experience. I want to provide a space where individuals can be seen, heard, and feel safe to explore their inner world. 

Why did you become a therapist? 

I was called to the counseling profession because I experienced great personal growth and healing firsthand with my own counselor. I recognized that I wanted to affect similar change in the lives of others and advocate for those who aren’t supported by the individuals and systems with which they interact. I have learned a great deal entering into this line of work, and there is still so much more to learn as well as room to grow. I feel that being on both sides of the counseling office has fostered a greater understanding of myself and what I am here for, and I look forward to supporting others who are exploring those big questions.

What can a client expect to experience in a session with you?

In session with me, clients can expect to be treated with respect and compassionate curiosity. I thoroughly enjoy getting to see the world through my clients’ eyes, and I make an effort to make the counseling process as collaborative as possible. While I don’t shy away from challenging my clients when necessary, humor is often incorporated into my work.

If you could work with on celebrity, who would it be?

Of all of the celebrities who could use a quality counselor, I would love to counsel one of my favorite comedians, Conan O’Brien. Conan has discussed his journey with depression and how his coping mechanisms of absurdity and humor have been able to keep his struggles at bay while not fully processing underlying issues. I believe the opportunity to see him would be both a delight and a challenge given I would balance counseling work with combatting humorous riffs and being star struck. 

How do you spend your free time? 

I generally spend my free time around family and loving on my two dogs. My family is rather large but close-knit, so there is always a birthday or other events to celebrate. When on my own, I enjoy creative hobbies like playing piano and singing, making conlangs, and drawing. Video games are also in the mix as well as getting into nature on our family farm.

What's your favorite quirk about yourself? 

Out of the many quirks present, I would say my favorite is my tendency to be silly and playful. When I don’t need to be serious, I’m not. I’m making jokes, playing the fool, or embodying my inner child. In my view, life can be absurd at times, so why not lean into it?

What does social justice mean to you? 

Social justice is such a motivating factor in my work given how often fighting against systemic injustice and oppression is part of the job. While our society seeks to empower select identities and disenfranchise those who don’t hold them, the counseling space is a sanctuary for marginalized individuals to find support and a voice. I want those who step into my office to feel safe, understood, and valuable, and the unique experiences they have endured as a result of oppression will be acknowledged and held compassionately as we proceed through the therapeutic process. I view it as my duty to provide resources, opportunities, and support to the individuals who are let down by the systems intended to benefit them, and I feel that advocacy by way of bringing attention to flawed systems and perspectives is needed to best empower individuals suffering from injustice. 

How do you believe change happens?

I hold the opinion that change is the only constant in life, but sometimes making personal changes can be quite difficult. I feel that action, self-awareness, and support are intrinsically connected to the changing process. Often we understand that there are changes that need to be made, but the desire and motivation alone typically aren’t what makes change happen. Becoming aware of one’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors is a start, and continuing to gain insights on how they influence your well-being adds valuable context. Along with the empathetic support and clearer insights found through counseling, I believe individuals can be spurred to take action and make changes that better align with their goals and further promote their well-being.