Today we’d like to introduce you to Lora Hufton
Hi Lora, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I had just finished my Master’s in Fine Art from the University of Kentucky (2014) and I was managing the office of a travel/landscape photographer based out of Wimberley when I fell down a rabbit hole on a particular mental health therapy known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I guess I’m still down that rabbit hole because what followed was a job in addiction treatment while I pursed a Master’s in Science for Mental Health Counseling and certification in EMDR. I remember being so worried my family and friends would think I had wasted years in art school and that they would see this as a sharp left turn from the trajectory my life was suppose to be taking. I’m so grateful I was only met with support and encouragement. My artwork had always had an element of psychology- exploring themes like identity, memory, and belonging. All those experiences of sitting through brutal art critiques and long hours in the darkroom I now see as vital to preparing me to the career of counseling.
I continued working at residential treatment centers while obtaining my degree and completing my internship but once I was fully licensed I knew I wanted to work with a broader population and accepted a job at a newly formed group practice (Hiatus Wellness) where I am free to incorporate creative expression, EMDR, and mindful movement in individual and group settings.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I definitely did not take the traditional route in this career and came to it in my 30s, but for the most part momentum towards the end goal was consistent. Right when I went back to school I was working full time, over night shifts, and grieving the loss of my mother. It felt like I was progressing at the rate of a turtle- taking only 1 or 2 courses per semester but I’m so grateful to say I got here.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I work with adults in individual and group settings. I am EMDR trained and currently halfway through EMDR certification. I am TCYM (Trauma Conscious Yoga Method) Level 2 trained as well. I run a monthly group that takes a non-traditional approach to therapuetic journaling by adding creative expression into the process- so instead of responding to reflection prompts with words we respond with color, shape and texture. I also run a group we call Moving Through Pain that incorporates discussion, EMDR, and yoga to move through trauma, grief, and pain.
What makes you happy?
Dark chocolate, sand volleyball, and collecting a variety of plants. It is a personal “happiness goal” of mine to see one of my hoya varieties bloom! Monday night sand volleyball and laughing with my teammates is a constant source of stability and joy with the added bonus of allowing me to move my body and release stress- we won’t be going pro any time soon but we have a good time. I also enjoy traveling and last year got to spend some time in Portugal, Hawaii, and North Carolina. I have in my sights for the next few years Ireland, Spain, and Chile.
Pricing:
- Individual sessions based on insurance
- Private Pay rate is $150
- Groups: $45-50 per session
- We also work with several Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) and offer free sessions for participating employers
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hiatuswellness.com
