Community Highlights: Meet Jacqueline Gordon of Open Book Counseling, LLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jacqueline Gordon.

Hi Jacqueline, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Jacqueline and I opened my virtual private practice in 2025 after a journey shaped by both professional training and lived experience. I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Savannah State University and my Master’s degree in Social Work with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from the University of Georgia. I am a fully licensed professional therapist in the states of Georgia and Maryland.

My work is deeply rooted in trauma, both personally and professionally. I am a survivor of childhood sexual assault and I grew up witnessing my mother experience domestic violence. These experiences gave me an early understanding of how trauma extends far beyond the moment of harm and can shape mental health, relationships and self-worth, long after the danger has passed.

Professionally, I began my career working with individuals who had experienced human trafficking, initially focusing on rescue and reintegration. Over time, I realized that physical safety was only the beginning. Many survivors continued to face complex trauma, substance abuse and co-occurring mental health challenges long after leaving unsafe environments.

That realization ultimately led me to open my own private practice. Today, my niche is addressing trauma in its many forms, helping clients move beyond survival, process their experiences and build lives grounded in safety, autonomy, and healing.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road has not been smooth. One of my biggest challenges has been imposter syndrome. As a Black woman and a first-generation American, from a Jamaican family, stepping into visibility and leadership did not come naturally. Growing up, talking too much was discouraged, being in the spotlight was even more of an issue and there were no conversations about mental health or emotions. I had to unlearn these stigmas and do the work to break generational cycles on my own. Which led to my decision to pursue this career as it had to be intentional and personal, as I aim to change this for others, so they know they are not alone.

Building a private practice while working with complex trauma required a deliberate unlearning of silence and a commitment to trusting my own voice. Over time, I have come to understand that imposter syndrome is not an indication of inadequacy, but rather a measure of the distance I have traveled and a testament to the conscious choice to occupy space with intention and authority.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Open Book Counseling, LLC ?
My private practice is rooted in trauma-informed care and a commitment to continuous learning. I specialize in helping clients understand and heal from trauma and its impact on mental health, identity and relationships. While therapy was not my first career love, it is the work I am deeply committed to and intend to do long term. I offer individual and family therapy services.

What sets my practice apart is the balance of clinical skill and authenticity. I create a safe and compassionate space where clients feel seen and empowered, not rushed or judged. At its core, my brand is about breaking generational cycles and normalizing mental health, helping clients reclaim their stories and supporting them in taking up space joyfully, freely, and safely.

What’s next?
Looking ahead, I plan to expand my practice and continue providing trauma-informed care while creating children’s books for kids who have experienced trauma similar to my own, as a way for them to feel seen, understood, and not alone. I want to help individuals of all ages reclaim their stories, commence and continue breaking generational cycles, and move through life with confidence, safety, joy and peace.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.openbookcounsellingga.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/openbooktherapist_
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@openbooktherapist

Image Credits
https://www.mcdonpro.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio