About Me
Amanda Murray, LPC, NCC, CCTP
My goal is to establish a secure environment where you can express your true self and feel valued and respected. I understand that seeking clarity and acceptance is a natural part of life, and I am here to support you in that journey. I firmly believe that feeling accepted in your therapy sessions is a prerequisite for personal growth.
I am dedicated to providing support for individuals who have experienced trauma (acute and complex), as well as those who are apart of gender, sexual, and relationship-structure minority groups. Additionally, I am also committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals who identify as vanilla and monogamous.
I'm eager to learn how I can assist you in achieving self-acceptance and peace!
Offering:
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Individual therapy
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Services for Adults 18+
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Telehealth
Therapeutic Modalities used:
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EMDR
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Trauma-informed
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Psychodynamic (Adlerian)
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Culturally Sensitive
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Gender-affirming
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Client-centered
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Mindfulness
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Narrative
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Strength-based
Background
Amanda is a dedicated mental health professional with a passion for helping individuals who have experienced trauma. Graduating with a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Argosy University in 2017, including a year internship counseling survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, Amanda has developed a strong foundation in this field. Her work in community services and three years as an overnight crisis counselor have also provided valuable experience in helping those in need. Since 2021, Amanda has been working in private practice, where she continues to make a positive impact on her clients' lives. With a compassionate and empathetic approach, Amanda is committed to providing effective treatment to those who need it most.
My Credentials
2022: Completed EMDR Basic training (Weekend I & II)
2021: Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC012187)
2021: Created and launched the Polyamory Elements in Counseling training for counseling professionals
2017: Clinical Certified Complex Trauma Professional (42696211)
2017: Licensed Associate Professional Counselor
2017: Graduated from Argosy University, Master's of Arts
Why did I become a therapist?
As an undiagnosed neurodivergent youth growing up in the 1980s and 1990s, I was no stranger to mental health stigma and difficulty in getting mental health professionals to not minimize concerns. After hearing too many of these same experiences from loved ones throughout my life, I wanted to provide a space where people felt heard and where they weren't ignored.
During my five years in the high school classroom teaching Social Studies, I had an ongoing feeling that I wasn't doing enough to help people, and decided to go back to school. From the first classroom discussion on the first day, I knew I'd made the right choice. After my first class on mental health trauma, I thought "how much more empowered would people feel if they knew this information too?"
Therapy has helped me process grief, discover my sexuality, learn about my neurotypes, manage my triggers, and improve my flaws. In becoming a therapist, you have the opportunity to help other people overcome their own struggles and improve their lives. Regardless of what the reason may be, being a therapist allows you to make a meaningful difference in the world.
My Principles
Ideologic compatibility can be potentially crucial in finding a therapist that you trust. With so many mental health concerns having a systemic root, it is important that your therapist is compatible with your values to prevent possible harm.
Anti-Racist
Black and Brown Lives Matter.
And this means we should take steps towards dismantling white supremacy by acknowledging privilege, taking an active role in educating ourselves, and advocating for marginalized communities so we can all promote equity and justice.
Climate Change
Climate change is an urgent and undeniable problem that cannot be emphasized enough. Unfortunately, some have prioritized financial gain over addressing this critical issue. To ensure a sustainable future, it is crucial that we act now to prevent further harm to the world.
Accessibility
It is imperative that we recognize the fundamental right of every individual, irrespective of their abilities, to have unfettered access to public spaces and equal rights. As a society, we bear the onus of ensuring that our communities are inclusive and accommodating for all, including those with invisible illnesses.
Neurodiversity
Neurodivergent individuals should not be expected to conform to neurotypical standards and expectations just to have the same rights as everyone else. It is important to recognize and celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives that neurodivergent individuals bring to the table. By embracing neurodiversity, we can create a more inclusive and accepting society for all.
LGBTQIA+ Rights
Every individual, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation, deserves the same rights and opportunities. With those in the community facing a higher risk of violence based on their gender or who they love, treating everyone with basic respect and consideration should not be a challenging task.
Alternative Communities
People in alternative relationships deserve the same legal protections as everyone else. No one should have to fear losing their job or home due to having consensual adult relationships or lifestyle choices. It is time for society to recognize and respect the diversity of human relationships and sexual expression.
Gender Affirming
Gender-affirming care is a crucial aspect of healthcare for transgender individuals, as it is essential for their physical and mental well-being. It is important for healthcare providers to acknowledge and respect these needs, as access to healthcare is a fundamental right that includes gender-affirming care.
Religious Freedom
It is crucial to recognize and honor the right of every person to practice their chosen religion (or none at all) without prejudice or mistreatment. We must appreciate and accept a variety of beliefs; not just Christianity. We should strive to build a society that embraces and celebrates religious differences, including beliefs that are non-religious as well.
Gender Equality
To create a fair and just society, it's crucial to trust and support survivors and prevent gender discrimination. We should actively listen to their stories and work towards a society that values and respects everyone equally. Patriarchy harms everyone, and we should work to dismantle it.
Inclusive Space
I am committed to providing a safe and inclusive space for individuals to discuss sensitive topics. I am dedicated to being a sex-positive, kink-affirming, and body-neutrality practicing clinician. I welcome all bodies of every shape, size, and color to my practice to openly express themselves without fear of stigma or discrimination.
Outside of the office
The Fellowship from Lord of the Rings
Who am I beyond the therapy chair?
I'm a lifelong proud nerd who was raised on Star Wars and Xena, but later became a Tolkienite and Whovian. These passions have helped shape my empathy and understanding of people who feel like outsiders or are seeking community.
In my spare time, I enjoy playing video games, watching my favorite fandoms, traveling, and exploring new cultures. Traveling has broadened my perspectives and reinforced my respect for diversity, which informs how I approach therapy and connect with clients from all walks of life.
I also love cosplaying, playing bar trivia, and attending conventions. These creative outlets allow me to engage in different forms of expression, and they keep me grounded in the importance of fun and human connection.
Wei Wuxian and Lan Zhan from my favorite fandom, The Untamed (Mo Dao Zu Shi)