Vicki Underwood

Sometimes the hardest part of healing isn't what you've been through, but how those experiences continue to affect the way you think, feel, and move through the world. I believe you deserve more than just getting through the day — you deserve to feel safe, understood, and connected to yourself again. I earned my Master of Science in Social Work from the University of Tennessee–Knoxville and have 4 years of professional experience supporting children, adolescents, and adults across the lifespan, from ages 7 to 80. I specialize in helping individuals navigate trauma, stress, PTSD, anxiety, depression, emotional overwhelm, and the lasting impact of difficult life experiences. I also hold a certificate in trauma-focused care and have training in several therapeutic approaches. My passion is helping people recognize their strengths, understand their experiences, and move toward healing that feels meaningful and lasting. I believe therapy is a partnership, and my goal is to create a warm, empowering space where you feel supported as we work toward the changes you want to see in your life.

I believe therapy works best when we work together as partners. My approach is warm, holistic, collaborative, and focused on helping you better understand yourself while developing practical tools for change. I draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused CBT, Brainspotting, Motivational Interviewing, and Somatic Therapy, tailoring our work to your individual needs. In our sessions, we may explore how past experiences influence your thoughts and emotions, build skills to manage overwhelming feelings, and learn ways to feel more grounded and connected to your body. Brainspotting and somatic approaches can help us explore how difficult experiences may continue to affect your emotional and physical responses, while CBT and DBT provide practical strategies for everyday challenges. I believe healing involves the mind, body, and emotional well-being, and I'm here to offer both compassionate support and encouragement as you take meaningful steps toward growth.

Our first session is an opportunity for us to get to know one another and begin understanding what brought you to therapy. We'll start with an intake assessment, which involves gathering information about your background, experiences, current concerns, and what you hope to achieve through our work together. I understand that sharing personal information can feel overwhelming, especially when you've experienced trauma, so we'll approach these conversations with care and respect for your comfort level. You won't be expected to share every difficult experience right away. I'll ask thoughtful questions, explain how our sessions may work, and give you space to ask questions of your own. Together, we'll begin identifying your strengths, goals, and what feels most important to address. My hope is that you leave our first meeting feeling heard, comfortable, and encouraged about the healing journey ahead. You don't have to figure everything out alone — we'll work through it together.