Gardenwood Counseling Center

Gardenwood Counseling Center Gardenwood Counseling Center is a mental health practice grounded in both evidence-based therapy and the healing power of nature to help you grow and heal.

Email me at melissa@gardenwood.com if you would like to learn more.

IG Post Healing Mama Drama Trauma“But she’s your mother!” 
If I had a dollar for every time a client heard that when try...
09/25/2025

IG Post Healing Mama Drama Trauma
“But she’s your mother!”

If I had a dollar for every time a client heard that when trying to set boundaries, I’d have a whole vacation fund by now.

Here’s the truth: Biology does not equal a free pass to cause harm. Not even for mothers.

That’s exactly why I created Healing Mama Drama Trauma: Breaking Free from the Past, Reclaiming Your Voice, and Stepping Into Your Future (kicking off Oct 6).

Together we’ll unpack:
·      The difference between healthy and unhealthy family dynamics
·      How to set boundaries without drowning in guilt
·      Why “honoring your mother” can also mean protecting yourself
·       Communication strategies that actually work in real life
Love, your peace is not up for debate. If you’re tired of defending your right to it—this is your sign.

**10 spots left. Link in bio **






That critical voice whispering “you’re not enough”? For so many of us, it started in the mother-daughter relationship.In...
09/22/2025

That critical voice whispering “you’re not enough”? For so many of us, it started in the mother-daughter relationship.

In my work with women, I’ve seen how often that voice began in the mother-daughter relationship.

That’s why created Healing Mama Drama Trauma: Breaking Free from the Past, Reclaiming Your Voice, and Stepping Into — a 4-week transformational program to help you:

*Understand the patterns that shaped you
*Release guilt + shame for good
*Heal your inner child
*Step boldly into YOUR future

Sessions start October 6th
Founding Group is now open at a special rate of $297 (future rounds $497+)
Spots are limited to just 12 women- and once they’re gone, they’re gone.

This isn’t about blaming mothers — it’s about freeing YOURSELF. If you’ve been waiting for the moment to finally break free from old patterns and step into YOUR power, this is it.

Don’t put your healing on hold. Tap the link in bio and save your spot today.











“I don’t think I have a vision for my life anymore…”That’s what a client told me recently.And whew — it hit me right in ...
07/29/2025

“I don’t think I have a vision for my life anymore…”

That’s what a client told me recently.
And whew — it hit me right in the heart.

Because I’ve been there.
Maybe you have, too.

You’re high-functioning. Capable. Always “fine.”
But underneath?
You’re stuck.

Not because you’re lazy or lost — but because a fixed mindset has been running the show.

It says things like:
• “If I were going to do something big, I’d have done it already.”
• “I don’t have time for a vision — I’ve got real responsibilities.”
• “People like me don’t do things like that.”

That mindset doesn’t just stop your actions.
It stops your imagination.

And the most heartbreaking part?
You start believing that maybe this is just… it.
Maybe you missed your chance.
Maybe your dream expired.

False.

Here’s what I need you to hear today:

You don’t need more time —
You need permission to matter again.

Your dream didn’t disappear.
It just needs space, belief, and a little bit of care.

A growth mindset doesn’t mean you have all the answers.
It just means you’re willing to believe something new is still possible.

-You are not too old.
-It’s not too late.
-And the best version of your life? She’s still possible.

⸻

This week’s reflection prompt:
What’s one story I’ve been telling myself about what I can’t do or don’t have time for?

And then ask yourself:
Who might I become if I stopped believing that?

Want weekly notes like this in your inbox?
DM me “Vision” or visit melissawatsonclark.com to subscribe and get a copy of The Clarity Guide.

You deserve a life that fits the woman you are becoming, not just the one you’ve been.



You know it’s time for a change… but you keep talking yourself out of it.Here are 3 signs you’re ready for something mor...
07/24/2025

You know it’s time for a change… but you keep talking yourself out of it.

Here are 3 signs you’re ready for something more—even if you can’t name it yet:

1. You feel restless, even though everything looks “fine” on paper
2. You’ve poured so much into others, you’ve lost touch with what you want
3. You’re craving clarity, but fear keeps whispering, “What if it’s too late?

If this sounds like you, you’re not broken. You’re ready to grow.

Drop a “👋🏾” if you’re in this season—and let’s normalize wanting more.

Feeling stuck lately?That restless, “is this all there is?” feeling isn’t failure—it’s your inner self calling for somet...
07/21/2025

Feeling stuck lately?

That restless, “is this all there is?” feeling isn’t failure—it’s your inner self calling for something more.
You don’t have to have all the answers yet.

You just need a little clarity.

That’s why I created The Clarity Guide—a free resource to help you pause, reflect, and reconnect with what you really want.

Because you can have what you want.

You just need to believe it first.

👇🏾
Grab your free copy—link’s in bio.

Feeling stuck lately? Here’s why that’s actually a good thing.That restless feeling you can’t quite shake? It’s not fail...
01/17/2025

Feeling stuck lately? Here’s why that’s actually a good thing.

