PTSD awareness
June in Utah: PTSD Awareness Month with Mountain Valley Counseling June marks National PTSD Awareness Month—a dedicated time to break stigma, raise understanding, and highlight resources for trauma survivors. In Utah, where PTSD diagnoses have steadily risen across age groups and regions, local efforts matter more than ever mvccutah.com+4mvccutah.com+4reddit.com+4. 1. 
PTSD in Utah: A Growing Concern Recent Utah Department of Health data shows PTSD diagnoses increasing from 2019 to 2020 in 11 of 13 health districts, including a sharp 35.7% increase among 18–24‑year‑olds healthcarestats.utah.gov. This trend reflects widespread trauma—from car accidents and natural disasters to violence and interpersonal strife. 2. What PTSD Looks Like—and Why It Matters PTSD isn’t limited to combat survivors. It can follow any traumatic experience: sexual assault, accidents, abuse, or witnessing violence healthcarestats.utah.gov. Typical symptoms include: Recurrent flashbacks and nightmares Avoidance of reminders Hypervigilance, irritability, sleep issues Emotional numbing or detachment mvccutah.com+15thedbtcenterofutah.com+15healthcarestats.utah.gov+15 3. Healing…
Good Things Utah interview at Mountain Valley Counseling in South Jordan Utah.
Our owner and founder Misty Newman, CMHC and Clinical Director Marquie Meli, CMHC met with Good Things Utah to discuss mental health in Utah. We specialize in Complex Trauma and PTSD. We see people across the lifespan and also work with couples and families. We can do in person or telehealth visits. And we take insurance! We accept Select Health, Aetna, DMBA, EMI, Blue Cross, PEHP, University of Utah Health Plans and Huntman Mental Health Institute plan. Give us a call 435-565-1305 to get scheduled. https://www.abc4.com/gtu/gtu-sponsor/mountain-valley-counseling-focuses-on-improving-mental-wellness-in-utah/
Graduation is a huge life transition…Mountain Valley Counseling can help
Supporting Graduates in Transition: Navigating the Summer Shift at Mountain Valley Counseling As the summer months roll in, many young adults find themselves at a crossroads: graduation. Whether it’s finishing high school, wrapping up college, or stepping into the professional world for the first time, these milestones are exciting but can also bring a mix of emotions — from pride and joy to uncertainty and stress. At Mountain Valley Counseling, we recognize the challenges that come with these transitions, and we’re here to offer support and guidance as you navigate this new chapter. The Emotional Landscape of Graduation Graduation is often seen as a time of celebration and accomplishment, but the transition from one phase of life to another can feel overwhelming. For many graduates, there’s a rush of emotions that can be difficult to manage: Anticipation and anxiety about what the future holds Fear of failure or not living…
Men’s Health Month….Mental health matters too
Title: Breaking the Silence: Men’s Mental Health Matters at Mountain Valley Counseling When we think of health, we often picture physical strength, stamina, and endurance. For men, the cultural narrative tends to focus on fitness, toughness, and self-reliance. But what happens when mental health is left out of that equation? At Mountain Valley Counseling, we believe true strength includes emotional well-being—and it’s time to break the silence surrounding men’s mental health. The Hidden Struggle Statistics consistently show that men are less likely to seek help for mental health concerns than women. Yet they are more likely to die by suicide and suffer in silence. According to the CDC, men account for nearly 80% of suicide deaths in the U.S. annually. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders are just as prevalent in men as in women—but societal expectations often prevent men from reaching out. Phrases like “man up,” “be tough,”…
Orthorexia is on the rise.
When Healthy Eating Becomes Harmful: Understanding Orthorexia At Mountain Valley Counseling, we often see clients who come to us not because they want to give up their healthy habits—but because those habits have started to take control of their lives. One lesser-known but increasingly common issue is Orthorexia Nervosa, an unhealthy obsession with eating only foods that are perceived as healthy, pure, or clean. What Is Orthorexia? Orthorexia is not officially recognized as a distinct eating disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), but many clinicians acknowledge its serious impact. The term was coined in 1997 by Dr. Steven Bratman to describe an extreme fixation on healthy eating. Unlike other eating disorders that focus on quantity (like anorexia or binge eating), orthorexia focuses on quality. It’s not just about avoiding sugar or processed foods—it’s about a rigid mindset that labels entire food groups as “bad,” leads…
Are Utahns lonely?
