Emily Collard, MA in Counseling, AMFT

What should your client know about you?

I believe that being human is acknowledging that our lives often reflect a different reality than we envisioned for ourselves. In those seasons of change and unexpected outcomes, we may experience feelings of sadness, anger, fear, and grief. While these emotions are normal and part of the human experience, they can entrap us. They may leave us feeling stuck, alone, and lost. Friend, I have been there! After giving birth to my daughter in November 2022, I experienced significant depression. During that time, I grieved deeply for my life before birth and felt no hope for my future. Yet I am here today with a determination to help others stuck in the darkness. I promise there is hope and healing as you walk through this difficult season. Although we don’t willingly choose our difficult circumstances, we can choose how we live through them. As one of my favorite authors and speakers says, “For some reason, we’ve been given the [story] we’ve been given, and it’s up to us to figure out why and, more importantly, what we are going to do with it”. – Katherine Wolf.

What is your approach to therapy?

Together we will leverage evidence-based therapies and techniques to redefine your stories of pain, loss, trauma, or suffering. I help clients feel stabilized in their distress while also providing opportunities to work through difficult emotions that leave them feeling “stuck”. I provide support in identifying, accepting, and regulating these emotions. This increases feelings of competency and autonomy which promotes relational growth with self and others. We will also focus on your unique values and what matters most to you to guide our work together.

What can clients expect to take away from sessions with you?

Although I am a professional therapist, I will never claim to be an expert on anyone’s life. Together we will identify what you want from therapy and how we can reach your goals. In session, I always strive to offer an environment that provides warmth and safety. I will often check in to make sure you feel like progress has been made. I will always keep the door open for feedback. It makes me a better therapist and helps you experience healing! It’s a win-win for everyone! My goal at the end of treatment is for my clients to experience hope for the future, reverence for the strength it took to engage in therapy, and the belief it’s possible to thrive in the circumstances they never imagined living.

What was your path on becoming a therapist?

I graduated from Messiah University with a master’s in counseling. My desire to pursue a career in therapy emerged from my love of psychology and helping others to live fully. I truly enjoy hearing the stories of others! I believe it’s an immense privilege to not only hear these stories but to walk alongside my clients as they discover healing and strength through the therapy process.