Why You Feel Guilty for Saying No

Stephanie Strouth • January 16, 2026
For many people, the word “no” feels uncomfortable or even frightening. You may worry about disappointing others, being judged, or appearing selfish. As a result, you might agree to things you don’t have the energy for, take on responsibilities that feel overwhelming, or ignore your own needs to keep the peace.

This difficulty saying no usually develops over time. If you grew up in an environment where your needs were minimized or where conflict felt unsafe, you may have learned that pleasing others was the best way to feel secure. While this strategy may have helped you cope in the past, it often leads to resentment, burnout, and emotional exhaustion in adulthood.

Therapy helps you explore where this guilt originated and why it continues to affect you today. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, clients learn that boundaries are not acts of rejection but acts of self-respect. As people practice setting limits in healthy ways, they often discover that relationships improve rather than fall apart.

Saying no does not make you unkind or uncaring. It means you are honoring your own well-being, which is essential for living a balanced and healthy life.

Anchoring Hope Counseling accepts most insurances except Medicaid and Medicare and offers therapy and mental health medication management. Clients have 24/7 access to our wellness app, telehealth options throughout Virginia, and in-person services at our offices in Abingdon, Wise, and Pennington Gap. To schedule a free consultation, call (276) 298-5034

When You Feel Stuck Between Who You Were and Who You Want to Be

By Stephanie Strouth • January 18, 2026
There are seasons in life when you no longer feel like the person you used to be, yet you don’t quite know who you are becoming.

When You Feel Like You’re Always in Survival Mode

By Stephanie Strouth • January 16, 2026
You may wake up already feeling tense, move through your day in a rush, and end it exhausted but unable to relax.

Why Emotional Healing Can Feel Lonely at First

By Stephanie Strouth • January 15, 2026
Healing often begins internally before it becomes visible to others. As you start setting boundaries, reflecting more deeply, or changing long-standing patterns.

When You Don’t Trust Your Feelings Anymore

By Stephanie Strouth • January 14, 2026
Some people struggle not because their emotions are overwhelming, but because they no longer trust them.

Why You Feel Emotionally Drained After “Normal” Days

By Stephanie Strouth • January 13, 2026
Some days feel exhausting even when nothing particularly stressful happened.

When Anxiety Shows Up as Irritability Instead of Fear

By Stephanie Strouth • January 12, 2026
Many people expect anxiety to look like worry or panic, but for some, it shows up as irritability.

When You Feel Disconnected From Your Own Needs

By Stephanie Strouth • January 11, 2026
Many people go through life focused on meeting expectations, fulfilling roles, and caring for others while slowly losing touch with their own needs.

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

By Stephanie Strouth • January 10, 2026
Many people feel frustrated when they react emotionally in ways they do not intend

When Anxiety Makes You Question Yourself

By Stephanie Strouth • January 9, 2026
Anxiety has a way of making you doubt yourself in subtle but powerful ways.

When You Feel Lost Even Though Your Life Is “On Track”

By Stephanie Strouth • January 8, 2026
It is possible to have the job, family, degree, or stability you once wanted and still feel lost.

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

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  • 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.


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Purchase it on the Apple app store!

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