About
Nancy Fontaine-Messier
My Background
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and have been practicing for 13 years. I graduated from Eastern Nazarene College with a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology in 2004, and a Master's of Science degree in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2008. I have worked in Early Intervention and also with children and families in a Community Mental Health setting. These experiences provided me with the opportunity to work with a broad range of people, birth through adulthood. In my private practice I have been able to devote more of my attention and expertise towards sensitive people, as well as continue to support individuals struggling with anxiety and trauma. My practice is LGBTQIA+ friendly.
My Training
I have been trained in Sensory Processing Sensitivity (the Highly Sensitive Person), Trauma-Focused CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Child-Parent Psychotherapy. I have experience working with childhood trauma, as well as with foster families and adoption. I utilize an eclectic approach which includes traditional CBT, person-centered therapy, family systems theory, mindfulness, and play approaches.
I am trained in working with the Highly Sensitive Person. High sensitivity is not a mental health diagnosis, it is a trait that exists in approximately 20% of the population. Often HSPs struggle with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges and self-doubt due to a heightened sensitivity to things in their environments that others don't seem bothered by. It is important to understand your gifts and learn how to engage with the world in ways that feel good and empowering. Unsure if this trait describes you? Find out here.
My Style
I take a very relational approach to my work. I believe strongly in creating a safe space to provide the best foundation for deep and lasting healing. My style can be tailored depending on your needs. I'm comfortable with reflective, introspective approaches in which the client directs our work, and I’m also able to provide more directive, down-to-earth styles utilizing humor and psychoeducation. Regardless of your preference, my top priority is collaboration. This is your life and your therapy, and I am just happy to provide you with my support and expertise along the way!
A Little More About Me
As a Highly Sensitive Person myself, the importance of self-care has become more and more evident to me through the years personally and professionally. I enjoy being in nature and practicing mindfulness techniques (when I get the chance!) I also love art and crafting, and regularly use this in my work with kids and teens. I have training in the use of art in therapy and I believe that the expressive arts can be fun and extremely effective in healing and growth.​
As You Look for a Therapist
An important aspect of therapy is finding the right therapist for you. No two clinicians are the same, and it's important to consider personality, approach to treatment, and areas of expertise when trying to find someone best suited to your needs. It's vital to success in therapy to research providers, ask questions, and go with your gut. Just as you wouldn't necessarily click with any peer or colleague, it's similar with finding your therapist. Since this is a part of the process, I'm happy to talk on the phone before an initial session, answer questions, and figure out if I'm able to provide you with what you're looking for.
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Please reach out for a free phone consultation and we can discuss your needs.