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Therapists answer…

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

Bahattin ErginB

Bahattin Ergin

MSN,APRN,PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to make a positive impact on people's lives through compassionate, evidence-based care. Seeing individuals regain stability, confidence, and well-being motivates me every day. Mental health is vital, and I am committed to guiding my patients toward healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Hello! I'm Bahattin Ergin, a dedicated Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) with a passion for providing compassionate mental health care. I'm licensed to practice in multiple states, including Florida, Maryland, and Colorado, to name a few. With extensive experience in both telehealth and in-person consultations, I'm here to support you through every step of your mental health journey. I specialize in psychiatric evaluations, medication management, and creating individualized care plans to address a variety of mental health concerns, including acute, chronic, and substance-induced illnesses. I pride myself on offering a warm and personalized approach to therapy, ensuring you feel heard and supported. As a lifelong learner, I'm committed to maintaining a respectful, confidential, and high-quality therapeutic environment for all my patients. Outside of my professional life, I enjoy staying connected with professional associations and contributing to the wider community through my expertise. If you're looking for someone who is not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and approachable, I'm here for you. Let's work together to achieve your health and wellness goals. Treatment philosophy As a dedicated psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, my treatment philosophy centers on compassion and understanding. I believe in a holistic approach, tailoring care to each patient’s unique needs. I engage actively with patients, fostering open communication and trusting relationships. My focus is on education—empowering individuals to understand their mental health and treatment options. I prioritize safety and ethical practices while navigating crises with urgency and care. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams ensures comprehensive support. Through evidence-based practices and continuous learning, I strive to make a positive impact on mental well-being, guiding patients toward healthier, fulfilling lives. Specialities: Mental Health Psychiatry Addiction ADHD Alcohol dependency Anger Management Anxiety Behavioral therapy Bipolar disorders Depression Eating disorders Female Psychiatry Insomnia Mood disorders OCD Panic attacks Personality disorders PTSD Relationship issues Schizophrenia Substance abuse evaluation Trauma and PTSD Withdrawal symptoms Treatment approach Medication Management and Education Psychiatric Assessment & Care Planning Crisis Intervention and Emergency Care Compassionate Telepsychiatry Services Comprehensive Clinical Documentation Individualized Treatment for Mental Illness
Megan PollockM

Megan Pollock

Clinical Psychologist

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

Veronica CerdaV

Veronica Cerda

Licensed Professional Counselor
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I experienced firsthand the transformative power of counseling and wanted to provide that same support to others. Growing up in a culture where mental health was often dismissed, I struggled with the belief that I had to face my challenges alone. However, seeking therapy in college changed my perspective and helped me heal in ways I never imagined. Now, as a therapist, I am motivated by the growth and resilience I witness in my clients every day. Seeing individuals reclaim their happiness, overcome obstacles, and embrace their full potential is the most rewarding feeling in the world. My purpose is to continue creating a safe, inclusive space where healing and self-discovery can flourish.
I grew up in Dallas and always dreamed of becoming a counselor and creating a practice that helps individuals and couples with concerns and issues that have taken over their happiness. I grew up in a Mexican household where mental health was not believed to be something you sought help for. “You just have to get over it” was what I was told. When I went away to college, my outlook was expanded, and I sought counseling for myself. At that point, I realized the benefits and ultimately, the results of being in therapy. Now as a counselor, I see my clients growing, healing, and overcoming obstacles they feared they would never overcome. It is the most rewarding feeling in the world and now my purpose is to continue this journey to help others. *Treatment philosophy I strive to create a warm, welcoming, and supportive environment for my clients. My goal is to provide a healing space where trust and vulnerability can flourish. During the first session, I focus on understanding my clients by exploring their concerns, past traumas, recent life changes, and current coping strategies. Subsequent sessions are more flexible, centering on present challenges. Over time, I identify behavioral patterns that may contribute to anxiety and depression. With compassion, empathy, and a strengths-based approach, I aim to offer a safe and inclusive space where individuals from all backgrounds can heal, grow, and reach their full potential. *Practice description Love Roots Therapy focuses on the mental health needs of adults, adolescents, and couples. Our practice provides virtual and in person counseling sessions depending on the preference of our clients. Our team is dedicated to helping patients achieve and enhance their psychological and spiritual well-being by using a variety of psychological modalities. Our counselors strive to meet our clients “where they are”. We provide an accepting environment using tools to help reframe and understand unconscious beliefs that keep us from moving forward. Our counselors work collaboratively with individuals to identify their goals, aspirations, and desired outcomes. We support individuals in developing strategies, action plans, and coping mechanisms to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. The counseling process aims to empower individuals, fostering a sense of agency and control over their lives.
Sergio TrejoS

Sergio Trejo

Marriage and Family Therapist/Mindfulness Coach
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
Like many others, life experiences early on have lead me to my helping profession. My family history is filled with trauma yet, my "why I became a therapist moment" was seeing my sister feeling relief from her bi-polar depression after her first session with a therapist. She felt heard. I wanted to be that for her and other's going through the same difficulties.
In the 10 plus years I have been working in mental health, the one thing I can say for certain is that everyone has the capacity to heal and grow with strengths and skills already present within. Whether you are an athlete looking to align your mental strength with your physical skill, a child or adolescent learning to cope with change and transition, or a parent attempting to guide your child through life's challenges in the best way possible for them, I am here to provide guidance. I work collaboratively with clients and families to address symptoms of anxiety, depression, and behavioral challenges that impact functioning and performance in their everyday lives. I also look to help those athletes whom would like to increase their mental strength in order to elevate their success on and off the playing field. In my personal life, I am a husband, father, jiujitsu practitioner, and golf addict. I love to sit and enjoy a good cup of coffee with my daughter as we bing watch her current cartoon obsession. I love my family and getting outdoors. I am also bilingual Spanish speaking, with deep connection to my Guatemalan and El Salvadorian roots. My mantra in life is to try and "accept everything and judge nothing". When we can attempt to be present in every moment, we give ourselves the best chance at the healthiest response.
Patrick NgangaP

