Tag: authenticity

Childlike Joy

Live Free and Joyfully Like a Child

When was the last time you laughed without restraint, danced without worrying who was watching, or marveled at the world with wide-eyed wonder? Children do these things effortlessly. They live with a sense of freedom and joy that many adults seem to lose along the way. But what if you could bring some of that childlike energy back into your life?

Living free and joyfully like a child isn’t about shirking responsibilities or ignoring the complexities of adulthood. It’s about reconnecting with the parts of you that know how to live fully in the moment, embrace curiosity, and find joy in the simple things.

What We Can Learn from Children

Children have a remarkable ability to:

– Live in the Moment: Kids aren’t consumed by past regrets or future worries. They immerse themselves completely in the now.

– Find Joy in Simplicity: A puddle on the ground or a bird in the sky can spark their delight.

– Be Unapologetically Themselves: They don’t second-guess their laughter, tears, or creativity.

– Take Risks Without Fear of Failure: They try, fall, and try again, seeing mistakes as part of the adventure.

– Dream Freely: Their imaginations are limitless, and they believe anything is possible.

As adults, we often lose touch with these qualities, weighed down by societal expectations, responsibilities, and self-imposed limits. But we can reclaim them.

How to Reclaim Your Inner Childlike Joy

1. Embrace Playfulness

Play isn’t just for kids—it’s for anyone who wants to reconnect with joy. Whether it’s trying a new hobby, playing a game, or simply being silly with friends, give yourself permission to have fun without purpose or productivity.

2. Rediscover Your Curiosity

Children are natural explorers, asking “why” a million times a day. Let yourself wonder about the world again. Read books, ask questions, or learn something new just for the joy of discovery.

3. Be Present

Kids don’t worry about yesterday or tomorrow—they’re fully absorbed in the moment. Practice mindfulness by paying attention to your senses, focusing on your breath, or simply savoring life as it happens.

4. Celebrate Small Joys

Notice the little things that bring you happiness: the warmth of the sun, the taste of your favorite meal, or the laughter of a loved one. Children find magic in the mundane; you can too.

5. Let Go of Self-Consciousness

Children don’t worry about how they look or whether they’re being judged. Take a cue from them and dance, sing, or express yourself without worrying about others’ opinions.

6. Take Risks

Remember when you were a kid and climbed that tall tree or jumped into the pool without a second thought? As adults, fear of failure often holds us back. Challenge yourself to take small risks, embrace mistakes, and see them as part of the journey.

7. Reconnect with Nature

Children often feel at home in nature, whether they’re climbing trees, chasing butterflies, or digging in the dirt. They’re barefoot, free, and interested. Spend time outdoors, letting the beauty and simplicity of the natural world inspire you.

8. Laugh Often

Children laugh hundreds of times a day, while adults average far fewer. Seek out humor, surround yourself with people who make you smile, and don’t be afraid to laugh at yourself.

Living Freely in a Structured World

Of course, adulthood comes with responsibilities—jobs, bills, and relationships. But living like a child doesn’t mean ignoring those things; it means approaching life with a different mindset. It’s about:

– Balancing Freedom with Responsibility: Doing what needs to be done while carving out time for joy.

– Prioritizing Play and Rest: Treating fun and downtime as essential, not optional.

– Choosing Joy Over Perfection: Letting go of the need to have everything figured out or under control.

A Final Thought

Living free and joyfully like a child doesn’t mean abandoning adulthood—it means embracing life with open arms and an open heart. It’s about rediscovering the wonder, curiosity, and freedom that make life rich and meaningful.

Ask yourself: “What would the child version of me love to do today?” Then go do it. Life is too short to take too seriously.

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Need Help Reconnecting with Joy?

If you’re struggling to let go of stress and rediscover your inner child, therapy can help. I’m here to help you explore ways to cultivate freedom, joy, and playfulness in your life. Reach out today to start living more fully and joyfully!

Purpose Work

The Importance of Doing Your Purpose Work

Have you ever felt a deep yearning to do something that truly matters—not just to pay the bills or meet societal expectations, but to fulfill a sense of meaning and alignment with who you are? That’s the essence of purpose work: engaging in actions, projects, or careers that resonate with your core values and passions.

