"People are like stained glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in, their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within."
Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
"The minute you think of giving up, think of the reason why you held on so long."
-Unknown
Athena McDowall, MSW, LSW
Therapist
(Pronouns: She/her)
My name is Athena McDowall and I am a Licensed Social Worker in the state of New Jersey. I am a military veteran and spend a lot of my free time volunteering to help others. Currently, I am the Walk Coordinator for the Philadelphia NEDA Walk, which is an event that helps to raise money for the National Eating Disorder Association and create a sense of hope and community for those suffering from varying forms of eating disorders. In addition, I am an ambassador for the Eating Disorder Coalition, a Sunday School Teacher, and a volunteer mentor for the Middlesex County Veterans Diversion Program.
I firmly believe in working together to uncover my clients' values, styles, needs, and emotions, and to strategize an approach to their goals that is most effective given where they are in life. I work to assist those suffering from addiction to gain a sense of hope in themselves and help guide them while they navigate the long and tricky road of recovery. I recognize that working on one’s mental well-being can be a difficult process at times, but I believe in being there every step of the way when working together. I am looking forward to helping individuals reach a more positive, healthy point in their lives.
NJ Lic #: 44SL06975500 ┃ NPI #: 1124705702
MY SPECIALTIES
A Healthier Body Relationship
I support clients in shifting out of negative beliefs about themsleves and teach them how to develop a positive relationship with their bodies. I help people bring mindfulness to their body messages and learn how to nourish, care for and appreciate the skin that they're in.
MY APPROACH
Unconditional Positive Regard
I create a space where camaraderie can thrive so that we can talk about difficult things. I am a non-judgmental ear and deeply empathetic to my clients, guiding them to find their true self, trust their intution and create positive changes.
Outdoor Movement Therapy
I offer clients a chance to literally move through emotions and process their thoughts by moving their bodies.
As we walk, we'll work through challenges while regulating brain chemistry, channeling energy and developing a better internal relationship with the support of a green, relaxing environment.
Informative Guidance
I find that it is important to help people understand what they are going through and why. I help build client skills and enhance their ability to cope through education and evidence-based tools.