Emily Pethel
Counselor-in-Training
Experience
Emily brings a unique blend of clinical training, trauma-informed education, and leadership experience to her work as a counselor-in-training. Before beginning her work in mental health, Emily served as a Naval Officer, where she developed strengths in decision making, communication, and mentorship. She currently works as a Training Specialist, instructing Naval Officers in tactical and technical operations.
Her experiences as a lifelong equestrian and equine trainer further shaped her understanding of nervous system regulation, trauma responses, and trust building – insights she now integrates into her counseling work. Emily’s background allows her to connect deeply with clients navigating stress, transitions, or high-pressure experiences, including military service members and first responders.
Unique Approach
Emily believes healing begins with safety, connection, and honoring each client’s lived experience. She uses an integrative approach rooted in Child-Centered Play Therapy, DBT, REBT, mindfulness, and HeartMath trauma-sensitive techniques. Whether working with a young child processing big feelings or an adult managing stress or grief, Emily creates a nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore emotions, build coping skills, and strengthen resilience.
Her therapeutic style is warm, steady, and deeply empathetic. She adapts sessions to each client’s needs, developmental stage, and goals, believing that the counseling process should meet clients exactly where they are.
Specialties
Life transitions
Behavioral challenges
Anxiety and depression
Adjustment disorders
ADHD and OCD
Anger management
Grief and loss
Social and emotional skill building
Coping with chronic health conditions
Trauma-informed support
Child-Centered Play Therapy
Client Focus
Children ages 3 and up
Adults
Military, EMTs, and first responders
Families
