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Therapists answer…

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

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Morgan Rudd

LCSW
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I have always found a deep love for helping others. I knew from a young age, being in a helping field was where I was meant to be. Social Work came so naturally. I love talking with people; exploring problems, feelings, concerns, and questions about their lives. I love helping change perspectives and focusing on bigger pictures rather than getting caught up in the small details- which we all do! It's an honor to be able to walk with others through their journeys and knowing that while we can't change everything, we can always change our viewpoint which can lead to healing and growth.
My counseling style is warm, empathetic, integrative, and person-centered. I believe that a therapeutic relationship should be a collaborative one in which you and I work together to discover creative strategies, solutions and, even humorous insights to help you reach your goals. My role is to be there to guide you, encourage you, maybe even challenge you if I feel you are unknowingly allowing obstacles to stand in your way. I draw on multiple treatment modalities to guide clients in identifying strengths and developing treatment plans that accomplish their goals. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, PTSD, cancer and other terminal diagnosis, grief/loss and major life changes including growing older and adjusting to new normals. There is no better time to prioritize your mental health! Send me an email to schedule an introductory call.
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Emily Cassidy

Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a counselor because of my deep-seated desire to support and empower individuals in need of guidance and healing. Having worked in various healthcare settings, I witnessed the profound impact of mental health struggles on individuals and communities. This inspired me to pursue a career where I could make a meaningful difference in people's lives by providing compassionate and effective therapy. What motivates me to continue is seeing the transformative journey of my clients as they overcome challenges, develop resilience, and thrive in their lives. Being a part of their growth and witnessing their resilience fuels my passion for therapy every day.
Welcome! I'm a passionate healthcare professional dedicated to providing compassionate and effective telehealth therapy. With a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Mindfulness, I offer supportive counseling services for adults and older adolescents. My experience in counseling and case management has equipped me with the skills to provide impactful mental health therapy, ensuring my clients receive the care and support they deserve. I see clients almost exclusively during morning hours, up until noon (CST) and can easily accommodate people with non-traditional schedules, since I have appointments as early (or late!) as 1am CST. Just like a good workout, a therapy session first thing in the morning can help you start your day off right. In addition to counseling, I've been instrumental in developing innovative strategies for Medicaid Special Needs programs, emphasizing quality assurance and improvement in Illinois. My cross-functional leadership has enabled me to work collaboratively with community partners, optimizing program outcomes and enhancing quality of care. I hold certifications as a Case Manager (CCM) and Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), which reflect my commitment to providing holistic care. I'm dedicated to meeting my clients where they are at, and helping them to achieve their mental health goals, without judgement. My goal is to help you navigate your health journey with expertise, empathy, and unwavering support. Let's work together towards your well-being.
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Caitlin Hill

Passionate counselor experienced working with trauma, anxiety and depression.
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
As a therapist, I was drawn to this profession by a deep-seated desire to support individuals in navigating life's challenges and empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. Witnessing the resilience and growth of my clients is incredibly rewarding and fuels my passion for this work. What motivates me to continue is the profound impact therapy can have on people's lives. Seeing my clients make positive changes, gain insight, and develop healthier coping strategies reaffirms my commitment to this field every day. Additionally, the ever-evolving nature of psychology and therapy keeps me engaged and eager to continue learning and growing as a clinician. Ultimately, the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others and the continuous personal and professional growth I experience through this work drive me to continue on this path.
Hello! I'm Caitlin Hill, your dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for empowering individuals and families to overcome life's challenges. With a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and a rich background in psychology from Kent State University, I bring a wealth of knowledge and compassionate care to my practice. My journey began in the military where I served as an active-duty officer, honing my leadership skills and learning the value of resilience. This experience has been instrumental in understanding the unique needs of military families, which I've addressed in professional conferences, highlighting virtual interventions for postpartum depression and anxiety among military spouses. I specialize in supporting adults with severe mental illnesses and co-occurring disorders. My approach is collaborative and tailored to each individual, utilizing evidence-based techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Solution-Focused Therapy. Whether you're a veteran seeking support or anyone looking to build healthier coping strategies, I'm here to guide you through your journey with empathy and expertise. Outside the counseling room, I have trained in EMDR therapy as well as Level 2 Natural Lifemanship for Equine Assisted Psychotherapy – because sometimes healing goes beyond traditional methods. Let's connect and start crafting your path to wellness together. Your story matters, and I'm here to listen.
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Jerica Foxworth

