Welcome to Otterly Connected:

The philosophy behind Otterly Connected:

Our mental health is a reflection of our life stories. Within each of our stories are important people, important places, and important experiences. Accompanying us each step of the way through our story is our nervous system-taking in data, making neural connections, and creating reactions and responses with the main goal of keeping us safe. Whether you are navigating parental adjustment, dealing with separation anxiety with your child, overwhelmed with grief, exploring your identity, stuck in depression, or working on your attachment style-it all traces back to the nervous system. It’s all Otterly Connected.

What do you mean, Otterly Connected?

It turns out, Dr. Cunningham and otters have a lot in common when it comes to how they navigate the world around them. Otters are known in the wild for their social abilities and tendency to live together in groups known as “rafts.” Otters work together to increase safety, hunt more effectively, and to play! Otters know instinctively life is to be done together in connection with one another. At Otterly Connected, attachments are prioritized, connection is key, and safety is critical. Dr. Cunningham believes that when safe and secure connections are formed-mental health improves, goals are achieved, and growth takes place. As a client at Otterly Connected these components are foundational to the therapeutic process. Dr. Cunningham’s goal is for individuals and families to see the therapeutic relationship as otters see one another-a safe space to connect with as you navigate through life.