Purpose work isn’t just about having a job or pursuing a goal. It’s about intentionally contributing to the world in ways that feel deeply personal and meaningful to you. But why is doing your purpose work so important, and how does it shape a fulfilling life?

What Is Purpose Work?

Purpose work isn’t limited to a specific role or industry. It can take many forms:

– Raising a family with love and care

– Creating art that inspires others

– Advocating for a cause you believe in

– Running a business that aligns with your values

– Teaching, mentoring, or healing others

-Helping animals, people, or the environment

Purpose work is less about what you do and more about why you do it. It’s the driving force behind your actions, guided by your passions, strengths, and sense of contribution to the greater good.

Why Purpose Work Matters

1. It Provides Meaning

Living without purpose often feels hollow, like going through the motions without direction. Purpose work gives your life meaning by aligning your daily efforts with your larger values and desires. It transforms routine tasks into intentional actions.

2. It Fuels Motivation and Resilience

When you’re connected to your purpose, challenges feel less daunting. Purpose work gives you a reason to persevere when the going gets tough because you know what you’re working toward matters deeply to you.

3. It Enhances Well-Being

Research shows that living with purpose improves mental and physical health. People who engage in meaningful work often experience higher levels of life satisfaction, lower stress, and even greater longevity.

4. It Inspires Others

When you live and work with purpose, you shine your light and inspire others to do the same. Purpose-driven people create ripples of positivity, helping to shape communities and organizations where meaning and impact are prioritized over superficial metrics of success. By giving yourself permission to follow your own purpose work path, it gives others permission as well.

5. It Reflects Your Unique Contribution

No one else has your exact combination of skills, experiences, and passions. Purpose work allows you to offer something truly unique to the world, whether it’s through a creative endeavor, a relationship, or a career.

How to Discover Your Purpose Work

Finding your purpose work isn’t always straightforward, but it’s a journey worth taking. Here are steps to help you uncover and live your purpose:

1. Reflect on What Fills You with Energy

What lights you up? Think about the moments when you feel most alive, engaged, and joyful. Purpose work often aligns with activities or causes that energize you.

2. Identify Your Strengths

What are you naturally good at? Purpose work often lies at the intersection of your talents and passions.

3. Listen to Your Inner Voice

What resonates with you? Tune out societal pressures or external expectations and ask yourself: What do I really want? Your purpose is deeply personal and may not match conventional ideas of success.

4. Look for Patterns

Reflect on your past experiences to find recurring themes. Is there a common thread in the activities or roles that have brought you fulfillment?

5. Start Small

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight to engage in purpose work. Begin by integrating small, meaningful actions into your daily routine.

6. Be Open to Evolution

Your purpose work may shift over time as you grow and change. Stay open to new opportunities and allow your purpose to evolve naturally.

Living Your Purpose Work Every Day

You don’t have to quit your job, move to a new city, or start a nonprofit to live your purpose. Here’s how to incorporate purpose into your daily life:

– Align Your Work: If your current job doesn’t align with your purpose, consider how you can bring your values into your role.

– Prioritize Your Passions: Make time for the activities that bring you joy and meaning, even if they’re not part of your career.

– Cultivate Connections: Surround yourself with people who support and inspire your purpose-driven path.

– Practice Gratitude: Regularly reflect on the ways your work and actions contribute to your sense of purpose.

-Help In Some Way: Find the need that you feel called to fill. Help someone or something outside of yourself.

The Ripple Effect of Purpose Work

When you engage in your purpose work, the benefits extend far beyond yourself. You create a positive ripple effect, inspiring others to find and live their own purpose. Purpose-driven individuals often foster stronger communities, healthier relationships, and a greater sense of shared meaning in the world.

A Final Thought

Living with purpose isn’t about achieving perfection or constantly striving for grand accomplishments. It’s about intentionally aligning your actions with your values, passions, and strengths—day by day, moment by moment.

Ask yourself: “What can I do today that feels purposeful?” Then take a small step in that direction. Purpose work is less about the destination and more about the journey of living authentically and meaningfully.

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Looking to Clarify Your Purpose?

If you’re feeling uncertain about your purpose or how to incorporate it into your life, therapy can help. Together, we can explore your values, strengths, and passions to help you live with intention and fulfillment. Reach out today to start the journey toward purpose-driven living!

