Tag: Holistic Mental Health

Inspired by Her: Interview Series by Jennifer Sierra, LMHC Holistic Mental Health Counseling.

Inspired by Her: Interview Series featuring Kelly Daubach, ACC, RD

February 5 • Written by: Jennifer Sierra

An Interview with Kelly Daubach, ACC, RD – Wellness Retreat Visionary & Professional Coach, Registered Dietitian 

Bridging Healing and Community Through Wellness Retreats

At Holistic Mental Health Counseling, we believe in creative and holistic mental health interventions that focus on improved health for the mind body and spirit. We also encourage community involvement as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. We are committed to providing preventative and educational mental health support to our community.

This commitment led us to an exciting collaboration: the Wild Harmony Mother-Daughter Equine Retreat, happening March 2, 2025. We’ve joined forces with Kelly Daubach, lead facilitator and event organizer, along with Dr. Kerul Kassel of First Nature Foundation and Michelle Natalya Moore to bring this unique experience to life.

Kelly’s unique approach to wellness inspired this “Inspired by Her” interview series. When I learned more about her dedication to wellness and unique perspective on healing, I knew her story needed to be shared. Kelly graciously agreed to be our first feature.

I recently sat down with Kelly to discuss her journey. Our conversation revealed how her personal and professional experiences have shaped her unique perspective on mental health, family relationships, and the healing process. Her insights offer a fresh look at how we understand wellness and connection.

“We are limitless in our ability to experience, but most of us are just seeing a little bit of the opportunity of life.”

— Kelly Daubach

A Journey of Transformation

Kelly Daubach began her career as a registered dietitian but quickly discovered her true calling wasn’t just about nutrition—it was about helping others unlock their potential.

Within just nine months of starting her professional journey, in the homes of patients, she went from a solo practitioner to managing a nationwide team that would eventually grow to 300 dedicated clinicians, operators, sales professionals, managers, call centers, and distribution centers. Her real gift lies in her ability to inspire others to greatness—unlocking latent potential in individuals and guiding them toward work that transcends “autopilot.”

Kelly doesn’t just focus on productivity; she helps uncover what truly matters to them, so they can create with intention and thrive on their own terms. Kelly’s approach challenges individuals to self-reflect and redefine success in ways that align with their hearts and life purpose.

Kelly’s personalized approach to collaborations in the wellbeing community aligns with the Holistic Mental Health Counseling philosophy. When treating anxiety  and difficult life transitions, our holistic approach helps individuals bridge the gap between their current reality and their authentic potential.   HMH Counseling supports clients in discovering their core values, transforming self-understanding into meaningful, purposeful action and intentional living.

The Heart of Wellness: A Personal Healing Journey

Kelly Daubach

Kelly Daubach

What drives someone to create transformative wellness retreats? For Kelly, it’s deeply personal.

She views human evolution as a “joyful dance“—a process of growth that embraces both the light and the shadows.

Her own healing practices have included prioritizing real, whole foods, eliminating alcohol, focusing on self-care,  making space for movement and stillness, and prioritizing time with her family and support network. These carefully curated healthy habits are the foundation of her showing up as her best self in all areas of her life. Kelly also credits ongoing self-development practices, from therapy to yoga to triathlons, as transformational tools in her personal and professional growth. Kelly is a woman of faith and resonates deeply with a higher power’s guidance in her life.

Kelly’s journey resonates deeply with Holistic Mental Health Counseling, integrative approach. We understand that self-care looks different for everyone and evolves throughout life. A powerful reminder from Kelly’s practices is that personal growth is not about perfection—it’s about intentional, compassionate evolution.

Wild Harmony Mother-Daughter Retreat: Redefining Connection

Wild Harmony Mother Daughter Retreat

At the core of Kelly’s current work is the Wild Harmony Mother-Daughter Retreat. Her vision is for wellness that goes beyond the traditional approach.

She believes that family relationships shouldn’t be purely disciplinarian, but instead should be founded on mutual learning, curiosity, and compassion.

Key insights from Kelly’s personal journey:

  • Healing inherited emotional and psychological patterns.
  • Creating safe, authentic spaces for mothers and daughter’s to connect
  • Empowering families to explore and understand their dynamics.

Family sustainability—understanding and reshaping generational patterns—is central to Kelly’s mission. Reflecting on her own lineage with compassion has helped her uncover the layers that shape her family’s story.

