About Dr. Karima Forbes
Providing Virtual Sessions
Licensed Clinical Psychologist – NY, NJ, and PSYCPACT/APIT (PSYPACTMap - Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT)
Welcome to Bloom Psychological & Wellness Consulting, LLC, a trusted haven for healing and personal growth. Dr. Forbes possesses a genuine and deep empathy for her clients, understanding that the decision to seek therapy is an act of courage and self-care. Whether you're navigating life transitions, coping with stress, struggling with anxiety or depression, or facing relationship difficulties, she is dedicated to supporting you on your path to healing.
Driven by a deep passion for helping individuals overcome challenges and discover their inner resilience, Dr. Forbes offers comprehensive and compassionate psychological services tailored to each client's unique needs.
Education and Expertise
Dr. Forbes earned her doctoral degree in Counseling Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University, a renowned institution known for its excellence in psychological research and training. Her educational background also includes a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from the University of Miami and a Master's in Counseling from Pace University. Dr. Forbes has gained clinical experience across diverse settings, encompassing both inpatient and outpatient environments. Her extensive clientele has spanned a wide array of demographic groups, including adolescents, veterans, individuals with substance use disorders, those experiencing severe mental illness, dementia caregivers, first responders, and professionals in the field of journalism. With this solid foundation of knowledge and experience, Dr. Forbes demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of human behavior, psychological processes, and therapeutic interventions.
Dr. Forbes employs a wide range of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to address a broad range of issues including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma, sleep related difficulties, women's mental health, identity exploration, and self-esteem enhancement.
In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Forbes is dedicated to staying abreast of the latest research and advancements in the field of psychology. Dr. Forbes has engaged actively in a range of research including DEI in the workplace, race and racial identity, race-based traumatic stress, minority mental health, incarceration and the collateral consequences, youth development, and dementia caregivers.
She regularly attends professional conferences and engages in ongoing education and training to ensure that her therapeutic approaches align with the most effective and evidence-based practices. Dr. Forbes' commitment to professional growth enables her to offer her clients the highest standard of care and guide them towards optimal well-being.
Dr. Forbes is a member of the American Psychological Association (APA), the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM), the Mental Health Resource Group (MHPG) of ASRM, and Postpartum Support International (PSI).
Approach to Wellness
With a warm and collaborative style, Dr. Forbes strives to build a therapeutic alliance based on trust, respect, and confidentiality. She creates a non-judgmental space where clients can express themselves freely, fostering a sense of safety that encourages exploration and growth. By integrating evidence-based interventions with her clinical expertise, she empowers individuals to gain insights, develop effective coping strategies, and cultivate a greater sense of self-awareness and self-compassion.
Dr. Forbes is passionate about diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and recognizes the importance of honoring and valuing individual differences. She is deeply committed to creating an affirming and culturally sensitive practice where clients from diverse backgrounds can feel seen, heard, and respected
Culture & Identity
Dr. Forbes' commitment to culture and identity in the therapeutic space is a cornerstone of effective and culturally sensitive mental health care. By recognizing and respecting the cultural, ethnic, and identity factors that shape each individual's life, therapists create a safe and inclusive environment, promoting understanding and validation for clients. This approach builds trust, improves communication, and enhances self-awareness, leading to more effective treatment. Addressing these issues also empowers clients to explore their values and experiences, enabling them to navigate life's challenges authentically, fostering improved mental health and overall well-being.