Meet Jenn Estep, LPC: Helping People Discover That They Are Not "Wrong"

Melissa Londry, LPC
2 days ago
4 min read

At Body and Mindfully Healthy, we know that finding the right therapist is about more than credentials and specialties. It's about finding someone who makes you feel seen, understood, and accepted.

Today, we're excited to share more about Jenn Estep, LPC, who is seeing clients in our Abingdon office and via telehealth throughout Virginia.

An Unexpected Path to Mental Health

Like many therapists, Jenn's journey into the mental health field wasn't something she originally planned.

"It sort of happened by accident," she explains. "I was pursuing a career in the medical field and discovered that I truly didn't like the program I was in, but loved the required psychology classes for that track."

That discovery changed the course of her career.

Jenn switched majors and has been involved in the mental health field ever since, dedicating her career to helping others better understand themselves and navigate life's challenges.

A Therapist for Those Who Feel Different

One of the populations Jenn feels most passionate about helping are people who have spent much of their lives feeling like they don't quite fit in.

"I most enjoy clients who feel 'different' or that they 'just don't quite fit in,'" she says.

Many people carry an underlying belief that there is something fundamentally wrong with them. They compare themselves to others, struggle with self-worth, and question whether they belong.

Jenn helps clients challenge those beliefs and develop a stronger sense of identity, self-acceptance, and confidence.

In her words:

"You might be a good fit to work with me if you have felt unworthy or wrong."

Her goal is not to help people become someone else. Instead, she works to help clients accept themselves as they are while growing into the person they want to become.

What Therapy with Jenn Feels Like

Jenn describes her therapy style in three words:

Active. Empathetic. Open.

She utilizes an integrative approach to therapy, drawing heavily from humanistic and cognitive behavioral therapy while tailoring treatment to each individual client's needs.

"What makes my approach unique is that I truly tailor it to the client and what they specifically need from me," she explains. "I am very down-to-earth and real, which I hope creates a safe space to explore their desires for positive change."

For clients who are nervous about beginning therapy, Jenn understands.

"I understand the initial appointment is the hardest."

During a first session, her focus is on learning about who clients are and what they feel comfortable sharing. She often incorporates humor and genuine curiosity about clients' interests to create a welcoming environment where people can begin to feel at ease.

Challenging the Stigma Around Mental Health

One of the myths Jenn would most like to challenge is the belief that seeking therapy is a sign of weakness.

"Getting therapy isn't a sign of 'weakness.'"

She believes that anyone can benefit from therapy and that asking for help is often one of the bravest things a person can do.

Jenn is particularly passionate about increasing awareness around isolation and depression, especially in today's world where many people feel disconnected despite being more digitally connected than ever before.

She hopes to continue helping reduce the stigma associated with mental health care and encourage more people to seek support when they need it.

Healing Isn't Linear

Perhaps one of the most powerful messages Jenn shares with clients is her perspective on healing.

"Healing is a journey filled with potholes, side quests, random adventures, and broken doorknobs."

While therapy is often portrayed as a straight line from struggle to success, Jenn knows that real growth rarely works that way.

"There is nothing linear about the process of therapy and progress is measured by simply not giving up."

She believes that many of the most meaningful discoveries happen during the unexpected detours and "side quests" along the way.

Growth looks different for everyone, and healing often involves learning things about yourself you never expected to uncover.

Beyond the Therapy Office

Clients are often surprised to learn that Jenn once worked as a professional body piercer.

Outside of therapy, she is an avid reptile keeper, photographer, and car enthusiast.

When it comes to self-care, her ideal activity might not fit the traditional wellness stereotype.

Her favorite way to recharge?

"Attending a hard rock or metal concert, preferably in an unfamiliar city."

And when stress hits during the day?

"Obnoxiously loud music."

Her authenticity and willingness to be herself are part of what makes clients feel comfortable bringing their full selves into the therapy room.

A Lesson from Diamond

When asked who she would most like to have coffee with, Jenn's answer reveals a great deal about how she views relationships, growth, and compassion.

She would choose her dog, Diamond, who passed away several years ago.

"She was my first dog as an adult and I would ask her how she felt her life was, what I could have probably done differently or better, and how I can be a better human moving forward."

Jenn adds: "I have long felt dogs operate on a higher plane of morality so her opinion would be honest."

It's a response that speaks to her deep curiosity, humility, and commitment to continuous growth...qualities she brings into her work with clients every day.

Jenn's Message to You

If you've been considering therapy but feel nervous about reaching out, Jenn wants you to know:

"The hardest part is reaching out; once you have done that it progressively gets easier from there."

Her goal as a therapist is simple:

"To help you accept yourself as you are and grow into the person you want to become."

If you're looking for a therapist who is open-minded, authentic, ethical, and committed to helping you discover your own path forward, Jenn may be the right fit for you.