Why You Feel Numb Instead of Emotional

Stephanie Strouth • January 2, 2026
Not everyone experiences emotional distress as crying or intense sadness. For many people, emotional pain shows up as numbness. You may feel disconnected, flat, unmotivated, or indifferent about things that used to matter. It can feel as if your emotions are behind glass where you cannot quite reach them. This numbness can be confusing and unsettling, especially if you believe you are “supposed” to feel more.

Emotional numbness is often a protective response. When the mind has been overwhelmed for too long, it sometimes shuts down emotional awareness to prevent further overload. This response may develop after stress, trauma, burnout, grief, or long periods of pushing through without rest. The numbness is not evidence that you do not care. Instead, it shows that your system has worked hard to protect you from feeling more than it believed you could tolerate.

Therapy offers a safe place to understand numbness without judgment or pressure. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we help clients explore what their mind and body are protecting them from and how numbness developed as a coping strategy. As safety and emotional awareness slowly return, people often begin experiencing feelings again in a more manageable and grounded way. The goal is not to force emotion but to gently reconnect with it.

Feeling numb does not mean you are broken. It means your nervous system is tired and has been asking for relief. With time and support, connection to your emotions can return in a way that feels safe rather than overwhelming.

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

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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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