Heather Hargis, LMFT

Whatever age or stage, navigating life can be hard. Talking to someone can help. Proactively taking steps toward who we want to become and learning to use our voice is one of the best investments we can make in ourselves, and those we love. Whatever it is that you are facing right now, I would be honored to walk alongside you. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - About Me: I am an LMFT and hold a master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Lipscomb University. My bachelor's degree is in Journalism from Belmont University. I have a background in the music industry, as well as marketing, creative, and technical writing. I view therapy through the lens of relationship and see our lives as a living story being written each day. Whether you are starting out at chapter 13 or looking back at chapter 32, I believe we all have the opportunity to choose the story we live. In 2019, I was diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome resulting in an allergy to mammal meats and products. This led me to acquire additional training as a Food Allergy Coach, so I understand firsthand the strain a food allergy can cause. Some of my favorite things to do are reading, writing, cooking, and spending time with my friends and family. I'm a fan of Sara Bareilles, all things musical theater, New York City, and stories of people who succeed against all odds. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Teenagers and Emerging Adults: I enjoy working with individuals entering adulthood and have experience with self-esteem, family of origin, life adjustment, and faith issues. Having spent 25 years involved with the Tennessee Girls State program, I am experienced in working with young women. My background in music gives me a unique understand of those in or pursuing a creative or otherwise non-traditional vocation. Grief: I have experience in walking alongside individuals making sense of loss and processing grief. The stages are not linear and are different for everyone. Acknowledging and letting ourselves feel the feelings surrounding loss is key to healing. Food Allergy Certification: I am certified by the Asthma and Allergy Network as a food allergy coach and have served as a presenter at Virginia Tech's Reynolds Homestead Alpha-Gal Symposium. I work with families and individuals facing mental health and social issues (such as fear/anxiety, grief/loss, relationship management, and identity) centered around a food allergy diagnosis. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - What You Can Expect from Counseling: ​ People often seek therapy for support, care, and the healing techniques a professional can offer. These are all realistic expectations. Therapy can also provide a safe place for expressing and exploring feelings. In our first session, we'll talk through your reason(s) for seeking counseling and your goal(s) for the counseling process. If after our first session, you feel another professional would better suit your needs, I will make a referral with your goals in mind. Your care is my first priority. After that, our sessions will be structured around what you bring into therapy and how that aligns with your goals. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Fees: My fee per 50-minute session is $125, with some sliding scale options based on income and availability. I accept cash, checks, and debit/credit cards/healthcare savings account cards which are processed through a secure online portal. I do not accept insurance. I also offer the option of secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth sessions.