Turning Dreams into Reality: Say hello to the woman behind Always Wellness

A few years ago, I sat with Amy as she received her acceptance into graduate school. The dream was to become a Master of Counseling. The dream was to open a private practice. The dream was to help people find happiness, even in their darkest times. 

And through two years of graduate school, and one year of clinic experience, this month the dream has turned into reality: Always Wellness is here, and to celebrate I sat down with Amy and discussed a few common questions that colleagues and friends and future clients might have about the business. 

This will be the first in a 4 part series in the month of May! 

Introducing, Always Wellness

Why did you want to become a counselor? 

I feel very fortunate to have had some great counselors in my life. I can remember being in high school and going to counseling with my own therapist and just having this ah-ha moment of ‘this is what I want to do.’ Knowing how much help and support I received helped me realize I wanted to give back to others in that same way. 

Finding the right counselor can be hard though, and I recognize that not everyone might have had the same amazing experience with counseling like I did. I always wanted to be a counselor that could help change the way counseling looks or feels for those that might not have had the best experiences. 

Who is your ideal client? 

I work most often with teens and adults who are working through life transitions, or who might feel anxious or depressed. 

What are your hours? 

I typically work Monday - Thursday 9am -5pm but I only see clients for a small window in each day. I offer in person services as well as online video sessions. But I do not offer crisis or after-hours services.

What’s the difference between seeing a counselor at a clinic, versus private practice? 

As far as the skillset of your counselor and level of care you’ll receive, it should be the same. The biggest difference is probably just the amount of turnover. It’s not uncommon for clinics, agencies, or group practices to have a higher turnover in their staff for a wide range of reasons. That might mean that you’re shuffled from counselor to counselor from time to time. In private practice, you don’t get any variability. If you want to work with me, you’ll work with me!

How do people know if they are ready for counseling?   

I mean - how do you ever know that you’re ready for anything? Have you been thinking about it? Wondering what it might be like? The biggest indication that you might be ready for counseling is if you’re thinking about going to counseling! 

I like to regularly remind my clients that decisions are almost never permanent. By that I mean that if you think you’re ready for counseling then reach out to some counselors and try a few sessions. Just because you decide to start doesn’t mean you’re locked into being in counseling for the rest of your life.