Where are you from and how did you grow up?
I grew up in Connecticut, where the natural beauty of New England’s changing seasons and tight-knit communities shaped my early years. From exploring the outdoors to experiencing the region’s rich history, Connecticut instilled in me a deep appreciation for tradition, nature, and community.
After high school, I moved to South Florida to pursue my undergraduate studies in psychology. The vibrant, diverse environment of South Florida provided the perfect backdrop to explore my passion for understanding human behavior and mental health. This foundation led me to pursue a Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling, where I deepened my knowledge and skills in supporting individuals’ emotional well-being.
After graduating and working in private practice, I relocated to Nashville to fuel my taste for adventure and connect with a city known for its creativity, music, and sense of community. In Nashville, I’m excited to continue growing personally and professionally while embracing new experiences and opportunities in this dynamic and welcoming city.
Tell us about your professional background.
My mission as a practitioner is to help clients release shame from their lives and identities. I believe that healing is possible for everyone when we approach our experiences with compassion and empathy. I am dedicated to understanding my clients’ core belief systems, fostering healthier self-concepts, and empowering lasting change.
I am a highly intuitive practitioner, bringing a deep understanding of the human experience to my work with clients. I value a trauma-informed approach that acknowledges the profound impact of nervous system regulation, early attachments, and the belief systems, behaviors, and challenges that arise from them. My approach is influenced by somatic practices, the NeuroAffective Relational Model NARM, cognitive restructuring, narrative therapy, and energetic and spiritual modalities.
What made you decide to become a mental health professional and what areas do you specialize in?
My decision to become a mental health professional was deeply influenced by both personal experience and my desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Growing up, I became keenly aware of how trauma and mental health challenges impact not only how we view ourselves but also how we navigate relationships, work, and daily life.
As I continued my education and work in the field, I became especially drawn to the intersection of trauma and neurodivergence. I’ve seen firsthand how conditions like ADHD, autism, and other forms of neurodivergence are often misunderstood or misdiagnosed, especially in the context of complex trauma. The way trauma influences self-esteem, identity, and emotional regulation is something that deeply resonates with me, and I knew this was an area I wanted to specialize in.
I am deeply passionate about helping clients reshape their narratives, build self-esteem, and foster a sense of identity and community. By addressing common challenges like depression, anxiety, and emotional dysregulation, I aim to help individuals uncover their strengths, regain a sense of control, and move toward healing.
I am also drawn to the idea of helping clients reframe their experiences in a way that allows them to find meaning and empowerment in their stories. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see clients transform, not just by addressing their struggles, but by building the resilience and self-compassion needed to thrive despite them.
Challenges I specialize in: Anxiety/Depression, Poor Self-Esteem, ADHD/Neuorodivergence, Complex Trauma, Victims of Narcissistic Abuse.
In your opinion, what is the biggest misconception about mental health therapy and what would you say to someone who is currently on the fence about seeking help?
First of all, it’s completely normal to feel uncertain or even nervous about the idea of therapy. It’s a big step, and it can feel intimidating. But I would encourage you to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Just like any other form of care, mental health support is about investing in yourself—your well-being, your future, and your peace of mind. You don’t have to be in a “crisis” to benefit from therapy. Many people go to therapy simply to feel better, to better understand themselves, or to gain tools for navigating life more effectively.
Name your favorite film, music artist/band, hobby, and food.
hmmmm I LOVE music!… Lana del rey, peach pit, Amy Winehouse, The Eagles… I adore Italian food and asian fusion! Hobbies… A great walk/hike, photography, creative writing/poetry.
What has been the highlight of your life thus far and why?
Finding myself, accepting the quirks.
When was the last time you laughed uncontrollably and what was the reason?
I love a good belly laugh. I went to surprise a friend for her birthday and her sobbing out of excitement gave the room a good laugh.
What is your philosophy on emotions that are generally deemed negative like sadness, grief, and disappointment?
It is all normal and it finds us all at one point or another. But feelings are not facts and we don’t have to live by them but rather allow them to exist and pass through.
What is your favorite quote (include author)?
When I was a teenager I had a printed out (and makeshift taped) slogan on my mirror that I still live by “you know the truth by the way it feels.”
Lastly, tell us something about yourself that most don’t know.
I love educating online platforms about narcissistic abuse
Phone Number: (931) 274-7588
Email: caroline.guterl@imanibehavioralhealth.com