Kelly’s unique perspective on redefining connection and providing options as far as modalities (pathways to healing) aligns with our mission at HMH Counseling. We believe healing happens through connection, understanding, and empowerment. Our practice integrates traditional talk therapy with evidence-based integrative and natural interventions, offering a unique path for resolving maladaptive generational patterns and building authentic relationships. Through mindfulness and self-compassion practices, we help clients develop a kinder relationship with themselves while healing old wounds. This personalized approach helps clients discover their innate capacity for healing while developing deeper connections with themselves and others. As Kelly wisely notes,

“I want to give people options for that connection… It’s really necessary that we empower our own safety around joy. It’s an exploration.” 

— Kelly Daubach

Nature and Horses at First Nature Ranch

Wild Harmony Mother Daughter Retreat, Collaboration with HMH Counseling

The Wild Harmony Mother-Daughter Retreat will be hosted at the stunning First Nature Ranch, where nature and horses set the stage for inner peace and connection. Located on 26 peaceful acres in Saint Cloud, FL, First Nature Ranch specializes in equine-assisted leadership and personal growth programs.

Kelly’s collaboration with First Nature Ranch began serendipitously. “After meeting Dr. Kerul Kassel just once, I started noticing horses everywhere,” Kelly recalled. “It felt like a calling.” This profound connection inspired her to explore nature-guided healing, reaffirming that alignment with one’s purpose unfolds in unexpected ways. Such environments allow participants to reconnect with themselves and nature, a process Kelly believes is key to personal growth in today’s urban world.

Reflecting on this, Kelly shared, “We weren’t meant to stare at machines all day, though we often forget that. My role is simply to create opportunities for people to reconnect with themselves and their higher power. Where that journey leads them is entirely up to them.”

Empowering Practitioners, Transforming Communities

Kelly’s background in healthcare sets her apart through her unique ability to bridge business leadership with holistic healing. She’s not just creating retreats—she’s building a community of practitioners, retreat centers, and aligned visionaries dedicated to supporting collective healing.

Words of Wisdom for Women Seeking to Make a Difference
What’s your advice for women looking to bring change to their community?

“Just talk about it. Talk about it with your kids, your partner, your friends. Talk to God. Be silent enough to listen, and know that the answers will come. When dreams come to you, don’t push them away or slow down because you think you don’t deserve them. Spend time understanding your creative parts. Start with a project or hobby. Enjoy it—and it will pull you forward—that’s why you’re here!” Growth, evolution, joy and creation!”

— Kelly Daubach

Why This Work Matters

Wild Harmony Mother Daughter Retreat 2/2025 Team

From left to right: Kelly Daubach, Michelle Natalya Moore, Dr. Kerul Kassel, and Jennifer Sierra

We are honored to share stories of women like Kelly, who are shaping wellness through retreats, connection, and compassionate action.  Kelly’s passion is a reminder of why this work matters. Prioritizing mental health, intergenerational understanding, and community healing are essential steps toward holistic wellness. Reflecting these values, Holistic Mental Health Counseling  is honored to collaborate on the Wild Harmony Retreat, which has reached full capacity thanks to our community’s overwhelming response and support. We extend our deepest gratitude to our gold sponsor, the Poinsette Foundation, led by Mia Poinsette, whose vital work empowers children through education and access in Orange and Osceola Counties.

Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in our commitment to nurturing connection and inspiring positive change. If you’re ready to explore how we can support your mental health journey or empower your organization, we invite you to join us. Contact us today—we’re here to create possibilities together.

Keep in touch with Holistic Mental Health Counseling to discover our upcoming offerings! Sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on future events and new opportunities for growth and connection subscribe to our newsletter for updates on upcoming events.

Stay inspired. Stay connected.

The views and opinions expressed in this interview are for informational and educational purposes only and do not constitute therapy, counseling, or professional advice. While the interview is conducted by a licensed therapist, the interviewee is not a client, and privacy laws applicable to therapy or counseling do not apply. This conversation is not intended as a substitute for individualized care. Always seek guidance from a qualified mental health professional for personalized support.

Orlando Therapist helps with relationship challenges, anxiety and life transitions. Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

Orlando Therapist Shares 5 Signs You’ve Outgrown a Friendship 5 ways to Navigate the Transition

January 15 • Written by: Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

As an Orlando therapist, Jennifer Sierra, LMHC specializes in helping young adults manage anxiety and navigate life transitions, including challenges in relationships. If you’re wondering whether a friendship has run its course, this guide will walk you through five key signs a relationship might be ending and offer five steps to handle the shift with care and compassion.