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help people navigate life’s difficulties and empower them to find their own path to healing. What motivates me is seeing the positive impact that compassionate care can have on someone’s life. Every step my clients take toward mental wellness inspires me to continue this important work.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, board-certified by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, with a Master’s in Nursing. With five years of experience in psychiatric nursing, I specialize in providing compassionate and comprehensive care to children, teens, and adults navigating crisis situations. My approach centers on creating a safe, supportive environment where individuals can explore their challenges, develop coping strategies, and take control of their mental health. I am passionate about empowering my clients, equipping them with the tools they need to manage conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, mood disorders, bipolar disorders, ADHD, and schizophrenia. Using evidence-based treatment like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I strive to inspire hope and help my patients achieve mental wellness. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, reading, and spending time with my family, which helps me maintain a balanced and fulfilling life. If you are seeking support during a difficult time, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can work toward clarity and find a path forward.
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Yolanda Cardona

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner because of my passion for helping others and making a positive impact on their lives. Throughout my career, I have witnessed the profound difference that compassionate and personalized care can make in the lives of my clients. My motivation stems from the desire to continue learning, growing, and evolving as a healthcare professional, ensuring that I am equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet the unique needs of each client. I am inspired by the resilience and strength of my clients, and I am committed to supporting them on their journey to a brighter tomorrow.
Welcome! I'm Yolanda Cardona, a dedicated and compassionate board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC). With a heart for serving those who've served us, I currently provide psychiatric mental health services to veterans in Florida. My journey in healthcare began in 1997, and since then, I've gained extensive experience across various settings including intensive care, emergency departments, private practice, labor and delivery, and home care. At Optum since 2015, I've been making house calls and managing complex care for chronic conditions, ensuring medication management is seamless and collaborating closely with treatment teams to create comprehensive care plans. My goal is always to enhance my professional knowledge to align with the unique needs of each client. I take pride in my ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking patients, breaking down language barriers to provide inclusive care. Education is also a cornerstone of my career; I achieved my post-master's certification as a PMHNP-BC from Liberty University with honors and hold an MSN from Barry University, where I graduated at the top of my class. Outside of my clinical roles, leadership has always been a part of my life—whether it was managing a team or leading projects that make a difference. I believe in holistic care that addresses every aspect of a patient's wellbeing, and I'm here to support you on your journey to better health. Let's collaborate for your brighter tomorrow.
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Yanet Ferro

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
My journey in nursing began with a passion for patient care, which evolved into a focus on mental health. Witnessing the positive impact of tailored treatment plans and empathetic support on patients' lives motivates me to continue. The progress and resilience of my patients inspire me to advocate for their mental health and strive for continuous improvement in my practice.
Welcome to my professional profile! I'm a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with a passion for delivering top-notch patient care across various healthcare settings. My journey in nursing began as a Registered Nurse, where I honed my skills in surgical patient care and mental health treatment, always focusing on ensuring safety and positive outcomes for all my patients. As a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, I've had the opportunity to perform detailed psychiatric evaluations and collaborate closely with psychiatrists to craft tailored treatment plans. Whether it's through medication management or coordinating with other healthcare providers, I am committed to addressing the comprehensive needs of my patients. Embracing a holistic approach to wellness, I believe in continuous learning and actively participate in research, quality improvement projects, and community organizations. As your healthcare provider, I'm here to advocate for your mental health, educate you on your options, and support you every step of the way towards achieving your best health outcomes. Let's work together on your journey to mental health wellness!
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Brennan Lehotay