What Do You Want Most In Life?

A Path to Clarifying Your Values

We often go about our lives playing out our subconscious believes, patterns, and habits over and over every day. Many of us wake up early, go to school or work, come home, eat dinner, take care of household chores, zone out, and go to bed. We hope for the day when we can retire and then finally have time to enjoy life. But, our minds know that “someday” isn’t a guarantee. We can feel, in our souls, that we should be living life now. We sense that there must be a path to feel fulfilled. So, how can we begin to live more authentic lives? Although it is a thought many of us avoid, by recognizing that the length of time in our physical bodies on Earth is unknown and finite, we can recognize the importance of living each moment to the fullest. If you feel comfortable exploring, we can shrink this time to a more imaginable timeline so we can see what is most valuable to us.

What Would You Do with 3 Months to Live?

Imagine this: You’ve just been told you have three months to live. All your financial obligations are taken care of, your end-of-life plans and documents are in place, and there’s nothing left to organize. With no logistical worries to manage, the only question that remains is: “How would you spend your time?”

This thought experiment is more than a hypothetical—it’s a powerful tool for uncovering your values, focusing on what truly matters, and learning how to integrate those priorities into your life right now.

Step 1: Reflect on What Matters Most

When faced with a finite timeline, our choices often become clearer. Start by asking yourself these questions:

– Who would you want to spend time with?

– What experiences would you seek out?

– What legacy or impact would you want to leave behind?

– Are there any relationships you’d want to mend?

– What brings you the most joy, peace, or fulfillment?

Take a few moments to jot down your thoughts. Don’t overthink it—write whatever comes to mind, whether it’s “spend more time with my kids,” “travel to the mountains,” or “finally write that book.”

Step 2: Identify Your Core Values

Your answers offer a window into your core values. These are the principles and priorities that guide your life—whether you’re fully aware of them or not. For example:

– If you wrote “spend time with loved ones,” you may value connection or family.

– If you listed “travel,” you may value adventure or freedom.

– If you noted “help others,” you might value service or impact.

Understanding your values is key to living intentionally. They act as a compass, helping you make decisions that align with what matters most.

Step 3: Evaluate How You’re Living Now

Once you’ve identified your values, take an honest look at how they show up in your daily life. Ask yourself:

– Am I really prioritizing what’s most important to me or am I putting it off until “someday?”

– What am I giving too much energy to that doesn’t align with my values?

– What’s one small change I can make today to live more in line with what I care about?

For example, if family is a core value, but work is consuming most of your time, consider how you can create more space for your loved ones.

Step 4: Create a Life That Reflects Your Values

Here’s where the magic happens: You don’t have to wait for a life-altering diagnosis to start living in alignment with your values. Use this reflection to reshape your priorities now.

Incorporate What Matters into Your Everyday Life:

– If connection is important, schedule regular calls or visits with loved ones.

– If adventure excites you, plan mini-adventures like exploring a new park or trying a new hobby.

– If creativity lights you up, carve out time each week to paint, write, or build.

Let Go of What No Longer Serves You:

– Reassess commitments that drain your energy or don’t align with your values.

– Learn to say no to opportunities that detract from what’s most important.

Focus on the Present Moment:

– Practice gratitude for the people, experiences, and opportunities you have now.

– Spend less time worrying about the future or dwelling on the past—life is happening right now.

Step 5: Live with Purpose

Ultimately, the “three months to live” exercise isn’t about planning for the end of life—it’s about creating a life that feels full and meaningful today. By aligning your actions with your values, you can:

– Feel more fulfilled in your everyday routines.

– Strengthen your relationships and connections.

– Experience a deeper sense of peace and purpose.

A Final Thought

We often wait for “someday” to start living the life we truly want. But the truth is, life is unpredictable, and someday isn’t guaranteed. By clarifying your values and making intentional choices now, you can create a life that feels rich, meaningful, and aligned with what matters most—starting today.

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Ready to Explore What Matters Most?

If you’re feeling disconnected from your values or unsure how to create a more intentional life, therapy can help. Together, we can explore what’s important to you and how to design a life that reflects your deepest priorities. Reach out today to start your journey toward purposeful living.