Exploring Utah’s Loneliness Epidemic According to a recent survey, 42.5% of Utahns report feeling lonely at least sometimes, a rate that surpasses the national average of 40.3%. While loneliness is often overlooked, it’s a powerful factor influencing mental health, and one that deserves urgent attention—especially in a state known for its strong community values. Why Are So Many Utahns Feeling Lonely? Despite Utah’s reputation for family-centered culture and community engagement, several unique challenges may be contributing to this growing isolation: Population Growth and Transience: Utah is one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. With many new residents relocating for work or education, it can be difficult to build meaningful social ties. Rural Communities: For those living in more isolated, rural parts of the state, physical distance can translate into emotional distance. Stigma Around Vulnerability: Some Utahns may feel pressure to maintain a façade of strength or perfection, making it…
Nice weather doesn’t mean therapy isn’t necessary.
Why Therapy in the Summer Months is Just as Important as Ever As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, many people naturally associate summer with a time for relaxation, vacations, and socializing. But for some, the shift in seasons can also bring challenges—whether it’s the pressure to feel more energetic, the rise in expectations for social interactions, or even a sense of unease that summer might amplify. No matter what time of year it is, your mental health remains just as important, and therapy can be a crucial tool to help maintain emotional well-being during the summer months. Here’s why therapy in the summer can be just as beneficial as in any other season: The Pressure to “Be Happy” in the Summer Summer is often marketed as a time of carefree fun, but for some, it can bring feelings of loneliness or isolation. Social media, with its…
No wait! We have new team members!
Exciting New Beginnings at Mountain Valley Counseling! At Mountain Valley Counseling, we’re thrilled to announce a fresh new chapter in our journey of helping individuals heal and grow. This May, we’re welcoming three graduate students to our team, and in June, we’ll be adding two associate therapists—all of whom come with extensive experience in addressing complex trauma and a wide range of other mental health concerns. Here is a bit about Taylor. Here is a bit about Sarah. Here is a bit about Emily. Here is a bit about Erin. Here is a bit about Laurie. Our new team members bring a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and a commitment to supporting our clients through their healing journeys. Whether you’re navigating the effects of past trauma, managing anxiety, or just seeking a safe space to talk, our expanded team is here to support you every step of the way. We’re excited…
May is mental health awareness month
May is Mental Health Awareness Month: Take Action Today Since May is Mental Health Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to prioritize your emotional well-being. Whether you’ve been feeling the pressures of the season or simply want to maintain a healthy mental state, therapy can make a significant difference. If you’ve been considering therapy or seeking support, don’t hesitate to reach out. Mountain Valley Counseling is here to help you navigate life’s ups and downs with compassion and understanding. Give us a call today to get started on your journey toward better mental health and emotional balance. You deserve support, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Call Tess at 435-565-1305. Or email her at tess@mvccutah.com. Conclusion: Summer and Mental Health—A Balanced Approach As we welcome the summer season, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of new adventures and sunny days, but…
April is Counseling and Stress Awareness Month
April is About Awareness — and Support At Mountain Valley Counseling, we’re proud to honor Counseling Awareness Month and Stress Awareness Month. This month, we celebrate the life-changing impact of mental health counseling and raise awareness about the effects of stress on our well-being. We believe that everyone deserves support, not just during difficult times, but as part of everyday self-care and growth. 
Counseling Awareness Month We recognize the dedication, compassion, and expertise of counselors everywhere — and right here at Mountain Valley. Our team is committed to creating a space where healing and personal transformation can happen, one conversation at a time. Whether you’re facing anxiety, life transitions, relationship issues, or just feeling stuck — counseling is a powerful tool for clarity, healing, and resilience. There is not shame in pursuing counseling, in fact, it’s really proactive and brave. 
Stress Awareness Month Stress affects us all…