Julia Bickerstaff, MS, LPC
Owner, JB Counseling & Wellness, PLLC
- LGBTQIA+ Affirming
I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and have specialized in this niche since 2022. Before starting my practice in 2025, I worked at two specialty private practices, participated in specialized workshops, and received supervision from three senior providers in the field. I also attended the 2023 ADAA Annual Conference, where I presented on developing clinical competencies for early career professionals specializing in this niche. I am also a professional member of the IOCDF, regularly attend monthly consultation groups, and participate in online communities of OCD and anxiety specialists.
I’m originally from a refugee city in Pennsylvania, where I grew up around and befriended people of diverse backgrounds. Through my peers, I learned about their cultures and strengthened my understanding of the barriers many people of color face, creating a deep sense of empathy and a desire to ensure others felt safe around me. This devotion carried into my sessions: I strive to create a welcoming space where clients feel seen and validated. Throughout treatment, I practice cultural humility and ask about cultural identities and religious practices, and explore whether the client would like their culture incorporated into treatment.
I have taken several trainings on cultural considerations when treating diverse populations, and attended a master’s program that emphasized multicultural competency as being a vital piece in becoming a successful therapist. My most recent job experience emphasized cultural humility in treatment, which strengthened my ability to self-reflect, address culturally specific needs, and examine systemic barriers. Working in this environment has allowed me to better help clients feel secure in defining what is meaningful to them culturally, spiritually, or socially, resulting in treatment that is aligned with their values and lived experience.