Michael D. Nelson, CMHC

05/04/2026

“What’s in there?”

Luke asks Yoda before entering the cave.

Yoda’s answer: “Only what you take with you.”

This is one of the most powerful metaphors for anxiety I’ve ever seen.

The fears we avoid often aren’t just “out there”—
they’re shaped by what we carry inside:
past experiences, beliefs, and expectations.

In therapy, we don’t eliminate fear by avoiding it.

We change our relationship to it.

As Joseph Campbell wisely observes:��

“The cave you fear to enter holds the treasure you seek.”

��

44 likes, 15 comments. "Therapist uses STAR WARS | YODA | explores FACING FEARS"

01/15/2026

Hi community! I’m excited to share that I’m officially venturing into my own private practice.

I’m truly grateful for my time at Preferred Family Clinic and for the relationships, support, and opportunities to learn and grow there. That experience has shaped me both professionally and personally in so many good ways and prepared me for new adventures ahead.

If you or someone you know is looking for counseling services, feel free to reach out or pass along my information.

Both in-person and secure telehealth options are available, and if you’d like to learn a little more about my services and counseling approach feel free to check out my website below.

https://nelsoncounselingservices.com

11/11/2024

“How did we even get here?”

As a therapist I’ve thought a lot about how ALL of us have times in our lives where we ask something similar to this question—when life feels very overwhelming.

A while back I made a video to share about a principle that is helpful to me in difficult times. It is not a ‘cure all’. But for me, it helps a little to remember the heroes in one of my favorite stories and how they demonstrated great courage and resilience in the face of terrible odds.

I’ll drop the link to the video down in the comments.

And, if something in the video resonates with you I’d be honored if you’d share it with your friends and fellow travelers.

10/10/2024

Happy Mental Health Day!

What has been one important thing for *you* that has helped improve your mental health?