Emily Wessel, LPCC, CET2, CCTP-II

Growing up and getting into recovery in the Washington, DC Metro Area afforded me diverse opportunities for education and cultural experience. Recovery changed my perspective on everything; it showed me a way to live with purpose and how to enjoy peace amid the storm. Working in the mental health field came unexpectedly at a young age and taught me the value of being present for things as they come. Some of the best things in my life came as unexpected opportunities.

Being a therapist is a beautiful responsibility. It requires frequently taking a look at myself to assess bias, beliefs, power dynamics, and privilege. I continue to do my own work, so that I can be compassionate and present to co-create with others to do theirs. As a clinician, I train primarily in somatic breath work, CBT, EMDR, psychodrama, and experiential techniques. These modalities assist in both leadership and therapeutic roles to look at systems and the persons within them.

Hope that prioritize joy is what keeps me going. Not as a passive feeling or optimistic view, but as a belief in collective healing through connection and purpose. To stay grounded and in connection with myself, I dance, rest, and play. Self-care for me is curiosity and slowing down. Outside of work you can find me dancing, roller skating, or spending time with family and friends.

A quote that guides me: “It is the energy of spontaneity and creativity which enable us in the here-and-now to transform, to actualize our self.” – J.L. Moreno

If you are thinking of coming to breathe, I want you to know that you are more than what has happened to you. Building community and resources can make a big difference in the quality of life available to us as we recover.

One song I could listen to on repeat is the MOOD II SWING remix of “FREE” by ULTRA NATÉ. It is one of many dance floor classics that got me through early recovery, and it is a lot of fun.