Therapist in Palm Beach Gardens
So what do our clients think of #teamsoulspring?
Sheila Connolly
LMHC
Sheila is an empathetic, calming counselor gifted in guiding her clients to inner transformation. She believes that people do the best they can with the perspectives and tools they have–but partnering with her will bolster their life toolbox beyond what they could imagine.
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Check out the Good Stuff Sheila recommends in-between sessions to help you along your mental health journey.
Hello there, my name is Jasper. I am a 9 year old standard poodle. Although I may be small for my size, I have a big heart. I have certifications from the American Kettle Club and I'm working on becoming an official therapy dog. I am happy to report that I do not bark or shed. I really enjoy listening and I am good at keeping confidentiality. If you let me, I will place my paws in your lap and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable. When you are in the room, you are my biggest priority.
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And Jasper!
What She Overcame
The most challenging obstacle I've had to overcome would be my journey towards self love and compassion. The culture I was raised in affirmed the value for shoving feelings down, not asking for support, and powering forward. As a little girl, I always felt like the "black sheep.” That little girl grew into a teenager with low self-esteem, high anxiety, and an eating disorder. I tried to "just stop" on many occasions.
I eventually went to college in pursuit of a career that piqued my personal interest. However, with a lack of self love, I didn't feel prepared to become a clinician and I added a minor in criminal justice. After graduating, I modified my passion for caretaking into a role as a 9-1-1 dispatcher. My goal was to transition into becoming a police officer, and I began to apply for a local position. I felt pretty good about myself after passing the written exam; that is, until the dreaded physical test followed. Running one mile in the mountains at the end of the test left me feeling more than nauseous.
I pivoted once again and decided to go back to school for a Master's in Mental Health Counseling. As I began my Master's, I pursued my own mental health with more energy than ever before. I went back to therapy and began to make a mind/body connection through becoming a certified yoga instructor. I stopped binge eating and my depression lightened. Despite years of not resorting to my old negative vice, I remained morbidly obese and fearful about future health issues. I recognized that I had been "sober" from my eating disorder, but I most definitely had not recovered.
I'd neglected my physical health for so long, out of fear that addressing it would send me into a tailspin. With a lot of grace and faith, I used the spiritual practice I'd developed with yoga, years of feedback from individual therapy, group therapy support and mindfulness skills, to help mold me into the version of myself I am today.
I have gained self love and a deep sense of compassion through this journey. In 2022, the same woman who got defeated after running one mile in the woods will run the New York City Marathon. My challenges and suffering allow me to sit with my clients in their particular darkness. I see you, and your journey may be a doozy, but you are capable, deserving, and special.
Sheila is passionate about helping the community and her clients with mindfulness and life lessons. Her goal is to incorporate the skills she has acquired to lead clients on a transformative journey.
Sheila helps...
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Clients with substance abuse and addiction challenges build tools for recovery
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Individuals with anxiety, depression, or eating disorders discover healthy coping mechanisms
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Adults in high-stress careers find a safe, stable place to process their experiences
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Clients on transformational journeys chart new paths forward with self-esteem support
She uses...
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The proven framework of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to manage anxiety and intrusive thoughts
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Solutions-focused approaches with a fine-tuned balance of empathy and accountability
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Breathing exercises, grounding skills, and mindful practices for holistic healing
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The art of deep listening to help clients identify core issues and insights
Her clients...
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Learn to identify when to take action and when to find stillness for self-reflection
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Are empowered to regulate and ground themselves during conflict and stress
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Feel supported in processes of self-inquiry and self-esteem development
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Overcome barriers to their goals with techniques tailored to their needs
Her not-so-secret power
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She can see beyond people’s behavior to their true natures and inner gifts
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She’s a powerful nurturer willing to hold clients accountable as part of their journey to healing and resilient confidence
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She connects her clients to their highest selves and a deep sense of worthiness
When she isn’t working, Sheila is teaching yoga, listening to Lizzo’s “Truth Hurts” on repeat, or moving her body in ways that inspire her. She values self-care, self-awareness, and solitude.
"We are so excited to be welcoming Sheila to the team and watch her help her clients on their respective transformative journeys"