Amy Avery Weese,
MDiv, MACM, LPCC-S, EMDR
 
“Courage is contagious. Every time we choose courage, we make everyone around us a little better, and the world a little braver.” –Brene Brown
 
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor (LPCC-S) in the state of Ohio.  I obtained my Masters of Divinity in 2005 at Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan, then spent 6 years as an Associate Pastor of Pastoral Care in Worthington, Ohio.  During this time, I further obtained my Masters in Counseling from the Methodist Theological School in Ohio in 2011 and began my work in counseling exclusively in June of 2012 at the Center for Balanced Living in Columbus, Ohio. 
 
I come from a background of work with individuals, couples and extensive group therapy. I bring a specialty in eating disorder treatment but work very broadly with many associated challenges including depression, anxiety, self-esteem challenges, marital counseling, and most other challenges related to mental health.  My therapeutic approach stems from work with Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for my clients as we journey together towards clarity and growth.

In addition to my full case load, I am currently working towards my Doctorate of Ministry specializing in trauma and vulnerability as a channel of growth and building a life worth living.
 
“The bottom line: I believe that vulnerability – the willingness to be “all in” even when you know it can mean failing and hurting – is brave. I do NOT believe that cussing and praying are mutually exclusive. And, I absolutely believe that the passing lane is for passing only.” –Brene Brown
 
Groups Offered:

Trauma Process Group: For individuals that recognize that the trauma/overwhelm they have had in their childhood (or adulthood) has manifested in ways which challenge their lives. We ALL have trauma in our background. We cope with that trauma by creating "a false self" to manage the overwhelm. The false self then becomes challenging to maintain and then...we medicate. Food, alcohol, drugs, workaholism, co-dependency, avoidance; there are many ways we each choose our way of silencing the noise. The goal of this group is to allow individuals to come with a willingness to do the real work; processing trauma in a supportive and enriching environment.

DBT Skills Group: A weekly skills education group for people struggling with eating disorders and long-standing patterns of behavior interfering with forming relationships, maintaining mental health and using effective coping skills. Requires a six-month commitment. Day and evening group available. If interested, discuss with your therapist or contact Amy directly.
 
Education: 
BA; Communications & Religion, Hope College (Holland, Michigan)
MDIV;, Western Theological Seminary (Holland, Michigan)
MACM; Methodist Theological School in Ohio (Delaware, Ohio)
DMin (in progress); Doctor of Ministry in Progress at Methodist Theological School in Ohio (Delaware, Ohio)
 
Licensure & Certification:
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor - Supervisor (LPCC-S)
USAT Level 1 Certified Triathlon Coach (www.purebravery.com)
Ironman Certified Coach   (www.purebravery.com)
Ordained Minister (www.weddingswithamy.com)