Meet Amy Vorstadt: A Therapist Who Helps You Feel Seen, Not Fixed

If you’ve ever felt like you’re “too much” or somehow “not enough” at the same time, you’re not alone.

And more importantly—you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

In this feature, we’re introducing you to Amy Vorstadt, a therapist at Co & Associates whose work is rooted in helping people feel seen, understood, and supported without judgment.

Starting therapy can feel intimidating.

You might be wondering:

• Will I be judged?

• What if I don’t know what to say?

• What if it’s not the right fit?

This is exactly why getting to know your therapist beforehand matters.

What drew you to this work—and what keeps you passionate about it today?
Amy: What first drew me to psychotherapy was my own experience of feeling deeply misunderstood growing up. As a teenager, I had the opportunity to work with a therapist who truly saw me, and that experience changed everything. Feeling understood created space for me to process my past, make sense of my emotions, and begin to heal in a real way.

That experience stays with me. It continues to drive my work today. I know firsthand how powerful it is to feel seen and supported without judgment. Being able to offer that same space to others is something I do not take lightly. I believe everyone deserves to feel understood, and I am passionate about helping people reconnect with themselves in ways that feel meaningful and lasting.

When a therapist has personally experienced what it means to feel misunderstood—and what it takes to heal—it changes how they show up.

With Amy, you’re not just talking to a professional.
You’re working with someone who understands the impact of being truly seen.

What kinds of clients or experiences do you feel especially connected to or passionate about supporting?
Amy: I feel especially connected to clients who carry the weight of childhood experiences into their present lives, particularly those who have felt unseen, not enough, or like they have had to work hard for love and validation. Many of the people I work with struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, and people pleasing, often feeling like they are constantly “on” or trying to get it right.

I also have a deep appreciation for individuals who feel things intensely. Being emotionally attuned can be both a strength and a challenge, and I enjoy helping clients learn how to understand and regulate those experiences rather than feel overwhelmed by them. If you have ever felt like you are too much or not enough at the same time, you are not alone, and this is a space where that can be explored safely.

If you’re someone who:

• overthinks everything

• feels pressure to get it “right”

• struggles with anxiety or people-pleasing

• carries old emotional wounds into current relationships

…you may feel especially understood in this space.

How would you describe your approach to therapy in a way that someone new could easily understand?
Amy: My approach is collaborative, down to earth, and real. I do not believe therapy should feel intimidating or overly clinical. At its core, it is a conversation where we work together to understand your experiences, patterns, and goals.

I do not position myself as someone who has all the answers. Instead, I walk alongside you as we make sense of what you have been through and what you need moving forward. There is space for depth and seriousness, but also for lightness. Humour can be a powerful part of the process, not just as a way to cope, but as a way to connect and bring relief when things feel heavy.

Therapy isn’t about being analyzed or “fixed.”

It’s about:

• understanding yourself more clearly

• making sense of patterns

• learning how to relate to yourself differently

And with Amy, it’s also allowed to feel… human.

What might someone notice about you in the first few sessions together?
Amy: In the first few sessions, people often notice that I am warm, compassionate, and easy to talk to. I aim to create an environment where you do not feel like you have to filter yourself or get things “right.”

You will likely also notice my sense of humour. Therapy can involve difficult conversations, but that does not mean it has to feel heavy all the time. I believe in meeting people where they are, and sometimes that includes laughter, sarcasm, or simply having a moment that feels human and real.

What does ‘feeling safe’ in therapy mean to you, and how do you help create that with clients?
Amy: Feeling safe in therapy means being able to show up as you are, without fear of judgment, pressure, or expectation. It is both an emotional and physical sense of ease, where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace.

I focus on creating that safety by being consistent, attuned, and responsive to your needs. You are always in control of what you choose to share and when. Some days might involve deep exploration, while others might simply be about getting through the week. Both are valid. My role is to support you in a way that feels respectful, steady, and aligned with where you are in the moment.

One of the biggest misconceptions about therapy is that you need to have everything figured out before you start.

You don’t.

What’s something you wish more people knew before starting therapy?
Amy: Therapy is often very different from what people expect. It is not about lying on a couch or being analyzed after every sentence. It is a collaborative and evolving process that looks different for everyone.

I also think there is a misconception that therapists have everything figured out. We do not. We are human, and many of us have done or continue to do our own therapy. That is part of what allows us to show up with empathy and understanding. You do not have to have everything perfectly articulated before starting. You can come in unsure, messy, or not even fully able to explain what is going on. That is part of the work.

Outside the Therapy Room

Outside of your role as a therapist, what are some things that ground or bring you joy?
Amy: Outside of my work, I am a big animal lover. I have two cats and a dog, and they bring a lot of comfort and joy into my day-to-day life.

I also enjoy baking and spending time unwinding with a good series. There is something grounding about slowing down, being at home, and having simple routines that bring a sense of balance.

If someone is unsure about reaching out, what would you want them to know?
Amy: It is completely normal to feel unsure about starting therapy. Reaching out can feel like a big step, especially if you are not sure what to expect or whether it is the right fit.

What I would want you to know is that the first step does not lock you into anything. It is simply an opportunity to explore whether this feels right for you. You are allowed to ask questions, take your time, and move at your own pace. If calling feels like too much, sending a text or email is a great place to start. Even considering therapy is already a meaningful step forward.

You Don’t Have to Be Ready—Just Willing to Explore
Starting therapy doesn’t mean committing to anything long-term. It just means giving yourself the opportunity to see what support could feel like. If something in Amy’s approach resonated with you, that might be worth paying attention to.

Book a Consultation with Amy Vorstadt today…

• Ask questions

• See if it feels like a fit

• Take it at your own pace

Do I need to know what to say before starting therapy?
Not at all. You can come in unsure, messy, or still figuring things out.

What if I’m nervous?
That’s completely normal—and something your therapist will meet you with, not judge.

What if it’s not the right fit?
That’s okay. The first step is simply exploring.