Today we’d like to introduce you to Shelly Bates.
Hi Shelly, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My path has always been one of service, even generationally. My mother was a social worker by position and no degree, and she was the best, winning awards for her contributions in service to those in need. If I’m honest, it started as a teenager. Other people naturally found their way to me, asking for advice, or an ear to hear their story and situation. After a while, I’d find myself saying, “Sure, lets pull out our imaginary couch.”
Today, I continue to hold that “imaginary couch,” however, it has expanded. Throughout my journey, I have recognized people need more than sitting and talking about their experiences that are stored in the body. I set out on a journey to learn more about the nervous system, neurobiology, and the human biofield to better understand how energy surrounds and flows through the body, and how that impacts each person individually, historically, intergenerationally, and collectively.
I blend neurobiology with Brainspotting, EMDR, and tuning fork therapy to support deep healing in both the brain and body. Together, these modalities create a grounded, integrative pathway back to clarity, emotional balance, and a more authentic connection to self.
People live busy lives, and don’t always want to attend weekly therapy, so I also offer extended sessions, or intensives. Intensives allow uninterrupted, dedicated time well beyond the 50 minute therapy session, for the client to work through the challenges that brought them to therapy. This is another way to meet the varying needs of clients, one that I really enjoy!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a smooth road. There is a certain lens of what “therapy is supposed to look and sound like.” As a gifted, intuitive, creative therapist, I create an environment conducive to healing by offering inclusive, holistic, energetic, and cultural practices to each session; creating space for clients to reflect on intergenerational, societal, and cultural themes, co-create what is needed without judgment; and honor the framework of my clients. In this process, there is less of an opportunity for burnout, and greater expansion into the ethical tenants of autonomy, justice, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and fidelity. which are all tenants of the Code of Ethics (NBCC, ACA).
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I support adults healing from early attachment wounds, unhealthy relationship patterns, intergenerational trauma, and identity challenges shaped by harmful or restrictive religious experiences. My approach blends my intuition and creativity, I help clients reintegrate trauma by blending EMDR, Brainspotting, and sound (drumming, tuning forks or crystal sound bowls) into a grounded, neurobiologically informed healing experience. EMDR reorganizes and completes the brain’s processing loop, Brainspotting accesses the deeper somatic and emotional layers where trauma is held, and tuning forks bring the nervous system into calm coherence through vibration and sound. Together, these modalities soften reactivity, release stored survival energy, and create the safety needed for the mind, body, and spirit to reconnect.
Guided by the meaning of my name, “Meadow on a Ledge,” I help others remember who they are, rebuild their sense of self and wholeness, and step into a more authentic, beautiful, and peaceful life.
I recognize, and confirm, I’m not your average therapist. What I enjoy most is I get to be me, and model authenticity for my clients in the therapy setting.
While I offer individual therapy sessions, I also encourage others to step outside the “norm” of therapy, and consider therapy intensives. There are many ways to heal. If you’re tired of talking about your trauma, you probably need something different. I encourage you to step out of the typical therapy – you deserve resolution.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Finding a mentor can be tedious, but well worth it. I have found it most helpful to identify your gaps and what you need in a mentor, and find someone who is doing what you’re looking for. Don’t be afraid to call them and schedule meeting over coffee or tea, your treat. Before you go, write down your questions, and consider if you are willing to pay to have that mentor’s services long term. Another option is to send an email and ask for a telephone consultation. Some people will freely share their knowledge as a way of giving back and helping others grow. Be open!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.butterflyeffectccc.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelly-bates-lpc-s-162a2359/