Friendships in our adult years can feel like navigating a shifting landscape. Old bonds rooted in shared classes or childhood block parties sometimes feel harder to maintain amidst packed calendars and changing priorities. And, even harder still, you may find yourself questioning whether some long-held friendships are still right for you.

If the thought of growing apart from your current relationships fills you with anxiety or guilt, know that you’re not alone. Outgrowing friendships is a natural part of life—and it’s okay. It doesn’t mean you’ve failed or that you’re a bad person. Instead, it’s an opportunity to reflect on your personal growth, values, and self-worth.

This blog will explore the nuances of adult friendships, why outgrowing some connections is an essential part of your mental health and personal evolution, and how to approach these realizations with compassion for yourself and others.

Why Growing Apart Is Natural

Life takes us on different paths. Whether it’s moving to a new city, changing careers, starting a family, or focusing on self-improvement, your circumstances—and your needs in friendships—evolve over time. Your mid-20s to early 40s is a season of rapid change, often bringing mixed emotions about the connections in our lives.

The Role of Friendships in Personal Growth

Friendships are foundational to who we are. They give us comfort, provide support, and mirror parts of ourselves back to us. However, some friendships simply don’t grow alongside us. If you’re prioritizing mental health, setting boundaries, or striving to become a better version of yourself, you might discover certain friendships no longer feel aligned with where you’re headed.

Addressing the Guilt of Growing Apart

Feeling guilty when a friendship no longer fits is natural. But this doesn’t erase the value that person once brought to your life. It’s okay to cherish the good memories while recognizing the relationship may no longer meet your needs or feel balanced.

Signs That a Friendship May Have Reached Its Season

Orlando therapist helps with relationship challenges. Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

 

It’s not always easy to pinpoint when a friendship has run its course. Here are some gentle signs to watch for:

1. The Relationship Feels One-Sided

Do you feel like you’re always initiating conversations or plans? Healthy friendships are built on mutual effort and support. If the dynamic feels imbalanced for a prolonged period, it may be time to reassess.

2. Negative Energy Dominates Interactions

Friendships should leave you feeling uplifted and valued. If you notice constant criticism, undermining comments, or a lack of shared positivity, the connection may be taking a toll on your mental health.

3. You No Longer Share Core Values

Values are the foundation of relationships. If you find yourselves repeatedly disagreeing on fundamental beliefs or priorities, it could signal a deeper disconnect.

4. Growth Is Met with Resistance

It’s natural to want the best for those we care about. If your personal growth—whether it’s committing to anxiety therapy , pursuing a dream, or setting boundaries—is met with resistance or judgment, the friendship may not feel as safe or supportive as it once did.

5. Conversations Feel Forced or Surface-Level

Do you struggle to connect meaningfully or feel like conversations lack depth? If the relationship feels more like an obligation than a joy, it may be worth reflecting on its current role in your life.

Recognizing these signs is not a directive to immediately end the friendship but rather an invitation to reflect on its place in your life.

Navigating the Transition with Compassion

Outgrowing a friendship doesn’t mean “cutting someone off” abruptly or without care. Instead, consider these thoughtful steps to approach the situation:

1. Reflect on Your Feelings

Give yourself time to process. Journaling or working with a counselor can help you map out your emotions and understand why the friendship feels misaligned. If you’re in the Orlando area, seeking anxiety therapy in Orlando can offer tools for navigating complex feelings about these changes.

2. Decide on Boundaries

Not every shifting friendship requires a formal “breakup.” Sometimes it’s about adjusting the dynamics—communication frequency, expectations, or the type of support you offer each other.

3. Hold an Honest Conversation (If Necessary)

If the friendship was deeply meaningful to you, consider having an open, respectful conversation. Frame your feelings around personal growth rather than blame—for instance, “I feel like we’ve both grown in different directions, and I want to honor that.”

4. Be Open to Ebb and Flow

Some friendships naturally fade and reignite later, while others may settle into a lighter, more casual rhythm. Leaving space for this possibility can ease the pressure of “finality.”

5. Lean on Your Support System

Processing these changes can feel isolating. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or mental health professionals. They’ll help you maintain perspective and a sense of self-worth.

