The Elusive Balance: Motherhood, Military Life & Mental Health Work

Ashley and Morgen sit down with guest Whitney, a licensed clinical social worker and military spouse. Whitney opens up about navigating grad school as a parent, being pushed out of jobs that couldn't accommodate her family, and ultimately learning that no one else was going to prioritize her wellbeing; she had to do it herself.

The conversation dives deep into self-care beyond bubble baths: setting boundaries, peer support, therapy for therapists, and the daily work of staying resilient in a field that constantly asks for more. Whitney also shares candid reflections on life as a military spouse.

Guest Bio:

Whitney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and the unique experiences of military members, veterans, and their families. Trained in EMDR and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP), she incorporates evidence-based approaches, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), to help adults build resilience and create meaningful, lasting change.

Known for combining a warm, down-to-earth style with a love of clinical research, Whitney enjoys translating evidence-based mental health concepts into practical strategies people can actually use. She is passionate about supporting the military community and helping others better understand and navigate anxiety, burnout, ADHD, and trauma so they can move toward lives that feel more grounded and fulfilling. Whitney is also the founder of Sunrise Wellness Collective, a group therapy practice in coastal North Carolina. She believes that great therapy is grounded in both science and genuine human connection.

Outside of work, Whitney enjoys reading, spending time with her family, and taking advantage of coastal living.

To reach Whitney directly, you can visit her website at: sunrisewellnesscollective.com