About
Bekah Near
With nearly 20 years of experience, Bekah is a Licensed Creative Arts Therapist and mental health counselor who has supported individuals frozen in grief and trauma. More importantly, she is someone who actively engages in her own therapeutic journey through the arts. Her approach focuses on helping clients create and maintain a healthy, balanced life—emotionally, physically, intellectually, and spiritually.
My Story
Bekah’s personal journey began at 19 when she lost a parent unexpectedly. The arts helped her find healing, leading her to pursue a career in art therapy and counseling. She has worked with diverse populations over the years, specializing in grief, trauma, addiction recovery, and supporting healthcare professionals through burnout. Bekah’s research and work focus on unresolved grief—both large and small—and how it manifests in anxiety, depression, and addiction.
Bekah has worked in a variety of settings, including pediatric hospice, veteran support, and addiction recovery. Her mission is simple: to support individuals in reclaiming balance and resilience, even in the face of profound loss.
Outside of Therapy
When Bekah isn’t helping others heal, she’s out in nature with her therapy dogs or creating her own art. She’s also a mother to two young daughters and enjoys theater, dance, and nurturing relationships with loved ones.
Healing is about loving and forgiving your past self, understanding that you did the best you could with what you had. The arts provide a way to transform your grief and pain into something beautiful. Do not lose hope—there are a thousand beautiful things waiting for you. You have the capacity to create the life you desire.
I look forward to creating with you.
Coolidge & Reagan
Coolidge and Reagan also known as “The Presidents” are fully licensed therapy dogs.
Pet therapy, particularly with dogs, offers profound emotional and psychological benefits in counseling. Dogs provide unconditional love, comfort, and a calming presence, helping to reduce anxiety, stress, and feelings of loneliness. Their intuitive nature allows them to connect with individuals on a deep level, fostering trust and emotional expression.
In therapy sessions, dogs can help clients feel more at ease, encourage social interaction, and even aid in trauma recovery. Studies show that interacting with therapy dogs can lower blood pressure, increase serotonin levels, and promote overall well-being. Whether working with children, individuals facing grief, or those struggling with mental health challenges, therapy dogs offer companionship and support that enhances the healing process.
Experience the transformative power of pet therapy - where a wagging tail brings comfort, connection, and hope.