Jennifer Buttrick, CMHC
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in the state of Utah, with specialized training in trauma-informed care and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Much of my clinical background is rooted in residential, nonprofit behavioral modification and substance use treatment, where I worked closely with individuals navigating complex trauma, substance use, and significant life disruption.
Over the past several years, I have worked extensively with trauma, PTSD, personality disorders, anxiety, depression, and family and relational dynamics. My clients come from a wide range of backgrounds, including experiences of homelessness, incarceration, foster care and adoption, and across all socioeconomic levels. I am not intimidated by complexity or intensity, and I approach difficult material with steadiness, respect, and care.
Clients often describe me as approachable, easy to talk to, and nonjudgmental. My approach is collaborative and client-centered—I believe you are the expert on your own life, and my role is to walk alongside you as we make sense of patterns, build skills, and create meaningful change. I draw from evidence-based modalities such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT, and I am creative and practical when it comes to identifying resources and tools that support growth outside of session.
I believe deeply in the power of an authentic therapeutic relationship. I have my own lived experience of struggle and of being helped by therapy, and I know firsthand how transformative it can be to feel truly seen, respected, and met with honesty. I strive to offer a relationship grounded in trust, dignity, and compassion—especially when the work is challenging.
I grew up in New Hampshire, came to Utah for college, and moved to Helper in 2021. I identify as bisexual and have been married since 2016. I am affirming, trauma-informed, and committed to creating a space where clients of all identities feel safe and respected. I love the work I do, I take the responsibility of therapy seriously, and I would be honored to support you on your personal journey, wherever it may lead.
Certifications and Experience
Level 2 Gottman Method: Assessment, Intervention, & Co-Morbidities
Utah Trauma Academy: 5-Day Intensive
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Utah Zero Suicide Summit
ASAM Integration: Six Dimensional Assessment
Trauma-Informed Approach in Behavioral Health Settings
Level 1 Gottman Method: Bridging the Couple Chasm
Gottman Method: Couples and Addiction Recovery
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Mind-Body Bridging
Why did I choose to name my practice Canary Counseling?
I chose the name Canary Counseling because I love wordplay, metaphor, and meaning—and because the symbol of the canary reflects the values I bring to this work.
When my spouse and I were house-hunting in Carbon County, we visited the Mining Museum in Helper. Learning about the relationship between miners and their canaries left a lasting impression on me. Canaries were not disposable tools; they were carefully tended, named, and protected by the very men who depended on them for survival. In the deepest, darkest, and most dangerous work, vulnerability and care were essential.
As a symbol, canaries represent hope, awareness, balance, and the courage to use one’s voice. They remind us to listen to our instincts, to tend to what is fragile, and to release what no longer serves us in order to build a future that feels more aligned and whole. These themes mirror what therapy can offer—and the way I aim to practice it.
If this resonates with you, I invite you to reach out for a free consultation at 435-557-0435.