<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" ?><!-- generator=Zoho Sites --><rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"><channel><atom:link href="https://www.nava-therapy.com/blogs/therapists/feed" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml"/><title>Nava Therapy | Embrace inner growth. - Blog , Therapists</title><description>Nava Therapy | Embrace inner growth. - Blog , Therapists</description><link>https://www.nava-therapy.com/blogs/therapists</link><lastBuildDate>Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:10:08 -0800</lastBuildDate><generator>http://zoho.com/sites/</generator><item><title><![CDATA[Introducing Makeda Bostwick: Fostering Growth and Lasting Change]]></title><link>https://www.nava-therapy.com/blogs/post/introducing-makeda-bostwick-fostering-growth-and-lasting-change</link><description><![CDATA[<img align="left" hspace="5" src="https://www.nava-therapy.com/Makeda Bostwick - OpenGraph -1-.png"/>Makeda offers an approach that is equal parts empathetic listening and skillful guidance. She uncovers the underlying beliefs and behaviors that often ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zpcontent-container blogpost-container "><div data-element-id="elm_xydFLa7CTEm3QXZ-yirlVg" data-element-type="section" class="zpsection "><style type="text/css"></style><div class="zpcontainer-fluid zpcontainer"><div data-element-id="elm_zaYlhgFxRN2tS5oN8J23-g" data-element-type="row" class="zprow zprow-container zpalign-items- zpjustify-content- " data-equal-column=""><style type="text/css"></style><div data-element-id="elm_qZ0OY8PBTk6ZTo2C4EWAhw" data-element-type="column" class="zpelem-col zpcol-12 zpcol-md-12 zpcol-sm-12 zpalign-self- "><style type="text/css"></style><div data-element-id="elm_S32t01HkS0YC12IWkvmhrw" data-element-type="imageheadingtext" class="zpelement zpelem-imageheadingtext "><style> @media (min-width: 992px) { [data-element-id="elm_S32t01HkS0YC12IWkvmhrw"] .zpimageheadingtext-container figure img { width: 385px !important ; height: 385px !important ; } } </style><div data-size-tablet="" data-size-mobile="" data-align="left" data-tablet-image-separate="false" data-mobile-image-separate="false" class="zpimageheadingtext-container zpimage-with-text-container zpimage-align-left zpimage-tablet-align-center zpimage-mobile-align-center zpimage-size-custom zpimage-tablet-fallback-fit zpimage-mobile-fallback-fit hb-lightbox " data-lightbox-options="
            type:fullscreen,
            theme:dark"><figure role="none" class="zpimage-data-ref"><span class="zpimage-anchor" role="link" tabindex="0" aria-label="Open Lightbox" style="cursor:pointer;"><picture><img class="zpimage zpimage-style-none zpimage-space-none " src="/Makeda%20-%20Group.png" data-src="/Makeda%20-%20Group.png" size="custom" data-lightbox="true"/></picture></span></figure><div class="zpimage-headingtext-container"><h3 class="zpimage-heading zpimage-text-align-left zpimage-text-align-mobile-left zpimage-text-align-tablet-left" data-editor="true"><span style="color:inherit;font-size:48px;">Meet Makeda Bostwick</span></h3><div class="zpimage-text zpimage-text-align-left zpimage-text-align-mobile-left zpimage-text-align-tablet-left " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Meeting Makeda Bostwick, one immediately notices her genuine dedication to helping individuals find freedom from anxiety, burnout, and unhealthy relationship patterns.&nbsp;</div><div><br/></div><div>With more than a decade of experience in mental health, Makeda has guided countless clients toward renewed confidence, healthier boundaries, and meaningful personal transformation.</div></div></div>
</div></div></div><div data-element-id="elm_OhKiDP76lFWTEydltudRZw" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-style-none zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>An Insightful Approach to Therapy</div></div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_e_pMFhybsbveqZImja2f8A" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Makeda offers an approach that is equal parts empathetic listening and skillful guidance. She uncovers the underlying beliefs and behaviors that often drive depression, anxiety, and strained relationships—belief systems rooted in childhood experiences but still influencing adult life. Using evidence-based methods such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Schema Therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy, Makeda helps clients rewrite harmful narratives and adopt more adaptive coping skills.