Emily Easterling, MA, LPC

I believe Psychotherapy can assist with creating a more advanced level of self-awareness and self-compassion. When we are able to develop a more comprehensive understanding of ourselves and our unique discomforts and areas of emotional pain, I see this as the most fundamental way to evolve emotionally, better self-soothe, and more effectively create and maintain healthier life experiences and relationships. Just as we are taught to exercise and eat well to manage proper physical health, Psychotherapy metaphorically can assist in appropriately managing our mental and emotional health.

It is not uncommon for people to feel a little or very apprehensive about seeing a Therapist. We live in a society where there exists some cultural and societal norms around autonomy and independence like, "do it yourself", "pick yourself up by the bootstraps", "get over it and move on", "it's not that big of a deal", "be strong", etc. These societal messages and cultural norms can make it very conflicting for people to feel justified in seeking help or extra support from Therapy. To this I say that as human beings we are social creatures that NEED the support and care from other human beings to maneuver through life efficiently and survive. Therapy by no means equates to weakness. It actually requires a great deal of courage to do what we often fear doing most as human beings, and that is to take an honest look at ourselves and our emotional pain and help ourselves heal and grow. If therapy turns out to be something you are not ready for or interested in pursuing for whatever reason, then no harm no foul and perhaps I can help you find an alternative solution to deal with your situation.