cj hilliard (He/him)

I am a doctoral student in clinical psychology at Adler University, and I have just completed my fourth year of training. Currently, I am taking a gap year before my final clinical internship year. I previously earned my Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Ohio University and obtained a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Adler University. My clinical interests encompass various areas, including identity development, mood diagnoses, life transitions, sports psychology, and race-related issues. 

I believe in fostering a collaborative therapeutic relationship to create a supportive space for us to mindfully explore the complexities, challenges, and beauty of being fully human in the world. Whether someone is seeking support for personal growth, managing anxiety or depression, addressing trauma, exploring relationships, or seeking a new path forward, I aim to provide a warm, non-judgmental environment.

Beyond my professional pursuits, I engage in self-care activities, such as producing music, skateboarding by the lake, practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, spending time with friends, and supporting FC Bayern.

Questions? cj@forrealtherapy.com

INTERVIEW BIO WITH cj hilliard

Talk to us about passion - What are you passionate about? How has your passion informed your approach and connecting with others?

I am passionate about communicating and experiencing the world with other people. I find people so fascinating and interesting - There is so much nuance to everyone. It is cool to get to know someone to the point where we can both be authentic. I would consider myself a lifetime learner, I love to explore different environments and settings. The best way to challenge myself is to listen to different music, meet new people and learn about other cultures. I am always trying to understand the other. I am passionate about people in general.

What community or interest inspired you towards becoming a therapist and psychologist?

I know for a fact that the thing that inspired me to become a psychologist is athletics. I played D1 football at the University of Iowa and a year at Ohio University. Truthfully, the experience wasn't the best all around, and yet it shed light and drew me towards a true purpose - to serve my community as a psychologist. People have negative conceptions of mental health because they do not have the tools to regulate during tough times in life. Another motivating factor is Black children. I know firsthand how much they must learn about themselves and how to navigate the surrounding world. I think it is beautiful to tap into their sense of innocence and openness. Lastly, I recognize myself as a face for psychology for people who may not have access to mental health education or support. Many individuals are nuanced and unable to connect with the right therapist. Kind of how teams work together in sports, we need to blend strengths and weaknesses to be a great team.

How has therapy influenced or changed how you connect with yourself and others?

Therapy has improved my ability to communicate more authentically with myself. Overall, I notice I’m less avoidant and seek an environment that aligns with my values. It has helped me embrace the good and the bad, and not pull away from the challenges of personal growth. Even though vulnerability can be very scary, it is necessary to bring you closer to others.

Describe some challenges and opportunities exist for Black and Brown men beginning therapy?

My own experiences inform me that Black men desire to be vulnerable and show different sides of themselves. However, I think therapists who are not culturally inclined or have no exposure to the Black community risk grouping all Black men and women into stereotypes and clusters, which reduces uniqueness and limits Black culture into one thing. When Black men try to let their guard down to show they are in pain, people shut them down without even realizing it. When a Black man starts crying, therapists may react in a way that inherently redirects towards guilt for expressing emotions. As a society, we have to practice allowing our Black men to be human - vulnerable and compassionate. We should protect spaces for them to share their hurt and be there for them when they are in need.

What artist or musician inspires you? How do they do that?

In my view, therapy is about being authentic, and not confining yourself into a tight box, label, feeling or experience. For me, Tyler the Creator and Toro y Moi are my two favorite artists as they embody breaking away from preconceived definitions. These artists do what they need to do and live life on their own terms in a way that is authentic and unapologetic. Artists from 10-15 years ago still have the ability to reflect and grow on how they sound, or their “theme”. I think it is so cool to see humans creatively resist and seek liberation on their own terms. They remind us that choosing authenticity is beautiful and powerful. There is always an opportunity to change, we should all embrace our inherent freedom to do so.

Where do you think the future of therapy and mental health is going?

The future of mental health and therapy is going towards a more open stance. It is going to be less rigid moving forward. I hope therapists continue to put themselves into their work rather than treating therapy as a blank slate. We are all authentically who we are, let’s embrace that and bring that into the therapy room. If we do, clients will be more true to themselves even if it is scary. Let’s be more open, more flexible, and more culturally aligned.

WHAT IS YOUR UNIVERSAL PIECE OF ADVICE?

Be you with no gimmicks.