Meet Traci Medeiros | Therapist & Educational Director of Gather & Grow OC

We had the good fortune of connecting with Traci Medeiros and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Traci, how does your business help the community?
Gather and Grow OC is a therapy practice providing mental health services through client-centered non-pathologizing methods. This philosophy, reflected throughout our business model, affirms and validates clients’ experiences, focusing on minoritized communities. We offer sliding-scale services and prioritize continuing education making culturally competent mental health care more accessible, and we foster a sustainable work environment for our diverse and invested clinicians. Through these practices, Gather and Grow OC works towards a world where everyone can access compassionate, respectful mental health care, regardless of their identity.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Gather and Grow OC is not just a therapy practice, but a purpose-driven group seeking to increase access to competent care for underrepresented communities in a traditionally conservative area. Our unique focus sets us apart, as we commit to quality mental health care where groups like the LGBTQ+ community, sex workers, individuals in ethically non-monogamous relationships, and people of color don’t just feel tolerated but rather deserving of specialized care that reflects their life experiences from an affirming perspective.

The journey so far has been challenging but rewarding. Key to our success is the connection with my co-director, Jacqueline Plante. Our shared values and aligned vision have driven us forward through the challenging times and made the rewarding moments more fun!

The power of collaboration and shared purpose is certainly the greatest lesson learned. We truly believe that sustainability and respect must run through all aspects of our clinical practice and business. We want the world to know that Gather and Grow OC is here to change the face of mental health care, proving that everyone deserves access to compassionate, competent care. We are here to make a difference.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We would have to stop at Memphis for brunch, a favorite spot for coffee and business brainstorming. For a midday caffeine fix, we’d visit Black Market Bakery across the street at The Camp. If we were near Gather & Grow OC headquarters, we’d opt for Play Coffee in Downtown Fullerton. Pali Wine at the Packing District and El Gringo Tacos are always our go-to for reconnecting over a leisurely glass of wine and enjoying the SoCal weather. And, of course, a trip to Orange County wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Disneyland. It may be cliche but you can’t get the full OC experience without it, and from a therapist’s perspective, a little inner child healing is never a bad thing!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d love to give a big shoutout to my incredible colleagues at Gather and Grow OC, internally the GGOC Fam! Each member of our team brings unique skills and perspectives to our practice, providing compassionate and culturally competent care to our clients. A special mention goes to my co-director Jacqueline Plante, whose dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our mission is truly inspiring. Your tireless work does not go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated.

Website: https://www.gatherandgrowoc.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gatherandgrowoc/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gather-grow-oc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gatherandgrowoc/