Starling Hathcock LCSW-C

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What’s therapy with me like? Imagine walking into a room where you do not have to be “fine.” No brave face. No perfect timeline. You can just show up, messy, tired, pissed off, shut down, whatever. All of you is welcome here.

That’s what therapy with me is like.

I do trauma work, which means we are not going to talk in circles for a year. We are going to work with what your brain and body are still carrying. I use EMDR and Brainspotting to help process the stuck stuff that shows up as panic, numbness, rage, spirals, people-pleasing, or “why the fuck am I like this?” at 2 a.m.

I also use IFS, which is a fancy way of saying you have parts that learned how to survive. We are not here to fight them. We are here to understand them, so your inner world stops feeling like a constant emergency meeting.

Mindfulness is in the mix too, but not the Instagram version. More like staying grounded when your nervous system wants to hit the eject button.

We’ll move at a pace that feels doable. Safety first. And yeah, we’ll laugh when it fits, because sometimes that’s just how you survive.

And yes, this is what I hope therapy with me feels like. I cannot swear to it, because I am not the one in the room living in your body. But my goal is that you leave feeling a little more steady, a little less alone, and a lot more human.

Who do I work with?  I’m dedicated to providing a brave & empowering space for individuals aged 15 and older who have experienced childhood trauma, sexual trauma, or intimate partner violence. My approach is centered on empathy, understanding, and empowerment, helping each person navigate their unique journey toward healing and reclaiming their sense of self.

My impacting identities are… I'm a cisgender, queer white female, and navigating life with a strong sense of spirituality, though I don't follow any particular religious path. My journey is more about exploring the depths of human connection and the universe's mysteries, wherever they may lead.

I feel allied/aware/part of/informed/knowledgeable about…  LGBTQIA+ (aware, knowledgable, part of ), Trauma Survivors (aware, knowledgeable, part of) Chronic Illness (aware, knowledgeable, part of) 

I am the best fit for a client who… is looking for a therapist who’s as real as it gets—someone who blends humor (even the dark, offbeat kind) and isn’t afraid of crude language.  I’m your therapist. With real-life experiences that go beyond the textbooks, I offer a grounded, authentic approach to therapy. Whether you’re fully committed to change or still figuring out what’s holding you back, I’m ready to dive in with you and explore those barriers together. 

I am not a good fit for a client who…  if you're looking for someone to tell you what to do, that's not my approach. I believe that you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to support you in uncovering the answers that already lie within you.

What makes me unique? I cuss. A LOT. It’s just who I am, and you’ll catch me being unapologetically me in every session. So, if swearing is your thing too, don’t hold back—let’s keep it real and raw!

Did you know…. I’ve got this knack for finding unexpected connections. One time, I was wandering through Arcadia National Park  when I spotted a guy sporting a cap from my second-favorite college football team. Naturally, I had to strike up a conversation; just a quick comment about the cap. Well, ten minutes later, we were both stunned to realize we hailed from the exact same small town in Southwest Georgia. 

Any Pets? I’m surrounded by a lively crew of furry companions—two spirited rescue dogs, Nyxx & Pann and three charming rescue cats, Sparta, MuthaFlerkinCat, & Freyja. Each one of them has their own unique personality and story, turning my days into a blend of playful chaos and endless affection. 

My favorite hobbies are… You'll often find me diving into mindfulness practices, getting lost in a good book, or soaking up the sun by any body of water I can find. I'm always up for an adventure, whether it's exploring new places or jetting off on a trip somewhere exciting. And of course, nothing beats quality time with my family and friends – whether we're sharing stories, enjoying a meal together, or simply laughing until our sides ache.