Summit Family Therapy, PLLC

11/02/2025

✨ Brandon C. Hovey, MA, LCPC, NCC, offers a personalized approach to therapy, integrating multiple therapeutic techniques, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing, to support clients in their healing journey.

Brandon helps clients with:
💭 Addiction Recovery

🧠 Trauma Healing

💬 Coping with Anxiety & Depression

🌿 Personal Growth

💬 Men’s Issues & Life Challenges

Your story is important, and Brandon is here to listen and support you on your journey to healing.

📞 Call 309-713-1485 or click the link in bio to learn more and schedule a session.

11/01/2025

Hattie the Therapy Pup was all smiles saying hello to trick or treaters tonight! 👻🎃🐾

10/31/2025

🧘‍♀️ Yoga and Mental Health: How Mindful Movement Supports Emotional Well-Being 🧘‍♂️

In our fast-paced world, stress and emotional overwhelm can take a toll on our mental health. While talk therapy and medication are valuable tools, integrating yoga into your routine can offer profound benefits for emotional well-being.

In her latest blog post, Dr. Courtney Stivers, PhD, LMFT, explores how yoga serves as more than just physical exercise. It's a holistic practice that connects the mind, body, and breath, fostering awareness, balance, and resilience.

Key Benefits of Yoga for Mental Health:

Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Mindful breathing and relaxation techniques activate the body's natural "rest and digest" response, lowering cortisol levels and calming the mind.

Improves Emotional Regulation: Regular practice helps individuals respond to emotions with awareness, reducing impulsive reactions.

Enhances Mind-Body Connection: Yoga promotes grounding and body awareness, aiding in reconnecting with oneself, especially after trauma or chronic stress.

Boosts Mood and Resilience: Physical movement and mindfulness stimulate the release of endorphins and serotonin, improving overall mood and building resilience.

Supports Trauma Healing: Trauma-informed yoga provides a safe environment to explore sensations, release tension, and regain a sense of control.

Inclusive for All Bodies: Yoga is adaptable for everyone, regardless of age, size, ability, or experience.

Interested in exploring how yoga can complement your mental health journey? Read the full article below: https://summitfamilytherapy.com/summit-family-therapy-peoria-illinois-blog/2025/8/24/vm3j2nnlk2o1syrj6a8b6cqq8xqu76?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for stress, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm to take hold. Many people are seeking ways to support their mental health beyond talk therapy, medication, or traditional self-care. One powerful approach that has gained recognition in both clinical and wellness...

10/31/2025

Happy Halloween from your friends at Summit Family Therapy! Fun Halloween Fact: When Dr. Ryan Stivers was in 3rd grade, he made the newspaper with this photo of himself in a giant pumpkin grown by his father. It’s HUGE! 🎃

10/30/2025

Healing is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Our Women's Trauma Intensive offers a safe, immersive space for deep connection and transformation.

This isn’t just an event—it’s a life-changing experience. Attendees describe it as “stimulating, relaxing, and challenging all at once.” Through guided exercises, thought-provoking conversations, and calming practices like yoga, participants find the deep mind-body connection that is essential for trauma recovery.

This immersive retreat is designed for anyone seeking to:
✅ Jumpstart their healing journey
✅ Connect with others who share similar experiences
✅ Explore new tools for emotional and physical well-being

✨ If you’ve been searching for something beyond traditional therapy, this is your opportunity to experience concentrated, transformative healing in a supportive environment.

📅 Learn more and reserve your spot today!
https://summitfamilytherapy.com/womens-trauma-recovery-workshops?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

10/30/2025

🌟 We Want to Hear from You! 🌟

At Summit Family Therapy, we’re always striving to serve you better—and your feedback plays a vital role in helping us grow and adapt. Whether you’re a current client, have been in sessions with us in the past, or you’re a parent/caregiver giving feedback on behalf of a child, we’d love to know how we’re doing. 💬

Please take a few minutes to complete our client feedback survey:
👉 https://summitfamilytherapy.com/clientfeedback

Your responses are completely anonymous, kept private, and help us understand what we are doing well and where we can improve. Thank you for partnering with us. Your thoughts matter so much!

With gratitude,
The Summit Family Therapy Team ❤️

How are WE doing?

10/28/2025

🐾 A Thirsty Tip from Hattie the Therapy Dog 🐾

Hey pals, it’s Hattie! 🐶💧

Want to know one of my favorite self-care secrets? Drink water! 💦

Water helps your body and brain feel their best—it keeps you cool, your energy up, and your tail wagging strong. Even when I’m busy being your best therapy pup, I never forget to take a sip!

