Emily Burgess

Hi, I'm Emily Burgess, LCSW, PMH-C, founder of Conduit Counseling Collective. I believe lasting change happens when we reconnect with ourselves rather than constantly trying to "fix" ourselves. My approach is warm, practical, and evidence-based, helping clients better understand the patterns that keep them feeling stuck while building sustainable tools for lasting growth.

I've worked in the mental health field since 2013 and specialize in treating anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), perinatal mental health, life transitions, relationship concerns, and trauma-related challenges. I am certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C) and have extensive experience supporting individuals navigating pregnancy, postpartum, infertility, pregnancy loss, and the transition to parenthood.

I also recognize the powerful connection between mental and physical health, incorporating education about sleep, movement, nutrition, and other lifestyle factors when they support a client's goals.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, caught in repetitive thought patterns, struggling through a major life transition, or simply feeling disconnected from yourself, my goal is to create a safe, collaborative space where you can develop greater self-understanding, resilience, and confidence. Together, we'll identify what's keeping you stuck and work toward meaningful, lasting change that aligns with the life you want to build.

My approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that most of the struggles we experience aren't signs that something is wrong with us—they're signs that our mind and body have been working hard to protect us. Rather than fighting against these patterns, we'll work together to understand them with curiosity and compassion.

I integrate evidence-based therapies including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), attachment-based therapy, and nervous system-informed interventions to help clients move beyond insight and into lasting change. Therapy is collaborative, practical, and tailored to your unique needs.

Because our mental and physical health are deeply connected, I also take a whole-body approach to healing. When appropriate, we explore how sleep, movement, nutrition, stress, and other lifestyle factors influence emotional well-being. My goal isn't to overwhelm you with more things to do—it's to help you reconnect with the tools and strengths you already possess while making meaningful, sustainable changes.

Whether you're navigating anxiety, OCD, perinatal mental health concerns, relationship challenges, trauma, or a major life transition, I strive to create a warm, grounded space where every part of your story is welcome. Together, we'll identify what's keeping you stuck, strengthen your capacity for self-leadership, and help you build a life that feels more connected, intentional, and aligned with your values.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating, so my goal is to make your first session feel comfortable, collaborative, and free of pressure. You don't need to have everything figured out before you arrive.

During our first session, we'll spend time getting to know each other. I'll ask about what brought you to therapy, your current concerns, relevant personal history, and what you hope to gain from our work together. Just as importantly, I'll want to learn about your strengths, values, relationships, and the parts of your life that matter most to you—not just the challenges you're facing.

You'll also have the opportunity to ask questions about my approach and discuss what therapy might look like moving forward. Together, we'll begin identifying patterns that may be keeping you stuck and develop an initial plan tailored to your goals.

My approach is collaborative rather than prescriptive. I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to provide guidance, evidence-based tools, and a safe space where you can better understand yourself and create meaningful, lasting change.

You don't have to have the "right words" or know exactly where to begin. We simply start where you are, and we'll take the next steps together.