Meet A Mom – Lei Rhyne

I am a Licensed Professional Expressive Art/Hypnotherapist Therapist in Peachtree City. I specialize in addressing trauma, anxiety, grief, and depression, providing support to both women and men with a focus on fostering empowerment. However, I am also a wounded healer, a foodie, an artist, a daughter, a mother, a grandmother, a former educator, a former psychometrist, a hiker, a traveler, and a barefoot counselor. I help my clients overcome their struggles by diving into their subconscious and releasing what they are carrying through, meditation, exploring emotions and feelings, and expressing them through art, movement, music, poetry, and writing.

 

What called you to become a licensed Expressive Art Therapist? 

As an artist, I have always found ways to incorporate art into my work. Before transitioning to counseling, I utilized art therapy in my role as a psychometrist for assessments. Upon completing my second Master’s in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling, I aspired to become a holistic therapist and initially pursued Art Therapy. However, after attending classes and supervision sessions for Art Therapy, I realized it was too clinical for my liking. A friend introduced me to expressive art therapy. I attended a workshop at EAFI and immediately felt a connection – it was exactly what I had been searching for.

I was given the nickname “The Barefoot Counselor” during my internship. Being a mindful person, I incorporated grounding techniques, like earthing, into my meditation routine. This practice transitioned into my sessions; now, my clients often come in, take off their shoes, and relax on my couch. It not only helps individuals center themselves but also fosters a safe space and cozy atmosphere for them.

Every six weeks, I host a Wellness workshop from 1 to 5, providing a dedicated time and space for individuals to reflect on their emotions and challenges and navigate through them. The upcoming session is scheduled for July 20th.

During the fall season, I organize an 8-week workshop titled “A Journey Back to You!” tailored for women. Juggling multiple roles as a mother, professional, spouse, and homemaker, women often lose sight of their true selves. The Journey Back to You workshops focus on helping women rediscover and nurture the essence of who they are or aspire to be while fostering inner peace and personal growth.

Studies have shown that music, rhythm, and drum vibrations have demonstrated benefits such as lowering cortisol levels, reducing stress, enhancing mood, regulating emotions, fostering community, aiding in pain management, and promoting cellular healing. Hospitals and treatment centers are increasingly incorporating drumming, music, and sound baths to expedite the healing process for their patients. Think about it: we have songs that motivate us and lift us up, and we have songs or music that will lower our mood. Sometimes, that is because of the lyrics, but even in an opera, we can feel the sadness and enthusiasm of the singer without understanding the words.

Thank you! It was quite intimidating to start, but I really enjoy it. I wish I could be more consistent with it, but it’s scary because you’re really putting yourself out there. All of my podcasts are live and unedited. However, I prefer it that way. In a world where AI and Photoshop strive for perfection, I want to present myself authentically, flaws and all.

Engagement with the community is my passion. I take pleasure in bringing people together, creating a sense of community, and reassuring them that even in moments of isolation, they are not alone. Guiding individuals to find their voices and empowering them is something I truly cherish. It’s a humbling experience when people confide in me, sharing their fears and allowing me to assist them in discovering effective coping mechanisms. Being a counselor is more than a job to me; it’s a calling that I find incredibly rewarding.

Become at ease in your body. Identify where you store your feelings of anger, stress, or sadness physically, and then discover ways to let them go. This is crucial because the stress we retain can lead to heart disease and high blood pressure. It’s essential to tune in to your body’s signals and take care of it. Also, allow yourself to ask for help and be vulnerable so you are able to work through the stress, worry, depression, or anxiety. I think sometimes it’s hard for us to ask for help.

The trees – I adore how Peachtree City is embraced by a vast array of trees, resembling an enchanted forest. The community is filled with friendly and kind individuals, and I especially enjoy the convenience of traveling anywhere on the golf cart path. We take pleasure in visiting the lake and the parks. Exploring the local restaurants is a favorite pastime, and on the 4th of July, we treated our granddaughter to the parade and fireworks at Flat Creek. Peachtree City has created an environment where there are several activities to enjoy, and all are conveniently located.

While I don’t watch much TV, I do enjoy watching HoneyJubu’s YouTube channel. She is an Asian woman who creates calming videos of her preparing delicious meals. As for podcasts, my top picks are The Real Kathy Lee, which is fantastic for moms and homeschoolers; say More with Dr? Sheila, I love the mix of humor and cringe-worthy moments, and The Body Aware for its Somatic therapy tips and techniques. I am currently focused on my doctorate in Clinical Education and Supervision, so I haven’t had time for leisure reading, but the last books I enjoyed were Anatomy, and The Lost Apothecary.

I understand that being a mom can be time-consuming, but I’m eager to organize a special event for the moms of Peachtree City. Let’s schedule a time for a soothing sound bath or workshop dedicated just for them. This space will allow moms to take a moment to breathe, relax, and unwind. I’m open to suggestions for the best days and times to make this happen for them!

I look forward to working with you and the moms of Peachtree City!

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For more information about Lei Rhyne and the services she provides, visit lrhyne.com.