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Therapists answer…

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

Haley HansmeierH

Haley Hansmeier

Therapist/Patient Advocate
Online & In-PersonAccepting New Clients
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to support people through both their proudest moments and their most difficult challenges. The client–therapist relationship is uniquely powerful—offering a space that can be hard to find anywhere else. I strive to create an environment where clients feel safe showing up exactly as they are, free from judgment, and open to exploring what may be standing in their way. I was especially inspired by the ongoing need for accessible, compassionate mental health support. Navigating life’s most vulnerable moments can feel overwhelming and isolating, and no one should have to face those experiences alone. My goal is to ensure that my clients feel supported in every part of their journey—their pain, challenges, accomplishments, and growth, which is what motivates me to continue.
Haley is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) providing outpatient therapy to teens (16+), adults, and couples. She approaches counseling with the belief that every person has the capacity for growth, healing, and meaningful change. Through a collaborative and compassionate process, she works with clients to better understand the patterns, experiences, and ways of coping that may no longer be serving them. Haley integrates evidence-based approaches to support clients in exploring their internal experiences, strengthening their emotion regulation skills, and developing greater self-awareness and self-compassion. Haley is committed to creating a warm, empathetic, and judgment-free space where clients feel heard, respected, and supported as they work toward lasting and meaningful growth.
SHALA SHARDILS

SHALA SHARDIL

PMHNP-BC
Online & In-PersonAccepting New Clients
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
The Transformation: Seeing a person move from surviving to truly thriving. - The Connection: Building a space where "it's okay to not be okay." - The Ripple Effect: Knowing that when one person heals, it positively impacts everyone they love. - I continue this work because I see the incredible courage it takes to be vulnerable, and I am honored to walk that path alongside my clients.
Hi! I'm Shala, a board-certified mental health nurse practitioner supporting adolescents, teens, and adults in overcoming anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I use psychotherapy, medication management, and LENS Neurofeedback in my practice. I am also a member of the Benzodiazepine Information and Coalition (BIC). For those who need to taper off meds, I use a holistic method which includes psychotherapy, nutrition, and sleep hygiene in addition to gentle tapering from Benzos and other psychotropics based on well-known methods like the Ashton Manual and Maudsley's deprescribing guidelines. I believe in a holistic approach, prioritizing medical ketosis, fasting, and considering medication if needed, always with your informed consent. Our sessions will uncover the root causes of your struggles so we can tailor effective solutions together. You'll find in me an empathetic listener, a knowledgeable guide, and a constant advocate for your healing. I understand the complexities of anxiety and depression. As your mental health guide, I am here to listen, support, and empower you. We'll uncover the hidden causes and build your inner strength, one step at a time. You're not alone in this, and together, we'll rediscover the healing power within you. Contact me today and find the support you deserve!
Jennifer Van BerkumJ

Jennifer Van Berkum

LCSW, LICSW, MCAP
Online & In-PersonAccepting New Clients
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I was born, raised, and have lived in Florida my entire life. My babies are my Pembroke Welsh Corgi and two cats. I have lived experience with mental health and know what it is like to sit on the other side of the couch. I had convinced myself for years that my ultimate goal was to strictly stay within the realm of medical social work. Opening my own private practice was never in the books for me until I started looking for a therapist myself. I found very few therapists who specialized in supporting healthcare workers or who had ever worked in a hospital setting. The need was there, but the options were limited. So, I decided to create the exact space I was looking for and here we are! Ta-da! In my free time, I co-host a podcast with my favorite Texas therapist, Nikita (Yee Haw!). Coffee shops and hot yoga classes are my two favorite places to be.
Hello! I'm Jennifer, a therapist with a casual and direct approach who is passionate about helping overwhelmed professionals achieve emotional balance. As the wife of a physician and someone who has worked closely with RNs, psychologists, and other healthcare professionals, I understand firsthand how emotional exhaustion and constant pressure can take a toll. I specialize workplace burnout, with a strong focus on helping healthcare professionals heal from compassion fatigue. As far as all of the fancy credentials go, I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), an evidenced based eye-movement based treatment for trauma. Additionally, I am a Master’s Level Certified Addiction Professional (MCAP) and have had formal training in Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT).I offer therapy sessions in-office or via telehealth in Florida. Additionally, I offer therapy services in Alabama and Maine (telehealth only).I am a laid-back therapist, so it’s not unusual for me to wear jeans or sandals at the office.