Hi! My name is Emily Long. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Thanatologist specializing in providing compassionate support during life’s most challenging transitions. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy and understanding while offering a safe space to welcome your thoughts, emotions and experiences with grace and curiosity.
As a client myself, I understand the importance of a therapeutic relationship built on trust, genuine connection, empathy, and collaboration. I believe it is the foundation of meaningful and effective therapy.
Deciding to begin this process is one of the most courageous decisions you can make to change the course of your life, and I understand it can be both terrifying, overwhelming, and exciting. I’m here for all of it! To give you an idea of what to expect in your first session, we will likely spend most of the time getting to know each other, exploring what brought you to therapy, and beginning to define what you would like to take away from the process. We will work together to establish goals and identify specific ways you will know you are moving toward the growth and change you desire.
Areas of Expertise
With specialized training in thanatology, I bring a deep understanding of grief, loss, and end-of-life issues, guiding individuals and families through these profound moments with care and sensitivity.
I also work with clients on issues relating to general life transitions, anxiety, depression, shame, attachment, relationship discord, grief and loss, divorce and parenting. Whether you are navigating the complexities of loss, coping with anxiety, or seeking clarity during a major life change, I’m here to encourage and walk alongside you.
What is your main goal when working with a client?
My main goal is to meet you right where you are, honor your unique experiences, and work together to help you navigate challenges and discover your path to healing and growth.
I aim to create a safe, nonjudgemental space where you feel heard and valued, and to empower you with tools and insights to build resilience, and move forward with greater clarity and strength.
What is your approach/what methods do you employ?
There are several types of therapy with which I align, but ultimately my approach to therapy is client-centered, deeply valuing and respecting the client-therapist relationship. As I mentioned above, our first few sessions will explore what brought you to therapy and the goals you’d like to set for our time together. This will lead us to the most appropriate method(s) to help you make progress. Similar to seeing a medical doctor, some people respond better to certain types of treatment/therapy, so I often gauge this decision based on the best fit for my client.
What age group do you most often work with?
I work with all clients ages 12 and up. I particularly enjoy working with teens and young adults.
Are you passive or active in the session?
As a therapist, my approach is client-centered, which means our work together is guided by your unique experiences, needs, and goals. You can expect a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can express yourself openly and truly feel heard and valued.
I take an active role in sessions, offering questions, insights, and tools to help you better understand yourself navigate challenges. While I am here to guide and support you, the pace and focus of our work is always tailored to your comfort and readiness.
My goal is to collaborate with you in a way that feels empowering, helping you uncover your own strengths and create meaningful change in your life.
What is your background?
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (MH20907). I am also a Certified Thanatologist, which means I also have extensive training in grief, loss, and end-of-life issues.
While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I had the opportunity to take an elective class on the psychology of death and dying-something I thought sounded interesting and hoped would be an easy “A”.
Coincidentally, during this time, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and I ended up having a first-hand experience on what it was like walking through the dying process with a loved one. My grandmother’s story, as well as several other personal experiences with loss is what prompted me to complete a Master’s degree in Thanatology.
Not only has it taught me how to be present in some of life’s most painful moments, it has also taught me how to be present in the most joyful moments.
It’s taught me how to live.
What is the reason you decided to get into counseling?
I decided to become a counselor because I’ve always felt a deep sense of purpose in helping and serving others. From a young age, I had a desire and an uncanny way of connecting with people from all walks of life.
I enjoy honest, genuine relationships with others-not only do I believe humans are hard-wired for connection, but I also believe we can experience true healing and resilience when our stories are shared and in a safe and supportive space.
For me, this work is not just a profession-it’s a calling to create connection, foster healing, and empower others.
Education.
I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and Master’s degree in Thanatology from Hood College. I earned my Master’s Degree in Counseling from Palm Beach Atlantic University.
