Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Morgen Villegas. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Morgen, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I have really contemplated my answer to this question and tried to think of the “best” or “perfect” response. When I was growing up, I thought that if I was a perfect daughter, sister, friend, student etc, I would feel fulfilled and find my purpose. Of course this was not true and instead I found that my desire for perfection created more isolation and disconnect from any sort of meaningful experiences. As I grew older, I thought that if I worked for a non-profit company, I would be able to derive my purpose from working for a good cause. But all I felt was empty, burnt out and exhausted.
When I became a mother to my second child, I had to navigate launching my private practice during the COVID years. I left my non-profit career and thus began to understand how to have access to my purpose. For the first time in my life, I created a space that operated in alignment with my values, where I felt less stress and tension. I began to feel at ease in my body and in the world. It has become clear that my purpose isn’t something tangible. It is a felt sense that emerges from the messiness and tenderness of life rather than external achievements or perfection.
This understanding deeply influences my work with clients. I create a safe environment where clients can explore their imperfections and vulnerabilities, guiding them to align actions with their values. I share my journey to build genuine connections and integrate techniques promoting self-awareness and resilience. My aim is to help clients uncover their purpose and live authentically.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I provide a therapeutic space where your healing journey is not just a possibility, but a reality. As a Certified EMDR therapist, my focus is on providing therapy for folks who reside in Arizona, California, Colorado, and Florida to navigate anxiety, parenting dynamics, and work-related burnout.
My approach to therapy diverges from conventional talk therapy methods. I offer half or full day EMDR intensives (4-6 hours of EMDR therapy per day for 1-3 days). These intensives are an effective tool for clients who have a busy schedule and may need a faster, more efficient treatment process. Additionally, I integrate “parts work” into my practice and draw from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed lens. I believe that everyone is capable of healing, and I work using an anti-racist/social justice framework that is LGBTQ+ and neurodivergence affirming, racial justice allied and welcoming to all identities, abilities & body sizes.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, the three skills that have been most impactful are:
- Finding time for play and laughter: Being serious comes naturally to me. I approach each day with an open heart, attentively listen to and hold space for serious narratives. I’ve realized the significance of counterbalancing this intensity with lightness. Playfulness serves as a remedy. This not only fosters mindfulness but also anchors me in the present moment. Right now I am trying diamond painting, Magna-Tiles, and going on mini-adventures to nearby festivals or towns.
- Embracing community care: Community care is the seeking of connection and belonging with others (different from self-care which places the onus on an individual rather than a group). For example, I reached out to a number of parents at my kiddos’ school and we now turn to each other for parenting support.
- Adaptability: Remain flexible and open to change. Develop the ability to adapt to new circumstances, learn from challenges, and adjust your approach as needed to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
My final thought for folks early in their journey: there is so much messaging in society that permeates our consciousness, and it prevents us from living our best lives. See if you can dig deeply into discovering who you are and who you have always been meant to be– beyond the influence of external expectations. You’ve got this!
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
I work a lot with people who are high achieving millennials and Gen Xers dealing with trauma or anxiety.
Consider reaching out for therapy with me if:
- You don’t have time for weekly therapy and want to come to Boulder, Colorado for a 1-3 day EMDR intensive!
- You’re navigating a strained relationship with your parents. Therapy can help you to learn how to set healthy and realistic boundaries.
- You struggle with being overly perfectionistic and question your self worth. Therapy can help you to practice self-compassion and find ways to channel your brilliant skills.
- You’re concerned about burnout or facing a toxic work environment. Therapy is a space where you can explore ways to advocate for yourself/others and help you discern if you want to stay or leave your employment.
If any of these resonate with you, I invite you to take the courageous step towards healing and growth by reaching out for therapy. Thank you so much for this opportunity to share about my business!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vida-idilica.com
- Instagram: morgen.villegas.therapist
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morgen.villegas.therapy
- Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/morgen-v-lcsw
Image Credits
Branded Beet