Follow the Nudge

The Importance of Following the Nudge

Have you ever had a fleeting thought or gut feeling urging you to take a specific action? Maybe it’s the whisper of “reach out to an old friend,” or a sudden spark to try something new, like starting a hobby or applying for a job that excites you. These subtle inner signals, often called “nudges,” are more significant than they might seem.

In a world full of noise, we often dismiss these intuitive prompts as random or insignificant. But what if those nudges are a way of guiding you toward growth, connection, or healing? In this blog, we’ll explore why paying attention to these nudges can enrich your life and how following them can lead to personal transformation.

What Is a Nudge?

A nudge is an intuitive feeling, thought, or idea that seems to come out of nowhere. It’s often gentle and easy to ignore, but it carries a sense of urgency or importance. Nudges can arise from your subconscious mind, drawing on your past experiences, values, and goals. Others might frame them as divine guidance or spiritual insight.

Regardless of their source, nudges often signal an opportunity. Whether it’s a chance to mend a relationship, pursue a dream, or step out of your comfort zone, these signals are worth paying attention to.

Why Do We Ignore Nudges?

Ignoring a nudge is easy, especially in a fast-paced world where logical decisions seem to take precedence over intuitive ones. Here are a few reasons we brush them aside:

1. Fear of the Unknown: Nudges often lead us into uncharted territory, which can feel risky or uncomfortable.

2. Self-Doubt: We question if the feeling is valid or if we’re just “making it up.”

3. Busyness: Life’s daily demands can drown out quieter signals, leaving little room for introspection.

4. Overthinking: Sometimes, we talk ourselves out of acting because we overanalyze the situation.

The Power of Following the Nudge

When you choose to listen to and act on a nudge, it can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Here’s why it’s worth taking that leap:

1. Unlocking Opportunities

Nudges often guide you toward opportunities that align with your deeper desires or purpose. For instance, saying “yes” to a nudge to join a community group might lead to meaningful friendships or professional connections.

2. Strengthening Intuition

Each time you follow a nudge, you strengthen your ability to trust your inner wisdom. This self-trust builds confidence and helps you navigate life with greater clarity.

3. Fostering Personal Growth

Many nudges challenge you to step out of your comfort zone. While this can be scary, it’s also where growth happens. By embracing the unfamiliar, you expand your horizons and build resilience.

4. Creating Alignment

Following your nudges often leads to alignment with your true self. You might discover passions, talents, or values that were hidden under the surface, helping you live more authentically.

How to Recognize and Act on Nudges

If you’re wondering how to tune into your nudges and act on them, here are some tips:

1. Pause and Reflect: Take a moment to listen to your thoughts and feelings. Journaling or meditating can help you identify subtle signals.

2. Check for Alignment: Does the nudge align with your values or long-term goals? If yes, it’s worth considering.

3. Start Small: Not every nudge requires a grand gesture. Sometimes, small actions can lead to profound change.

4. Release Judgment: Trust that your nudge has value, even if it doesn’t make sense right away.

5. Embrace the Outcome: Whether the nudge leads to success or a lesson learned, every step moves you forward.

Final Thoughts

Nudges are like quiet invitations from within, encouraging you to explore the possibilities life has to offer. By paying attention to these subtle signals, you can uncover opportunities for growth, connection, and joy that you might otherwise overlook.

So the next time you feel a nudge, pause and consider: What might be waiting on the other side of this action? Following it could lead to the breakthrough you didn’t know you needed.

Are you ready to trust your intuition and follow the nudge? Let’s take the first step together.

The Art of Letting Go of What No Longer Serves You

The Art of Letting Go: Moving Forward With Intention and Grace

Letting go. It sounds simple, yet it can be one of the most challenging acts in life. Whether it’s a relationship, a job, a dream, or even a version of yourself, the decision to release something that no longer serves you requires courage, clarity, and trust.

As a counselor, I often see people struggle with the idea of letting go, fearing that it means giving up or admitting defeat. But in reality, letting go is not about failure—it’s about choosing yourself and making space for growth. It’s an art that requires intention and self-awareness, and when mastered, it allows us to move forward into a life that aligns with who we are and who we want to become.

Letting Go Is Not Quitting; It’s Choosing Growth

Letting go is often misunderstood as quitting. But the two couldn’t be more different. Quitting is most often rooted in avoidance or shame.