Brennan Lehotay, MSN, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help individuals navigate their mental health struggles and achieve lasting wellness. I am motivated by the positive impact I see in my clients’ lives when they make progress. Their resilience and transformation inspire me to continue providing compassionate care.
Thank you for considering! My name is Brennan and I am a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I am a psychiatric provider specializing in medication management and add-on therapy for common psychiatric disorders like anxiety, depression, panic, PTSD (and complex PTSD), ADHD, Autism, Eating disorders, and many more. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, while also specializing in LGBTQIA+ issues, polyamory, ENM, and am kink-affirming. My experience includes working in outpatient psychiatry settings, where I provide therapy and medication management. I've had the pleasure of working with diverse populations in various states, including Ohio, Colorado, New York, Kansas, and West Virginia. Currently, I am the owner and sole provider of Sana Mente Behavioral Health LLC, an outpatient tele-health psychiatry practice. My mission is to provide compassionate, patient-focused care and to ensure each individual receives the personalized attention they deserve. With being a psychiatric professional since 2018 as a bedside nurse and Prescriber, I bring both clinical expertise and a focus on systemic improvement to my practice. My goal is to assist you in reaching your goals, not telling you what to do. My focus is breaking the sterotype of psychiatry and treating every person with respect and compassion, working with you on your individual treatment goals. I'm committed to supporting your mental health journey with empathy and professionalism. Treatment philosophy: Sana Mente Behavioral Health LLC provides inclusive, kink-affirming, and trauma-informed outpatient psychiatry, emphasizing holistic care that integrates therapy with medication support. The practice prioritizes individualized treatment plans that respect cultural, sexual, and identity diversity, with a focus on addressing underlying trauma rather than solely managing symptoms. Therapy is the cornerstone of treatment, while medication is used thoughtfully and minimally. Through trauma-focused and affirmative therapies, combined with collaborative care, Sana Mente empowers patients to heal and thrive, promoting mental and emotional well-being with a strength-based approach.
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Maria De Guzman

PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry because I am passionate about supporting individuals in achieving their mental health goals. My motivation stems from a deep desire to make a positive impact on people's lives by providing compassionate care and helping them navigate their challenges. Witnessing my patients' growth and progress inspires me to continue in this field. I am dedicated to supporting individuals throughout their lives, from adolescents to older adults, and I find great fulfillment in empowering them to improve their mental health and well-being.
Hello! I'm Maria De Guzman. As a board-certified Nurse Practitioner in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, I offer compassionate and comprehensive mental health care through telepsychiatry. This modern approach provides high-quality care from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need for in-person visits and enhancing accessibility. With expertise in both psychiatry and family medicine, I offer a well-rounded approach to addressing a wide range of psychiatric conditions. I specialize in diagnosing and treating a broad spectrum of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, mood disorders, stress disorders, and psychotic disorders. I utilize evidence-based methods combined with personalized care plans to meet each patient’s unique needs. My treatment strategies often involve medication management and brief psychotherapeutic interventions, all aimed at helping patients achieve their mental health goals. I am dedicated to supporting individuals throughout their lives, from adolescents to older adults. I am passionate about building collaborative relationships with my patients, empowering them to actively participate in their journey toward improved health and well-being. Feel free to reach out to me with your health questions or concerns. Together, we can navigate your health journey with confidence and care.
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Kelly Stephens

Licensed Clinical Social Workder
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping individuals and families grow and become more resilient. The opportunity to support people through their toughest times and see their progress and healing is incredibly fulfilling. What motivates me to continue is the profound impact I can make on people's lives, the continuous learning and improvement in my field, and the collaborative efforts with community agencies to address multifaceted needs. Creating an environment of trust and healing for my clients is a constant source of inspiration and dedication.
Welcome! I'm deeply passionate about fostering growth and resilience within individuals and families. With years of dedicated experience as a therapist and clinical supervisor, my journey has been rich with opportunities to support children, adolescents, and adults through comprehensive counseling services. My expertise lies in conducting thorough assessments that pave the way for personalized therapy, whether it's one-on-one, with families, or in group settings. Crisis counseling is an area where I've made a significant impact, offering immediate support when it's most needed. I take pride in my collaborative approach, working closely with various community agencies to address the multifaceted needs of youth and their families. As a former Clinical Director, I've led teams with a focus on clear communication and efficient service referral processes. My background also includes conducting detailed audits and ensuring compliance with health standards—tasks that underscore my commitment to excellence in care. I believe in continuous improvement and have overseen training programs to enhance the skills of healthcare providers. My role often extends into strategic planning, where I review and approve marketing plans to ensure they align with our mission of providing exceptional care. In every aspect of my work, from administration to direct patient care, I strive to create an environment of trust and healing. Let's navigate your path to wellness together.