Her Story
About Emma
Emma Hurst serves as a Clinical Intern at The Renfrew Center, where she specializes in eating disorder therapy within structured intensive outpatient and partial hospitalization programs. In this role, she manages an individual caseload, facilitates psychoeducational groups on topics including body image, personal values, and trauma, and provides support to patients during meals. Her clinical experience reflects a commitment to helping individuals navigate complex mental health challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care.
Hurst began her career in the mental health field in 2024 after earning a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. Prior to joining The Renfrew Center, she gained valuable experience working as a Mental Health Technician at a behavioral health hospital and as a Behavioral Specialist Consultant at Reaching Beyond Limits in Kingston, Pennsylvania, where she supported clients through Applied Behavior Analysis-based interventions focused on emotional regulation, adaptive coping skills, and positive behavioral development.
Hurst is pursuing a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Marywood University, with an anticipated graduation in December 2026. She maintains memberships in the American Psychological Association and the American Counseling Association. Hurst attributes her professional growth and success to the encouragement of her family, friends, and educators, as well as her passion for the mental health field. Guided by values of kindness, respect, advocacy, continuous growth, curiosity, and creativity, she is committed to advancing her clinical expertise and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Emma
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my passion for the mental health field and my commitment to continuous growth and learning. At the same time, I recognize that I would not have come this far in my education and professional journey without the unwavering support and encouragement of my family and friends. Their guidance, belief in me, and encouragement have played an invaluable role in helping me pursue my goals and continue developing as a mental health professional.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to pursue work that you genuinely love. When you are passionate about what you do, your career becomes more than just a job; it becomes an opportunity for personal growth, fulfillment, and meaningful impact. I believe that doing what you love provides the motivation to overcome challenges, continue learning, and remain committed to making a difference in the lives of others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the mental health field is to stay committed to their goals and keep pushing forward, even when the journey becomes challenging. If you are entering this profession, it is likely because you genuinely want to make a difference in the world, and that sense of purpose can help carry you through difficult times. The work may not always be easy, but it is incredibly rewarding, and the impact you can have on the lives of others makes the perseverance worthwhile.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges I face in the mental health field is imposter syndrome, particularly at times when I question myself because of my age and level of experience. However, I also view this challenge as an opportunity for personal and professional growth. It encourages me to continue learning, seek guidance from experienced professionals, build confidence in my abilities, and embrace new opportunities that allow me to grow as a clinician.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me, both professionally and personally, are kindness, respect, love, loyalty, and advocacy. I also value continuous growth, maintaining a sense of curiosity, and embracing creativity. These values guide how I interact with others, approach my work, and continue developing both personally and professionally.
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