personal. compassionate. collaborative.

Hi! My name is Emily Tarby and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Columbia, MO working with clients from all over the state of Missouri. I graduated from The University of Missouri - Columbia in 2020 with a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology and have been providing psychotherapy in a private practice setting ever since. I enjoy offering accessible and flexible client-centered counseling services and opened Em&Co in March of 2024 in the hopes of doing so with the company of other awesome therapists. PHILOSOPHY: I find meaning and purpose in helping people and believe every human being deserves a space to explore deeply with someone truly passionate about wanting to listen and understand. When we have deeper insight into ourselves and our environments, we can work more effectively on making positive change... or learn to be accepting of the things we cannot. I like to encourage the exploration who, what, when, where, why, and how, and ask challenging questions that encourage contemplation and deeper reflection for increased connection and understanding. My goal is to provide you with a therapeutic relationship that allows you to feel comfortable enough to explore each and every part of who you are or who you want to be. STYLE & APPROACH: My approach is integrative and eclectic and I draw from a range of theoretical perspectives to best meet the needs of each one of my clients given their own unique experiences. I provide person-centered, explorative therapy that focuses on helping you identify, acknowledge, and feel your feelings. Along with cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment techniques, I often incorporate elements of mindfulness, psycho-education, existentialism, and narrative therapy, and will use other theories and techniques when appropriate. I always aim to communicate with my clients in a caring and authentic manner, creating a safe and explorative space that feels relaxed yet thought-provoking. I try to provide gentle challenging, honesty, guidance, and support. I like to create an open, non-judgmental space for you to explore. With someone who 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 likes to listen. We'll engage in open and collaborative conversations in order to identify your desires and needs and we'll create achievable goals and objectives to help get you where you want to be. CLIENT POPULATION: I enjoy working with all types of individuals, but have a particular interest in working with adolescents, young adults, and couples struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, relationship issues, career concerns, mood disorders, and more. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to process their thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and beliefs and need someone to help them through the process. I like providing challenge and encouragement though, if you aren't too motivated and need a little push. Let's set up a consultation to see if we could be a good fit!