Z. Hamilton Avery, LMSW (U/S), BC-TMH, CMT, CYT-1,000, TIYT (he/they) is a therapist, social worker, writer, entrepreneur, health educator, wellness coach, body and energy worker, yoga and meditation teacher, artist, and former first responder currently based in Oklahoma. In addition to having obtained over a dozen certifications in various modalities of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), Z holds an associate’s degree in pre-nursing studies, a bachelor’s degree in psychology, and a master’s degree in social work. When supporting clients, Z strives to take a humanistic, person-centered, strengths-based, trauma-informed approach. Their practice is grounded in compassion, harm reduction, inclusivity, social justice, and evidence-based interventions. Ultimately, Z’s mission is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for adolescents (13+) and adults who are navigating challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic pain, chronic illness, and suicidal ideation.

Understanding that mental health is interconnected with many other facets of life, Z takes a holistic approach to therapy. Knowing that there is no one-size-fits-all treatment, he strives to honor the uniqueness of each client by tailoring his approach to best meet the needs, preferences, and goals of each individual. For this reason, Z believes that it is imperative to be cross-trained in many different treatment approaches. As a therapist, they utilize a variety of cognitive, behavioral, somatic, expressive, and mindfulness-based interventions. As a body and energy worker, Z is certified to practice massage therapy, Thai yoga massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and reiki. They are also certified in both Chinese and Japanese styles of acupuncture. After completing more than 1,000 hours of accredited yoga teacher training (primarily in India), Z is certified to teach several styles of yoga, including Hatha, yin, and restorative.

Between bodywork, yoga, coaching, and therapy, Z has provided care to thousands of clients since 2010. Z has worked extensively in non-profit organizations that serve a variety of vulnerable communities, including rural and low-income populations, adolescents and older adults, 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, people living with serious mental illness and chronic medical conditions, survivors of trauma, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those navigating mental/behavioral health crises. Z has worked throughout Oklahoma and Florida, offering telephone, telehealth, office-based, school-based, community-based, and home-based services. Z has practiced across a diverse range of settings, including schools, health clinics, community mental health agencies, outpatient and group practice environments, primary care, hospice, mobile crisis services, and a 911 call center. Z is currently a medical social worker and trauma/crisis therapist who offers sessions, classes, groups, workshops, retreats, and trainings in outpatient and community-based settings.

Beyond their clinical practice, Z is passionate about expanding access to high-quality mental health education through writing, teaching, and resource development. He creates research-informed therapeutic workbooks, psychoeducational handouts, guided mindfulness and meditation practices, clinical tools, presentations, workshops, and professional trainings for individuals, caregivers, clinicians, groups, and community organizations. Drawing from both current research and extensive clinical experience, Z strives to translate complex psychological concepts into practical, compassionate, and engaging resources that empower people to strengthen their mental health, cultivate resilience, and apply evidence-based skills into their everyday lives. Through this work, Z hopes to make evidence-based, integrative approaches to healing and well-being more accessible, inclusive, and actionable for all who seek them.