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Therapists answer…

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

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Shahrzad Shadmani

PMHNP-BC, FNP-C
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner to help people navigate complex mental health and chronic conditions with compassion and care. What keeps me motivated is witnessing patients’ progress and empowerment as they work toward better mental and physical health. Helping people live fuller, more balanced lives continues to inspire me.
I am Shahrzad "Shery" Shadmani, dual board-certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health and Family Medicine with over 15 years of experience providing holistic care to patients across a wide range of health and mental health conditions. Having worked in diverse healthcare settings, I have developed a deep understanding of chronic conditions and mental health challenges, with a special focus on addressing their root causes. In my integrative psychiatry practice, I combine medication management and lifestyle optimization to empower patients on their wellness journeys. My approach ensures that every patient feels seen, heard, and supported from diagnosis to treatment. I earned both my FNP and PMHNP post-master’s degrees from Purdue University, and I've been passionate about healthcare since I began my career in 2007. My journey into mental health was sparked by a desire to treat complex cases with compassion, which led me to create an integrative practice that blends mental and physical health care. I specialize in treating anxiety, mood disorders, and chronic health conditions through an evidence-based, patient-centered approach. Outside of my practice, I’m an avid foodie with a passion for cooking and traveling. Exploring new cultures and cuisines enriches my perspective on life and informs my approach to wellness.
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Ime Edet

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 I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health journeys. Seeing my clients grow, overcome challenges, and achieve their full potential motivates me every day. My commitment to advocating for clients' rights and well-being, fostering a supportive environment, and empowering them to manage their mental health effectively drives me to continue this vital work.
Hello! I’m Ime E. Edet, and I'm here to support you on your mental wellness journey. I have over 18 years of experience in an environment where I believe in providing compassionate, holistic care tailored to each individual's needs. I specialize in treating a variety of mental health conditions, including depression, PTSD, OCD, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. My goal is to empower you by offering the tools and support necessary for you to manage your mental health effectively. I hold advanced degrees in nursing, including a Master of Science in Nursing from Western Connecticut State University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Hartford. My training also includes practical courses like Mindful-Based Stress Reduction and QPR Suicide Prevention. My approach includes comprehensive assessments to create personalized treatment plans. I’m proficient in medication management and skilled in therapeutic techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I believe in working together with my clients to ensure they receive well-rounded care. Your participation in treatment decisions is crucial, and I advocate for a supportive environment where your voice is always heard. Here, your mental wellness is my priority. Let's embark on this journey with empathy, resiliency, and respect.
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Patricia Frell Moransais

