Rooted Compassion Counseling and Consulting, LLC

"Why Shame Makes You Defend Yourself, or Over-Explain"

In Brandon's new blog he explores what happens in the nervous system when we experience shame, and provides insight into how to navigate these difficult feelings when they arise.

"Hot shame lives in mobilization — flight, fight, frantic movement. Instead of collapsing inward, your system throws itself into action. Fix it. Clarify it. Defend it. Make them understand before connection disappears."

Read the rest of the blog here, https://www.rootedcompassion.com/blogs/b2r5kj7yvtx1o886rmgv2hix6afu4n

This week for our clinician spotlight we are excited to be highlighting Brandon Mueller MA, LPC. We are so grateful for Brandon's compassionate and steadfast spirit; every decision he makes is made with a deep sense of care that is felt by client and clinician alike. Brandon specializes in helping those experiencing life with trauma, depression, anger, and anxiety. He is trained in EMDR as well as ART, and is passionate about incorporating somatic exercises into his therapeutic work, all through the lens of polyvagal theory. Whether you tend to shut down, lash out, feel stuck in fight-or-flight, or just feel like you're constantly bracing for something to go wrong, Brandon will help you build tools for emotional regulation, self-trust, and resilience. He values providing his clients with a safe environment, free of judgment, and ensures unconditional support and acceptance in his sessions. When Brandon isn't at work, he enjoys watching movies with his partner Macey, and snuggling with his two cats, Sterling and Misha.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month!

This month we celebrate breaking the stigma, starting the conversation, and prioritizing emotional well-being. At Rooted Compassion, we're here to remind you: healing is possible, help is available, and you are never alone.

Reminder that Amy and Alison will be speaking at the 13th Annual Trauma-Informed Summit hosted by the Children's Alliance in partnership with the Department of
Behavioral Health!

This year's event brings together professionals and community leaders committed to building resilient workplaces and communities to move beyond theory, offering practical, real-world strategies you can apply immediately within your organization.

Looking forward to sharing, learning, and connecting. Hope to see you there!
👉Learn more about the Summit here: https://cvent.me/9oWmek

"When Stillness Feels Scary"

In her new blog, Shauna explores what it means when that often longed for peace and quiet, that stillness in the chaos of life, doesn't calm and quiet the mind but rather brings feelings of un-ease and even dread.

Stillness doesn't always equal safety.

"If you’ve ever wondered why slowing down can feel so unsettling, you’re not broken, and you’re not alone. The answer often lies in how your nervous system has learned to interpret stillness."

Read Shauna's blog here, https://www.rootedcompassion.com/blogs/a1taa3je01vzkj6ya00md23m0ep1vx

Reminder that Amy and Alison will be speaking at the 13th Annual Trauma-Informed Summit hosted by the Children's Alliance in partnership with the Department of
Behavioral Health!

This year's event brings together professionals and community leaders committed to building resilient workplaces and communities to move beyond theory, offering practical, real-world strategies you can apply immediately within your organization.

Looking forward to sharing, learning, and connecting. Hope to see you there!

👉Learn more about the Summit here: https://cvent.me/9oWmek

April is Stress Awareness Month. At the core of healing is safety—in our bodies, our relationships, and our environments. This month, we invite you to reflect on the power of connection and the role it plays in calming the nervous system.

Whether you're supporting others or seeking support yourself, remember: safety isn't just a feeling—it's a biological necessity.

This week we are thrilled to be highlighting Shauna Durbin, MA, LPC for our clinician spotlight. With her sparkling sense of humor and a compassionate demeanor Shauna has a knack for lighting up any room she’s in and making anyone and everyone feel at ease. She approaches therapy informed by the polyvagal theory, with a focus on holistic and collaborative growth. Shauna is EMDR trained, Somatic and IFS therapy informed and is passionate about helping populations of people who struggle with severe mental illness and who are interested in solutions focused therapy. Shauna works with adult individuals and couples. When she isn’t practicing therapy, you may find Shauna exercising, snuggling with her cat Astrid, or watching a good true crime documentary.

Shauna is currently booked, but reach out today to get on her waitlist!