Building New Connections That Align with Your Growth

 

Orlando therapist helps with relationship challenges. Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

Outgrowing a friendship creates space for connections that align with your current values and passions. Here’s how to foster new, meaningful bonds as an adult:

  • Pursue Mutual Interests: Join local groups or online communities centered around hobbies, like book clubs, hiking meetups, or creative writing forums. Shared passions provide natural opportunities for connection.
  • Be Open and Curious: New friendships often begin with small talk or shared experiences. Stay curious about others and don’t shy away from deep conversation.
  • Nourish Existing Relationships: Sometimes, the connections we’ve overlooked deserve nurturing. Reach out to old friends or acquaintances to see if your paths align now.
  • Remember Quality Over Quantity: Fewer, deeper friendships that support your mental health and personal growth are far more enriching than a large network of casual acquaintances.

Building connections takes time but prioritizing authenticity ensures the bonds you create are fulfilling and long-lasting.

Honor Your Journey and Theirs

Every friendship, even those you outgrow, plays a role in your life story. Moving forward doesn’t erase the good times or lessons learned. It simply reflects who you’re becoming and your commitment to surrounding yourself with relationships that uplift and support you.

Are You Ready?

If you’re ready to explore these changes, consider working with a therapist who can help you process emotions, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild confidence. Start therapy today.

Are You Ready?

If you’re ready to explore these changes, consider working with a therapist who can help you process emotions, set healthy boundaries, and rebuild confidence. Start therapy today.

About Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

Orlando Therapist. Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

Orlando therapist, Jennifer Sierra LMHC, offers a compassionate and creative approach to mental health. She specializes in working with clients struggling with anxiety and difficult life transitions. Jennifer is a licensed mental health therapist as well as certified in integrative mental health. Jennifer Anxiety therapy helps you make sense of it all, break old patterns, and rediscover calm and connection.

6 Tips for Managing Negative Thinking

July 5 • Written By Jennifer Sierra, LMHC

 

At times, we all find ourselves caught in the grip of negative thoughts. During moments of heightened stress and anxiety, these thoughts can feel overpowering and difficult to shake off. They can impact our relationships, emotions, and even out physical health. While it’s impossible to eliminate negative thoughts entirely, there are strategies that can help you manage and navigate them more effectively. 

In this blog post, we will explore 6 helpful tips to handle negative thoughts and improve mental clarity.

1. Learn to Recognize Negative Thoughts and Challenge Them

It’s hard to escape from negative thinking ruts when you don’t know you are doing it. Some telltale signs include:

  • Negative emotions
  • Tension in your body
  • Repetitive or unhelpful thinking that leads you in a circle

Once you recognize the negative thinking pattern, you can begin to challenge your thoughts by asking yourself questions. Is your thought based on facts? What is the is the evidence?

2. Get Moving.

Engaging in tasks that require physical movement and mental engagement can shift your focus to the present moment. Try activities like taking a phone-free walk while mindfully observing your surroundings or doing hands-on tasks like organizing your closet or washing dishes.

 

Remember that using busyness as a constant distraction from your emotions isn’t healthy. However, shifting gears and staying active can help reset your mind when caught in a negative loop.

3. Laughter.

The saying “Laughter is the best medicine” holds true. Laughing not only relieves stress and anxiety but also stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles, while providing your body and mind with a healthy dose of oxygen. Incorporating more laughter into your day has long-term benefits, such as improving your immune system by reducing stress-induced negative thoughts. 

4. Mindfulness and Meditation.

Mindfulness and meditation practices can help you observe negative thoughts without judgment. By bringing your attention to the present moment, you can detach from negative thinking and reduce its influence. Regular meditation cultivates a calm and centered mind, making it easier to let go of negative thoughts and focus on the positive aspects of your life.

5. Engage in Self-Care.

Self-care plays a crucial role in maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, such as spending time in nature, practicing hobbies, taking warm baths, or listening to soothing music. Taking care of your physical health through exercise, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep also contributes to a more positive mindset.

6. Surround Yourself with Supportive People

Negative thoughts can feel overwhelming when you face them alone. Seek the support of trusted friends, family members, or a therapist. Sharing your feelings and concerns with them can give you a different perspective, empathy, and guidance. Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals can help you challenge negative thoughts and maintain a healthier outlook on life.

Seek Professional help

Incorporating these tips for handling negative thoughts can help you improve your well-being and overall quality of life over time. Keep in mind that it is not easy and will take practice. If you are struggling to manage your negative thoughts on your own and they are impacting your quality of life, it may be time to reach out for professional help. A therapist can provide you with the support and tools needed to manage your negative thoughts and gain mental clarity.

 

Now accepting new clients. I would love to hear from you! Schedule an intro call with me today by clicking  here

 

 

Sidebar