Burl Amber Sequoia

My Story…

I know depression and anxiety and deep suffering. I lived that way for over a decade. To a large extent it was because I did not have the tools for healthy relationships. I also was lucky to find the way out. And in, to connection, with myself, with others and with the whole.

Now, I help people navigate recovery and repair relationships. I provide a caring, knowing space to transform frustrations into connection and struggles into strengths. My wisdom was hard won, as well as out of my hands, simply the unfolding of nature. Now I know we are all made for this, but you can’t do it alone. Humans need each other, and through that discovery of connection, a life you love is possible.

My Story

I struggled with depression and anxiety for over a decade. It took long, as an elder Russian woman who was familiar commiserated…But luckily I continued to have the will and the energy and was able to navigate the arduous path to health. I found my way into an incredible life. I am here to help others do the same. It is possible to have an amazing life, in whatever circumstances. 

It was a painful process. Worse though, I did not think my life would ever feel good. I was severely depressed and anxious from the age of 25 to 37! Previous to that I was just lost and immersed in deep shame and fear. Just that…! With perspective, it was a very sad state, and I saw no way out, though I tried desperately. I felt flawed in some way, and like none of it would work for me. I felt hopeless.

My work is that others avoid that dark place, at least for as long. I know that some (if not many?) are already in it. I am here to assist. If you are anything short of in love with your life, keep trying, even if not with me. No, you should not feel that way. Yes, it can be better. 

The process is simple, really. Awareness grows us naturally in the right direction, to health, like a fern frond unfurling toward sunlight. It is true, you do hold all the tools. But we all need support, guidance and encouragement, as well.

I also have a life that has been incredible in many ways. One of which is having a deep foundation in the natural world. I grew up hiking - coastal bluffs, oak savannas, redwood forests, river corridors, chaparral…I know all the plants and landscapes there like the back of my hand. So studying Ecology and Evolution was a natural fit. I deepened my understanding of nature, patterns. That plus the hope I received in therapy, brought me to finally understand, accept and love this brutal and amazing universe and life. I draw from that wisdom in my practice and love to share those inspirations and perspectives on life.Just like a seed sprouts, the rough edges are worn from a stone on the beach, or water runs down hill, humans innately grow, spiritually. But some paths are harder than others, so accept help and clear the path out of the dark.

MY GOAL

I know the dark night. I know feeling lost, hopeless, afraid of life. I felt that way for terribly long. I was emotionally alone. I was lucky to have loved ones around me for support but none of them understood where I was and could not relate with me in that way. I struggled, sought and grasped. I was strong and a fighter. But it broke my heart that I had to be. Mental Health Recovery is overwhelming. Do not do it alone. Humans are communal, we need others in order to process and grow.

I am here to hear you out, down to the worst nitty gritty. I am here to validate your experience. I am here to hold a caring and encouraging space. I am here to love you, warts and all (and share mine if you want!).I am here to help you see yourself and your situation better, and then go deeper. I can help you transform your blocks and fears and turn them into pure gold with which to build an incredible self and life. Don’t wait. This is the very foundation to everything you want in life.

I know the way, and I know that anyone can find happiness if the conditions are right. I invite you to see it too.