am·ble
/ˈamb(ə)l/
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verb: “to walk at a relaxed pace, often leisurely or without urgency.”
Why "amble"?
Life is busy. Let’s face it, there is always more “to do” and that can make it challenging to prioritize your well-being. In today’s hectic world, it can feel nearly impossible to slow down, and yet, maybe that is exactly what could help us feel more connected to ourselves, each other, and our environment.
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At Amble Therapy, I believe that carving out time and space to explore the terrain of both your internal and external worlds can feel like a healing balm. I offer both "walk & talk" sessions where we can take therapy outside as well as telecounseling if you'd prefer to meet virtually.
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If you have been feeling pressure to keep up with the demands of life at the expense of your own peace and fulfillment, I’d be honored to help you find what makes you feel most grounded and connected to your values and authentic self.
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You deserve space to process and heal. You are worthy of living a life that excites you. I'm here to be a consistent and present support on your journey.
Helping you navigate life's twists and turns.
Renee Standage, LCPC
(she/her/hers)
Hi there! I'm so glad you stopped by.
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A firm believer in the healing power of vulnerability and connection, I aim to create safe, compassionate, and nonjudgmental spaces for clients to explore and grow in.
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My approach to therapy is humanistic and relational. Research shows that the relationship between the client and the therapist is the most important aspect of great therapy. Though my focus is on who you are, I do my best to show up as my most authentic self so that a real connection is possible.
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I believe that you are the expert on your own life and also your own best source of wisdom. I'm here to amplify the strengths that you already possess while offering new perspectives, tools, and gentle feedback when feeling stuck. I draw from a wide range of trauma-informed and holistic approaches to ensure that treatment is collaborative and creatively tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. I also think it's important to acknowledge contextual, cultural, and systemic layers that shape and impact the human experience.
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When not nerding out over the human psyche, you can find me in a canoe, on a yoga mat, or around a campfire. I make a mean tortilla soup, my friends call me an old soul, and I go to therapy too. I know firsthand what it's like to struggle and how vulnerable it can feel to share about your life. I view it as an immense privilege to do this work and I'm so grateful for the opportunity to support clients in their pursuit of empowered and vibrant lives.
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* MA, Clinical Mental Health Counseling: Northwestern University
* Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor: Maine # CC7341
* Certified Clinical Trauma Professional: Levels I & II: Evergreen Certifications
* National Certified Counselor: NBCC
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Education & Training
My clinical training was grounded in modern Psychodynamic Theory which explores how our unconscious beliefs, desires, and experiences may be contributing to relational and behavioral patterns today. Together we will work to gain understanding and awareness that can lead to more intentional and adaptive ways of coping and connecting. My training also emphasized the importance of multicultural sensitivity, trauma-informed care, and the mind-body connection. I work with teens (high school age+) and adults.
Specialties
Anxiety
Do you feel both restless and exhausted? Does worry about the future, or rumination about the past keep you from feeling focused and present? Maybe your inner critic is bossy, you tend to overthink most interactions, and you demand perfection from yourself even if you know it's unrealistic.
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Anxiety can be so loud. I’d love to work with you on some strategies to feel more calm, centered, and secure.
Trauma
Does what happened to you in the past still feel like it’s stealing from today? Do you experience flashbacks, nightmares, or often feel on high alert? Does it feel difficult to trust others or challenging to decompress?
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Trauma can take such an unfair toll. Using an integrative and holistic approach, I specialize in helping clients restore safety in their nervous system & make meaning of their experiences.
Burnout
Maybe your day-to-day feels chaotic. The to-do list never seems to stop growing and you are losing your zeal for life in the shuffle. When life feels more like a chore and you are having trouble connecting to motivation, passion, and purpose, you aren’t lazy. There's a chance you are dealing with burnout.
Let’s explore what's making you feel off-kilter and find ways to simplify your life, prioritize your needs, and reclaim balance.
Other common themes I work with:
* obsessions & compulsions
* life transitions
* fertility
* depression
* codependency & people pleasing
* grief & loss
* self-worth & identity
* body image concerns
Services
Walk & Talk Therapy
Telecounseling & Hybrid
Not everyone prefers to take therapy on the go and that’s totally okay! I also offer telecounseling sessions where you can meet with me from the comfort of your own home. This is also the back up plan if weather prevents us from being outside.
We can explore a hybrid of both telecounseling & outdoor sessions if that works best for you.
I'm based in Portland, ME for walk & talks, but I also see Mainers state-wide via telecounseling.
I get that self-care can sometimes feel like just another lofty item on the to-do list. So, why not combine therapy with gentle movement and time outdoors?
I offer “walk & talk” sessions where we can amble through serene trails as we discuss what’s really on your mind.
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Benefits of taking therapy outside:
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Some clients find that this approach to therapy can feel less intimidating due to less direct eye-contact.
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Fresh air and time outside is great for our mental health.
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Walking is a gentle form of “bilateral stimulation” which has been proven to reduce distress and aid memory reprocessing.
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Walking together can balance the power differential of the therapeutic relationship. The symbolism of walking alongside you feels important. I’m not here to lead you or tell you what to do, we can journey together.
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We will move at whatever pace feels best for you and stop at benches if you’d prefer stillness which, of course, has many benefits too.
Rate & Payment Options
I'm currently a private-pay, out-of-network provider. While I don't accept insurance directly, your insurance plan may have out-of-network benefits, which means that they will reimburse you for a portion of our session cost. I have partnered with Thrizer to handle the out-of-network process automatically for you. During our consultation, I can help you verify if you have out-of-network benefits and how much your co-insurance would be.
My rate for a 55-minute psychotherapy session is $140. If you do not have out of network benefits and cost is prohibitive, please feel free to ask about my sliding scale availability.
