Meet Amanda Morse | Psychotherapist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Morse and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
As a therapist, I work with mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, family dynamics and more. Although I primarily work with individuals, it is rewarding to see the ripple effect that our work can have on a family, a relationship, etc. By educating and supporting my clients on how to better understand their internal experience, this can have a pretty incredible impact on their lives and also those they interact with. I have a lot of hope for the future as I see younger generations getting more comfortable sharing about their struggles so that we can reduce the stigma around seeking help for mental health issues.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am a therapist in private practice in Tucson, Arizona. I’ve been in the field for almost 18 years now. I’ve worked in a wide-range of settings from acute hospitalization, residential, outpatient services, to now running my own business. I am forever thankful for the many years I worked in treatment programs and really credit my knowledge and confidence to these experiences. I’ve always encouraged new therapists to work in a treatment program setting as there is nothing in my opinion that can replace the experience of working with an interdisciplinary team. It is because of this experience that I feel equipped to work with whatever enters the room. The work is not for the faint of heart but well worth it.

Over the past few years there has been a shift in my focus more towards specialization in working with trauma, PTSD, and complex trauma. I became trained in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and also Structural Dissociation Theory. These combined have literally transformed my work with clients. I also have the specialization of working with eating disorders and trauma simultaneously. Working with these modalities has been challenging as it has meant developing a whole new skillset. I read a lot about trauma, engage in my own personal work, and participate in regular consultation to enhance my knowledge. It has been tough but I’m hooked, so well worth it. I am excited to bring specialized trauma support to Arizona. I also remain licensed in Georgia.

The most important lesson along the way I’ve had to learn is how to create balance in my personal and work life. I struggle with this and likely always will. I speak frankly to my clients about creating this balance and to give themselves grace as for many it can be a lifelong struggle. When you are passionate about what you do that’s wonderful, but you also need to take time for yourself and your loves ones.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend/s were to visit we would likely spend time both in Tucson and Sedona, AZ. I am lucky to be part of a trio of girlfriends and we all like to be active but also love to chill. I think a good combination would be hiking and spending time in nature while also visiting some spas. The three of us have done exactly this is the Scottsdale area but are thinking of another trip to Sedona. I have never been but have heard tales of how incredibly beautiful it is while also boasting healing vortexes that I would love to check out. Being in the mountains is therapy to me. We also share a love of food so partaking in some delicious Mexican food would definitely be on the agenda!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Gosh, that’s a tough one. I guess I would have to say that I have been particularly inspired by my former supervisor and mentor Tammy Holcomb. She really inspired my love of working with eating disorders and trauma back when I was first starting out. We worked together for several years at a treatment program in Atlanta specializing in the above areas. I’d say her passion was pretty contagious. She was simultaneously very calm and soothing to be in the presence of (with the quintessential therapist flowy clothing and jewelry) but could also really command a room when she spoke. We’ve stayed in touch over the years and I think of her often. She is very likely one of the best trauma therapists I’ve had the pleasure of knowing.

Website: amandamorsecounseling.com

Other: I am in the process of changing my business name and all of my branding to Free Spirit Psychotherapy. This process is not yet complete.

Image Credits
Cassy Rowland Photography