Jason Pipkin, Student Intern
Clinical Intern
ME AS A PERSON
Hello! I’m Jason and my pronouns are he/his. As a clinical intern who, after much soul-searching, chose counseling as my second career, I find it deeply meaningful to sit with others and pursue healing together. I was a professional musician in NYC and Nashville for 12 years, and through that career I realized how much I love to listen and create a space for people to encounter their emotions. I believe that human connection is one of the most powerful healing forces in the universe, and that therapy, when done well, is a gateway to deeper connection with oneself and others.
In my free time, I love reading, writing, traveling, learning languages, coffee, and playing instruments. I also enjoy spending time with my partner, our 7-year-old, and our Bernese Mountain dog, Rufio. I am honored to welcome all kinds of people from all walks of life into my sessions, and that includes you, wherever you happen to be right now!
MY THERAPEUTIC APPROACH IS:
Person-centered
Affirming
Collaborative
Authentic
Non-judgmental
Empowering
Holistic
Empathetic
Non-directive
Grounding
Trauma-informed
Curious
Comfortable with silence
I am dedicated to providing compassionate, person-centered care. You are the expert in your own life, and your expertise goes beyond thoughts and ideas: you are also the expert in your emotions, body, and sense of meaning. The work we do in therapy will help you to uncover and trust that inner knowing.
Some common issues that I specialize in:
Anxiety: I can help you understand the roots of your anxiety and work towards strategies that promote relief and resilience. We’ll explore how anxiety impacts your life and collaborate on approaches that align with your personal values and experiences.
Depression: Depression can feel isolating and overwhelming, but together, we’ll work to uncover the underlying factors contributing to your symptoms and develop a path towards healing and rediscovery of joy and purpose.
Religious Trauma: although religious beliefs and experiences can be a source of strength and resilience, they can also be a source of physical, mental, emotional, and social distress. I offer a non-judgmental space to process these experiences and find healing. I respect your beliefs and am prepared to support a safe integration or release of spiritual elements in your life.
Identity Issues: if you’re experiencing dissonance between your current self and your ideal self, I am ready to walk with you on that journey. During our time together, I will help you gain clarity on where you are and where you want to go.
My training as a clinical intern uses a model called “Internal Family Systems.” IFS is a highly effective therapeutic model that fosters knowledge and acceptance of all your diverse internal “parts.” As strong emotions emerge in therapy, we will work to locate them in your body, and eventually introduce all your parts to the sturdy leadership of your core self. In addition to IFS, I utilize existential and person-centered theories, mindfulness practices, attachment theory, and polyvagal exercises. I’ve been influenced by therapists and thinkers including Carl Rogers, Irvin Yalom, Esther Perel, Julia Cameron, and Susan Cain. And I wept like a tiny baby at the Mr. Rogers documentary, “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?”
MY TRAINING
I am a clinical intern operating under the supervision of Cadey Phipps (TN license number 1348). I am currently working to complete a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Walden University. My coursework has covered theory, ethics, multicultural issues, trauma, psychopharmacology, addictions counseling, and more. I have also earned a certification in Religious Trauma Studies from the Global Center for Religious Research. My Bachelor of Arts degree in East Asian Studies was completed at the College of William and Mary. I am a lifelong learner, and I try to approach each person I meet with openness and gratitude for their unique expertise.
I am proud to welcome and celebrate clients of any age, ethnicity, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, disability status, religion, and neurodivergence.
PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS
American Counseling Association (ACA)