Licensed Psychologist & Certified Hypnotherapist
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am deeply passionate about helping people navigate life’s challenges and find healing. With a background in both psychology and nursing, I have always been drawn to the connection between mental and physical well-being. Witnessing the resilience of individuals facing adversity inspired me to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers lasting change. What motivates me to continue is seeing my clients grow, heal, and reclaim their lives. Every breakthrough, no matter how small, reinforces my commitment to creating a safe, supportive space where individuals can find hope, strength, and transformation.
I am Dr. Patricia Frell, a trusted Clinical Psychologist and Registered Nurse based in Coral Springs, Florida. With a deep commitment to mental health, I bring over two decades of experience in individual and group psychotherapy, specializing in weight-related issues, addiction recovery, and family dynamics. I completed my Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) from Nova University, honing my skills in a variety of therapeutic practices, including hypnotherapy. My extensive training includes a residency at the Veterans Administration Medical Center, where I tackled complex challenges in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Dedicated to personalized care, I offer a compassionate approach in my private practice, helping clients navigate life’s toughest moments with empathy and expertise. Whether addressing addiction, marital concerns, or mental wellness, I am dedicated to supporting my clients on their path to healing. *Specialties •Mental Health *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •Bipolar disorders •Schizophrenia •PTSD •ADHD •Eating disorders •Addiction •Insomnia •Relationship issues •Family counseling •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Behavioral Issues •Chronic Pain •Coping Skills •Divorce •Drug Abuse •Dual Diagnosis •Emotional Disturbance •Family Conflict •Grief •Impulse Control Disorders •Infidelity •Marital and Premarital •Obesity •Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) •Personality Disorders •Self Esteem •Sexual Abuse •Suicidal Ideation •Thinking Disorders •Women's Issues *Treatment philosophy My treatment philosophy is centered on compassionate, patient-focused care. I believe every individual is unique, deserving tailored support in their journey to wellness. I engage with my patients through open dialogue, creating a safe space for healing and growth. With a background in both psychology and nursing, I blend evidence-based practices with empathy, focusing on hypnotherapy, family therapy, and individual psychotherapy. My core values stress respect, dignity, and understanding, ensuring that each patient feels valued. I am dedicated to treating not just the symptoms but the whole person, fostering resilience and empowering individuals to achieve lasting change. *Treatment approach •Psychotherapy for individuals and groups •Hypnotherapy for weight and addiction issues •Family and marital therapy sessions •Crisis stabilization techniques •Chemical dependency treatment groups •Trauma and emotional focus therapy •Culturally sensitive therapy approaches •Integrative methods for diverse populations •Cognitive Behavioral (CBT) •Existential •Family / Marital •Humanistic •Hypnotherapy •Interpersonal •Intervention •Psychodynamic •Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) *Practice description Dr. Patricia Frell is a compassionate clinical psychologist based in Coral Springs, FL. With over 30 years of experience, she specializes in individual and group therapy, addressing weight-related issues, substance abuse, and family dynamics. Dr. Frell's background as a registered nurse enhances her holistic approach to mental health. She is also certified in hypnotherapy, offering unique techniques for healing and personal growth. Patients appreciate her warm, understanding demeanor that fosters a safe space for healing. Whether you're seeking support for addiction, relationship challenges, or personal development, Dr. Frell is here to help you navigate your journey to well-being. *Insurance •Aetna •Cigna •CVS Health •Humana •Medica •Medicare •Optum •UnitedHealthcare •Blue Cross Blue Shield •Centene •Health Alliance •Oscar Health •Curalinc •Carelon •CarePlus •Magellan •Devoted •AvMed •Florida Blue •WellCare
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Dr. Jon Michael Saenz

Jon-Michael Saenz, MD, BS
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’ve always been deeply passionate about helping people navigate their mental health challenges and find healing. From an early age, I was fascinated by the human mind and the complex ways in which our thoughts, emotions, and experiences shape our lives. Psychiatry allows me to connect with individuals on a personal level and guide them toward understanding themselves better, while offering the support they need to overcome obstacles. What motivates me to continue is the profound impact I see in my patients’ lives when they make progress—whether it’s learning to manage anxiety, overcoming depression, or simply finding a sense of peace. Every patient’s journey is unique, and being a part of their growth and healing process is incredibly rewarding. Witnessing resilience, strength, and transformation in people who once felt hopeless fuels my commitment to this field. The ability to help others reclaim their mental health and improve their quality of life keeps me passionate about the work I do every day.
I am Dr. Jon-Michael A. Saenz, a committed psychiatrist with extensive training and experience in managing severe mental illnesses and mood disorders. I obtained my medical degree from the University of Rochester and completed my psychiatry residency at Tufts Medical Center. Following this, I pursued a fellowship in Forensic Psychiatry, where I specialized in treating substance use disorders, personality disorders, as well as severe mania and psychosis. A major part of this training is the ability to clearly communicate complex issues to both patients and others outside the mental health field. My professional experience includes working at Bridgewater State Hospital, Worcester Recovery Center and Hospital, and the Dr. Solomon Carter Fuller Mental Health Center, where I refined my skills in addressing a diverse array of mental health conditions. My practice is grounded in a patient-centered approach, always striving to provide individualized and compassionate care. I hold medical licenses in both North Carolina and Massachusetts and possess certifications that enable me to prescribe specialized treatments, including controlled substances and Suboxone. My dedication to excellence in psychiatry has been recognized through multiple Outstanding Resident Teacher Awards during my residency. My mission is to make a meaningful and positive impact on the lives of my patients, and I am here to support you on your journey to improved mental health.
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Madison Lowe

