Esther in front of the Rainbow Room entrance at NBC Studios

Esther's Blog

I’m Esther Vanderwal, LCSW-C, and President of Serenity Place, LLC!

After nearly 30 years in the field of social work—and having walked alongside clients through grief, postpartum transitions, anxiety, relational strain, trauma, and everything in between—I’ve learned this: healing isn’t linear, but it is possible.

This space is an extension of the work I do in the therapy room. Here, I’ll be sharing reflections, tools, and insights drawn from both clinical experience and real human moments. Whether you’re a client, a fellow clinician, or someone simply seeking understanding, I hope these writings offer clarity, validation, and encouragement as you navigate your path.

Let’s talk about what it means to struggle, to grow, and to keep showing up for yourself and the people you love.

Warmly,

Esther Vanderwal

All Posts

an iceberg depicting what lies below the surface in terms of trauma

Understanding the Trauma Iceberg: What’s Beneath the Surface

Many trauma responses go unseen. What looks like anger, defiance, or withdrawal on the outside often hides deeper pain—like shame, fear, or depression. The “Trauma Iceberg” helps us understand that what’s visible is only part of the story. In this post, we explore how trauma manifests beneath the surface and why compassionate, trauma-informed care matters.

Sophia Palma

2 days ago2 min read

Life After Letting Go

In this vulnerable continuation of her divorce journey, Esther explores what comes after the heartbreak: the quiet, often overlooked moments when healing begins. From simple home projects to reclaiming her identity, she shares how grief transforms into empowerment, and how silence—once deafening—can become sacred. This blog is an invitation to honor your healing, feel your grief fully, and begin to choose yourself again.

Esther Vanderwal

May 293 min read

One Breath at a Time: Finding My Way Through Divorce

In this raw and personal blog, Esther shares her experience of navigating the heartbreak and transformation of divorce. She reflects on the quiet ways abuse and loss of self can hide within marriage, the gut-wrenching grief of letting go, and the daily battle to keep breathing. With honesty and compassion, she invites readers into her process of healing—one breath, one wave, one moment at a time.

Esther Vanderwal

Apr 292 min read

Breaking the Silence: Understanding and Supporting Survivors of Childhood Sexual Abuse

In this powerful and personal blog, Esther shares her deep professional and lived insight into the lifelong impacts of childhood sexual abuse. Drawing from her work at a Child Advocacy Center, she highlights the behavioral, emotional, and physical manifestations of trauma, explores the reasons behind misunderstood coping mechanisms, and advocates for trauma-informed support rooted in compassion—not judgment. This post calls for awareness, education, and empathy to help surviv

Esther Vanderwal

Jul 13, 20244 min read

The Power of Intentional Communication: Shaping Your Conversations

This blog explores how understanding and expressing our true intentions during conversations can lead to more meaningful, satisfying interactions. Esther shares relatable examples and practical insights into how unspoken expectations can derail communication—and how simple shifts in language can create clarity, reduce misunderstandings, and improve connection in both personal and professional relationships.

Esther Vanderwal

Nov 1, 20232 min read

Consciously Married: Nurturing Your Relationship Mindfully

In this insightful post, Esther introduces the concept of being “Consciously Married”—bringing mindfulness into your relationship to nurture love with intention. By assessing time spent together, daily effort, and your partner’s unique needs, couples can move beyond routine and create deeper connection. With real-life examples and thoughtful questions, she encourages readers to treat their marriage with the same deliberate care they give other priorities in life.

Esther Vanderwal

Oct 5, 20232 min read