"I’m Up to Here" — Clearing the Internal Junk Drawer When Life Feels Like Too Much
You know that feeling — when you're up to here.
The dishes, the deadlines, the decisions, the diapers.
Your mind is full. Your space is full. Your heart? Probably a little full too.
We often think of clutter as something outside of us — the overstuffed drawers, the garage you’ve been meaning to organize since last spring. But truthfully? Clutter has a way of creeping inward. Our internal junk drawers get just as packed — with self-doubt, guilt, and stories we’ve been carrying far too long.
I’m Dr. Jackie Kamradt — clinical psychologist, certified yoga instructor, professional organizer, and most recently… a new mom. My life and work revolve around helping people find clarity in the chaos — in their homes, in their schedules, and especially in their minds. And recently, I had to practice what I preach — big time.
When Your Junk Drawer Starts Overflowing
A few weeks ago, I was invited to speak at an event about my professional work, personal struggles, and insights for helping others clear their internal clutter. It was a meaningful opportunity — the kind I’d usually say yes to immediately — but this time, I hesitated.
Becoming a mom added new layers to my internal junk drawer. I was navigating a mix of passion for my work… and crushing guilt about being away from my daughter for a couple of nights.
Then, as if on cue, just one hour into my drive to the event, I got a call from my husband.
“She’s crawling!” he said, bursting with excitement.
My daughter had taken her very first crawl — and I wasn’t there.
Cue the flood: guilt, grief, the weight of missing a moment I’ll never get back.
Avoidance Begets Avoidance… But I Chose Different
In the past, I might’ve buried those feelings under a mountain of over-preparation. Rehearsed every word. Made slides. Tried to make it “perfect” to distract myself from the discomfort.
But this time, I didn’t.
Instead, I asked myself: What’s my intention?
I thought about the message I wanted to share. I reminded myself that presence, not perfection, is the goal — for my clients, for my daughter, and for myself.
So I took a breath… and I showed up. Not 30 steps ahead. Not with a script. Just present — messy thoughts, full heart, and all.
And it worked.
Because what people connect to isn't our polish — it's our presence.
Clearing Internal Clutter Isn’t About “Fixing” Yourself
Whether I’m guiding someone through psychotherapy, teaching a yoga class, or helping them declutter their space, the same truth applies:
Our junk drawers — internal and external — aren’t a sign we’re broken.
They’re a sign we’ve been coping, surviving, and carrying more than we need to.
Avoidance is understandable, especially when you're exhausted. But avoidance begets more avoidance. And clutter (mental or physical) grows quietly in the corners until it starts to take over.
If You're Feeling Up to Here — You're Not Alone
If you’re in a season of overwhelm — if you’re “up to here” and don’t know where to start — I see you. And I can help.
I offer services that meet people exactly where they are, including:
Psychotherapy and coaching (virtual and in-person)
Mind-body workshops, yoga, hypnotherapy, and meditation
Professional organizing rooted in practical and philosophical tools
Courses and events to help you turn your overthinking into a superpower
Want Support Right Now?
Here are a few of my most-loved digital tools designed to meet you exactly where you are:
🧘♀️ Lighten Up!
A short, self-paced workshop to help you clear both physical and mental clutter in realistic, accessible steps. Perfect for when you don’t know where to begin but know you need to.
🍼 Postpartum Peace Journal
A gentle, guided digital journal created especially for new moms navigating all the emotions, identity shifts, and exhaustion that come after baby arrives. Because you deserve your space, too
💛 Mind-Body Motherhood
A calming digital toolkit that bridges the emotional and physical experiences of motherhood—perfect for regulating stress, re-centering yourself, and feeling more connected.
🧠 Decisive Thinking
This tool helps you get unstuck when you're spinning in indecision. Use it when you’re overwhelmed by choices and need a grounded, intuitive process to move forward.
🔗 Explore more at justdrjackie.com
