Therapists
Emily Matson, MS, NCC, LMHC
I hold a license in mental health counseling for the state of Indiana (LMHC) and am also a National Certified Counselor (NCC). I earned my B.A from the State University of New York at Albany in Psychology, specializing in child behavioral disorders. After working at an Autism Center for 5 years, I realized that I wanted to apply the behavioral science I was utilizing in that job to a wider demographic of people who were struggling with their mental health. I attended and graduated from Walden University with an M.S. degree in Mental Health Counseling. My primary work is with adults, and have experience in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. Although I have experience in a variety of diagnostic categories, my current concentrations are in ADHD, Autism, OCD, Childhood Trauma, Sexual Trauma, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My personal philosophy is rooted in behavior change. I believe that every person has the power to change their life by identifying thoughts and behaviors that are holding them back from becoming their best selves. By identifying coping skills, alternative behaviors, and realistic goals, people can experience infinite growth. I believe it is my calling to come alongside those seeking this change, encouraging and empowering them to find their inner strength, as well as heal the parts of themselves that feel most broken. We will spend significant portions of our sessions focusing on self-acceptance, developing identity, and the identification of personal values. I aim to create an environment that is open, safe, accepting, and peaceful.
Animals
Diesel, Therapeutic Companion
Diesel has been a part of a therapy practice for 5 years. He is trained to provide deep pressure therapy, which can be soothing to an activated nervous system. Although he is not a certified therapy dog, the office building is dog friendly, and Diesel is able to join therapy sessions most of the time. There is no additional cost, and you may request his presence at any time. Diesel understands that not everyone loves dogs, and is just as content to stay at home as he is to visit the office.
Diesel is a 60 pound boxer mix. He possesses a gentle demeanor, and does not bark in the office. He loves to give kisses, but if you’d prefer to not receive them, he requires a soft correction. During sessions, he sleeps next to clients, allowing them to pet him as desired. He does roam the office freely, but if you’d like him to greet you on a leash, that can be requested as well.
Animals being present in talk therapy is well-researched and extremely beneficial. It has been shown that having an animal present in therapy increases serotonin production and allows the nervous system to relax. This allows clients to feel more comfortable in what might otherwise be an uncomfortable situation. Animals can help people be more open and productive in therapy sessions!
