Why You Feel Emotionally Reactive Even When You Don’t Want To Be

Stephanie Strouth • January 10, 2026
Many people feel frustrated when they react emotionally in ways they do not intend. You may snap at loved ones, feel overwhelmed by small inconveniences, or become tearful or angry faster than you expect. These reactions often come with guilt or shame, especially if you value staying calm and composed.

Emotional reactivity is usually a sign of nervous system overload rather than a lack of control. When stress, anxiety, trauma, or burnout accumulate, the nervous system remains on high alert. In this state, emotional responses happen quickly because the brain is prioritizing protection over reflection. This can make it difficult to pause before reacting, even when you want to respond differently.

Therapy helps reduce emotional reactivity by addressing the underlying stress and teaching regulation skills that calm the nervous system. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, clients work to understand what triggers heightened reactions and learn how to create emotional space between feeling and responding. Over time, reactions often become less intense, and people feel more in control of their emotional responses.

Reacting strongly does not mean you are failing or incapable. It means your system is overwhelmed and asking for support. With help, emotional balance can be restored.

Anchoring Hope Counseling accepts most insurances except Medicaid and Medicare and provides therapy along with mental health medication management when appropriate. Clients benefit from 24/7 access to our wellness app, telehealth options for Virginia residents, and in-person care in Abingdon, Wise, and Pennington Gap. To schedule a free consultation, call (276) 298-5034

Why You Feel Disconnected From Yourself

By Stephanie Strouth • February 24, 2026
There are times when people feel like they are living on autopilot.

When You Feel Emotionally Exhausted for No Clear Reason

By Stephanie Strouth • February 23, 2026
Emotional exhaustion does not always have a single, obvious cause.

Learning to Trust Your Emotions Instead of Fighting Them

By Stephanie Strouth • February 22, 2026
Many people spend years trying to suppress or control their emotions.

Why Small Stressors Feel Bigger Than They Should

By Stephanie Strouth • February 21, 2026
There are times when even minor inconveniences feel overwhelming.

When You Feel Like You’re Always “Too Much”

By Stephanie Strouth • February 20, 2026
Some people grow up feeling like their emotions, needs, or personality are somehow too much for others.

Learning to Sit With Uncertainty

By Stephanie Strouth • February 19, 2026
Uncertainty can feel deeply uncomfortable. Not knowing what will happen next, how a situation will resolve, or what decision to make can create anxiety that feels urgent and overwhelming.

When You Feel Stuck in the Same Emotional Patterns

By Stephanie Strouth • February 18, 2026
It can be frustrating to notice yourself repeating the same emotional patterns over and over.

Why You Feel Guilty for Setting Boundaries

By Stephanie Strouth • February 17, 2026
Setting boundaries can feel uncomfortable, especially if you are used to putting others first.

When You Feel Like You’re Always Waiting for Something to Go Wrong

By Stephanie Strouth • February 16, 2026
Some people move through life with a constant sense that something bad is about to happen.

Learning to Respond Instead of React

By Stephanie Strouth • February 15, 2026
When emotions run high, it can feel like reactions happen automatically.

From Overwhelmed to Empowered, We’ll Help You Get There

You don’t have to navigate life’s chaos alone. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we guide individuals across Virginia, just like you, who are ready to stop surviving and start thriving. Whether you're seeking therapy, mental health medication, or simply a fresh start, we’re here to help you reconnect with your most authentic self and reclaim your peace of mind.


We Have Physical Locations in Abingdon, Pennington Gap, & Wise, Virginia.

You’re Not Alone, Let’s Start Healing, Together.

What If Peace Wasn’t Just Possible, But Within Reach?

When life feels chaotic or heavy, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what you need. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we meet you exactly where you are, without judgment, and help you reconnect with your strength, clarity, and self-worth.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, or simply feeling stuck, we offer personalized care that empowers you to take control, feel grounded, and move forward with purpose.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let us walk beside you.

  • We Accept Most Insurances (Not Medicaid/Medicare)

    We accept Anthem, United/Optum, Cigna, and Aetna (plans through an employer, family member, or marketplace).  If you check your insurance portal to see if we accept your insurance, we may not show up on that directory. We do use insurance for individual sessions, but not for true couples/family therapy. If you wish to check your benefits prior to scheduling, you may complete a profile HERE. Call us at 276-298-5034 if you have additional questions. We also provide counseling at a private pay rate and can check your out-of-network benefits for policies we are not in network with. Unfortunately, Medicaid/Medicare does not have out-of-network benefits and will only pay for in-network providers. We are NOT in network with Medicaid/Medicare. 

  • 24/7 Support with Our Exclusive Mental Health App

    Describe the item or answer the question so that site visitors who are interested get more information. You can emphasize this text with bullets, italics or bold, and add links.

  • Comprehensive Care with On-Site & Virtual Medication Management

    Now offering psychiatric medication services through our compassionate board-certified PMHNP, available in-person in Abingdon and Wise, and by telehealth for clients across Virginia, including Pennington clients. Whether you're exploring treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, you’ll receive personalized care that puts your voice first—never rushed, always respected.

  • A Truly Holistic Approach to Mental Health

    From Soundbed sessions and local wellness discounts to counseling, supervision, and engaging seminars, our services go beyond the norm. We care for the whole person, mind, body, and spirit, so you can experience lasting change, not just temporary relief.

10,000+

Therapy Hours Completed

89%

of Clients Achieved Their Goals

3

Physical Locations In SWVA

1,000+

Clients Recommend AHC

Exclusive Benefits for Your Holistic Well-Being

As part of our commitment to your overall well-being, we offer more than just counseling and medication management. Enjoy exclusive perks like free access to our Anchoring Hope app, discounts with our trusted partners, and savings on transformative Soundbed sessions. We believe in a holistic approach to care, ensuring that you receive a truly unique and enriching experience every step of the way.

Perks to Support Your Journey

We understand that true healing involves more than just the time spent in session. That's why we provide our clients with awesome extras designed to enhance your overall experience. From tools to manage everyday stress to special offers that promote relaxation and wellness, our perks are crafted to meet your unique needs. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we’re here to ensure that your path to well-being is as smooth and supportive as possible. With us, you have access to:


  • In-house mental health medication management services
  • Free access to our Anchoring Hope app for coping skills
  • Special discounts with our trusted partner companies
  • Savings on relaxing Soundbed sessions


Our perks are designed to complement your counseling journey, providing additional tools and resources to help you achieve lasting peace and balance.


Psst! Not a client and still want the app?

Purchase it on the Apple app store!

Remember those “what color are you” quizzes?

Do I Need Counseling?