Rantz Phelps

I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) providing grounded, trauma-informed care for adults managing deep-rooted anxiety, complex life transitions, and trauma. As a proudly neurodivergent clinician and staunch LGBTQ+ ally, I frequently support folks navigating the intersection of neurodivergence and trauma. I particularly thrive working with "intellectualizers"—smart, highly cognitive individuals who are excellent at rationalizing their problems but struggle to truly experience their underlying emotions. Before becoming a therapist, I spent over a decade as a public educator and licensed foster parent, which brings a deeply relatable, real-world perspective to the room. Outside of the office, I’m a collector of hobbies: you can usually find me woodworking, shooting archery, reading in a hammock, or attempting to get my eight-year-old daughter and massive puppy to wear each other out.

Therapy with me is done with you, not to you. I don’t rigidly adhere to a single textbook theory; instead, I blend Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), accessible mindfulness, somatic (body-based) tools, and pragmatic "parts-work" to help you drop out of your head and into authentic healing. When working with trauma, I use a fiercely consent-based framework. Healing should never feel like a flood. By focusing on building a secure "container" first, I help clients process their past at a manageable, titrated pace where they are always in control of the dial. As a recovering perfectionist, I don't believe therapy should be an exhausting chore. I actively encourage note-taking, welcome feedback, and rely on transparent, here-and-now collaboration.

You can expect a transparent, low-pressure environment where I meet you exactly where you are. Our first session is primarily about establishing safety and connection—we won't dive right into the deep end of your trauma, but rather focus on building a secure container so you never feel flooded. If you are overwhelmed by feelings, we will focus on stabilization; if you are stuck in your head, I will help you safely begin to thread those thoughts to your authentic emotions. I don't spook when talking about matters related to safety. Ultimately, the first session is about figuring out our collaborative fit. While you pay for my clinical skills, my genuine care and investment in your well-being are always free.