Welcome to The Space Between: Empowering Deaf and Coda Communities through Connection, Healing, and Advocacy

At The Space Between, we are on a mission to bridge the gap between Deaf and hearing worlds, providing a unique and inclusive approach to mental health, education, and personal growth. As a licensed professional counselor and a native ASL user, I, Joy Plote, have dedicated my career to addressing the needs of the Deaf community through trauma-informed care and support.

The Space Between is more than just a counseling agency—it's a movement. We recognize that the unique challenges faced by Codas and Deaf individuals are often compounded by systemic barriers, language deprivation, and intergenerational trauma. My goal is to create a safe, accessible space where these communities can heal, grow, and thrive.

A Trauma-Informed Approach

We offer a range of therapeutic services to address trauma, abuse, and deprivation, with a focus on modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Brainspotting, DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and IFS (Internal Family Systems). Through these methods, we help clients address emotional dysregulation, process past trauma, and build stronger emotional resilience.

One of our core values is creating accessible mental health resources for those who are often left behind—those who use ASL, who have grown up in a world that has sometimes been deaf to their needs. We aim to fill the gaps by offering services specifically designed to meet the needs of individuals whose experiences may not always be fully understood by mainstream therapists or services.

Healing Intergenerational Trauma

Codas carry a unique set of experiences that often go unnoticed or unaddressed. Growing up between two worlds—Deaf and hearing—Codas experience emotional strain that is passed down through generations. Through workshops, retreats, and one-on-one counseling, The Space Between seeks to help Codas understand and navigate their identity, process their emotions, and heal from the trauma that has been inherited.

Our sister site, The Coda Legacy Project, will focus on the impact of intergenerational trauma and the legacy of Codas. We will delve into the impact of deafness, the complexities of Coda identity and offer isight for self-discovery and emotional healing. We believe that by addressing these intergenerational issues, Codas can reclaim their own voices and contribute to the collective healing of their families and communities.

Advocacy and Education

Alongside our counseling services, we are committed to advocacy and education. Through our website and YouTube channel, The Space Between provides resources and educational content on trauma, mental health, and Deaf culture. Our goal is to raise awareness, promote dialogue, and engage with both the Deaf and hearing communities to create a more inclusive and understanding society.

We also provide CEUs (Continuing Education Units) for professionals, such as counselors, interpreters, and educators, who work with the Deaf and Coda populations. Our workshops and educational materials are designed to promote cultural competence, ensuring that those who work with these communities are equipped to provide the highest level of care.

Building a Supportive Community

Creating a community of support is essential to our mission. We are currently in the process of launching The Space Between’s online support groups for Deaf individuals, Codas, and families who are navigating the complexities of life in a bilingual, bimodal world. These support groups will offer a safe, judgment-free space where participants can share their experiences, seek advice, and connect with others who understand their unique challenges.

Additionally, we offer specialized services such as family therapy and therapy tailored for support within families who navigate multiple communication methods and cultural perspectives. By fostering a strong sense of community, The Space Between aims to promote healing and resilience for individuals and families alike.

Our Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, The Space Between envisions a future where every Deaf individual and Coda has access to the mental health support they need. We aim to expand our services to include physical spaces for in-person therapy, develop new online courses, and continue to advocate for systemic change within the mental health and educational sectors.

One of our long-term goals is to secure funding for a dedicated trauma center for the Deaf community. This center will provide specialized services that address the intersectionality of trauma, language deprivation, and Deaf identity, and it will be a space where Deaf individuals can receive care from professionals who truly understand their unique experiences.

Join Us in Our Mission

At The Space Between, we believe that healing begins with understanding. Our mission is to empower individuals and families to take control of their mental health, fostering resilience, growth, and a sense of belonging. Whether you are a Coda, a Deaf individual, or someone who works with these communities, we invite you to join us in creating a more compassionate, inclusive, and supportive world.

Explore our resources, join a support group, attend one of our workshops, or schedule a session with us today. Together, we can heal, grow, and thrive.