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“Go in the direction of where your peace is coming from.” ― C. JoyBell C.
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
Are you a Super Hero?
What do superheroes and trauma survivors have in common? More than you think. In this inspiring post, Esther draws a powerful parallel between comic book origin stories and the journeys of real-life overcomers. Learn how trauma can become a turning point—not just for survival, but for strength, purpose, and healing.
Esther Vanderwal
Aug 7, 20221 min read
Suicide
Why do people who seem to “have it all” sometimes take their own lives? In this powerful post, Esther unpacks the unseen weight of depression, performance pressure, and disconnection—especially among youth, athletes, and high-stress professionals. She explores how vulnerability, tethers of connection, and a shift in our culture's definition of success can play a role in prevention and healing.
Esther Vanderwal
May 3, 20224 min read
Socializing for Health
Social connection isn’t just a luxury—it’s a biological need. In this post, Esther reminds us that, like food and exercise, human interaction is essential to our well-being. On the heels of pandemic isolation, she challenges us to step outside, smile, and engage with others—for the sake of our mental health and theirs.
Esther Vanderwal
Apr 28, 20221 min read
Our 5th Anniversary
As Serenity Place celebrates its 5-year anniversary, Esther reflects on her journey from a young girl in South Texas to the founder of a thriving mental health practice. Through gratitude, vulnerability, and hope, she honors the people, faith, and perseverance that made it possible—while wondering what her 12-year-old self might say if she could see it all now.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 1, 20222 min read
Journaling a Legacy
Journaling isn’t just a therapeutic tool—it’s a time capsule, a legacy, a way to speak across generations. In this heartfelt piece, Esther reflects on rediscovering a journal from her early years as a mother and the powerful emotions it stirred. She urges us to write not only to process our own lives but to leave behind something meaningful for our children—a glimpse into who we were, how we felt, and what we learned along the way.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 6, 20223 min read
Trauma
Trauma can leave people feeling like they've been split in two—disconnected from themselves, their joy, and their sense of identity. In this powerful reflection, Esther explores the deep wounds left by rape and abuse, the sacred role of witnessing and validation in healing, and how reconnection with the self is possible through slow, supported work. Drawing from clinical experience and cultural wisdom, she sheds light on how survivors can begin to reclaim what was taken.
Esther Vanderwal
Aug 15, 20213 min read
Tangled Webs
Lying may start small—especially in childhood—but its consequences can grow rapidly, binding us in webs that are hard to escape. In this reflection, Esther explores the developmental roots of deception, the shame that often fuels it, and the importance of choosing truth, even when it’s hard. With spiritual insight and practical wisdom, she also reminds us of the power of forgiveness—for both the deceived and the deceiver.
Esther Vanderwal and Mitzie Beavert
Jul 31, 20214 min read
Transitions
Transitions have a way of shaking up our well-worn paths, whether it’s a muddy detour or a sudden dead end. In this thoughtful reflection, Esther explores how our brains—and our relationships—respond to unexpected change. Drawing from personal experience, she shows how different reactions to stress can still lead to growth, connection, and a new way forward. If you're feeling stuck in transition, you’re not alone—and you have tools to navigate through.
Esther Vanderwal
Jul 15, 20213 min read
Trust versus Mistrust
What happens when kindness feels foreign? In this personal and heartfelt reflection, we explore how early experiences of inconsistency and rejection can shape a child’s ability to trust—even when kindness finally shows up. Whether you're a parent, teacher, or therapist, this story offers insight into the deep roots of mistrust and the patience required to build connection. Sometimes, the greatest gift you can offer is simply to keep showing up.
Esther Vanderwal
Jun 3, 20213 min read
New Chapters
Watching your child graduate isn’t just about their next step—it’s about your own. In this heartfelt reflection, a mother navigates the emotional shift from high school parent to empty nester, reminiscing about frog hunts, cereal bowls, and the slow goodbye. If you’re facing this bittersweet milestone, you’re not alone. Let’s walk through this new chapter together—with tissues in one hand and coffee in the other.
