A Journey to Purpose – Exclusive Interview with Heather L. Hurwitt of A Satisfied Mind Counseling
- Brainz Magazine
- Sep 12, 2025
- 7 min read
Updated: Sep 14, 2025
Heather L. Hurwitt, MA, LMFT, LMHC, is a dedicated advocate for individuals on the challenging journey of trauma recovery, with a particular emphasis on healing from narcissistic abuse. With her expertise in EMDR therapy and trauma-informed care, she employs specialized techniques to facilitate transformational healing for her clients. Heather is committed to guiding individuals toward lives filled with purpose and fulfillment, empowering them to overcome the impacts of both childhood and adult traumas. Her approach fosters a nurturing environment where healing can thrive, allowing clients to reclaim their lives from the scars of their past experiences.
Heather is the founder of A Satisfied Mind Counseling, LLC, offering in-person services in Central Florida, with offices located in Ocala and Gainesville. She also offers online therapy throughout the state of Florida, ensuring access to her expertise regardless of geographical barriers. Heather also provides EMDR Intensives, designed to accelerate trauma processing in a shorter, focused timeframe.
As a trauma survivor herself, Heather possesses a profound empathy for clients facing similar struggles. Her personal experiences, coupled with her professional expertise, enable her to provide a safe and understanding space for healing. After undergoing her own therapeutic journey, she felt compelled to share her insights and knowledge with others, offering support to those seeking peace and purpose after enduring the devastating effects of trauma. Through her dedication and experience, Heather continues to make a significant impact on the lives of those striving to reclaim their narrative and foster resilience.
Heather L. Hurwitt, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist
What inspired you to pursue trauma work and eventually launch A Satisfied Mind Counseling?
It all began with my own experience with narcissistic abuse. Like many, I found myself entangled in a toxic relationship where manipulation, gaslighting, and emotional turmoil became the norm. I struggled to recognize the signs and the impact this had on my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. After my long-term marriage ended suddenly, I faced a tough and confusing path of survival and finding myself again. Through years of introspection while seeking help, I gradually understood that my experiences were not isolated incidents, but symptoms of a much larger issue prevalent in many relationships.
Determined to reclaim my life, I immersed myself in research about narcissism and its impacts on victims. This process of healing was not merely about understanding the dynamics of narcissistic abuse but also about rediscovering my identity and reclaiming my sense of self-worth. As I progressed on my healing journey, I realized I wanted to help others navigate their experiences with narcissistic abuse. With this conviction, I returned to college to pursue a graduate degree in counseling, focusing on trauma-informed care. My goal was to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals seeking to understand their experiences and begin the process of recovery.
Today, I work as a trauma therapist with a substantial focus on narcissistic abuse recovery. After completing my degree, I worked in several different positions, including non-profit practices, community mental health services, and inpatient receiving facilities. It became clear to me that these options were too brief and often emphasized symptom reduction through medication rather than addressing the deeper issues affecting clients and causing their concerns. This realization prompted me to consider what could be done to better assist these suffering clients and provide lasting improvement.
As a result, I established A Satisfied Mind Counseling with the intention of providing compassionate, comprehensive care to individuals seeking to heal from their traumatic pasts or current situations. By fostering an environment rooted in understanding and empathy, I aim to support my clients in reclaiming their lives and finding a path to recovery.
What sets A Satisfied Mind Counseling apart from traditional therapy practices?
Understanding the unique healing requirements following narcissistic abuse is paramount in my practice. My approach is rooted in empathy and compassion, integrating evidence-based strategies that focus on processing emotional trauma and restoring mental wellness. The emotional scars left by such abusive relationships can be profound, and it is crucial to navigate these challenges with care.
A key component of my method is psychoeducation, which aims to enhance client awareness of the insidious behaviors often utilized by abusers. By educating clients on these dynamics, I empower them to protect and strengthen themselves against potential further exploitation.
The primary therapeutic approaches I utilize include Narrative Therapy, Schema Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Internal Family Systems (IFS). Additionally, I draw on valuable insights from other modalities, including Somatic Therapy, Sensorimotor Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). This integrative framework ensures a comprehensive and tailored healing process for each individual.
What does the name “A Satisfied Mind Counseling” mean to you and why did you choose it?
