Ussama Taha, LCSW
he/him
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER
“Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.” James Baldwin
I am a Black, biracial, and bicultural psychotherapist in South Austin who provides individual therapy for adults. I specialize in supporting clients being impacted by trauma, challenging interpersonal relationships or identity exploration.
I am BIPOC, LGBTQIA2S+ and neuro-diverse affirming and have supported folx that hold these identities and have been harmed by oppression and injustice. I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is an extensively researched psychotherapy method that can resolve unprocessed trauma and help the brain resume its natural healing process.
The science of attachment theory guides my understanding of romantic relationships and family dynamics. I enjoy teaching people how to better understand their brains and what may be guiding their decisions and behavior.
In 2022 I was selected as a Health Equity Leader by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), and completed 100 hours of training to provide MDMA-assisted psychotherapy to treat post-traumatic stress disorder. The following year MAPS sponsored my attendance of Psychedelic Science 2023 - the largest psychedelic gathering in history.
I grew up splitting my time between Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, and North America. My father is originally from Khartoum, Sudan, and my mom was born and raised in Cody, Wyoming. As a third culture adult, I've found my perspective beneficial in supporting fellow children of immigrants and those with international roots. I studied journalism as an undergraduate at the University of Texas at Austin and then spent a decade working in Dubai as a television reporter and producer. These diverse life experiences have allowed me the privilege of connecting with a wide range of traditions and values.
I played sports competitively through high school and currently seek out competition and community playing sand volleyball, and have recently brushed off the cobwebs of my tennis racket. I enjoy stand-up comedy and have even performed it a handful of times to audiences that sometimes enjoyed it as well. Other hobbies I’ve spent time developing include poker and more recently indoor plant care - I’ve successfully graduated from the over-watering phase.