Welcome back to another Clinician Spotlight at Nourish Your Mind! In addition to providing a caring, safe space for those suffering with anxiety, depression and trauma, Emily Mortelliti, LMSW is one of our Eating Disorder Specialists. Emily believes that healing is a whole body experience and is dedicated to helping others find the resources and tools to support them on their journey toward recovery.
Meet Emily in her own words…
What is the most important thing you have learned in the last five years?
Trusting myself! I used to doubt and second guess myself all of the time. I learned how to trust myself, my gut, and my experiences to know that I’m doing the right thing. And it feels really good to know in your heart of hearts that you are on the right path, making healthy and confident decisions 🙂
What is your favorite part about working for Nourish Your Mind?
I love how even though many of us don’t see much of each other throughout the day, that it’s still a very supportive and welcoming environment. I cherish the feeling of warmth and peace I get whenever I enter the office. It’s funny, I actually look forward to coming in to work now!
Tell me how you first got involved in with Mental Health . . .
I have first hand experience with mental illness. I’ve struggled with anxiety, depression, and an eating disorder before and I know just how hard it is to take the first step and reach out for help. Being able to overcome my mental health issues influenced my decision to become a social worker. I want to help as many people as I can overcome their mental illness and live life fully.
What do you like most about your job at Nourish?
I love learning about my clients and watching them grow and reach their goals. It’s really special to me when a client trusts me enough with a problem they’re having and we work together to resolve it. It’s cool to watch people make healthy, positive changes in their lives.
What are your hopes for the future of the Mental Health Industry?
There are so many things that I hope for the future of the mental health industry. I think its accessibility to all is probably the most important thing. I hope that it is also taught more in schools so that kids can learn from an early age about their emotions and how to regulate them with healthy, safe coping mechanisms.
How would you describe your style as a Therapist?
I use a strengths-based, person-centered approach, while tailoring it to meet the client’s needs and preferences. The time we share is for the client and we can make it into anything the client needs it to be.
What might someone be surprised to know about you?
I really love sloths!
Motto or personal mantra?
Healing is not linear. It’s up and down and sometimes upside down.
What would you tell someone who is thinking about seeking counseling services for the first time?
Do it! Therapy is something I think everyone should do at least once in their life, whether you have mental health issues or not. You get to learn so much about yourself!
What do you do when you aren’t working?
I’m most likely hanging out with my husband and our dog Obi. I really enjoy hiking, taking pictures, and painting as well!
What is an ability you wish you had?
Teleportation! It would be so cool to be able to just close my eyes and magically appear somewhere new. I;d probably teleport to Disney World more than I’d like to admit 🙂
If you were an animal what would you be? And why?
Honestly, probably a cat. I’m allergic to cats but I like them a lot. They’re independent and do their own thing and when they want attention, they’ll let you know. Which is kind of like I am for the most part.
What is the last joke you recall?
How does Moses make his tea? Hebrews it.
What children’s character can you relate with most? And why?
Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter. She’s quirky and a little odd but overall friendly, smart, and caring.