Beyond the Surface: Navigating Life with Invisible Disabilities.

If you're living with chronic illness or facing the challenges of disabilities, know that you're not alone on this path. I am James Reling, a licensed professional counselor and clinical rehabilitation counselor (CRC), which means I am trained to work with people with physical and mental disabilities. I have a deep commitment to working with individuals who are navigating chronic health conditions and various disabilities. My practice is rooted in social and disability justice principles, alongside a neurodiversity-affirming lens.

A Space of Empathy and Understanding:

 Living with chronic illness or disabilities can often be an isolating experience, leaving you grappling with complex emotions and physical challenges. I understand the unique intersection of physical and emotional struggles that you may face daily. My goal is to provide you with a safe, compassionate, and affirming space where your experiences are acknowledged, respected, and validated.

Mindfulness-Based Body-Centered Approach:

 As someone who values the mind-body connection, I approach therapy with a mindfulness-based, body-centered (somatic) perspective. I recognize the profound ways in which chronic illness and disabilities can impact your physical sensations, relationships, and emotional well-being. Through practices like mindfulness and body awareness, we can work together to foster a deeper understanding of your nervous system's signals and navigate the complex web of emotions that often accompany chronic health challenges.

Supporting Invisible Disabilities:

 I specialize in working with individuals with "invisible disabilities" — conditions that aren't immediately visible to the outside world. These can include chronic pain such as Fibromyalgia, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (ME)/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Gastroparesis, migraines, etc.

This unique journey comes with its own struggles, as you may find yourself battling disbelief, invalidation, and stress from masking your experiences. Together, we can unravel these complexities, offering a space where you're not just seen, but truly understood.

Restoring Connection:

 Chronic illnesses and disabilities can sometimes create a sense of betrayal from your own body, leading to disconnection and emotional turmoil. I am deeply interested in the biology of our nervous systems and how they respond to our environments. I believe in exploring patterns of activation  and finding ways to navigate them, so you can regain a sense of connection with your body and your own life journey.

Navigating the Healthcare Landscape Hell-scape:

 Many of my clients have faced invalidating experiences within the medical field, or have felt unheard and dismissed by therapists and loved ones. I want you to know that your experiences matter and deserve to be heard. Together, we can work to build a holistic understanding of your health, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and systemic aspects that impact your well-being.

A Journey Towards Empowerment:

Through our collaboration, I aim to help you find empowerment amidst the challenges. My practice, guided by the social model of disability, specializes in working with chronic illness and disabilities. This model emphasizes that disability arises from societal barriers rather than an individual's condition. Additionally, I have expertise in supporting neurodivergent adults, recognizing how neurodivergence, while not a disability in itself, can often intersect with other challenges. My clients often explore other ways their identities intersect with being a member of the disabled community.

Let's Begin Your Healing Journey! (waitlist)

 If you're ready to embark on a path towards healing, understanding, and self-compassion, I invite you to connect with me. Together, we'll work towards restoring your connection with your body, fostering resilience in the face of challenges, and helping you find strength and empowerment in every step you take. Your experiences are valid, and I'm here to offer you the support and guidance you deserve.

I am currently full. 

I am not currently taking new therapy clients. If you would like to be on my waitlist, please send me an email.