Hi, I’m Courtney. I am a therapist and the owner of Create the Pause. Some of my identities include: white, genderfluid, neurodivergent, activist, nature lover, sensitive human.

I have been on a journey of self discovery and that path has allowed me to embrace parts of myself that I had disconnected from or cast aside. I spent years of my earlier life in constant motion, trying to run away from my fear, pain and grief. I was operating in a trauma response instead of consciously living my life. My body is my greatest teacher; eventually it got tired and forced the pause I needed. Engaging in my own healing work has been hard and it has been freeing. I have learned how to welcome those parts back in to find more peace in my relationship with me. I am passionate about creating a space for others to do their own work to feel more free.

Being a human is complicated. The way we act, think and feel are all influenced by our neurobiology, physiology, generational and collective trauma, individual relational experiences, access to resources, and the socio-cultural systems we live among. My role is to create an affirming, compassionate space where you can get curious about you. I will listen to you and help guide you to learn what your individual system needs.

Healing can come in many forms and looks different for every person. My work is informed by many teachers that came before me. I integrate mind and body approaches to help you connect to your own inner sense of knowing. I believe each person has the unique ability to heal themselves and the tools already exist within the body. You just may need to learn the language your body is speaking.

Specialties:

• Developmental and Complex Trauma

• Attachment and Relationships

• Neurodiverse brains (ADHD, Autism, Sensory Processing)

• Gender Identity Exploration & Affirmation

• Eating Disorders or Disordered Eating Patterns

• Acceptance and Body Grief

Education & Certification

• Trauma Informed Yoga Teacher

• Embodied Recovery Institute, Tier I and II Trained

• Charlotte Trans Health, PATH provider

• Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), State of North Carolina

• Licensed Telehealth provider, State of South Carolina

• Masters of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Special Interests & Hobbies:

• Reading

• Rock Climbing

• Cooking

• Hiking

• Yoga

• Coffee & Tea

• Travel

• Nerding out learning about the human body and brain.