Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelley Doss, LPC-S, CEDS-C.
Hi Kelley, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
In graduate school, my first experience working with clients was counseling inmates at a women’s federal prison. My time working there left me with greater empathy for people who did not grow up with the same privileges and resources as me, as well as a deeper understanding of the profound impact of childhood traumatic experiences. The ability to hold appropriate boundaries balanced with compassion for my clients formed the foundation of my therapeutic style.
After graduate school I was hired at a treatment center for eating disorders. This was a population I had always known I wanted to specialize in-being recovered myself, I could understand the mindset that comes with disordered eating and body image distress. While my personal connection to the treatment of eating disorders led me to this work, my job experience provided me with extensive training opportunities and education to effectively help others in their recovery journey. Prior to leaving the treatment center to pursue private practice I was promoted to Team Leader, and helped write curriculum for the groups our clients participated in; this experience solidified my expertise in eating disorders.
Transitioning from treatment center work to private practice has allowed for longer-term working relationships with my clients. In fact, some of my clients have worked with me for almost 10 years-a deeply appreciated honor. Since starting my private practice my commitment to growth and learning has continued. I have become an LPC-Supervisor, a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist-Consultant, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Certified, and IFS Informed; all motivated by my desire to provide great counseling care.
Recently my practice has relocated from Richardson to north Plano, as a new season of life for my family called for a shorter commute. I am excited to continue to serve my existing clients and welcome new ones in this next phase of my work.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The most persistent, professional struggle I have faced has been battling my own internal fears and limiting beliefs. Transitioning from the stability of a salaried job to starting a private practice felt like a huge risk to me! I had no idea if I could run a business, and part of me was worried. I was pretty afraid I might end up sitting by myself in an empty office. My aversion to risk and fear of failing could have kept me from taking that leap of faith. Thankfully, I had great support from friends, family, and colleagues who believed in me even when I didn’t believe in myself. Their encouragement inspired me to be brave, and I am so grateful! Through starting my own business I learned that I am more capable than my fear tells me I am, and that I am resilient and resourceful. While I still feel fear when faced with new challenges, I am able to balance that out with confidence in my own strengths.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
While my specialized training gives me confidence in my ability to help, I know from personal experience that what’s most important to my clients is how our counseling relationship feels. My guiding purpose is to establish a safe and comfortable working relationship with my clients, and I trust that if we can accomplish that, together we will figure out the right path for their growth.
I specialize in working with disordered eating and body image distress, trauma, and perimenopause and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). I lean heavily into using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS) techniques in my work, as I find those methods promote self-generated healing and self-compassion.
Some of my clients are able to accomplish what they need in a weekly 45 minute session, while others find they prefer more time. When doing EMDR work, an extended session can be especially beneficial. I offer both 45 minute sessions and 90 minute sessions to meet the individual needs of my clients. Additionally, both virtual and in person services are available, allowing me to work with anyone in the state of Texas.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
On a professional level, what makes me happy is seeing the relief a client feels when they are able to release something that has been holding them back. To see the light return to their eyes, and watch them relax. To hear them say, “I never thought I would feel differently about that.” This comes with hard work, vulnerability and perseverance. Being invited into the hardest parts of my clients’ stories is a great privilege.
On a personal level, I love being connected to others, and challenging my body and my brain. What makes me happiest is laughing with my family and friends, finishing a great novel, weight lifting, or having a creative outlet. I’m the kind of person who actually enjoys assembling furniture (the more parts, the better!), and I love a home improvement project. In the 2 renovations my husband and I have completed, I have become fairly proficient at tiling, scraping popcorn ceilings, and installing light fixtures!
Pricing:
- $160 for a 45 minute session
- $320 for a 90 minute session
- Supervision rates available upon request
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.findyourhealthy.net
- Instagram: findyourhealthypllc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelley-doss-3929447b
