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Therapists answer…

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

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

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Patricia Lomando

Psychotherapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
...I have teen memories of fellow students in hallways, curled in on themselves with sadness, and others holding in tears during recess or even on outings. And I remember being drawn to them, sitting with them and failing to understand why they weren't being noticed by "the grown ups", why their struggle was not a priority above the academics that others seemed so focused on. That perspective has never changed, and I have never considered another career.  I believe those who struggle most with adapting to our fast paced, rule-governed, and often judgmental societal structures are those who feel extra, think extra, and understand extra, and that it's those very "extrasensory abilities"  which can result in feelings of isolation and disconnect.   Often neurodivergent, we are the ones often labeled as "atypical", covered with diagnostic labels, and asked to change to fit a "neurotypical standard."  When a close friend took his own life before reaching 18, my path was cemented and every time I share space with someone trying to find their way out of that isolation or darkness, I feel I honor the voices of those who weren’t able to feel seen...weren’t able to find that connection…..and that I feel is my purpose.
Hi:). I am Patricia Lomando, LCSW, RPT-S, and I provide neurodivergent affirming services for children, tweens, teens and adults. I've focused 22 years of my career in special interest areas of depression, autism, anxiety, self-esteem, parent empowerment, and life transitions. I am authentic with parents who are struggling with overwhelm and exhaustion and enjoy working together to find the assertive voice, self regulation and lost identities that sometimes seem to disappear within the chaotic "walking on eggshells" feeling of parenthood. As a Registered Play Therapist Supervisor with certifications in Autplay and Infant Mental Health, I further specialize in supporting children and teenagers to find their voice: navigating the struggles of not fitting in, feeling misunderstood, and finding their way to self-acceptance. Using expressive arts, CBT, and a solution-focused approach, inclusively and across all ages, we can explore mood and prevention patterns, collaborate on coping strategies, and illuminate the sometimes elusive gifts of every neurotype.
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Karen Lippitt

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I started my professional career studying to become a sociologist and professor. The classroom experience was very rewarding, but I was drawn to social service work because I wanted to engage with people on a more direct level. My experiences in social work gave me the opportunity to work with people from all backgrounds including seniors, homeless individuals, survivors of domestic violence, formerly incarcerated individuals, and the LGBTQIA+ community. These experiences were foundational for me and helped me grow and understand myself better. Becoming a psychotherapist has allowed me to collaborate even more closely with people. I enjoy the work of listening, connecting, and being present. I work with individuals on a range of issues, but have a particular interest in complex relational or interpersonal traumas. I also enjoy working with individuals wishing to explore gender and sexual expression, as well as multiple race, class and cultural experiences.
During this time of uncertainty, I would like to help you feel more grounded and connected. I strive to create a therapeutic relationship that is collaborative, open, warm and caring. Together we work towards creating a supportive space where you can better understand yourself and create more authentic experiences in your life. I work with a wide variety of concerns, from intimate relationships to friendships to work/career matters. One of my practice specializations is helping adults from diverse communities process complex trauma and abusive childhood experiences. For more about my background and training please visit my website: beacontherapist.com. I look forward to meeting and connecting with you. Please feel free to reach out for a phone consultation.