I was born and raised in Belarus. I lived in North Georgia for three years before moving to Washington state.

Over the years, I’ve had many different jobs: teacher, interpreter, journalist, florist, and cashier. My first job in the U.S. was in fast food - I took a very classic immigrant route.

I’ve always enjoyed doing many things at once, and that hasn’t changed. Today, I work full-time as a therapist while also teaching, creating floral arrangements, and singing.

As a therapist, I’ve worked in transitional housing for domestic violence survivors, a residential eating disorder treatment program, and a nonprofit serving refugees and immigrants. I’ve had the privilege of supporting many Ukrainian refugees who fled their homes following the full-scale invasion.

In addition to English, I speak Russian and Belarusian, and I understand Ukrainian and Polish. I had the opportunity to live and study in Poland for a year after receiving a grant from the European Union.

Outside of work, I try to make space for rest, pleasure, and the things that make me feel alive. I love the warmth of the sun, being near the water, and the way nature invites me to slow down, be present, and come back to myself.

I’m also a musician at heart. Music has always been an important part of how I understand myself and the world around me. I sing in a choir, and host music nights in my living room. I love bringing people together, sharing music, and creating spaces where everyone feels welcomed and at home.