Emerson Ryder
MS, she/her
therapist
I am called to do this work by my belief in collective care, and my desire to experience— and help others experience— deeper human connection. My goal as your counselor is to celebrate your milestones, walk with you as you navigate the crossroads, and hold the space with you in the hard times.
I also believe that…
Healing can only happen by allowing your pain and your hopes to be witnessed. So many people suffer in silence, carry burdens of intergenerational trauma, or have never been given the space to use their voice: if this describes you, you belong here. In therapy, you can find your voice again (or perhaps for the first time) and have the opportunity to be truly seen and heard.
Cultural humility is a prerequisite for genuine connection. As your counselor, it is my honor and privilege to get a glimpse into your culture (after all, every single family is/has its own culture) and your unique ways of being in the world. I am a forever-student, and constantly strive to listen and learn to provide whole-person and integrated healing that works for YOU.
Worth does not change with size, gender, color, age, status, income, or ethnicity… regardless of what society has told you. You are worthy of support for your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing— full stop. This is a space for anyone who desires to connect with themselves.
My purpose at the Gaia Center is to honor your unique story with full presence, respect, and compassion as we work together to identify and move toward the life you desire and deserve to have.
I am especially passionate about working with adults and teens navigating depression, anxiety, neurodivergence, sexual challenges, trauma, and cultural / identity challenges.
I am an activist, feminist, body at any size and sex-positive human who is dedicated to smashing the patriarchal views of beauty, worth, and roles.
I work collaboratively with my clients using a variety of both evidence-based and out-of-the-box approaches to identify what works for YOU to heal, develop effective coping skills, and work toward your goals.
Credentials & Trainings
Emerson completed her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Austin Peay State University. She is working toward full LPC-MHSP licensure under the supervision of Valerie Martin, LCSW.
Additional training in Integrative Hypnosis from Melissa Tiers
Human First…
When I’m not working, you can find me doing my hobbies such as reading, listening to audiobooks and coloring, or spending time and laughing with people that I love.
Do you want to schedule an initial session or phone consultation with Emerson?
Emerson works with adults (individuals and couples) and adolescents 13+.
Fill out the form on our contact page, or reach out to us at hello@gaiacenter.co or 615.270.8117 (call or text). We’ll respond within 24 business hours.
Hours & Rates…
🌱 Typically sees clients virtually during the day on Tuesdays & Wednesdays and in-person during the day on Thursdays & Fridays, with a handful of evening spots.
🌱 Individual 50-minute session is $135 ($155 for couples)
🌱 Individual 75-minute session is $200 ($230 for couples)
🌱 Emerson reserves several reduced-fee spots for clients in financial need; you can inquire to see if any of these spots are available. Reduced fee services are also available with graduate interns at The Gaia Center.