Esther Vanderwal
May 23, 20213 min read
Doors
Life often presents us with doors—opportunities, choices, or turning points—and how we respond to them can shape our path. In this reflection, we explore the difference between doors that open naturally versus those we try to force. What if resistance is a sign to pause, not push? And what if ease is an invitation to step into something aligned? Read on for insight into recognizing life’s subtle signals and how to navigate the next door.
Esther Vanderwal
Apr 21, 20211 min read
Shame Versus Guilt
Drawing from The Power of Vulnerability by Brené Brown, this blog unpacks the powerful distinction between shame and guilt—and why it matters. Shame targets the self; guilt targets behavior. Understanding the difference can impact how we heal, how we parent, and how we support others. Learn how shifting from a shame-based lens to a guilt-based framework can support mental health, resilience, and long-term change.
Esther Vanderwal
Apr 5, 20212 min read
Find It and Affirm It
In relationships—whether with a partner, friend, child, or colleague—affirmation matters. Drawing from insights in After the Affair by Janis Abrahms Spring, this blog explores the transformative impact of noticing and affirming the positive behaviors of others. By replacing criticism with encouragement, we foster connection, build trust, and shape lasting change.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 4, 20212 min read
Navigating Pandemic Stress
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought new and heightened stressors into our lives. This blog explores strategies for reducing anxiety and fostering a sense of control during uncertain times—from creating routines and limiting news exposure to practicing mindfulness and reaching out for social support.
Katie Tippett
Jan 19, 20213 min read
Conflict Resolution
Conflict can feel all-consuming, but resolution is possible. This blog introduces the five classic conflict resolution styles—Avoiding, Accommodating, Compromising, Competing, and Collaborating—and offers insight into how and when each can be used effectively. You’ll also find practical tips like reflective listening and “I” statements to help de-escalate tension and build understanding. Which style do you default to—and is it serving you?
Jordan Atwell
Jan 11, 20213 min read
Privilege
A Facebook post of a treasured wedding dress passed down through generations stirred unexpected emotion—reminding me of what it feels like to witness privilege from a distance. In this deeply personal reflection, I explore how class, race, and generational wealth shape our experiences and expectations. This isn't about guilt—it’s about awareness. About remembering where we came from and building something different for those who come next.
Esther Vanderwal
Sep 14, 20204 min read
The Silver Lining
As the school year begins under circumstances none of us anticipated, it’s easy to feel the weight of what’s been lost. But in the midst of disruption and disappointment, we are also learning patience, adaptability, and the power of resilience. This blog challenges us to actively seek the silver linings—even when it’s hard—because that mindset becomes the rope that pulls us forward. From redefined priorities to creative problem-solving, we are forging strength in ourselves an
Esther Vanderwal
Aug 25, 20203 min read
Balance and Parenting
In this heartfelt reflection, a mother shares a lesson passed down from her own mom about the importance of balance in parenting. The blog explores how striving to meet every need of our children can sometimes come at the cost of self-care—and why letting kids experience discomfort helps them grow. True parenting wisdom lies in finding the middle ground between nurturing and letting go.
Esther Vanderwal
Jun 2, 20204 min read
A Race Without an End?
As the pandemic drags on, what once felt like a surprising pause has turned into a marathon without a finish line. This blog explores the emotional exhaustion of chronic stress and offers simple, grounding strategies—like routine, meditation, and mindful movement—to help lighten the load of the “heavy coat” we’re all wearing.
Esther Vanderwal
Apr 26, 20203 min read
A Historic Time of Worldwide Grief
Grief isn't reserved for death alone—it’s found in the quiet endings we didn’t recognize as “lasts.” This poignant post honors the collective and personal losses experienced during the pandemic, especially for the Class of 2020, reminding us that grief shared is grief made bearable.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 28, 20203 min read
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