</div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_yb9MBdouru6Sh90gZBfr8Q" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-style-none zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Breaking the Cycle of Unhealthy Relationships</div></div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_Vn5JA88iuicOmwUY1JswKA" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>A recurring theme in Makeda’s work is supporting clients who find themselves trapped in toxic dynamics, especially those who struggle with low self-esteem. She recalls one of her most inspiring success stories involving a woman in her 30s who continually found herself in draining, negative relationships.</div><br/><div>“She didn’t realize her needs held just as much importance as everyone else’s,” Makeda explains. “Over time, we focused on building her capacity to set clear boundaries and speak up for herself—something she once believed she couldn’t do.”</div><br/><div>Ultimately, this client began pursuing more respectful relationships and discovered a new partnership founded on mutual care and emotional security. Stories like these are part of Makeda’s daily mission: guiding individuals to trust their worth and step away from self-doubt.</div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_wxb78-UpNtlJVgOs6DYyig" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>A Passion for Empowerment</div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_bUxw-HNYNU6sY_UiWqyeDg" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="text-align:left;color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Makeda’s enthusiasm for therapy stems from her desire to help people reconnect with their authentic selves. She earned her Master’s degree in counseling from Capella University in 2013 and has worked in diverse environments, ranging from private practice to forensic clinics and mental health agencies. These varied settings have broadened her perspective on how mental health challenges appear in everyday life.</div><div><br/></div><div><div style="color:inherit;"><div>As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Board Certified-TeleMental Health Provider (BC-TMH), Makeda combines her extensive training with warmth, compassion, and a firm belief in each client’s ability to evolve.</div></div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_V_Ag0jDYcATx81ViVtv6mg" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Why Clients Seek Out Makeda</div></div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_aCv7U3bL-DE9CrIBoYejhg" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Many of Makeda’s clients feel overwhelmed by persistent anxiety, mental exhaustion, or unfulfilling relationships. A common thread is self-doubt—putting everyone else’s needs first and minimizing their own. Through therapy, Makeda helps individuals reclaim their sense of worth, adopt more constructive coping tools, and become more empowered.</div><br/><div>Clients value her capacity to quickly pinpoint the root of their struggles while suggesting practical, hands-on techniques for real change. She guides them toward lasting improvement, helping them become active agents in their own journey to greater well-being.</div><br/><div>If you’re ready to move past old patterns, reduce anxiety, and cultivate healthier connections, consider reaching out to Makeda Bostwick.</div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_ugET0PVYFweDys23z0M5uA" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Specialized Therapies with Makeda</div></div></div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_U3XpGFr3BPtpl3hySn89Rg" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Makeda tailors each therapy plan to meet the unique needs of her clients. Below is a quick overview of her key areas of focus:</div><br/><div><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)</span></div><div>Focuses on identifying negative thought patterns and replacing them with more balanced, constructive perspectives.</div><div><div><a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cognitive-behavioral-therapy/about/pac-20384610" title="Learn More about CBT" target="_blank" rel="">Learn More about CBT</a></div></div><br/><div><span style="font-weight:bold;">Schema Therapy</span></div><div>Addresses deep-rooted themes and beliefs formed in childhood that continue to affect present-day coping.</div><div><div><a href="https://www.schemainstitute.co.uk/understanding-schema-therapy/#:%7E:text=Schema Therapy is designed to%2Chealthier alternatives to replace them." title="Learn More about Schema Therapy" target="_blank" rel="">Learn More about Schema Therapy</a></div></div><br/><div><span style="font-weight:bold;">Interpersonal Therapy</span></div><div>Emphasizes healthier relationships by improving communication, conflict resolution skills, and emotional insight.