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Therapists answer…

Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?

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Jessica McDuffee

LPC
Online & In-PersonAccepting New Clients
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
As a teen, I saw many of my peers struggling without adequate support systems, which left them feeling isolated, alone, and hopeless. Being a peer at that time, I couldn't provide the level of help they needed, which has motivated me to become a counselor so I could be a safe, non-judgmental adult they can turn to. My work with all individuals focuses on building resilience, self-awareness and defining their own values, which then allows them to build self-confidence to take on life's challenges.
Life can feel heavy at times, but even in those hard seasons, healing and change are possible. I help teens and adults to work through anxiety, depression, trauma, bipolar, and major life transitions. Whether you’re a teen navigating the ups and downs of growing up, an adult carrying the weight of past experiences, or a parent worried about your child, you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths, build healthier coping skills, and find clarity in the chaos. In our sessions, you’ll learn practical tools to manage tough emotions while also gaining the confidence to live with more peace and authenticity. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. My approach draws from CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed care, and I tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Therapy isn’t about “fixing” you—it’s about helping you rediscover your resilience and create a life filled with purpose, peace, and authenticity. If you’re ready to take that next step, I’d love to walk alongside you. Reach out today by phone or email, and let’s begin this journey together.
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Kaileen Russell

Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker
Online TherapyAccepting New Clients
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
Growing up both of my parents worked in human services. I was consistently offered knowledge and information about working with various groups, their needs, and the overall need for support within the community. I learned about working with the developmentally disabled, children, elders, and those struggling with mental health concerns all before exploring work with each population myself. This afforded me the opportunity to develop insight and empathy on topics many of my peers may not yet have been exposed to at a young age and fueled my curiosity to learn and understand more. I was therefore fortunate to know the path I wanted to take early on in life and moved toward my goal of becoming a therapist. I continue to find myself intrigued, interested, and motivated in my work to understand, learn, and aid others. I consider it an honor to be invited in to each individual, couple, and family's story so that I may either be a present witness to their emotions, offer a place of comfort for their pain, support their growth, and celebrate their accomplishments.
There is a sentiment that was brought to popularity over the last two years: We are all weathering this storm but are not in the same boat. I have spent a lot of time contemplating this concept. One of the interpretations that sticks with me is that we are all human learning to navigate this life but often impacted by different things in different ways. Some people have yachts while others have canoes, some find themselves being tussled in the ocean while others are blessed to gleam across a lake, and some are fortunate to have life jackets while others have felt they had to learn to float alone. No matter each person’s, couple’s, or family’s circumstances we are all trying to navigate through life. Therapy is a safe and private space that I can hold for you where I may aid you in locating a life jacket, developing a crew, patch your boat, and learn to navigate the waters. Whether you find yourself in tousled waters or navigating a new path I would be pleased to work with you. I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples, and families of all different needs for years.