Holly's Approach

About Me

People often come to therapy feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or alone.
I know those feelings intimately—both as a therapist and as a human being.

I’ve sat with my own messiness, unpacked hard stuff, and moved toward healing - still am!

I won’t pretend to have all the answers, but I will join you as you find your own.

I’m an observer, but not a passive one.

I tend to jump in with bold observations and honest questions.

I listen closely—not just to your words, but to what’s underneath them.

I’m not a blank slate, and I wouldn’t bother trying to be. My personality shows up in the room.

I’m engaged (engaging!), curious, and an imperfect human—just like you.

And it’s more than okay with me if we laugh about it.

I first discovered my sense of self—and my sense of humor—growing up in the theatre.

On stage, I learned how to listen, how to prioritize stories that weren’t mine,

and how electric (or fragile) human connection can be, depending on how much awareness

and vulnerability we bring to it.

These early lessons continue to shape both how I live and how I practice therapy.

I believe we all carry stories that need witnessing, emotions that need a nonjudgmental space,

and parts of ourselves that long to be seen and understood.

My approach is collaborative, down-to-earth, and relational.

I’m inspired by emotionally focused theories, the work of Esther Perel, and the irreverent

wisdom of comedians who give us permission to cope through laughter and to question

the stories we've inherited.

Whether you’re showing up with a relationship that feels like it’s falling apart, a sense of self

that’s gone quiet, or just an ache you can’t quite name—I’m here.

I work with people navigating relationships, identity, life transitions,

and the emotional weight of being human.

You decide if we’re a good fit.

That said, I want to be clear about my values.

I practice from an anti-racist, LGBTQIA+ affirming, body-inclusive, and feminist lens.

I believe that mental health doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s shaped by systems, power,

and lived experience.

As a social worker, my work is grounded in social justice and equity.

That’s not up for debate. It’s not a trend - it's the ethical foundation of how I show up.

If you’re someone who holds different values, you’re still welcome here.

But know that I won’t minimize or sidestep these commitments.

I’m not a neutral therapist—I believe that honoring each other’s humanity

includes naming what harms it.

If you’re good with that, let’s talk.

Can you relate?

You're stronger than you think.

Still growing up.

Holly Little Van Straaten

Can you relate?

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