My Journey into Private Practice: Finding Purpose in Helping Others Heal
My Journey into Private Practice: Helping Others Heal
Starting my private practice wasn’t just a career move—it was a deeply personal decision to reconnect with my passion for helping others feel heard and validated. Before venturing out on my own, I worked in a hospice agency where I supported patients and their families during some of the most challenging moments of their lives. While I found fulfillment in providing comfort and guidance, the demands of the job were overwhelming. Managing 10 to 15 patients, along with countless administrative tasks, left me feeling disconnected from what I loved most: building genuine connections and being present for people in need.
The turning point came when I realized how emotionally and physically exhausted I had become. I was losing sight of my passion, and I knew I needed a change. I wanted to create a space where I could focus entirely on my clients, giving them the time and attention they deserved. This realization inspired me to take the leap into private practice, where I could not only regain balance but also pursue my long-term goal of helping people navigate their challenges effectively.
Building My Practice: A Journey of Growth
In August of this year, I officially began building my private practice, Everbloom Counseling LLC. Choosing a name that reflected my vision was one of the first steps. I wanted something that symbolized growth and healing as an ongoing process, which led to the concept of “everblooming.” This name represents the belief that, with time and care, we all have the potential to grow and thrive, even after life’s most difficult seasons.
While the vision was clear, the process of starting a business was a learning experience. Navigating the logistics—like registering my LLC, opening a business bank account, and creating my own forms—was a challenge. In Florida, there are many administrative details to manage, and as someone new to running a business, it felt daunting. Fortunately, I had the support of my aunt, who helped with the legal aspects, and I turned to online resources like Google and Reddit. Hearing from other therapists who had been through the same process was incredibly helpful. These experiences taught me resilience and reaffirmed my commitment to creating a practice that embodies compassion and care.
Specializing in Anxiety, Depression, Grief, and Life Transitions
My decision to focus on anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions was inspired by my time in hospice care. Working closely with patients and their families, I saw the profound impact of anticipatory grief and loss. These experiences often brought about intense emotions, including anxiety, depression, and difficulty adjusting to life changes.
Through this work, I developed a passion for helping people understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors during these challenging times. Supporting clients as they navigate their emotions and rediscover their inner strength has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my practice.
My Approach to Healing
In my practice, I often use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help clients address the root of their challenges. CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns, or cognitive distortions, that contribute to emotional distress. By changing the way we think, we can influence how we feel and act, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being.
I also prioritize creating a safe and supportive space for my clients. Healing is not a one-size-fits-all process, and I work collaboratively with each person to tailor our sessions to their unique needs. My goal is to help clients uncover their strengths, develop practical tools, and gain the confidence to face life’s challenges with resilience.
The Rewards of Private Practice
One of the most fulfilling parts of being in private practice is seeing the progress my clients make. Hearing someone share that their mood has improved or that they’ve become more self-aware of their strengths reminds me why I chose this path. It’s a privilege to witness people grow and transform, and these moments reaffirm my belief that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be.
Advice for Aspiring Therapists and Those Seeking Help
For therapists considering private practice, my biggest piece of advice is to take it one step at a time. Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into small, achievable tasks makes it manageable. Research the requirements in your state, connect with other therapists, and trust in your abilities. Looking back, I wish I had believed in myself sooner.
For those seeking therapy, know that your feelings are valid, and you are not alone. Reaching out for help can feel scary, but it’s also a courageous step toward growth and healing. Therapy is a space where you can explore your emotions, find understanding, and work toward becoming the healthiest version of yourself.
As I continue to grow Everbloom Counseling LLC, I’m excited to support clients as they navigate anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions. Together, we can embrace the everblooming process of healing and growth, one step at a time.
