Allison Russell  LPC

My path to becoming a therapist was shaped by a combination of personal experiences and a deep desire to help others. Growing up, I was always the person friends and family turned to when they needed someone to listen. I found great fulfillment in being able to support and comfort them, and this planted the seed for my future career. During my graduate studies, I completed internships in a variety of settings, residential, community crisis, and community mental health centers. Each of these experiences taught me something new and helped me to develop a well-rounded approach to therapy. I was particularly drawn to community mental health because of the opportunity to work with a diverse group of people facing a wide range of challenges. What truly inspired me to choose this profession was the belief that everyone deserves to be heard and supported, no matter their background or circumstances. I wanted to be someone who could help people navigate their difficulties and find a path to healing and growth. The resilience and courage of the people I have worked with over the years continue to inspire me every day.

My personality plays a significant role in shaping my approach to therapy. Being personable and having a good sense of humor are two traits that I bring into my sessions, and they greatly influence how I connect with and support my clients. Being personable helps me build strong, trusting relationships with my clients. I genuinely enjoy getting to know people, hearing their stories, and understanding what makes them unique. This natural curiosity and warmth make it easier for clients to open up and feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. I believe that a strong therapeutic relationship is the foundation for effective therapy, and my personable nature helps to create that safe and welcoming space where clients can be themselves without fear of judgment.

If there's one thing I wish people knew about the therapy experience, especially those who might be hesitant to try it, it's that therapy is a safe, non-judgmental space where you can be completely yourself. Many people have misconceptions that therapy is only for those with severe problems or that they'll be judged for their thoughts and feelings. In reality, therapy is for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, improve their mental health, or navigate life's challenges. It's also important to know that therapy is a process, and it's okay to take it at your own pace. You don't have to have everything figured out before you start; therapy is about the journey of discovery and growth. If you're feeling hesitant, that's completely normal, and taking that first step can be incredibly empowering.

• Virginia, Licensed Professional Counselor, 0701012271

I've spent a significant portion of my career working in community mental health, which has been incredibly enriching and formative for me as a therapist. In this setting, I had the opportunity to work with a broad spectrum of people from all walks of life, dealing with a wide variety of mental health issues. This experience really deepened my understanding of how mental health affects every aspect of a person's life. During my time in community mental health, I worked extensively with individuals dealing with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I learned a lot about how these conditions can be interconnected with everyday stressors like job loss, family conflicts, and financial difficulties. Working in this environment allowed me to develop a compassionate, non-judgmental approach and to fine-tune my skills in helping clients find practical solutions to their problems. One of the most rewarding aspects of this work was helping people who often felt marginalized or unheard. I found it incredibly fulfilling to provide support and to witness the strength and resilience that people can show even in the toughest circumstances. It was also a place where I honed my skills in crisis intervention, helping people navigate some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Overall, my work in community mental health has given me a strong foundation in understanding the complex and varied nature of mental health issues. It has also instilled in me a deep commitment to providing compassionate, client-centered care. This experience shapes everything I do in my practice today, as I strive to help each person I work with feel understood, supported, and empowered to make positive changes in their lives.