For individuals and families impacted by cancer

Providing compassionate, empowering support

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Welcome to a safe and supportive space where your well-being comes first. At Beyond What Was Counseling Services, we believe in meeting you exactly where you are, without judgment, pressure, or expectations.

Whether you’re navigating anxiety, life transitions, or simply need someone to talk to, we offer compassionate, personalized therapy to help you feel seen, heard, and empowered on your journey toward healing.

our services

Helping You Heal, Grow, and Thrive

At Beyond What Was Counseling, our mission is grounded in compassion, empowerment, and the belief that healing happens through connection. Every client’s story matters. Every emotion is welcome. And every step forward, no matter how small, is honored.

Our Mission

  • You’ve been diagnosed with cancer and feel overwhelmed by the emotional rollercoaster

  • You’re in treatment and need a space to cry, vent, process, or simply be without judgment

  • You’re a survivor who “looks fine” on the outside but still struggles inside

  • You’re feeling disconnected from your body or identity and want to reconnect with yourself

  • You need help navigating anxiety, fear of recurrence, or lingering trauma

  • You’re searching for emotional healing after facing cancer head on

  • You want to talk to someone who truly understands the unique challenges women with cancer face

  • You feel isolated—even when surrounded by family and friends

  • You’re carrying grief, guilt, or anger and don’t know what to do with it

  • You’re trying to rediscover joy, confidence, or purpose but feel stuck

  • You’re learning to trust your body again and want support in that process

  • You simply need someone to walk beside you as you navigate this new normal
Let's talk about it

You're in the right place if:

I have nearly two decades of experience in supporting individuals and families impacted by cancer, offering a warm, nonjudgmental space where clients can tell their stories, process their experiences, and reconnect with their inner strength.

I believe in the power of human connection and the healing that comes from being seen, heard, and understood. My approach is rooted in empowerment and compassion, honoring each person’s unique path. Whether a client is facing a new diagnosis, undergoing treatment, or navigating survivorship, I walk alongside them with care, helping them tap into their capacity to adapt, find meaning, and cultivate hope.

Meet Jessica

Let's talk

Jessica M. Kilgore,
M.Ed., LMHC-QS, CCMHC, NCC

Beyond What Was isn’t just a name—it’s a belief that you deserve care for what comes after.

Even after the bell rings, the emotional weight of cancer can linger. I hold space for everything that comes after - the grief, the questions, the slow return to self.

You’ve survived cancer—but that’s only part of the story. Let me help you move beyond what was.

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Caregivers
+ family

cancer
survivors 

new cancer diagnosis

Individuals facing a new cancer diagnosis
Survivors navigating life after treatment
Caregivers carrying the emotional weight of a loved one’s illness
People coping with grief, fear, anger, or isolation
Those seeking meaning and adaptability through life’s hardest seasons

Supportive Counseling For:

Counseling Services

Here's How It Works

Start Moving Forward—Together
When you're ready, we'll schedule your first session and start creating a space for reflection, growth, and emotional healing.

Connect for a Free 15-Minute Intro Chat
Let’s connect briefly by phone or video to talk about what brings you here, answer your questions, and get a feel for how I work.

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Make Sure It's the Right Fit for You
We’ll have an open conversation about your needs, goals, and what therapy might look like—along with clear info about fees and availability.

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What Makes This Practice Different

This practice was created to fill the gap in emotional care for those impacted by cancer. You will be met with compassion, curiosity, and a calm, steady presence every step of the way.

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A practice built on the belief that your story deserves to be heard – and held

Nearly two decades of experience in cancer-related counseling

A personal story that inspired this work – this is more than a profession

Deep understanding of how illness affects the whole person, not just the body

Warm, grounded, and compassionate care tailored to your pace

When my grandfather was diagnosed with cancer, our world changed. We were surrounded by doctors and treatments – but no one asked how we were coping emotionally. There was no space for the fear, sadness, or helplessness we felt.

That silence led me to this work. I became a counselor to be the support my family never had. For nearly two decades, I’ve walked alongside clients impacted by cancer, offering a space where their stories are heard, their pain is honored, and their strength is gently uncovered.

Beyond What Was Counseling exists to bring compassion, connection, and hope into the parts of the cancer journey that often go unseen.

Our Story

At Beyond What Was Counseling, my approach is grounded in connection, safety, and the deep belief that healing happens in relationship – with ourselves and with others. My work is shaped by the teachings of renowned clinicians and theorists whose work honors the complexity of the human emotion, trauma, and attachment.

Jessica M. Kilgore,
M.Ed., LMHC-QS, CCMHC, NCC

Frequently Asked Questions

How long will I need counseling?
That depends on your needs and goals. Some clients find relief in a few sessions; others benefit from ongoing support. We’ll decide together what feels right for you.

What makes your counseling approach unique?
I specialize in cancer-related support and bring nearly two decades of experience to this work. My approach is grounded in compassion, empowerment, and deep respect for each person’s story. I’m here to help you find solid ground again.

Do you support caregivers and family members, too?
Yes. Caregivers carry their own emotional weight. I offer support for anyone impacted by a loved one’s cancer journey.

Do I need to talk about things I’m not ready for?
Absolutely not. You lead the process. I’ll meet you where you are and honor your pace. There’s no pressure – just support, compassion, and care.


How do I get started?
Reach out through my contact page or email to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. We’ll talk about your needs and see if we’re a good fit. No pressure – just a first step toward support.
What is counseling, and how does it work?
Counseling is a collaborative, supportive space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences without judgment. It’s about being heard, understood, and gently guided toward insight and healing at your own pace.

How can counseling help with cancer-related experiences?
Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, or caregiving, counseling provides a place to process the emotional toll of cancer – grief, fear, anger, guilt, and everything in between. You’re not alone. This is your space to feel, reflect, and rebuild.

Is what I share confidential?
Yes. Your privacy and trust are essential. What you say in sessions stays confidential with a few rare legal exceptions (which I’ll explain clearly before we begin).

Do you offer virtual sessions?
Yes. I provide secure virtual counseling.

Do you take insurance?
Please contact me directly to discuss fees. I’m happy to walk you through what to expect.




Contact

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jmkilgore@beyondwhatwascounseling.com
727-222-0532

727-222-0532

jmkilgore@beyondwhatwascounseling.com

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Compassionate counseling for life beyond the diagnosis.

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