Pride is More Than a Month – Living Authentically Year-Round
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Pride is More Than a Month – Living Authentically Year-Round

As Pride Month ends, it’s important to remember: Pride is more than a month. It’s about living with self-compassion, celebrating joy, and creating affirming spaces year-round. In this post, I share tips and resources to keep the spirit of Pride alive – no matter the season.

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Coming Out in the Holler: Navigating Your Truth
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Coming Out in the Holler: Navigating Your Truth

Coming out can be a beautiful, life-changing experience – but in rural areas like Eastern Kentucky, it can also feel complicated and risky. In this blog post, I’m sharing tips for balancing safety and authenticity, plus resources and gentle reminders that there’s no single way to come out. Your truth matters – and you deserve to feel safe as you share it.

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Celebrating Pride, Healing Together: The Power of Community
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Celebrating Pride, Healing Together: The Power of Community

Pride is about more than rainbows – it’s about community. In this post, I’m talking about how LGBTQ+ folks in small towns and rural areas can find (or build) connection and mutual support, even when resources are limited. Explore tips, resources, and a personal reflection on why community matters here in the holler.

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Queer Resilience: Finding Strength in the Face of Challenges
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Queer Resilience: Finding Strength in the Face of Challenges

During the second week of Pride Month, we’re taking a close look at queer resilience – how LGBTQ+ folks have historically and personally found strength even when the odds were against them. In this post, you’ll find practical tips from ACT and DBT for managing tough emotions, a tribute to the legacy of Stonewall, and a spotlight on the power of rural queer support networks.

💜 Remember: you’re not alone – and we’re here to remind you of that. Check out the full blog for resources and a personal reflection from the holler!

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Pride in the Holler – Honoring Our Roots, Lifting Our Voices
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Pride in the Holler – Honoring Our Roots, Lifting Our Voices

June is here, and with it comes a chance to celebrate Pride in the holler. At Counseling in the Holler, we’re dedicated to lifting up LGBTQ+ voices and making sure everyone feels safe, seen, and valued – no matter how remote our communities may be. In this post, we’re honoring our roots, sharing resources, and talking about what it means to be proud and visible in Eastern Kentucky.

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Building a Supportive Community for Mental Well-being
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Building a Supportive Community for Mental Well-being

In my final post for Mental Health Awareness Month, I highlight the importance of connection and belonging. A strong support system can make all the difference for those navigating mental health challenges. This week’s blog explores how supportive communities enhance resilience, reduce isolation, and foster healing.

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Understanding the Link Between Mental and Physical Health
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Understanding the Link Between Mental and Physical Health

In Week 4 of Mental Health Awareness Month, we explore how mental and physical health are fundamentally connected. From how stress impacts the body to how chronic illness can influence mental wellness, it’s clear that holistic care is key. This week’s blog dives into why integrated health approaches matter and how you can take small steps to support your whole-person wellness.

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Bringing Hope to Those Living with Serious Mental Illness
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Bringing Hope to Those Living with Serious Mental Illness

During Week 3 of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re focusing on individuals living with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) and Serious Emotional Disturbance (SED). These conditions can significantly affect daily functioning, but with early intervention, person-centered care, and a supportive community, recovery is possible. This week’s blog explores how we can reduce stigma, offer meaningful support, and empower those on the journey to wellness.

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Laying the Groundwork for Lifelong Mental Wellness in Children
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Laying the Groundwork for Lifelong Mental Wellness in Children

Strong mental health in childhood lays the foundation for lifelong well-being. As we continue Mental Health Awareness Month, my latest blog explores how parents, educators, and communities can support children’s emotional development. From teaching coping skills to recognizing early signs of concern, we all have a role in building resilient futures for our youth.

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Prioritizing Mental Health for Our Aging Population
Nikki Layne, LPCC Nikki Layne, LPCC

Prioritizing Mental Health for Our Aging Population

As we begin Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s time to spotlight the emotional well-being of older adults. With longer lifespans come unique mental health challenges—grief, loneliness, health issues, and life transitions—that are often misunderstood or overlooked. Many older adults suffer in silence, but they don’t have to.

In my latest blog, I explore how you can recognize signs of mental health concerns in aging loved ones, foster open dialogue, and support their emotional well-being through connection and care.

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