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Therapists answer…

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

Jason FiersteinJ

Jason Fierstein

Counselor of Men and Couples
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
In order to explain what I do, I’d like to tell you about a struggle I once had. For years, I felt uncomfortable in my own skin and uncomfortable around women. I was stressed, ate poorly, and generally didn’t take care of myself. I wasn’t a great communicator, and typically concealed a lot of what I wanted and needed without showing those things to others. I was too scared too. When those needs asserted themselves in problematic ways, they created distress in my relationships. Because I didn’t know how to express my needs effectively, I ended up frustrating others and creating depression for myself. Women didn’t want to hang out with me, because they sensed that I didn’t really want to hang out with myself. Life was not so good. I began to change these things by working with a counselor who helped me learn to express myself clearly and get my relationship needs met. I learned how to communicate more effectively and assertively and stopped creating the relationship problems that used to hinder my success. And you know what happened? My life transformed. I made major changes in my thinking and my behavior and, as a result, my relationships with others turned around. I began to like myself a lot more. I felt much more comfortable in my own skin, and more at ease with myself. I stopped creating many of the problems that I accused others of creating and doing to me. I started to get happy. My friends and family noticed — and my relationships were better than ever. People liked the new me — and I liked the new me! At this point, I realized that I needed to help other men to do the same thing that I did for myself. I really wanted to work with men who were struggling in their relationships, and in their lives. I wanted to help men rediscover their voice where they may have lost it, or never known that they possessed it. I wanted to show men that they don’t need to suffer in silence, and that they are capable of having more happy and successful lives than they may have thought possible. Through better communication, tearing down their “emotional walls”, and learning to meet their own needs in a healthy way, I aim to create healthier and emotionally stronger men who stop incessantly thinking about their problems, and start dealing with the problems head-on. I want to give men the right tools to use in their lives so they can say to themselves: “life is good.”
Counseling for Men and Couples. We specialize in working with men and men's issues, such as depression and anxiety, work and career related issues, marriage and couples counseling, divorce issues, infidelity, anger management and nice guy/people pleasers issues. We strive to help men and couples have the kind of lives and relationships that they really want. We look forward to helping you, and visit our website to book an online intake appointment today.
Georgina CocaG

Georgina Coca

Georgina Coca, PMHNP-BC, APRN
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I am deeply passionate about mental health and the profound impact it has on individuals’ lives. My desire to help others navigate their struggles and find healing led me to this rewarding profession. Witnessing clients transform and regain hope is incredibly motivating for me. I am driven by the belief that everyone deserves support and the opportunity to improve their well-being. Continuing education and staying current with best practices also inspire me, as I strive to provide the best care possible for my clients.
Hello, I am Georgina Coca, a dedicated and empathetic Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with 18 years of experience in the field. My primary aim is to enhance your well-being and empower you on your journey to recovery. I specialize in treating conditions such as depression, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, and ADHD, providing comprehensive and personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. My extensive experience includes working at Godaelli Psychiatric and Mental Health Center in Woodbridge, Virginia, and previous positions at INOVA Hospital and Mary Washington Hospital, where I have honed my skills in assessing, diagnosing, and treating a variety of behavioral health challenges. I adopt a holistic approach to mental health care, integrating therapy, medication management, and supportive services to ensure a well-rounded treatment experience. My commitment to excellence is reflected in my ability to communicate effectively, maintain meticulous documentation, and manage time efficiently. As a member of the American Nurses Association and the Virginia Nurses Association, I stay current with best practices and advancements in my field, ensuring that you receive the most effective and up-to-date care possible. I accept a range of insurance plans, including Aetna, Cigna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Anthem, to facilitate accessible and inclusive healthcare. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to understanding your concerns, providing clear answers to your questions, and guiding you throughout your treatment experience. You can reach out to me for consultations at my practice in Dumfries, Virginia, or visit my profile on Kiwi Health for more information.
Daniel ReyesD