So grab a glass, take a slow drink, and give your body the love it deserves. Your mind and paws will thank you! 🐾💙

Stay hydrated, friends!
– Hattie the Therapy Pup 🐕

10/27/2025

💔 ADHD & Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria: You’re Not “Too Sensitive” 💔

At Summit Family Therapy, we understand that living with ADHD isn't just about managing focus—it's about navigating the emotional ups and downs that come with it. One often misunderstood struggle is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD).

If you've been told you're "too sensitive" or "overreacting," know that you're not alone. For many with ADHD, rejection doesn't just sting—it can feel crushing. RSD can make a small comment feel like a deep wound, and an unanswered text can feel like abandonment. It's not drama; it's a real and painful part of how the ADHD brain processes relationships and emotions.

But here's the truth: you're not broken. You're not "too much." You're a human being with a tender heart, one that feels rejection deeply because connection matters to you.

In our latest blog post, Dr. Courtney Stivers, PhD, LMFT, delves into the complexities of RSD and offers insights on how to navigate this experience with compassion and understanding.

🔗 Read the full article here: https://summitfamilytherapy.com/summit-family-therapy-peoria-illinois-blog/2025/8/23/o7zfltlvdk740fkx9a3wx3znbit2im?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

If you're ready to explore strategies for managing RSD and embracing your authentic self, our team is here to support you. Contact us today to learn more about our ADHD-informed therapy services.

At Summit Family Therapy, we know that living with ADHD isn’t just about managing focus or organization—it’s about navigating the emotional ups and downs that come with it. One of the most tender and often misunderstood struggles is Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD). If this resonates with y...

10/26/2025

Meet Nathaniel Oldenburg, MA, LCPC—a dedicated therapist at Summit Family Therapy in Peoria, Illinois. With over nine years of experience, Nathaniel specializes in ADHD, adult autism, couples and marriage counseling, depression, substance use, and supporting young adults. He serves adolescents, adults, couples, and families, offering premarital, family, and individual counseling. Nathaniel's neurodiversity-affirming approach helps Autistic clients manage sensory needs and prevent burnout. Outside of therapy, he enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, reading science fiction and fantasy, playing games, and listening to music. To schedule an appointment with Nathaniel, visit our website or call us at 309-713-1485.​

10/24/2025

🎳 Board Games? Bowling? What Are You Doing to Connect? 🎲

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to let quality time slip away. But meaningful connections don't have to be grand gestures—they can start with something as simple as a board game or a night out bowling.

In his latest blog post, therapist Brandon C. Hovey, MA, LCPC, NCC, explores how shared activities can strengthen relationships. Drawing inspiration from the Gottman Method, Brandon emphasizes the importance of "rituals of connection"—regular, enjoyable activities that bring couples and families closer together.

💡 Why It Matters:

Create lasting memories by engaging in fun, shared experiences.

Build emotional intimacy through consistent, low-pressure interactions.

Strengthen bonds by prioritizing quality time over screens.

Remember, it's not about the activity itself—it's about the connection it fosters. Whether it's a competitive round of Battleship or a friendly bowling match, these moments contribute to a healthier, more connected relationship.

Interested in learning more skills for connecting with your partner? Give our office a call at 309-713-1485. We can help!

🔗 Read the full blog post here: https://summitfamilytherapy.com/summit-family-therapy-peoria-illinois-blog/2025/8/13/board-games-bowling-what-are-you-doing-to-connect?utm_campaign=meetedgar&utm_medium=social&utm_source=meetedgar.com

“I4, “No.”C2,” “No.” “D9” I sighed. “You got it. You found my PT boat.” For those not in the know, the PT boat is the smallest vessel in the classic strategy board game of Battleship . My wife and I play battleship frequently. Long before I became a counselor, I enjoyed ritual ti...

10/24/2025

🎧 New Podcast Episode Alert: Guide to Grief 💬

If you're navigating loss or supporting someone who is, this podcast is a must-listen. In this powerful episode, Dr. Ryan Stivers joins the conversation to share insights, compassion, and guidance on the journey through grief.

💬 “Guide to Grief” offers thoughtful discussions and real stories that help make sense of the emotions we all face in times of loss.

Let us know what resonates with you, and feel free to share with someone who might need it. 💙