A New Journey Begins

September 2026 Newsletter || A New Journey Begins

Every journey begins with a first step. Sometimes the trail is clear. Other times we find ourselves walking in circles, unsure why we can’t seem to move forward. Having someone walk alongside us can make all the difference.

Welcome to the first Journey Together Counseling newsletter.

In September 2025, I transitioned from Trinity Counseling to opening my private practice, Journey Together Counseling. While the name has changed, my calling has not. I count it a privilege to walk alongside people as they seek greater freedom, healthier relationships, and a deeper sense of being themselves.

The name Journey Together Counseling reflects my understanding of therapy. Lasting change rarely comes from someone telling us what to do. More often it comes through walking with another person who provides a safe space for us to slow down, turn towards ourselves, become curious about who we are and what we want for ourselves, and find the right path forward.

Who is the right candidate for therapy?

The simplest answer is:

Someone who feels stuck—and is exhausted from trying to become unstuck.

Many people who begin counseling have already put in some hard work. They’ve read books, listened to podcasts, prayed, journaled, exercised, talked with trusted friends, or even tried counseling before. They usually know what they want to change.

The question is, why does the same pattern keep showing up?

Maybe it’s anxiety that never seems to quiet down. Maybe it’s people-pleasing, perfectionism, emotional numbness, or relationships that seem to repeat the same painful cycle.

Using the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) we approach these struggles differently. Rather than asking, “What’s wrong with you?” we ask, “What makes this pattern necessary?”

Many of our patterns began as intelligent ways of adapting to earlier relationships or life experiences. They helped us then—but they may no longer serve us now.

Instead of trying harder to fight ourselves, NARM helps us understand ourselves. As those old patterns become clearer, new choices become possible. Change grows out of awareness and compassion rather than shame and self-criticism.

If you’ve ever found yourself saying,

“I know what I should do… I just can’t seem to do it,”

You may be the right candidate for therapy and NARM may be a good fit.

Looking ahead

My intention is that three times each year I’ll send a brief newsletter exploring questions about trauma, relationships, emotional health, and/or the counseling process. My hope is that each one offers practical encouragement—whether you’re considering counseling yourself or simply wanting to better understand yourself and those you love.

If someone came to mind while reading this, I’d be honored if you would forward this newsletter to them.  Or if you read this newsletter and said, “That’s me,” I would enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with you.  You can restart your journey by scheduling a session for yourself.

Thank you for taking the time to read this, and thank you for allowing me to walk alongside you on your journey.

Warmly,