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Mary Burrows

Understanding Trauma, One Step at a Time

Mary Burrows, a Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC) in Arizona, provides a welcoming and empathetic space for clients who “have something to talk about” and are ready to embark on their therapeutic journey. Her approach is rooted in understanding that everyone’s life experiences are unique, and she specializes in helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma, anxiety, and personal growth.

Mary believes that 99% of people have encountered some form of trauma in their lives, though she prefers to reframe these experiences as “speed bumps” rather than defining them as trauma. To her, speed bumps are reminders to slow down, reassess, and move forward with care, even when they come unexpectedly and hurt a little more than anticipated.

About Mary Burrows, LAC

Mary’s work recognizes that perceptions and responses to experiences vary greatly. For example, two individuals may face the same event—a car accident—but respond in vastly different ways, with one quickly resuming their routine and the other needing more time to recover. Her practice focuses on normalizing these responses and addressing the lingering impacts that can arise, such as developmental delays, feelings of guilt, or social trauma.

 

She works with clients to explore:

  • Childhood sexual abuse and its complex aftermath, including guilt for “making a fuss,” for telling or not telling, or for wanting and expressing needs.

  • The inner child, often frozen in time, who resurfaces when triggered, causing ripple effects in social interactions.

  • Recognizing and navigating triggers, helping clients break free from repetitive patterns of emotional pain.

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Making Friends with Anxiety

Mary takes a compassionate and practical approach to anxiety, helping clients understand its role and build a relationship with it rather than seeing it as an enemy. Her philosophy emphasizes that perceptions are unique, and by addressing the underlying causes of distress, clients can learn to live with greater self-awareness and confidence.

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A Client-Centered, Strength-Based Approach

Mary provides a non-judgmental and affirming environment where clients feel safe to explore their emotions and experiences. She supports individuals in finding their inner strength, reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, and embracing the process of healing with patience and care.

Whether helping clients navigate “speed bumps” or reconnect with their authentic selves, Mary is committed to fostering resilience and empowering her clients to move forward, one meaningful step at a time.

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Education

  • Master of Science, Rehabilitation Counseling (CORE Accredited), Emporia State University,1989

  • Bachelor of Science, Rehabilitation Services Education, Emporia State University,1988

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Qualifications

  • 35 years of clinical experience

  • Expertise in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism-spectrum disorders, impulse control disorders, relationship conflict, trauma, C-PTSD, PTSD, LGBTQ+ issues, gender identity issues, bipolar disorders, and borderline personality disorder.

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

  • Client-Centered Therapy

  • Strengths-Based Therapy

  • Motivational Interviewing

  • Substance Abuse Treatment

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