</div><div><div><a href="https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/interpersonal-psychotherapy-ipt" title="Learn More about Interpersonal Therapy" target="_blank" rel="">Learn More about Interpersonal Therapy</a></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_vH49Xcd8phneLmFj1cuw8Q" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center zpheading-align-mobile-center zpheading-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Schedule Your Appointment Today</div></div></div></div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_ctVrSXbTzifqg60jyCJm-w" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center zptext-align-mobile-center zptext-align-tablet-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Recovery begins with a single step. If Makeda’s collaborative, caring approach resonates with you, book your session now. You deserve to feel confident, respected, and in control of your life.</div></div></div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_D-L1_LYUSfuagGAo1Sm79A" data-element-type="button" class="zpelement zpelem-button "><style></style><div class="zpbutton-container zpbutton-align-center zpbutton-align-mobile-center zpbutton-align-tablet-center"><style type="text/css"></style><a class="zpbutton-wrapper zpbutton zpbutton-type-primary zpbutton-size-md zpbutton-style-roundcorner " href="/get-started" target="_blank" title="Click to request a free therapy consult with Desiree"><span class="zpbutton-content">Get Started Now</span></a></div>
</div></div></div></div></div></div> ]]></content:encoded><pubDate>Mon, 17 Feb 2025 11:48:36 -0500</pubDate></item><item><title><![CDATA[Meet Desiree Messina: Expert Therapy for Athletes & Eating Disorders]]></title><link>https://www.nava-therapy.com/blogs/post/meet-desiree-messina-expert-therapy-for-athletes-eating-disorders</link><description><![CDATA[<img align="left" hspace="5" src="https://www.nava-therapy.com/Desiree Messina - OpenGraph -2-.png"/>Desiree Messina is Nava Therapy’s caring counselor with 15+ years of experience, guiding athletes, eating disorders, and life transitions toward lasting well-being.]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="zpcontent-container blogpost-container "><div data-element-id="elm_xydFLa7CTEm3QXZ-yirlVg" data-element-type="section" class="zpsection "><style type="text/css"></style><div class="zpcontainer-fluid zpcontainer"><div data-element-id="elm_zaYlhgFxRN2tS5oN8J23-g" data-element-type="row" class="zprow zprow-container zpalign-items- zpjustify-content- " data-equal-column=""><style type="text/css"></style><div data-element-id="elm_qZ0OY8PBTk6ZTo2C4EWAhw" data-element-type="column" class="zpelem-col zpcol-12 zpcol-md-12 zpcol-sm-12 zpalign-self- "><style type="text/css"></style><div data-element-id="elm_S32t01HkS0YC12IWkvmhrw" data-element-type="imageheadingtext" class="zpelement zpelem-imageheadingtext "><style> @media (min-width: 992px) { [data-element-id="elm_S32t01HkS0YC12IWkvmhrw"] .zpimageheadingtext-container figure img { width: 385px !important ; height: 385px !important ; } } </style><div data-size-tablet="" data-size-mobile="" data-align="left" data-tablet-image-separate="false" data-mobile-image-separate="false" class="zpimageheadingtext-container zpimage-with-text-container zpimage-align-left zpimage-tablet-align-center zpimage-mobile-align-center zpimage-size-custom zpimage-tablet-fallback-fit zpimage-mobile-fallback-fit hb-lightbox " data-lightbox-options="
            type:fullscreen,
            theme:dark"><figure role="none" class="zpimage-data-ref"><span class="zpimage-anchor" role="link" tabindex="0" aria-label="Open Lightbox" style="cursor:pointer;"><picture><img class="zpimage zpimage-style-none zpimage-space-none " src="/Desiree%20-%20Group.png" data-src="/Desiree%20-%20Group.png" size="custom" data-lightbox="true"/></picture></span></figure><div class="zpimage-headingtext-container"><h3 class="zpimage-heading zpimage-text-align-left " data-editor="true"><span style="font-size:48px;">Meet Desiree Messina</span></h3><div class="zpimage-text zpimage-text-align-left " data-editor="true"><p><span style="color:inherit;">Desiree Messina is more than a therapist—she’s a caring confidante who genuinely believes everyone deserves a chance to find relief from life’s heaviest hurdles. She has devoted over 15 years to helping individuals in outpatient programs, residential centers, and private sessions.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="color:inherit;"><br/></span></p><p><span style="color:inherit;">Now, as a member of the Nava Therapy team, Desiree blends her extensive clinical experience with a warm, personal style. Her goal is to create a supportive space where clients are not just heard but also truly understood.</span></p></div>
