As Ellen Geraghty, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) reflects on her extensive college basketball career, she says that she wishes she turned to a therapist for support.

“I was experiencing a lot of mental health challenges which I really didn’t know how to manage on my own,” says Ellen. 

Faced with physical injuries and challenging life transitions, while witnessing the increased need for mental health resources, Ellen decided to pursue a career in counseling. 

“I realized that I wanted to walk alongside people as they courageously navigate the many challenges and opportunities that life presents: physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually,” says Ellen. 

“I’ve always valued service and human relationships, so pursuing a career in counseling meant that I could live out my life values while helping others to discover their own sense of purpose and joy,” she adds. 

Since earning her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and working in the field, Ellen has fostered an inclusive and welcoming space for individuals of all backgrounds and identities to process and navigate difficult life situations, while fearlessly carving a new path forward. 

We sat down with Ellen to learn more about her approach to therapy and what clients can expect from working with her online or in-person from our Wilbraham office.

How would you describe your approach to therapy?

My approach to therapy is person-centered and holistic. 

I believe that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to therapy. The client leads the process and identifies the goals (small or big) that they want to achieve, while I offer support and guidance along the way. 

I may utilize evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness-based practices to help clients discover new insights into their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors with curiosity and gentle care. 

At times, I may utilize a solutions-based approach to help clients tap into their inner strengths and identify their areas of growth. 

Above all, I treat therapy as the client’s journey of self-discovery, and I will be their biggest advocate along the way.

What mental health challenges and life situations do you address?

I provide individualized therapy in-person from our Wilbraham office or online in Massachusetts for adults who may be struggling with,

• Anxiety/Panic/Phobias
• Bipolar Disorder
• Depression
• LGBTQIA+ concerns
• Peak Performance/Performance Anxiety
• Academic/Occupational/Work Issues/Career

What do your prior experiences working in the mental health field involve?

After earning my Masters Degree in Mental Health Counseling, I worked for Eliot Community Human Services, a community-based organization which serves vulnerable and at-risk individuals and families throughout Massachusetts. I worked in Community Crisis Stabilization, providing assessment and short-term treatment for adults experiencing a mental health crisis, as well as in Emergency Services, providing crisis intervention and stabilization for individuals with mental illness. 

It was an incredible opportunity to provide support services for so many different people in a variety of community settings, from homeless shelters to police departments and public schools. 

Before joining Handel Behavioral Health, my partner and I took some time to travel and learn about the world. We both wanted to practice taking care of ourselves, emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.

How does your basketball career and passion for athletics connect with your therapy practice?

The beginning of my session is similar to the warm-up before an athletic practice. We’ll check in with each other to see how the client is feeling and if there are any tender spots that need to be addressed. We’ll then start to discuss the client’s concerns and goals for the session. I like to consider myself a coach in terms of supporting the client, and ensuring that they feel understood, encouraged, and cared for throughout the session. Towards the end of the session, I’ll implement a “cool down” where we’ll increase emotional regulation, helping prepare the client for the next chapter of their day.

What advice would you give to potential clients?

I would encourage potential clients to trust their gut when it comes to finding a therapist to work with.

Not all therapists are going to be the right fit, and that’s okay. 

A client needs to feel like they can develop trust with their therapist. At times, the work may feel nurturing, and at times, it may feel challenging. Most importantly, a client needs to feel safe and supported throughout their journey.

Start working with Ellen Geraghty, LMHC today:

Ellen Geraghty, LMHC would be honored to walk alongside you in your journey of self-discovery. 

She will provide a safe and supportive presence during life’s difficult moments, and be your biggest advocate for the new solutions, insights, and opportunities that come your way. 

To start working with Ellen from our office in Wilbraham or online in Massachusetts, contact us today at (413) 343-4357.

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