Amber Hughes

Amber Hughes

I am trained in a wide variety of areas, however my technique is primarily rooted in relational/psychodynamic theory and Somatic Experiencing. This means that the therapeutic relationship that forms between us will serve as our guiding force. I take a somatic approach to healing; I believe that the mind and body are one entity and must be treated together. I treat trauma by working with the nervous system directly, to help clients regulate and restore nervous system equilibrium. I have completed a three year training program with Somatic Experiencing International and am certified as a Somatic Experiencing© Practitioner. Therefore, I am inclined to take a slow and steady approach to experiencing our sensations and understanding our nervous systems’ role in our healing journey.

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My work also incorporates elements of attachment theory, internal family systems (IFS), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT--with a focus on mindfulness). 

I am passionate about helping people connect to their inner strength, beauty, and goodness, which means I will have a bias toward kindness and self-compassion. I will encourage this not just in relationship to your mind and heart, but also to your body.

I am committed to the work of dismantling structures and systems of power and oppression. As as a straight, white, cis woman, I am aware of my power and privilege and believe that it is important to look at these categories together to understand how our identities shape our experience in the world as well as our mental health.

I hope that through our work together, we will find the ways that we have been shaped by these systems and will work to redeem our stories, our bodies, our minds, and our hearts from injustice and violence. 

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I believe we all long to be truly seen, felt, and loved. As a therapist, my goal is to provide a safe and inviting space for you to explore your past, present, and future selves. My hope is that through our time together, you will feel heard, understood, and cared for.

We will together build a relationship that fosters integration, honesty, and respect.

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I deeply value humor, playfulness, and our bodies' ability to know and teach us about ourselves.

Specialties

• Addiction
• Adolescents
• Adults abused as children
• Anxiety Disorders
• Chronic Illness
• Chronic Pain/Fibromyalgia
• Couples Counseling
• Depression
• Early Childhood Attachment Disturbances
• First Responders
• Grief and Loss
• Homelessness
• LGBTQIA+
• Medical Procedure Trauma
• Pregnancy/Prenatal/Postpartum
• Birth Trauma
• Relational/Relationship Issues
• Self-Esteem
• Sleep/Insomnia
• Spirituality
• Intergeneration Trauma
• Racial Trauma
• Domestic Violence
• Sexual Abuse
• Womens’ Issues