Anxiety, Body Image, and Disordered Eating Therapy in Huntersville
and virtually across NC for college-age women and young professionals.
Let go of the need to be perfect, so you can finally feel like you are enough, just as you are.
If you’re ready to let go of the responsibility of trying to have it all together…
Whether you’re struggling with feeling like you’re not where you need to be in life, putting pressure on yourself to look a certain way to be worthy of love, or letting perfectionism get in the way of your next steps…
…then you’re in the right place.
And for someone who always wants to feel in control, that can be terrifying. Wanting everything to “be a certain way” seems like it should negate your anxiety but you ultimately end up ruminating about your never-ending to-do list and wondering how everyone else seems to have it figured out. Maybe you’ve always struggled with body image and your relationship with food, but lately it feels unmanageable. From the outside, it may look like you have it all together but inside you feel stuck and unsure what your next steps in life are.
Let’s face it: dealing with the unknown can be uncomfortable
The good news? It doesn’t have to be that way.
My approach to therapy is rooted in authenticity and trust. In our work together, we’ll deconstruct the thoughts that are holding you back from being the confident woman you can be. Growth often comes from a place of discomfort but I’ll never leave you there. Our sessions will focus on building upon your strengths, finding what works for your life, and developing a network of coping skills that go beyond putting a band-aid on the deeper issues. Using a mind-body approach, we will work on healing the relationship with food and your body, and become unstuck from feeling like you always have to have it figured out.
What is Somatic-based Therapy?
Somatic-based Therapy applies mind-body practices to process anxiety, and the disconnection that often comes with body image issues or a negative relationship with food. By gently bringing awareness to your internal cues, you can calm your mind and body when it feels like your heart is beating out of your chest. Incorporating yoga-based techniques such a breathing and guided meditations (not sitting in silence trying to have zero thoughts!) builds a sense of calmness and safety.
Anxiety
Overwhelming thoughts is common when dealing with anxiety, but that’s not always the case. You may notice a sense of unease, even if “nothing is happening” or you’re not thinking of anything in particular. Using body-based practices can help ground you in the present moment by gently taking awareness to your senses and learning to find comfort within yourself.
Body Image
Have you ever been suggested to look in the mirror and compliment yourself? If you didn’t find that helpful or maybe even triggering, you’re not alone! Your body carries you through life and I truly believe that deserves praise, even if it seems like its working against you. Through somatic-based work, we will view your body neutrally and cultivate self-compassion for what your body does for you.
Disordered Eating
If you’re preoccupied with thoughts of food, calories, and the number on the scale, you may create strict rules for yourself. When that doesn’t work, you find yourself binging on “bad foods”, followed by guilt and further imposing rules to make up for the binge. By incorporating somatic-based work, you can learn to tune into your body’s needs in a way that is nourishing and safe, ditching the food rituals for good.
What it’s like to work with me
As someone who’s been a client before, I understand firsthand how nerve-wracking the idea of therapy can seem. Therapy with me is…
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Every feeling and emotion is valid. I believe that part of the healing process involves you learning to understand and validate the experiences that brought you here.
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Part of our work together will focus on what you’re experiencing, both physically and emotionally in order to develop a deeper sense of understanding the reason behind your feelings.
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We’ll work together to restore balance and cultivate a sense of wellbeing within yourself.
Why Sage Mind?
Sage represents wisdom, calmness, and clarity. Sage Mind (known as Wise Mind in therapy) means to think both emotionally with your heart and also logically with your mind. By balancing the two you can find harmony and learn to trust yourself.
My training
and education
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Master of Clinical Counseling, East Carolina University
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Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (16881)
National Certified Counselor (1586064)
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I incorporate elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which focuses on understanding the connection of thoughts and behaviors. I use somatic-based work, which builds connection from your mind to body. I also utilize Compassion Focused Therapy which incorporates validation and understanding.