Restoring Hope Through Counseling

Early in 2016, I heard that it was likely that the agency I worked for would be closing the St. Paul office. This was not because of anything I had done or hadn't done, but was simply a business decision.

I struggled with knowing what to do next.

Since my first car accident shortly after I turned 16, I have experienced anxiety about driving and very much dislike driving in rush hour traffic. Moving my work to the primary office in Golden Valley, to work full-time, would mean a minimum of eight hours of driving and approximately 225 miles each week. This is not my idea of fun. So, I started looking for counseling opportunities on the east side of the Twin Cities. Needless to say, the opportunities that were a good fit were slim. For several of the months I prayed about what I was supposed to do. I did not have peace about leaving my company - I feel like part of the family where I am at. But, I knew I needed to be able to take care of myself and my family when this transition happened.

I don't remember exactly what gave me the exact "umph" needed to take the plunge. Maybe it was a combination of a long-held dream, research, frustration, and concern about the lack of quality Christian counseling in the southeast metro area. I am sure, that there was a good dose of prayer and guidance by the Holy Spirit; because before I really knew what I had done, I had obtained a Federal Tax ID number, and found an old journal article which shared that the "biggest barrier to being successful in private practice was a lack of confidence". Since then, the rest of everything seems to have fallen into place little by little. I am sure there will be difficulties and frustrations, but I know that as I long as I have some cheerleaders and supporters of my dream on my side that I will be successful! For those that have long dreamed of opening their own private practice, and have been hesitant to do so, please seek me out; I will be happy to share what I have learned and the resources that I have gathered.

Because I am not a 'traditional' therapist. If you want to bring your dog, go for a walk, or work-out during your session, I'll be happy to join you. I truly meet my client's where they are at.