Daniel Reyes

PMHNP-BC
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 achieve emotional wellness. Seeing clients grow, build resilience, and improve their quality of life motivates me every day. My goal is to provide compassionate, effective care that empowers individuals to take control of their mental health.
Hello! I'm Daniel Reyes, your dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With a rich history in healthcare and specialized training in mental health, I am passionate about supporting your journey to wellness. I offer personalized medication management and supportive psychotherapy for adults. I believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare, working closely with other service providers to ensure you receive comprehensive care tailored to your needs. Whether you're navigating complex medication regimens or seeking understanding and support, I am here to guide you every step of the way. Let's work together towards a brighter, healthier future. Treatment philosophy: I am a good listener that likes to get input from the individual prior to making suggestions and providing education. I also expect collaboration from my clients, who will practice what I consider the ABC’s of treatment progress: adhering to discussed treatment, being brave/bold enough to consider the possibilities of changes in treatment, and challenging yourself to seek complementary treatment (psychotherapy, exercise, diet, strengthening your support system, etc.), as not all problems are solved by medications.
Brooke KemmererB

Brooke Kemmerer

PMHNP-BC, BSN
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 and discover their inner strength. Witnessing the profound impact mental health can have on people's lives inspired me to pursue this path. I find motivation in seeing my clients grow, regain control, and embrace their journey toward healing. Each success story reinforces my belief in the power of therapy and the importance of compassionate care. I am committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and valued. Knowing that I can make a positive difference in someone's life keeps me dedicated to this important work.
My professional career has always centered around mental and behavioral health. I have seen and been a part of amazing community efforts to empower the lives of individuals living with a severe and persistent mental illness. Working as part of the assertive community treatment (ACT) team allowed me to step into the homes of adults diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar I, schizoaffective disorder, substance use disorders, and major depressive disorder. I understand how challenging it is in multiple aspects of life, including maintaining relationships and jobs that are vital. I have also worked in inpatient facilities as a psychiatric registered nurse and have a lot of clinical experience as a psychiatric nurse practitioner assisting children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder, conduct disorders, mood disorders, and personality disorders. I know the process is challenging for both the parents and children trying to navigate their diagnosis. But we are not our diagnoses. And, it is okay to reach out for help when needed. I feel confident in assisting those across the lifespan in managing medication that can change this narrative. I will conduct a personalized initial intake, take my time to ask your goals, and begin medication that is right for you.
Shelly AlastiS

Shelly Alasti

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner
Online & In-Person
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 achieve optimal health and well-being. My own journey with weight loss and mental health challenges has given me a deep understanding and empathy for my clients' struggles. What motivates me to continue is seeing the positive changes in my clients' lives as they overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. I am inspired by their resilience and motivated by the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on their mental health and overall quality of life.
Welcome to a space where your weight loss journey is understood and supported. As someone who has personally navigated the challenges of shedding pounds, I know the hurdles all too well. My own transformation involved a medical-assisted weight loss program that enabled me to lose 48 pounds in just five months during 2022. The real victory, however, has been keeping that weight off and embracing a healthier lifestyle. My approach to weight management is comprehensive and compassionate. I believe that successful weight loss isn't just about the numbers on a scale—it's about your mental health, your daily habits, and sometimes, the right medical support. Together, we'll explore strategies tailored to your unique needs, fostering sustainable habits that contribute to your overall well-being. Let's embark on this transformative path together, with the goal of not only achieving but also maintaining a healthier you.
Mary BaummierM

Mary Baummier

Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I believe in the power of therapy to change lives. My mission is to guide individuals towards wellness and resilience. What motivates me to continue is the privilege of seeing clients transform their lives, gain new perspectives, and achieve their goals. Every day, I am inspired by the strength and courage of those who seek help, and I am committed to providing the support and guidance needed to foster their journey to mental health and well-being.
Hello! I'm Mary McEachern Baummier, a compassionate and dedicated Mental Health Counselor licensed in both Florida (MH 15189) and Texas (86727). My mission is to guide you on a path to wellness and resilience. With 10 years of experience as a therapist, I've honed my expertise in creating personalized treatment plans that cater to your unique needs. I believe in the power of therapy to transform lives, which is why I specialize in evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These methods are proven to help individuals work through challenges and find balance. My commitment extends beyond therapy sessions—I've also mentored a team of therapists, ensuring that the care you receive is built on a foundation of knowledge and empathy. Whether you're navigating difficult life events or seeking support for mental health concerns, I'm here to assess your situation with care and offer the level of attention you deserve. Your journey to better mental health is important. Let's take that first step as we work together in our appointments. Your well-being is my top priority, and we can work towards a brighter, healthier future.
Bricia TrevinoB