As a survivor of narcissistic abuse, I reflect on my healing journey with a profound awareness of how dysregulated I had become during the years of suffering. Even after the abuse concluded, my mind seemed to be trapped in those debilitating cycles. The conditioning I endured led me to internalize a negative self-image, convincing me that I could never meet a standard of worthiness.
A significant aspect of my growth involved the realization that I am, indeed, good enough. I learned to embrace a sense of self-satisfaction, countering the years of toxic messaging that had cast shadows on my self-worth. In choosing my name, I aimed to evoke an air of defiance—a declaration of my inherent value. This choice serves as a reminder not only to myself but also to others who have experienced similar struggles. Together, we can affirm that we are good enough and wholeheartedly deserve to feel satisfied with ourselves.
What positive trends in mental health care do you see taking shape?
In recent years, the conversation surrounding narcissistic abuse has gained significant traction, shedding light on a topic that has long been shrouded in misunderstanding and stigma. While I am very encouraged about the increase in knowledge regarding this type of abuse as well as the development of new training programs for practitioners, I also want to caution clients who need support in navigating this type of trauma.
Narcissistic abuse is a uniquely insidious form of psychological manipulation that profoundly affects its victims. Tactics such as gaslighting, blame-shifting, word salad, and emotional manipulation create a web of confusion and self-doubt. Individuals subjected to this constant psychological warfare often find themselves walking on eggshells, living in fear of triggering the wrath of their abuser.
Unlike more overt forms of abuse, the subtle nature of narcissistic abuse can leave invisible scars that significantly impact mental health. It is crucial for those seeking healing to find a mental health professional who specializes in this specific type of abuse. This specialization goes beyond the search for a trauma-informed provider, extreme forms of psychological abuse present unique challenges that require adept handling. Techniques that are effective for more traditional trauma may prove ineffective or even harmful for someone recovering from narcissistic abuse. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that your chosen provider is a suitable match for your specific circumstances and needs. Seeking the right professional support can make a meaningful difference in the healing journey from narcissistic abuse.
How do you customize treatment plans to effectively meet each client where they are?
Every client’s experience is uniquely theirs, and no two cases are exactly the same. In my practice, I begin by providing clients with ample time and space to reflect on their situations while validating their experiences. This step is crucial for establishing trust and understanding. I then gently explore areas where they may be open to setting boundaries to help protect themselves and reclaim their sense of identity or aspirations for the future.
Simultaneously, I introduce concepts such as self-care, grounding, or mindfulness, tailoring these suggestions to the client's receptiveness. At this stage, I typically present additional treatment options and work collaboratively with each client to create a personalized treatment plan that aligns with their comfort level regarding the modalities they wish to explore. This approach fosters a sense of empowerment and encourages active participation in their healing journey.
What advice would you give to someone hesitant about seeking therapeutic support for narcissistic abuse?
If you're struggling with the destructive effects of trauma or narcissistic abuse, I want you to know that healing is truly possible and that you don't have to walk this path alone. Recognizing the need for help is a powerful and courageous act. I encourage you to take that important step and reach out to a therapist who specializes in trauma and narcissistic abuse. They can provide you with the tools and understanding necessary to begin your healing process.
Lastly, what are your hopes for the future of A Satisfied Mind Counseling and mental health care as a whole?
At A Satisfied Mind Counseling, my vision is to integrate additional wellness practices through a robust referral network that empowers clients to thrive in every aspect of their lives. My consistent goal is straightforward and unwavering, to continue assisting as many trauma survivors as possible on their journey to healing and reclaiming a healthy, satisfying, and fulfilling life.
I am very encouraged that narcissistic abuse is becoming more well known in both social and professional circles. The increasing awareness surrounding this type of toxic behavior is a positive development, and I hope it will lead to a decrease in cases of abuse, as well as a greater acceptance and believability of victims’ stories by their family, friends, caregivers, and professionals.
If you have suffered with narcissistic abuse, please know that despite how it may feel, you are not isolated in your struggles. Many have walked this path and have found their way to peace and fulfillment. Healing is possible, and there is renewal waiting for you. Choose to embrace this opportunity for growth and transformation. You deserve a life filled with hope and purpose.
Heather stands out as a dedicated professional in the field of trauma therapy. Her commitment to helping individuals recover from the debilitating impacts of narcissistic abuse underscores her devotion to this vital area of mental health. For those seeking support in their healing journey, connecting with Heather can be a transformative step toward reclaiming your life.
