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Therapists answer…

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

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Patricia O'Laughlin

Psychotherapist & Art Therapist
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I know that people get stuck and want to change. I believe that the happiness of a larger community is dependent on each individual member thriving. To help individuals thrive they need support with challenges caused by anxiety, depression, a learning disability, or ADHD. I worked a variety of jobs with people who were stuck in life, with work, or in relationships before I attended my master's program at Loyola Marymount University. I saw first-hand how stuck individuals impact communities. This created a passion in me to help other people grow. I've been a therapist for 19 years, and I have helped people become unstuck. I have helped people feel better about themselves and the lives they lead.
I have a passion for helping people who have educational and relational challenges due to ADHD & neurodivergence. I can help you if you are struggling in a relationship due to infidelity or divorce or just can't find the relationship you know you need. Many people who come to me are experiencing anxiety, depression, are unsure about how to help themself with stress or procrastination, feelings of instability during a life transition. Therapy is a wonderful opportunity for support, to grow insight, and make change. It's scary when you don't know why things aren't going your way. I have helped people understand their behaviors, feelings, and brain chemistry so they can be happier. We will focus on strengthening your mental well-being and helping you be true to yourself and the people you love. I do individual and couple's therapy.
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Ardenna Downing

Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of experiencing first hand heartache with mental health issues in my family as a child. I was curious as to how and why this happens and wanted to learn how to help. My interest in psychology has not changed since then! My high school guidance counselor's response and support of me when I was experiencing significant grief and loss as a teenager is also the reason I became a therapist. What continues to motivate me is my constant thirst of knowledge, the joy I feel with helping people, and the flexibility of combining art into my practice, which is a passion of mine. I love researching, in depth learning, being creative and am generally energized by engagement with people. My motto is from my undergrad school Virginia Tech, which is Ut Prosim. Ut Prosim essentially means "That I May Serve." I live by this motto. I have worked in community mental health, non profit organizations for domestic violence survivors, hospitals, a police department and in school environments in Chicago, IL and Dallas, TX. I have been a private practice owner since 2019. Individual services begin at $200. I currently do not accept insurance, but am able to provide sliding scale. I also accept FSA/HSA. I look forward to being a part of your journey, whether individually or in a community healing environment!
Are you having difficulty with life transitions such as divorce, infidelity and grief? Are you suffering with anxiety, confusion, flashbacks, inability to spark joy and compassion for self due to trauma? We can work together to develop and execute a plan that makes life more manageable and satisfying. My services are best for individuals and groups who need relief, empowerment, insight, and healing from challenging life events, self destruction and relationships. Most of my clients seek me out for grief, domestic issues such as abuse and infidelity, seeking life balance, and trauma. I have 15 years experience as a therapist and am integrative; utilizing a variety of therapeutic modalities and interventions for treatment. I am a certified EMDR therapist, use Brainspotting, somatic, and creative arts to help people heal. I am also internal family systems informed; encouraging you to explore parts of self for wholistic healing.
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Amy Owens Horelica

MSN, APRN,PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’ve always been passionate about helping others find balance and joy in their lives. Early in my nursing career, I realized the profound impact mental health has on overall well-being, and I wanted to be part of a field that helps people overcome their emotional and psychological challenges. What continues to motivate me is witnessing the transformation in my patients. Every time I see someone regain hope, find peace, or achieve their goals, it reminds me why I chose this path. Mental health care is not just about treating symptoms but understanding the whole person, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help someone discover their path to wellness. My holistic, patient-centered approach allows me to connect deeply with each individual, making the work not only meaningful but also a source of inspiration.
I’m dedicated to offering top-notch care to each of my patients. My goal is to make every visit comfortable, clear, and personalized just for you. With years of experience, I’m here to support your mental health with kindness and a holistic approach. I believe in looking beyond symptoms to understand the whole person, so we can come up with treatments that truly fit you. Your well-being is my main focus, and I’m excited to help you reach your mental health goals. Together, we can create a plan that meets your needs and boosts your overall wellness. As a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I provide a whole person approach to mental health. I will work with you to create a holistic, integrative plan that addresses both health and lifestyle factors to help you reach optimal mental wellness. I work with adults who are seeking professionally guided and scientifically based help for anxiety, depression, mood disorders, ADHD, and trauma.
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Sandra Williams

Therapist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’ve always been deeply drawn to understanding people, not just what they show on the outside, but what they carry quietly within. From an early age, I noticed how healing it could be when someone feels truly seen, heard, and accepted. I’ve faced moments in my own life where I longed for that kind of connection, and now I feel honored to offer it to others. Becoming a therapist allows me to walk alongside people in their hardest seasons, helping them rediscover their strength and build a life that feels more whole and meaningful.
Hi, I’m Sandra Williams—a licensed professional counselor committed to walking alongside individuals as they navigate life’s complexities. My approach is warm, grounded, and deeply person-centered. I believe that therapy is not about “fixing” anyone, but about helping you uncover the strength and wisdom you already carry within. With a focus on creating a safe, affirming space, I work with adults and adolescents dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and life transitions. Using evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness practices, and narrative therapy, I tailor each session to your unique needs and goals. Whether you’re facing something new or carrying something long-standing, you don’t have to go through it alone. Therapy with me is a place where you can exhale, explore, and grow. Let’s begin where you are—with openness, curiosity, and a shared commitment to your healing.