About Michele Kitney MA, LPC-Associate

Supervised by Roxanne Deams, MA, LPC-S, CART

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My Story

After giving birth to my baby girl, I experienced an overwhelming sense of emptiness. I grappled with confusion and shame because I expected to feel a profound love and connection with my newborn daughter, but those feelings were absent. I felt like a robotic mother, going through the motions without emotion. The stress of wondering what was wrong with me took a toll on my health and relationships. I began isolating myself from family and friends, using food to numb my deep sadness and anger, and withdrawing from life's engagements due to exhaustion. I didn't realize I had Postpartum Depression (PPD), which had progressed to Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) without treatment. I believed something was inherently wrong with me, and I contemplated leaving my family.

Growth and Hope

I vividly recall the awkwardness of waiting for my first therapy session. I feared that the therapist would confirm my brokenness and hopelessness. Despite my urge to flee the waiting room, I stayed. Instead of validating my fears, the therapist reassured me that many women struggle with PPD, many individuals live with MDD, and many can lead fulfilling lives. I learned to pay attention to my body and mind, acquiring tools to manage my behaviors, thoughts, and emotions. Hope started to blossom within me, the hope of feeling like "myself" again. I began seeking solace in long hugs from my husband and confiding in him about my struggles. I started searching for moments of joy with my baby girl and reached out for help when I couldn't be there for her in a healthy way. My healing journey began.

My Philosophy and Approach

The Greek word for therapy, "therapia," literally means healing. I understand the difficulty of making that first appointment with a mental health counselor and the deep yearning for relief from the weight and disconnection I battled. Longing for healing is not unrealistic. Our bodies and minds are designed to help us endure and survive. Today, we know that our brains have the capacity to regenerate and heal damaged areas. We can learn healthy tools to care for ourselves, manage our limbic brain system and nervous system, nurture relationships we don't want to lose, and make choices to commit to and practice change, moving us closer to holistic health and healing.

HNC Values

Confidentiality

All communication and collection of client information is done via HIPAA secure platforms.

Creativity

Each session we explore and learn together what works for you. Treatment plans are uniquely tailored for each client.

Compassion

I join you where you are on your journey; providing care and support to help you meet your holistic health goals.

Acceptance

No matter your race, belief system, gender identity, or sexual identity- You are welcome to seek help here.