</div></div></div><div data-element-id="elm_OhKiDP76lFWTEydltudRZw" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-style-none zpheading-align-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>A Personal Perspective on Athletics</div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_e_pMFhybsbveqZImja2f8A" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>During her years playing college lacrosse and coaching the sport, Desiree saw firsthand what it’s like to strive for a challenging goal amid relentless performance pressures. She also observed the emotional demands through her brother’s professional hockey career and in her guidance of Division I athletes. In her view, the physical side of athletics is widely recognized, but the emotional strain often goes unaddressed—leaving many athletes feeling isolated or overstressed. By drawing on her own background in competitive sports, Desiree is able to help clients unpack the psychological toll of training, competition, and constant expectations. She offers empathetic strategies recognizing the athlete’s drive while respecting the need for balance and well-being.</div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_yb9MBdouru6Sh90gZBfr8Q" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-style-none zpheading-align-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><span style="color:inherit;">Specialized Support for Eating Disorders</span></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_Vn5JA88iuicOmwUY1JswKA" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Desiree specializes in addressing a wide range of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, and orthorexia, as well as related substance-use concerns. She understands that body-image struggles can often go hand in hand with anxiety, depression, or PTSD, creating a cycle that feels impossible to escape. Over the years, Desiree has refined her therapeutic approach to meet each person’s unique needs, ensuring that no two treatment plans look exactly the same. She recognizes the individual behind the diagnosis and works collaboratively to develop personalized strategies for recovery—fostering a sense of hope, empowerment, and self-acceptance along the way.</div></div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_wxb78-UpNtlJVgOs6DYyig" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><span style="color:inherit;">Guiding Life Transitions</span></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_bUxw-HNYNU6sY_UiWqyeDg" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center " data-editor="true"><div style="text-align:left;color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>In addition to her clinical and athletic expertise, Desiree focuses on helping adolescents and young adults navigate critical turning points—such as moving from high school to college or adjusting to new responsibilities in academics or sports. She believes in walking alongside clients through the highs and lows, offering steady support that evolves with them as they enter each new chapter. By taking a future-focused perspective, Desiree helps individuals develop the resilience and coping skills needed to weather inevitable challenges, all while celebrating personal growth and self-discovery.</div></div></div>
</div></div><div data-element-id="elm_V_Ag0jDYcATx81ViVtv6mg" data-element-type="heading" class="zpelement zpelem-heading "><style></style><h2
 class="zpheading zpheading-align-center " data-editor="true"><div style="color:inherit;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>An Invitation to Seek Support</div></div></div></h2></div>
<div data-element-id="elm_aCv7U3bL-DE9CrIBoYejhg" data-element-type="text" class="zpelement zpelem-text "><style></style><div class="zptext zptext-align-center " data-editor="true"><div><div style="color:inherit;text-align:left;"><div style="color:inherit;"><div>Desiree’s commitment to both physical and emotional well-being makes her an excellent addition to Nava Therapy’s empathetic, client-centered team. She’s open to talking about a range of concerns—whether you’re dealing with disordered eating, sports-related pressures, or general stress and uncertainty. Relying on a therapeutic style tailored to every client’s unique goals, she aims to help people build resilience, deepen self-awareness, and nurture overall health.</div><br/><div>If you believe it’s time to prioritize your own healing journey, Nava Therapy is here to help you connect with Desiree. Together, you can work toward comfort, clarity, and confidence—creating a space for growth and lasting change.</div></div></div></div>
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</div></div></div></div></div></div> ]]></content:encoded><pubDate>Tue, 11 Feb 2025 10:53:39 -0500</pubDate></item></channel></rss>