Letting go, however, is an intentional act. It’s about recognizing that holding on to something—whether out of habit, fear, or obligation—is preventing you from moving forward. It’s not about avoiding hard work or challenges; it’s about making a conscious choice to release what no longer aligns with your values, goals, or sense of self.

When you let go, you’re not running away. You’re stepping toward something better.

The Beauty of Release

Letting go is powerful because it creates space. Holding on tightly—whether to relationships, dreams, or expectations—can feel safe, but it often leaves us stagnant. When you let go, you open the door to possibility.

Think of it like clearing out a closet. At first, it’s hard to part with items you once loved or thought you needed. But as you let go of what’s outdated or ill-fitting, you make room for something that serves you better. Life works the same way. Releasing what no longer fits allows you to embrace what’s next.

Moving Forward With Intention

Letting go is not just about leaving something behind; it’s about moving forward with purpose. It’s a process of aligning your life with what truly matters to you. To do this, you need to reflect on what you’re holding on to and why.

Here are some steps to approach letting go with intention:

Identify Where You Feel Stuck.
Is there something in your life that feels heavy or misaligned? Perhaps it’s a job that drains your energy and has turned toxic, a relationship that no longer supports your growth, or old programming that you “should” do something a certain way.
Let Go of Others’ Expectations. Examine your thoughts and feelings about what others seem to expect of you. By attempting to live life based on others’ expectations or perceptions, you might be living out of alignment with yourself.
Acknowledge Your Emotions.
Letting go often comes with grief, even when it’s the right choice. It’s okay to mourn what you’re releasing. Honor your feelings—they’re part of the process.
Clarify Your Values and Goals.
What do you want your life to look like? What aligns with your values, purpose, and vision for the future? Use these answers to guide your decision.
Take a Small Step.
Letting go doesn’t have to happen all at once. Start with a small step—like having an honest conversation, setting a boundary, or exploring a new opportunity.
Trust Yourself.
Trust that you are capable of making choices that support your growth and well-being. Trust that you are powerful enough to navigate the new. Letting go is not about perfection; it’s about progress.

The Freedom of Moving Forward

When you master the art of letting go, you free yourself from the weight of what no longer serves you. You reclaim your energy and attention, directing it toward what truly matters.

Letting go is not a single act but an ongoing practice. Life will continue to present you with opportunities to release and realign. Each time you let go, you reaffirm your commitment to growth and transformation.

A Final Thought

Letting go is not about giving up—it’s about stepping up. It’s about saying, “I deserve a life that feels true to me.” It’s about trusting that what lies ahead is better than anything you leave behind.

So, take a deep breath. Release what’s weighing you down. And move forward, knowing that the art of letting go is also the art of creating a life you love.

Who Are You Really? A Guide To Finding Your True Self

Have you ever wondered, “Who am I, really?” It’s a big question, and it can feel kind of overwhelming. But figuring out who you are deep down can make life more meaningful and help you feel more confident in making choices that feel right for you.

Here’s a guide to help you start exploring and discovering who you really are:

1. Accept Yourself—Flaws and All

One of the first steps to understanding yourself is accepting yourself as you are, right now. It’s easy to focus on things you don’t like about yourself, but nobody is perfect, and that’s okay. Self-acceptance is about learning to be kind to yourself and recognizing that all parts of you matter, even the ones you’re not thrilled with.

**Ask Yourself:** *What do I like about myself? What do I find hard to accept?*

2. Question Outside Expectations

We often feel pressure to be a certain way because of family, friends, or society. But to know who you really are, you’ll need to learn to separate what *you* want from what others expect. Think about the things you do because you genuinely enjoy them versus things you do because you feel you “should.”

**Try This:** *Think of a decision you’ve made recently. Was it truly for you, or because someone else expected it?*

3. Identify What Matters to You

Values are like your life’s “guiding lights.” They help you make choices and figure out what really matters. Your values can be anything from honesty to kindness to creativity—whatever feels most meaningful to you.

**Action Step:** *Make a list of things that make you feel happy or proud. What do they have in common? Those might be your values.*

4. Trust Your Gut Feelings

Your intuition, or gut feeling, is like an inner voice that helps you know what feels right or wrong. It’s often quieter than thoughts or opinions, but listening to it can help you make choices that feel true to who you are. Try spending a few quiet minutes each day paying attention to any feelings that pop up.

