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Therapists answer…

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

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Jenna Sackman

MHC-LP
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I have always been a deeply emotional, empathetic, and feeling person, which sparked my curiosity and passion for psychology and working closely with others. While working as an Elementary School Teacher at a Title 1 school, I was disheartened by the lack of accessibility to social, emotional and psychological resources and support that my students and families needed. I hold a deep belief that every human deserves accessible mental health care and support, and it became my personal mission to provide it.  
Hello and welcome! I am a psychotherapist who is passionate about working with individuals and families seeking positive change and compassionate support. I specialize in working with diverse clients, especially young adults, who are navigating through life transitions and who are experiencing anxiety/stress, relationship challenges, low self-esteem, depression and grief/loss. I believe that while pain is inevitable and often uncontrollable, suffering is a choice based on how we process, cope and react to challenges that life throws our way. Therefore, I am focused on ensuring that my clients gain the necessary insight, skills and practical tools to learn how to honor and express their pain without allowing it to control them. Holistic and integrative in my approach, I aim to uniquely tailor therapy sessions to each client’s needs by utilizing a variety of techniques that expand insight and encourage emotional, behavioral and cognitive change.
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Terri Giller

Licensed Professional Counselor, Art Therapist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I knew being a therapist was something I wanted to do since the age of 17. I've always been creative, open, and genuinely curious about others. I earned my Master’s of Education in Counseling & Art Therapy from the University of Louisville in 2007. I became a credentialed art therapist in 2011, where I worked mainly with children and older adult. I then shifted to inpatient psych, leading groups where I supported those dealing with depression, anxiety, and other mental health concerns such as addiction recovery or bipolar disorder. I became a licensed counselor (LPC) in Virginia in 2021 after working as a resident in counseling at a community mental health organization serving individuals who have experienced sexual violence. I currently work as an instructor of creative arts therapy at a university in West Virginia (I also have my WV LPC) and still keep a private practice. What motivates me is the privilege of walking alongside clients, wherever they are, and being able to support meaningful changes in their lives.
I believe all people inherently possess the capacity to make life- enriching, meaningful change. Sometimes, we just need extra support to sort through all that life might throw at us in order to make those changes. I provide clients with a safe, understanding, and nonjudgmental environment. Together, we will work to identify barriers, address challenges and implement plans to make meaningful change: to start connecting, managing, and truly living. I work from a person-centered approach, by which you will feel heard, understood, and in control of your progress. I truly believe that a therapeutic relationship grounded in trust is the key to strengthening resilience and facilitating growth. You no longer have to do this alone. It will be my privilege to walk along side you; to explore opportunities to address challenges and achieve goals. I offer a complimentary 15 minute consultation to discuss how we can move forward together.