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my own journey with both life and mental health struggles. I received great healing and growth from the therapeutic process. I have a passion to help others who may be going through their own struggles. Seeing others grow despite both internal and external difficulties motivates me to continue as a therapist. 
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the State of South Carolina. I have a passion to help individuals thrive and understand themselves on a deeper and more intimate level. I believe that self-awareness is the key to change. Along with being an LPC, I am also a certified Equine-Assisted Psychotherapist and enjoy incorporating the role horses can play in an individual's healing journey. I hold an M.S. in Clinical Counseling from Charleston Southern University. I also earned a B.A. in General Psychology from the University of North Carolina Asheville, where I also competed in cross-country and track at Division-1 level. I am currently earning my Ph.D. in Counseling and Psychological Studies through Regent University. I have worked with a variety of populations, but especially enjoy working with children, teens, young adults and families. I have spent many years as an Early Interventionist and I continue to find a passion in helping parents navigate the world of parenthood. I specialize in working with individuals who struggle with OCD, ADHD, anxiety/depression, eating disorders and low self-esteem. I also work closely with clients that need help in navigating through grief/loss, who have experienced trauma, and are struggling with difficult life transitions and interpersonal conflict. 
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Magdalen Mekoh

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their mental health challenges. My motivation comes from witnessing the positive changes in my patients' lives as they gain insights and develop coping mechanisms. Knowing that I can make a meaningful impact in someone’s journey is what drives me to continue my work in this field.
"I am Magdalen Mekoh, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with six years of experience in various healthcare settings, including hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and an inpatient addiction and detox facility. My journey in mental health began with a passion for helping individuals navigate their challenges, leading me to obtain my Master's degree and specialization from Northern Kentucky University. I take pride in my compassionate and individualized approach to patient care. My experience encompasses a wide range of mental health disorders, including ADHD, anxiety, depression, substance use disorders, PTSD, trauma, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. I believe in the power of active listening and collaboration, working closely with each patient to understand their unique needs and develop effective treatment plans. I utilize evidence-based treatment modalities such as medication management, supportive therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). Creating a safe and supportive environment is central to my practice, allowing patients to feel comfortable addressing their concerns and developing coping strategies. I am committed to personalizing care to alleviate symptoms and improve overall well-being. I understand that mental health struggles can feel isolating, but I want you to know that you don’t have to face them alone. I am here to listen and support you on your journey to healing. If you’re ready to take the first step, I encourage you to reach out and book an appointment. Together, we can work towards finding the best path for your mental health."
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Renee Samuels-Laurent

DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I’m passionate about helping people achieve mental wellness and navigate life's challenges. My experiences in diverse clinical settings have shown me how impactful compassionate, personalized care can be. What motivates me to continue is seeing the positive changes in my patients’ lives, whether it’s helping them manage anxiety, understand their medications, or cope with difficult emotions. Being able to support people on their mental health journey keeps me driven and inspired every day.
Hello! I'm a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with extensive experience in mental health and general medical care. I hold a Doctorate of Nursing Practice from Florida Atlantic University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from CUNY City College. I'm certified in Psychiatric-Mental Health Nursing and Basic Life Support. I've had the privilege of working in diverse settings, from hospitals to outpatient clinics. My focus has always been on providing top-notch care tailored to each patient's needs. Whether you need help with managing a psychiatric condition, understanding your medications, or learning techniques to reduce anxiety, I'm here for you. I believe in building strong relationships with my patients and their families. I take the time to listen and ensure you're comfortable with your care plan. I'm also passionate about teaching and supporting new nurses and students, helping them grow in their careers. I'm licensed to practice in both Florida and Oregon, ready to bring my skills wherever they're needed. My goal is to make healthcare accessible, effective, and compassionate for everyone I serve. Let's work together to achieve your best health!