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In this powerful episode, we sit down with Monica Gavilanes, LMSW, also known as Queen M, an intergenerational trauma and liberation-centered therapist and educator from Queens, NY.  Monica is the founder of Roots & Alchemy PLLC, a healing hub for racially marginalized communities that provides both individual and community-based support through a decolonized lens.  Her mission is to guide therapists and therapy seekers in addressing cultural amnesia and reclaiming mental wellness for themselves and their lineage.

We delve into the concept of decolonizing social work—what it means, how it can transform everyday social work practice and how it intersects with our personal lives.  Together, we explore the importance of embracing our full selves, recognizing our power and making intentional choices about how to move forward with this knowledge.

This episode is for social workers, therapists and anyone committed to dismantling oppressive systems in mental health and social work while embracing a liberatory practice.

Connect with Monica Gavilanes (Queen M): 

• Instagram: @rootsandalchemy
• Website: www.rootsandalchemypllc.com

Social workers of color face immense challenges—systemic racism, underfunding, and overwhelming caseloads. They work tirelessly to support others but often lack the support they need. That’s why we created the Queens of Social Work Podcast—a lifeline and safe space for social workers of color to vent, share, laugh, and find the resources they need to thrive.

The  QOSW Daily Journal and our Royally You Interactive Journal for yourself will help you get all of your thoughts out and reflect on what’s next for you. For all of the budding social workers and those wanting to know more about social work in a healthcare setting, check out our Guide for ER Social Workers also for sale on Amazon and go to our website queensofsocialwork.net for your queens of social work merch! It makes a great gift. 

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