Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather Hurwitt.
Hi Heather, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
It all began with my own experience with narcissistic abuse. Like many, I found myself entangled in a toxic relationship where manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional turmoil became the norm. Struggling to recognize the signs of this dysfunction, I experienced a profound impact on my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. After my long-term marriage ended unexpectedly, I was confronted with the daunting task of survival and rediscovery. It was through years of deep introspection and seeking professional guidance that I learned my circumstances were not isolated but rather indicative of a pervasive issue present in numerous relationships.
Motivated to reclaim my life, I delved into research on narcissism and the myriad effects it has on victims. Throughout my healing process, I understood that this journey was about more than just comprehending the dynamics of narcissistic abuse; it was a crucial step toward rediscovering my identity and reclaiming my self-worth. As I advanced in my recovery, I became increasingly passionate about helping others navigate their experiences with similar forms of abuse. This conviction drove me to return to college, where I pursued a graduate degree in counseling with a focus on trauma-informed care. My aspiration was to create a safe and supportive environment for those seeking clarity and healing from their trauma.
Currently, I serve as a trauma therapist with a significant emphasis on assisting individuals recovering from narcissistic abuse. Upon completing my degree, I gained experience in various roles, including positions at non-profit organizations, community mental health services, and inpatient facilities. Throughout this journey, it became evident that many of these settings offered only brief interventions that prioritized symptom management through medication rather than addressing the root causes of clients’ distress. This realization ignited a desire in me to explore more effective methods of support that could lead to lasting improvement.
In response to this need, I founded A Satisfied Mind Counseling with the intention of providing compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking to heal from their traumatic pasts or current situations. By cultivating an environment grounded in empathy and understanding, I aim to assist my clients in reclaiming their lives and forging a path toward recovery.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
No, this has not been a smooth or easy road.
As a survivor of narcissistic abuse, I reflect on my healing journey with a profound awareness of how dysregulated I had become during the years of suffering. Even after the abuse concluded, my mind seemed to be trapped in those debilitating cycles, making recovery feel elusive. The emotional and psychological conditioning I endured led me to internalize a negative self-image, convincing me that I could never meet a standard of worthiness.
This realization has been crucial in my healing process. Understanding that my feelings were a direct result of the abuse allowed me to separate my worth from my experiences. It is essential for survivors to recognize that the negative perceptions we carry stem from external influences rather than inherent flaws within ourselves.
Through therapy, self-reflection, and the support of others who understand the complexities of narcissistic abuse, I have been able to slowly dismantle the damaging narratives that once governed my life. It is a challenging yet empowering journey, reminding us that healing is possible, and we can redefine our sense of self and worthiness.
Determined to reclaim my life, I immersed myself in research about narcissism and its impacts on victims. This process of healing was not merely about understanding the dynamics of narcissistic abuse but also about rediscovering my identity and reclaiming my sense of self-worth.
As I progressed on my healing journey, I realized that my experiences had equipped me with valuable insights, and I felt a strong desire to help others navigate their own encounters with narcissistic abuse. Motivated by this conviction, I made the decision to return to college and pursue a graduate degree in counseling, with a special focus on trauma-informed care.
After completing my degree, I worked in several different positions, including non-profit practices, community mental health services, and inpatient receiving facilities. Through these experiences, it became clear to me that many treatment options were often too brief and primarily focused on symptom reduction through medication. This approach frequently overlooked the deeper issues affecting clients and the root causes of their concerns. This realization prompted me to explore alternative methods to better assist clients in distress and promote lasting improvement in their lives.
In response to this need, I founded A Satisfied Mind Counseling, driven by a commitment to offer compassionate and comprehensive care to individuals seeking to heal from their traumatic pasts or current challenges. By creating an environment that emphasizes understanding and empathy, I strive to support my clients in reclaiming their lives and discovering a meaningful path to recovery.
As you know, we’re big fans of A Satisfied Mind Counseling, LLC.. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Understanding the unique healing requirements following narcissistic abuse is paramount in my practice. My approach is rooted in empathy and compassion, integrating evidence-based strategies that focus on processing emotional trauma and restoring mental wellness. The emotional scars left by such abusive relationships can be profound, and it is crucial to navigate these challenges with care.
A key component of my method is psychoeducation, which aims to enhance client awareness of the insidious behaviors often utilized by abusers. By educating clients on these dynamics, I empower them to protect and strengthen themselves against potential further exploitation.
The primary therapeutic approaches I utilize include Narrative Therapy, Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Additionally, I draw on valuable insights from other modalities, including Somatic Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This integrative framework ensures a comprehensive and tailored healing process for each individual.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I would like to take a moment to express my deep gratitude to the individuals who have played a crucial role in my journey toward becoming a mental health professional. It is through their support and encouragement that I have reached a place where I can assist others in meaningful and impactful ways.
First and foremost, I owe a tremendous debt of gratitude to my mother, whose financial support made it possible for me to return to school and pursue my graduate degree in mental health services. Her belief in my potential provided me with the foundation I needed to succeed.
I am also thankful for my supervisors, whose guidance and mentorship were instrumental in shaping my skills and igniting my passion for this field. Their insights and encouragement allowed me to grow professionally and personally.
Additionally, I want to acknowledge a couple of dear friends who stood by me during one of the hardest periods of my life. Their unwavering support helped me navigate through the darkness, ultimately leading me to a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.
Finally, I am sincerely grateful for my therapist, who remained by my side during challenging times when hope seemed elusive. Her patience and understanding helped me believe in the possibility of recovery and a brighter future.
Together, these individuals have significantly contributed to my journey, and I am thankful for the roles they have played in my life.
Pricing:
- Talk therapy starting @ $150/hr
- EMDR starting @ $175/hr
- EMDR Intensives starting @ $1485/day
- Neurofeedback starting @ $150/treatment
- Alpha-stim treatment-request current pricing
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ASatisfiedMindCounseling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/satisfiedmindcounseling/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-l-hurwitt-ma-lmft-lmhc-emdr-certified-therapist™-869755160
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@asatisfiedmindcounseling