That restless feeling you can’t quite shake? It’s not failure or a lack of gratitude—it’s your inner self nudging you to explore what’s next. Being stuck often means you’re ready for growth, even if you’re not sure what that growth looks like yet.

Here are 3 signs it’s time to level up and step into your next chapter:

1. You feel restless, even though everything looks fine on paper
You’ve achieved so much, but something feels... incomplete. You know there’s more out there for you.

2. You’ve spent so much time putting others first, you’ve lost touch with what YOU truly want.
Your career, family, and responsibilities have been your focus, and now it’s time to ask: what lights me up

3. You’re curious about what’s possible, but fear or self-doubt holds you back.
That little voice inside says, “What if it’s too late? What if I fail?”—but deep down, you’re ready to take a chance on yourself.

Feeling stuck is just the first step—it means you’re ready to grow.

Let’s figure out your next step together.

DM me to grab your free clarity guide and start exploring your path forward!





I’m at Heathrow Airport on my way home after a lovely Christmas with my stepmother. It has been wonderful being disconne...
01/02/2025

I’m at Heathrow Airport on my way home after a lovely Christmas with my stepmother. It has been wonderful being disconnected from the madness of the US for 10 days and I must admit if not for my family, and Arlo, of course, I might not come back.

I have this dream of going to a cabin in the woods someplace on my own and just getting into my head and heart without distractions. And be just quiet and in nature. Being here, I can see the little house I would stay in. Not in a village but village adjacent. I look at the rolling green hills and I can almost hear the peace and quiet. This is a beautiful country that has settled into itself and is not still trying to figure out who or what it is as the US is doing. It’s not perfect, but the land is.

I know we have beautiful places in the US too and there are cabins that I could go to as well, but you know what? I wouldn’t feel safe there. And that’s what I deeply crave. Just the ability to feel safe even if I’m on my own in a small cabin that’s village adjacent. Not that kind of defiant kind of safe that I’m claiming because the Lord takes care of His children. But the feeling of safety that feels safe because I am safe. Or feeling safe because I’m in a place where I can be who I am and never perceived as a threat to anyone. Or never think that anyone is threatening me.

So my wish for 2025 is that, even in the chaos that our country is already experiencing, we all get to have those moments of peace and quiet that allow us to connect to our deepest selves. And be who we were meant to be rather than a reflection of what others tell us we have to become in order to survive.

Peace and blessings for 2025

Exciting news!My new website is LIVE: melissawatsonclark.com! If you’re a woman who’s ready to redefine your path, envis...
12/19/2024

Exciting news!

My new website is LIVE: melissawatsonclark.com!

If you’re a woman who’s ready to redefine your path, envision your ideal future, and create actionable goals to get there—or you know someone who is—this is your sign to check it out!

I specialize in helping well-established women turn “someday” dreams into today plans through a supportive 90-day coaching program.

Take a peek, share with your network, and let’s help someone take their next big step toward their best life!

👉 melissawatsonclark.com
YES YOU CAN. Let’s make it happen.

Hey everyone, I know that Arlo is the star of our family and these Facebook posts, but his Mom wanted to reintroduce her...
08/08/2024

Hey everyone, I know that Arlo is the star of our family and these Facebook posts, but his Mom wanted to reintroduce herself to let you know that I have a few openings for new clients. I've gotten a few inquiries over the years from my Facebook family about availability so wanted to let you all know first. Here's a short blurb about my practice so feel free to pass it on to your friends if you or someone you know is looking for a therapist. Unfortunately, I can only work with Maryland residents right now. I do accept insurance (Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, Johns Hopkins, and Medicare.

Are you in the midst of a life transition that feels overwhelming or just plain stuck? Maybe you've spent years doing everything "right," but now you're wondering, “Is this all there is?” I’m here to help you uncover what’s holding you back from living the life you truly want. Together, we’ll dig deep into the challenges you're facing and develop practical, effective strategies to move forward.

If you’ve lost touch with your dreams, therapy can help you reconnect with what truly matters to you, set meaningful goals, and create a plan to achieve them.

You might find therapy helpful if you’re feeling:
- A lingering dissatisfaction that a spa day or shopping spree can’t fix
- Nostalgic for dreams you’ve put on hold or given up on
- Exhausted from living to meet everyone else’s expectations
- Like there’s more to life, but you’re not sure what that is anymore

I specialize in working with women who are ready to break free from the patterns of fear, anxiety, and self-doubt that keep them feeling unfulfilled. I believe in the power of nature to heal and inspire. Whether it’s through connecting with the earth, working with plant allies, or just taking a moment to breathe deeply, nature can offer us profound insights that traditional talk therapy alone sometimes can’t reach.

My approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Meditation. For those open to it, I also incorporate holistic practices like Reiki and herbalism, providing a well-rounded path to wellness.

If you are interested in working with a therapist, email me at melissa@gardenwoodcc.com to schedule a free 20 minute consultation call. Let’s work together to heal, move those inner barriers, rediscover your passions, and create a life that feels genuinely fulfilling.

