“Ussama holds tremendous care for his clients and often reflects on how larger systems of oppression impact them. He is thoughtful, resourceful, and clinically astute. Given his calm demeanor, attention to detail, and self-awareness, I would highly recommend him for anyone on the path to healing.”
Moné Miller, LCSW, she/her, Senior Counselor at Therapy Austin
“Ussama is an excellent therapist who has made a significant difference in the lives of his clients and colleagues. He is exceptionally thoughtful about what people need to feel safe and goes out of his way to cultivate an attuned and respectful healing space.
He is also super smart and is always learning so he can provide the best possible therapy. He regularly seeks out EMDR consultation, conscientiously reflects on areas of growth, and takes the initiative to study advanced EMDR procedures to deepen his knowledge and skills. In EMDR consultation, I recall many times when his clients have healed and expressed gratitude for the changes, relief and support they’ve experienced in therapy.
Not surprisingly, Ussama is highly regarded by his colleagues—he builds strong, authentic relationships, courageously tackles difficult conversations, and takes the lead to promote social justice, anti-racism and a spirit of inclusiveness in spaces he shares with others.”
Christine Molina, LCSW, she/her, EMDR Certified Therapist, EMDRIA-Approved Consultant, AEDP Level 2 Therapist, IFS-Informed Therapist, Somatic Experiencing Student
“As a mentor, Ussama encouraged and challenged me to show up as my best self clinically and professionally. He provided a secure environment for my vulnerability and shared valuable insight during my growing pains as a new therapist. As a colleague he is honest, open, and accountable. He is a strong advocate and ally with a deep sense of empathy and justice. It is my pleasure to enthusiastically endorse Ussama Taha and know that anyone who has the pleasure of working with him will be safe, respected, and valued.”
Billie Rain-Shadid, LCSW, they/them, Therapist and Community Advocate
“It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege these last few years to get to know Ussama in a number of capacities. I can say without hesitation that he adds immense value to every conversation and space he inhabits. In our work together on the recruitment team at Therapy Austin, he truly embodied the values of relationality, social justice, and inclusivity in his role, creating a welcoming environment for our prospective colleagues so they felt they could present themselves authentically throughout the recruitment process. I’ve also participated in countless consultation groups with Ussama - from peer to group leadership to identity-focused groups - and he freely shares his deep clinical knowledge, helping colleagues consider different perspectives and approaches to clinical challenges. His commitment to his work, his profession and all the lives he touches is consistent, and an inspiration to those around him.”
Melissa Quackenbush, LCSW, she/her, Senior Counselor at Therapy Austin and Founder of Curious Therapist
"Ussama has an incredible gift of making those around him feel understood and seen. Beyond this, Ussama brings a keen awareness of the systemic barriers to joy and connection we encounter in this world. He has a focus on relationship and lived experience that fosters insight necessary for personal growth and collaboration. Working and being in community with Ussama is a blessing. His direct, but caring approach is deeply effective."
Matty Jernigan, LCSW, they/them, Senior Counselor at Therapy Austin & Central Austin Psychotherapy
“I have worked with Ussama for several years in a variety of capacities including clinical work, and work related to policy at the agency at which we were both employed. As a key member of our Recruitment Team, Ussama pushed for our process to be more rooted in anti-oppression to ensure that the counselors we were hiring were in line with the values our agency tries to uphold. He was also the founder of our Bias and Inclusivity Steering Committee, which has been crucial and instrumental in creating more safety for both clinicians and clients through policy changes. In all these professional settings, Ussama produced an environment of challenge, accountability, and safety, which is a difficult combination to pull off. He is someone that I frequently turn to for clinical consultation, especially around topics like identity, anti-oppression, and advocacy. Beyond that, I consider Ussama a friend whose opinion I deeply respect and whose company I deeply enjoy!”
Melanie Dyer, LPC, she/her, Senior Counselor at Therapy Austin