PROVIDES SUPPORTIVE THERAPY WHEN LIFE GETS MESSY

story by KAREN SNYDER

Let’s face it. Life gets messy sometimes. Especially during pandemic times, more people than ever are facing increased daily stress, which can adversely affect their marriage, family, or social relationships. It’s no surprise that worry, anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness are on the rise, too, as individuals, couples, and families cope with the emotional and psychological challenges around them.

Thankfully, Brittany Stilwell, LMFT, of Lowcountry Counseling Associates, located on Allison Road near Beaufort Memorial Hospital, is ready to provide supportive therapy services for, as she likes to say, “anyone facing everyday human problems.”

A native of Okatie, Stilwell has been a practicing therapist for five years, having studied psychology at North Greenville University and received her master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Converse College. In December 2020, Stilwell decided it was time to open her own private practice after recognizing a growing need for her services.

“I have a heart for therapy. I want to help others become more self-aware, gain insight, and become more self-confident,” says Stilwell, adding that she especially likes to provide marriage enrichment services. “Sometimes couples struggle or wait longer than necessary to pursue help. But my goal is to help marriages thrive. We all can work toward strengthening our relationships,” she advises. “I help my clients by teaching skills that will improve communication, resolve conflict, build emotional intimacy, and marital friendship.”

Offering both in-person or telecounseling options, Stilwell says she’s grateful that the stigma around seeking mental health services is declining as more people recognize the benefits of therapy. “It is actually something that many people enjoy!”

According to Stilwell, over time, prolonged stress can manifest in many forms, such as anxiety or depression, and even take a toll on one’s physical health. “Mental health should be as important as your physical health. Sometimes we just need a non-judgmental space to talk through life’s concerns, and counseling can be an extra source of support for just that.”

Stilwell explains that if you notice increased stress, are dealing with life changes, feel burdened or “stuck,” or simply have a desire for personal growth or change, she provides that “unbiased, listening ear of someone who isn’t a friend or family member.” Sometimes, she says, “You just need that third-party view to help you process what is happening in life.”

In addition to couples counseling, Lowcountry Counseling Services also provides therapeutic support to individuals, from adolescence through adulthood, which may include focusing on peer issues and decision making for teens; women’s issues; parental relationships; life changes; grief; or anxiety and depression. Using a variety of solution-based approaches, Stilwell says her role is to help her clients set personal goals and encourage them toward success. “It’s so rewarding to see others personally grow and develop into their best self.”

Looking ahead, Stilwell’s future hope for her clients and her practice is to “normalize therapy. Life can be a crazy journey. I want counseling to be fun and enjoyable, and not something to seek out just in a crisis.”

Stilwell emphasizes her strong connection to the area saying, “I’m a native of the Beaufort area. I love living in Port Royal. There truly is no place I’d rather be. I’m so glad to be building my practice here in our community.” In fact, she jokes, “Could there be a more beautiful place with our beaches and sunsets that promotes and supports strong mental health? I’m looking forward to engaging with new clients, growing my practice, and eventually adding more therapists as well.”

For clients seeking her services which are $85 per session, Stilwell explains, “There are no big commitments. Come as you are and come as you need it. You know yourself the best. I’m just here to come alongside of you to support you the best way I can.”