When I sold my house in Pikesville, the only thing I knew I was going to miss was my garden. I started it from nothing a...
04/05/2024

When I sold my house in Pikesville, the only thing I knew I was going to miss was my garden. I started it from nothing as the previous owners weren’t gardeners. I spent a lot of time, energy, and money creating something beautiful. But I left it in very good hands and the current owner Kelley has taken it to the next level. She sent pictures today and what’s funny is that she’s done much of what I was going to do over time if I had stayed there. I haven’t felt much like gardening at all since I left and really didn’t do much more than put out a few pots and grown herbs and tomatoes.

But seeing those pictures today inspired me. I’ve been staring at the beds that were absolutely full of w**ds and grass for weeks thinking about what I wanted to do. My plan was to use the w**d whacker to clear the area but today I went out there and used the gardening tools I already had for w**ding and attacked. I’m not quite done yet since I have to dig up the grass but I started my garden today. I also have to pull up the w**ds that have grown between the bricks on the patio, but that’s definitely for another day. For now, my arms are dead and my back is screaming at me, however, there’s an odd satisfaction and peace you get from putting your hands in the dirt. Now I have to get some mulch and maybe some compost. I hadn’t intended to plant in the ground but there’s some good soil back there. Garden 2024 here I come!

Two and half years ago I upended my entire life to shoot for a dream. Here’s what I learned:- BE FLEXIBLE. Things are NO...
02/02/2024

Two and half years ago I upended my entire life to shoot for a dream. Here’s what I learned:

- BE FLEXIBLE.
Things are NOT going to go as planned. You may have to shift and find a new path that you is way more rewarding.

-LEARN THE LESSONS
You might think you know what you want, but you aren’t always ready for it. The struggle might be the curing process that gets you there and prepares you for what’s next.

-SIT WHEN NECESSARY
The Universe tells you when to sit your behind down. You can listen and rest the easy way or ignore it and rest the hard way. Take the easy way, it’s a much better experience.

-THIS IS YOUR JOURNEY ALONE
The people in your life are focused on their lives. And that’s okay.

-SHIFTING DOES NOT MEAN FAILURE
Just because the dream isn’t happening the way you envisioned doesn’t mean it’s not happening at all. See the first bullet above.

- NEVER EVER WORRY ABOUT WHAT ANYONE ELSE THINKS.
Not a personal problem of mine but thought it might be important to state. Folks can’t judge what they don’t try and that includes taking risks.

-DON’T GO IT ALONE
I know that this may contradict the above bullet but one thing I learned on this journey is the importance of the people in my life. It is through those relationships and experiences that I gained the courage to even try it. I missed that when I was out doing my personal walkabout.

And finally…

-YOU CAN ALWAYS GO HOME
You’ll know when that may be the best thing for you. Don’t let pride keep you away from what you need. The people who love you will welcome you back with open arms if you didn’t burn bridges on the way out to conquer new horizons. They’ll still welcome you back but you might have to listen to some shixx talking😀

Anyway that is my takeaway from the last two and a half years. And as always, I’m moving towards my what’s next.

Have a great weekend y’all!

02/02/2024

Two and half years ago I upended my entire life to shoot for a dream. Here’s what I learned:

- BE FLEXIBLE.
Things are NOT going to go as planned. You may have to shift and find a new path that you may find is way more rewarding.

-LEARN THE LESSONS
You might think you know what you want, but you aren’t always ready for it. The struggle might be the curing process that gets you there and prepares you for what’s next.

-SIT WHEN NECESSARY
The Universe tells you when to sit your behind down. You can listen and rest the easy way or ignore it and rest the hard way. Take the easy way, it’s a much better experience.

-THIS IS YOUR JOURNEY ALONE
The people in your life are focused on their lives. And that’s okay.

-SHIFTING DOES NOT MEAN FAILURE
Just because the dream isn’t happening the way you envisioned doesn’t mean it’s not happening at all. See the first bullet above.

- NEVER EVER WORRY ABOUT WHAT ANYONE ELSE THINKS.
Not a personal problem of mine but thought it might be important to state. Folks can’t judge what they don’t try and that includes taking risks.

-DON’T GO IT ALONE
I know that this may contradict the above bullet but one thing I learned on this journey is the importance of the people in my life. It is through those relationships and experiences that I gained the courage to even try it. I missed that when I was out doing my personal walkabaout.

And finally…

-YOU CAN ALWAYS GO HOME
You’ll know when that may be the best thing for you. Don’t let pride keep you away from what you need. The people who love you will welcome you back with open arms if you didn’t burn bridges on the way out to conquer new horizons. They’ll still welcome you back but you might have to listen to some shixx talking

Anyway that is my takeaway from the last two and a half years. And as always, I’m moving towards my what’s next.

Have a great weekend y’all!

Address

Pikesville, MD

Opening Hours

Tuesday 10am - 1pm
4pm - 8pm
Wednesday 10am - 1pm
4pm - 8pm
Thursday 10am - 1pm
4pm - 8pm
Friday 10am - 1pm
4pm - 8pm
Saturday 10am - 2pm

Telephone

+14106450677

Website

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