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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
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
Bittersweet
Parenting is filled with bittersweet moments—the joy of watching your child grow paired with the ache of letting go. This heartfelt reflection honors the beauty and heartbreak of raising a daughter, one milestone at a time.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 20, 20202 min read
Power, Love and Sound Judgement
During uncertain times, our children are watching how we respond. This post encourages parents to model calm, compassion, and sound judgment in the face of crisis—anchored in both practical wisdom and spiritual grounding.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 15, 20203 min read
Life is Not Linear
We often expect life to follow a straight line—but real growth happens in the dips, curves, and setbacks. This post reflects on how embracing life's nonlinearity can reduce anxiety, build resilience, and teach us (and our kids) to stand up stronger.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 9, 20202 min read
The Oneness of Single Life
Being single—especially over 35—comes with unique emotional and social challenges. This post explores the quiet complexities of single life and introduces a new group designed to foster support, community, and connection without expectations.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 31, 20202 min read
Our Start and Our Mission
Serenity Place began with a simple but powerful mission: to offer compassionate, accessible mental health care guided by faith and community need. This post shares the story of our start, the heart behind our work, and our ongoing commitment to serve.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 10, 20202 min read
Actively Aging
Aging doesn’t mean stepping back—it means showing up differently. This post challenges the outdated narrative of growing older as a passive decline, and celebrates what it means to age with energy, purpose, and bold participation in life.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 1, 20202 min read
Why The Need for So Many Therapists?
Why are there so many therapists—and still waitlists? This post breaks down the growing demand for mental health care, from reduced stigma and better insurance coverage to rising anxiety levels in both kids and adults. More therapists means more access, more choice, and more hope.
Esther Vanderwal
Dec 15, 20193 min read
Beauty Between the Lines
With age comes a shift in what we see—and what we cherish. This post reflects on the grace that lives beneath the surface, the wisdom forged through fire, and the quiet beauty that comes from growing older and seeing more clearly.
Esther Vanderwal
Nov 19, 20192 min read
Vulnerability
Vulnerability is the lifeblood of connection—but it’s hardest to access when relationships feel strained. This post explores the emotional standoff many couples find themselves in, and how laying down defenses can slowly rebuild trust and closeness.
Esther Vanderwal
Nov 12, 20192 min read
Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment is the perfect time to review your insurance—and make sure it supports your mental health needs. This post breaks down what to look for in a plan, including deductibles, co-pays, and which providers we accept at Serenity Place.
Esther Vanderwal
Oct 16, 20191 min read
Pillow Talk
Reignite intimacy with a simple nightly ritual. “Pillow Talk” guides couples to face each other in bed, share their day, and deepen connection—without argument, just closeness (and maybe a shared prayer).
Esther Vanderwal
Jul 7, 20191 min read
I Have Become Her
There’s a moment many of us reach—when we realize we’ve become the parent we once didn’t understand. This post reflects on the bittersweet journey of letting go, missing what was, and honoring the legacy we carry forward.
Esther Vanderwal
Mar 10, 20192 min read
Round and Round
Sometimes, staying in the familiar feels safer than facing the unknown—even when the familiar is harmful. This post explores the “merry-go-round” of abuse, fear, and isolation, and how support is key to finally stepping off.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 29, 20192 min read
How Insurance Works When Seeing a Therapist
Yes, therapy is often covered by insurance—but the details matter. This post walks you through what to ask about coverage, deductibles, co-pays, and how to avoid surprises when seeking mental health care.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 8, 20192 min read
When to See a Therapist
You don’t need a diagnosis to talk to a therapist. Whether you're facing relationship issues, life stress, or just feeling stuck, therapy can help. This post clears up common misconceptions about when—and why—to reach out for support.
Esther Vanderwal
Jan 7, 20191 min read
Social Anxiety
Social anxiety can quietly shape how we see ourselves and limit how we engage with the world. This post explores the inner dialogue that fuels it—and how small, intentional steps outside your comfort zone can start to shift the lens.
Esther Vanderwal
Sep 4, 20182 min read
Lunch Time Anxiety
For many students, the most stressful part of a new school year isn’t the classroom—it’s the lunchroom. This post explores lunch time anxiety, why it matters, and how adults can help kids navigate one of the most emotionally loaded parts of their day.
Esther Vanderwal
Aug 24, 20181 min read
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