**Try This:** *When you’re faced with a decision, pause and ask yourself, “Does this feel right?”*

5. Embrace Change

Knowing yourself isn’t about finding a fixed answer—people grow and change over time, and that’s a good thing. Your interests, opinions, and goals may shift as you get older. Embrace these changes as part of your journey; they’re helping you become the best version of you.

**Mindset Shift:** *Instead of saying, “I have to figure out who I am,” try thinking, “I’m on a journey to understand myself better.”*

6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help

Self-discovery isn’t something you have to do alone. Talking to someone you trust—whether a friend, family member, or counselor—can give you new perspectives on yourself. A counselor, especially, can help guide you on this journey by helping you explore your thoughts, feelings, and values in a safe space.

Final Thought: Keep Going

Learning who you are takes time, so don’t feel rushed. Stay curious about yourself and keep exploring what makes you unique. When you take the time to understand yourself, life can feel more like *your* life and less like one shaped by others. Remember, this journey is all about discovering the person you’re meant to be—and that’s something worth taking your time for.

Embracing Your Authentic Self: The Path to True Fulfillment

In a world that often encourages conformity, the journey to becoming your authentic self can feel daunting. Yet, it is one of the most rewarding paths you can take. As a licensed professional counselor, I want to share with you the importance of being authentically you and provide some gentle guidance on how to embark on this transformative journey.

Why Authenticity Matters

Inner Peace: When you embrace your true self, you cultivate a sense of inner peace. You no longer feel the need to wear masks or conform to societal expectations. This authenticity allows you to live in alignment with your values and beliefs, reducing internal conflict and stress.
Stronger Relationships: Authenticity fosters deeper connections with others. When you are genuine, you attract people who appreciate you for who you truly are. This leads to more meaningful relationships built on trust and understanding.
Increased Resilience: Being true to yourself enhances your resilience. You become more equipped to handle life’s challenges because you are grounded in your identity. This self-awareness empowers you to navigate obstacles with confidence.
Fulfillment and Joy: Living authentically opens the door to a more fulfilling life. You are more likely to pursue passions and interests that resonate with you, leading to greater joy and satisfaction.

How to Be Authentically You

Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on who you are. What are your values, passions, and beliefs? Journaling can be a powerful tool for this process. Write down your thoughts and feelings to gain clarity about your true self.
Embrace Vulnerability: Authenticity requires vulnerability. It’s okay to show your true emotions and share your experiences with others. This openness not only strengthens your connections but also allows you to accept yourself fully.
Set Boundaries: Being authentic means knowing your limits. Learn to say no when something doesn’t align with your values or when it drains your energy. Setting healthy boundaries is essential for maintaining your authenticity.
Surround Yourself with Support: Seek out relationships that encourage your authenticity. Surround yourself with people who celebrate you for who you are and inspire you to grow. Positive relationships can significantly impact your journey toward authenticity.
Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself throughout this process. Understand that it’s okay to make mistakes and that growth takes time. Treat yourself with the same love and understanding you would offer a dear friend.
Explore Your Passions: Engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Whether it’s painting, hiking, writing, or volunteering, pursuing your passions can help you connect with your authentic self. These activities not only provide joy but also allow you to express who you truly are.

Seek Professional Guidance: Sometimes, the journey to authenticity can be challenging, and that’s okay. Working with a licensed professional counselor can provide you with the support and tools you need to navigate this path. Therapy can help you uncover layers of your identity, address any fears or insecurities, and develop strategies to live more authentically.

Conclusion

Embracing your authentic self is a courageous and transformative journey. It requires self-reflection, vulnerability, and a commitment to living in alignment with your true values. Remember, you are worthy of love and acceptance just as you are. By being authentically you, you not only enrich your own life but also inspire those around you to do the same.

If you’re ready to embark on this journey and explore what it means to be your true self, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your identity and work towards a more fulfilling and authentic life. You don’t have to do this alone; I’m here to support you every step of the way.

With love and unconditional positive regard,
Carrie Jones, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor

Tag: authenticity

Childlike Joy

Purpose Work

What Do You Want Most In Life?

Follow the Nudge

The Art of Letting Go of What No Longer Serves You