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Therapists answer…

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

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Amanda Russo

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
My journey into therapy stems from a deep-seated passion for helping others and advocating for marginalized communities, particularly neurodivergent individuals. The satisfaction of making a positive impact on someone's life, witnessing their growth, and seeing them overcome challenges is incredibly rewarding. My motivation stems from a genuine desire to facilitate change, promote mental wellness, and empower individuals to lead meaningful lives. Every client I work with inspires me to continue my work, reminding me of the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Additionally, my personal interests in neuroscience and psychology fuel my ongoing dedication to staying informed about the latest research and therapeutic approaches, ensuring that I provide the highest quality care to my clients.
Hi there! My name is Amanda Russo and I’m the clinical director of Balanced Life Solutions. I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I’ve lived in the Dallas/Fort Worth area my whole life. I went to The University of Texas in Dallas and obtained a Bachelor’s in Child Learning and Development and a Bachelor’s in Psychology. During undergrad, I entered an internship working with autistic children, which spurred my love for working with the neurodivergent community. I then went on to study at The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center where I received a Master’s in Rehabilitation Counseling. It was during my time at UTSW that I discovered my passion for neuropsychological and educational assessment where I worked for both the UTSW Psychological Services Department and the Parkland Trauma Unit. After school, I went on to work in several private practices, local community mental health clinics and public schools. In addition to being a counselor, I’m also a certified teacher in elementary education, special education, and school counseling. I’m extremely passionate about advocating for the appropriate educational services for children with special needs. After working for the schools, I did neuroscience research and treatment for divergent social cognition with the University of Texas at Dallas’ Brain Performance Institute. There, I utilized technology to provide treatment in an online interface, focusing on improving childrens’ ability to understand other peoples’ thoughts and implicit social information. Additionally, I gave presentations around the DFW metroplex focusing on how educators and parents could help foster social cognition. I have expertise in neurodivergent diagnoses including autism, ADHD, and learning differences including gifted learners. Additionally, I have a strong passion for working with neurodivergent women and AFAB individuals as they are chronically under- and misdiagnosed due to their presentation of symptoms. When I’m not counseling, I love spending time with my three children. I also enjoy singing, traveling, and reading books, especially on the topics of neuroscience and psychology.
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Tammy Lee

Therapist - MA, LPC, LPA
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
Lived experiences led me towards a drive for self-development, and then ultimately a career in Psychology. People deserve to be believed in, with their personal worth and potential supported, so that every one of us can live fulfilled.
I wholeheartedly believe in the process of authentic connection. With a multicultural background, I recognizes each person is uniquely multifaceted. My approach to therapy is to meet you wherever you’re at in life, get curious about you, and then serve as YOUR team to journey alongside you. The goal is to provide a safe empathetic space where you are respected and honored, so that internal self-explorations can begin, and to foster creative evolutions towards intentionality, self-discovery, self-empowerment, and healing. The focus is your growth & thriving towards being the best version(s) of yourself that you like to be. With 5 years’ experience in community mental health, psychiatric facility, and prison systems altogether, I have supported youths & adults with assessments, skills training, and therapy for individual, family, and group. I utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, EMDR, & person-centered insights to address a wide range of concerns. People deserve to be believed in, with their worth and potential supported, so that each one of us can live fulfilled, so I work towards breaking the stigma of mental health one conversation at a time. I also enjoy globetrotting, reading, tea, video games, and loves hedgehogs.
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Rebecca Brasch

LMHC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I’ve always carried a deep desire to help people. My first career law enforcement. However, it did not really allow me to really dig in with individuals and help them make changes so they were not continuing the same cycles over and over. I returned to school and pursued my education in behavioral science and then mental health counseling, graduating with my Master’s degree in 2013. I've treated clients in residential treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, community mental health, and in a low to high security, all male state prison. I've worked with individuals from every walk of life.
I’ve always carried a deep desire to help people. My first career law enforcement. However, it did not really allow me to really dig in with individuals and help them make changes so they were not continuing the same cycles over and over. I returned to school and pursued my education in behavioral science and then mental health counseling, graduating with my Master’s degree in 2013. I've treated clients in residential treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, community mental health, and in a low to high security, all male state prison. I've worked with individuals from every walk of life. As a therapist and human being I’m always motivated to learn and grow. One of my passions is Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. I have been trained in and previously held certification in the Equine Assisted Growth & Education model. I also earned my EAGALA Military Services Designation to provide culturally competent services to our military members and their families. Another passion is working with our first responders, giving back to those to give so much daily.
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LaQuindra Carroll

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
My dedication to helping others was cultivated through my academic journey. I earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University and pursued a Master's degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. My extensive education, combined with personal experiences and a passion for holistic healing, positions me as a compassionate and empathetic partner on your path to well-being.
I am LaQuindra, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Supervisor at Eternal Bliss Holistic Therapy. I specialize in a unique blend of traditional therapy and holistic healing, inspired by my personal journey of spiritual growth. This transformative journey encouraged me to acquire an extensive range of certifications, including Life Coaching, Reiki Mastery, Crystal Healing, Hypnosis, and Chakra Balancing. I am here to guide you on your path of self-improvement, be it mental, subconscious, or spiritual, initiating a profound process of healing, empowerment, and enlightenment. Eternal Bliss Holistic Therapy strives to offer you a holistic approach to healing, aiming to heal you from the inside out. With me, you're not just another client; you're a valued individual who deserves to thrive. I am here to equip you with the skills necessary to move forward, fostering the strength within you to overcome any barriers standing in your way. I pride myself on creating a relaxing, friendly environment during my sessions, ensuring you'll feel as comfortable as you would while talking to a trusted friend. Whether you're grappling with trauma, battling depression, navigating relationships, or conquering anxiety, I am here to weather the storm with you. Together, you'll navigate through your struggles and reach the other end, stronger and more enlightened. I am committed to supporting you throughout your ongoing journey. My dedication to helping others was fostered during my academic pursuits. I earned my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Texas Woman's University before advancing to achieve a Master's degree in Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington. My education, combined with my personal experiences and passion for holistic healing, makes me a compassionate and understanding companion on your path to wellbeing.
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Afsanah Yasmine

Clinical Psychologist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I am a first generation immigrant. I am a trans woman. I was raised in a conservative southeast Asian household. I believe my beliefs reflect my own life's journey. In that there has never been a certain point in time where identity was ever allowed to be set in stone. Between acculturating amongst two vividly different cultures- one individualistic and other collective- I do believe indeed that I understand spectrums. It was not until late adulthood I came to understand my own neurodivergence- the words for it do not even exist in my mother language. With the added queerness that was not accepted within my culture- my entire life has been a pursuit of seeking out beliefs around the world. I developed an obsession with mythology, and religious/occult history. I wanted answers about spectrums- if it is the most natural thing about being human- why then are some accepted- and others not? All the unique expressions of being human, especially you, are a natural part of the spectrum.
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