About Me

 Lydia Carrington, LPC

ABOUT ME

I believe that change occurs when we embrace new experiences within a safe and trusting relationship. My greatest passion is to engage in meaningful relationships that enable others to discover their best selves. As Carl Rogers wisely stated, "the most curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change."

In my approach to therapy, I focus on attachment theory. I firmly hold the belief that our perceptions of both others and ourselves are profoundly influenced by our earliest attachments. I'm trained in Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) and attachment-based therapy, with a specialization in working with the LGBTQ+ community and Relgious Trauma.

The hypnotherapy I provide is a gentle and nonintrusive form of meditation, designed to help quiet the inner voice that clings to old narratives. For a more detailed explanation of how I incorporate hypnosis into sessions, please refer to the "Approaches" section below.

My experience extends to working with individuals, couples, and families. I am particularly passionate about helping those who have grappled with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief/loss, and the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community. Whether you're exploring questions of identity, dealing with relationship issues, or navigating other aspects of your journey, I'm here to support you.

I firmly believe that each person possesses the capacity to grow, heal, and cultivate genuine, loving relationships that serve as the bedrock for personal growth. My goal is to assist clients in navigating the pain that surfaces when confronting these wounds, empowering them to embrace their true selves. It takes courage to delve into our deepest wounds, and I would be honored to accompany you on your journey.

I received my Master's of Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the University of Arkansas. On any given weekend you can find me with my partner, friends and dogs scouring Arkansas for the best places to rock climb. I am passionate about social justice, women empowerment, and caring for our environment. Spirituality is a big deal to me, though I consider myself nonreligious. I see value in all religions and modes of spirituality. I believe truth can be found in all perspectives, values, and religions. 

Approaches

Emotion Focused Therapy and Attachment-based models

Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) is a widely recognized humanistic approach to psychotherapy that emerged in the 1980s. It was developed in harmony with the science of adult attachment, a deep and enlightening theory of personality development and intimate relationships. This scientific perspective has broadened our comprehension of individual well-being and challenges, shedding light on the intricacies of love relationships and family connections.

In the world of attachment theory, human beings are seen as inherently relational and social creatures, with an innate drive for forming intimate bonds with others. The EFT model places a strong emphasis on emotions and the regulation of these emotions as the central driving forces in individual experiences and the dynamics of significant relationships.

By recognizing and working with these emotional undercurrents, EFT offers a pathway to a more fulfilling and harmonious connection with oneself and others. If you're interested in exploring EFT as a therapeutic approach, I'm here to provide guidance and support on your journey towards emotional well-being and healthier relationships.

You can learn more about EFT by clicking here

Adventure Therapy

Nature possesses a remarkable healing power. In my experience, people often discover a profound sense of connection with themselves, others, and the world when they engage with nature. I firmly believe that nature provides something unique that a traditional counseling office cannot replicate.

I offer a variety of outdoor activities, including climbing in a bouldering gym, hiking, and activity-based therapy. Adventure therapy, in particular, is incredibly effective for teenagers, couples, and families seeking to improve their relationships.

If you're intrigued by the idea of incorporating adventure therapy into your sessions, please don't hesitate to reach out and discuss it with me. Your journey towards healing and growth might just benefit from the transformative power of nature.

*rock climbing outings will be considered a multiple hour session and cost will be reflected in billing

Hypnosis and Trance work

If you've ever seen hypnosis used for entertainment on TV or the internet, you may have witnessed the hypnotist pushing boundaries for the sake of spectacle. I want to assure you that clinical hypnotherapy is quite different. My approach is centered around respect and collaboration, aiming to create a safe space for you.

During our sessions, I'll gently guide you into a state of trance, which can help bring about a natural and effortless shift in how you perceive yourself and the inner workings of your mind-body connection.

Hypnotherapy can be a powerful tool for transforming and improving various aspects of your life. It has proven effective in addressing issues such as anxiety, panic, pain, depression, a range of physical complaints, troublesome thoughts and behaviors, and even breaking cycles of addiction involving substances, food, or behaviors.

If any of these areas resonate with you, please feel free to reach out. I'm here to support you on your journey towards positive change and well-being