Keating Polk

My Story

Hi there!  I believe that the greatest honor and gift that I received in life is that of being invited to bear witness to another person’s human-ness, whether that is sharing laughter and joy or being supported through their most difficult moments.  As a therapist, I have the unique opportunity to share in the therapeutic relationship with those seeking support and recovery in whatever way feels most safe and comfortable for them.

I am originally from central Mississippi, where I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology and art from Mississippi State University in 2012, followed by my master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mississippi College in 2019. I’m a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA), a Certified Experiential Specialist (CEP), and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).  Through my work in residential treatment centers, I realized that every client’s needs are ever-evolving and changing; however, remaining consistently authentic and transparent is universal for healing to begin.

In session I am here as a support and guide, not as an expert— the client is the expert of their experience!  My role is to connect with you wherever you are and sit with you, offering compassion, honesty, safety, and space to process the obstacles that are blocking you from feeling at home in your skin and feeling in tune with the life that feels right for you.

I utilize a variety of techniques and skills to aid in your journey. I enjoy using experiential, creative methods to bring the mind and body together in the healing process. I offer psychoeducation to help normalize and discuss concerns, as well as working with the client to discover and practice self-regulation and distress tolerance skills. I come to the session with a person-centered, trauma-informed lens.

I love spending my spare time with my family—chosen and blood alike.  I adore working on anything creative that I can get my hands on!  Drawing, painting, working in mixed media sculpture, reading, cooking, and working on cars.  Being outdoors in nature relaxes and soothes me and reminds me of our vitally important place and time in the Universe.

I specialize in:

• LGBTQIA2s+

• Trauma Processing through Experiential Work

• Gender Identity Development

• Loved Ones of those w/ Addictions

• EMDR

• Boundaries/Codependency