Bricia Trevino

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 to restore hope and independence to adults impacted by various mental health conditions. My motivation comes from seeing my patients improve their quality of life and regain their independence and dignity. Helping individuals achieve their best possible health outcomes is my driving force and passion.
Welcome to my profile! I'm a dedicated Family Nurse Practitioner with a passion for providing exceptional care to individuals of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. At New Mexico Family Services, I take pride in delivering personalized psychiatric and primary medical care that truly makes a difference in my patients' lives. My approach is all about understanding your unique needs. Whether you're managing chronic conditions or seeking acute disease intervention, I'm here to guide you through every step with clear explanations and a focus on prevention. Proving primary care and mental health care via telemedicine, I ensure that each treatment plan is tailored to improve your health outcomes and enhance your quality of life. Collaboration is key to the outstanding care you receive. Working closely with an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, we unite our expertise to provide comprehensive support that addresses your physical and emotional wellbeing. I'm committed to maintaining the highest standards of care and keeping you informed about your health. By providing detailed instructions on medications and treatments, I empower you and your caregivers with the knowledge needed for successful care at home. Your dignity, autonomy, and cultural diversity are always respected here. My goal is to make healthcare a positive experience for you by upholding your rights and offering compassionate service every step of the way. Thank you for considering me as your partner in health – together, we'll work towards achieving your best possible health outcomes.
Michelle GordenM

Michelle Gorden

LPC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I have a laid-back style and focus on creating a safe space. My approach is pretty eclectic and my philosophy is that therapy can’t be one-size-fits-all. Treatments should be customized to each individual client, couple, or family.
Hi, I'm Michelle Gorden, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Virginia and a Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I am currently training in Gottman Method for couples. I specialize in treating mood disorders, trauma, and PTSD. My background is diverse and supports my ability to help my clients reach their highest potential. Welcome to NOVA Clinical Counseling, LLC, your trusted destination for online psychotherapy. We understand that your mental well-being is of utmost importance, and we are dedicated to providing you with professional and compassionate support on your journey toward healing and personal growth. At NOVA Clinical Counseling, LLC, we prioritize a client-centered approach, meaning that we collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that suits your specific goals and aspirations. Our therapists draw from a range of evidence-based therapeutic modalities, incorporating techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, psychodynamic therapy, and more. Through this integrative approach, we aim to empower you with practical tools and insights to foster lasting positive change.
Esther LouisE

Esther Louis

FNP-C,PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
As a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner and Family Nurse Practitioner, I must ensure my clients' mental health stabilizes and ready to have a normal state of mind. Willing to get the help that you need is encouraging me to provide the solutions that you are looking for. I’ve been in nursing for more than 10 years. My motto is to work best and concentrate on clients aged 18 and up who are battling various mental health disorders.
Driven by a passion for patient care and wellness, I am Esther Louis, your dedicated Nurse Practitioner. With over a decade of experience in critical care and family health, I aim to offer compassionate, thorough, and personalized medical care. My journey has taken me through roles in major hospitals like Palmetto General and the University of Miami, where I've honed my skills in diagnosing, treating, and educating patients. I believe in the power of knowledge and strive to teach my patients about their health, helping them make lifestyle choices that can prevent future issues. My approach includes not just treating illnesses, but also focusing on preventive care and sustainable wellness habits. In my current role, I am responsible for managing complex cases, performing physical exams, and guiding patients through their healthcare decisions with clear communication and empathy. My goal is to ensure every patient feels heard, understood, and cared for. Let's work together on your journey to better health.