Patrick Nganga

Patrick Nganga, PMHNP-BC, ACNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to help people through holistic care, addressing both physical and mental health. My motivation comes from seeing the positive impact on my patients' lives, empowering them to take control of their well-being and achieve their goals.
As a dedicated healthcare provider with years of experience, I focus on delivering compassionate and comprehensive care to my patients. My journey in healthcare began as an ICU nurse, where I honed my skills in patient assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. Over the years, I have collaborated with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure the best outcomes for every patient. I have had the privilege of teaching the next generation of nurses as an adjunct faculty member at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland School of Nursing. My role involved mentoring nurse practitioner students and guiding registered nurse students through their critical care rotations. I hold multiple certifications, including Acute Care, Psychiatry, and Mental Health, and I am licensed as a Nurse Practitioner in the State of Maryland and Washington DC. Staying up-to-date with the latest in medical research and practice, I actively participate in professional organizations such as the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the American Association of Nurse Practitioners. My approach to healthcare is holistic, focusing not just on the physical but also the mental well-being of my patients. I am committed to providing personalized care, clear communication, and support to both patients and their families throughout their healthcare journey. Specialties & Conditions: • Mental Health • Psychiatry • Internal Medicine • Anxiety • Bipolar disorders • Depression • Addiction • ADHD • Alcohol Use • Borderline Personality (BPD) • Chronic Illness • Dissociative Disorders (DID) • Eating disorders • Geriatric and Seniors • Impulse Control Disorders • Medication Management • Mood Disorders • Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) • Personality Disorders • Psychosis • PTSD • Schizophrenia • Sleep or Insomnia • Substance Use • Thinking Disorders • Trauma and PTSD Treatment philosophy: We believe patients have the right to actively participate in decisions regarding their care. Our goal is to conduct thorough evaluations to fully understand the challenges our patients face. This enables us to accurately diagnose and provide evidence-based treatments. By prioritizing patient-centered care and fostering shared decision-making, we aim to achieve the best possible outcomes for our patients. Treatment approach: • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) • Culturally Sensitive • Humanistic • Interpersonal • Motivational Interviewing • Person-Focused • Psychotherapy • Solution Focused Brief (SFBT)
Ahylzabeth GiannantonioA

Ahylzabeth Giannantonio

Licensed Clinical Social Worker
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I have always been passionate about helping others navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner strength. Witnessing the resilience of individuals and families as they overcome obstacles, heal from past wounds, and grow into their best selves is both inspiring and deeply fulfilling. My motivation comes from seeing the transformative impact of therapy—whether it’s helping someone find clarity in their relationships, develop healthier coping strategies, or regain confidence in their ability to thrive. Every client’s journey is unique, and being a part of that process fuels my commitment to providing compassionate, culturally competent, and evidence-based care.
Whatever feelings or difficulty you are experiencing that that have brought you to your current standing position, I hope to help you to gain insight to the following: relationship dynamics, gain more effective communication tools, conflict identification/management, gain accountability, explore areas of vulnerability, clarify expectations, identify triggers, enhance decision making process and problem solving skills. The process will not be linear but the journey will provide you with skills, connections and inner growth. *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •Panic attacks •Addiction •Relationship issues •Family counseling •Trauma •Mood disorders •ADHD •Life Transitions •Cancer •Career Counseling •Dissociative Disorders (DID) •Emotional Disturbance •Geriatric and Seniors •Grief •Men's Issues •Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) •Oppositional Defiance (ODD) •Parenting •Peer Relationships •Personality Disorders •Pregnancy, Prenatal, Postpartum •Racial Identity •School Issues •Self Esteem •Sleep or Insomnia •Stress •Substance Use •Testing and Evaluation •Thinking Disorders •Women's Issues *Treatment philosophy Whatever feelings or difficulty you are experiencing that that have brought you to your current standing position, I hope to help you to gain insight to the following: relationship dynamics, gain more effective communication tools, conflict identification/management, gain accountability, explore areas of vulnerability, clarify expectations, identify triggers, enhance decision making process and problem solving skills. The process will not be linear but the journey will provide you with skills, connections and inner growth. *Treatment approach •I am a culturally competent bilingual clinician with over 20 years of experience . My counseling style is warm, empathic, understanding, creative , non-judgemental, patient and interactive. I will tailor our dialogue, objectives and goals to meet your unique and specific needs. I believe in being creative, encouraging out of your comfort zone, if ready.
Elizabeth SpenceE

Elizabeth Spence

APRN, PMHNP-BC
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a psychiatric nurse practitioner to help people navigate the complexities of mental health with a compassionate and individualized approach. What motivates me is seeing patients progress toward their goals and knowing that I’ve contributed to their journey of healing and self-discovery. The unique stories and resilience of each patient inspire me to continue this important work.
Dealing with mental health issues can be scary. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner with 17 years of healthcare experience. I work with patients to help address their mental health issues with a whole-person approach to help take the fear out of getting help. If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, or any other type of mental health issue, I offer a compassionate, open, and accepting environment to help you deal with any issues you might be having. I offer care to patients with all mental health issues but specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. I holistically approach care, treating the whole person, not just their mental health issues. The holistic approach includes lifestyle changes, meditation, mindfulness, and medication management if necessary. Mental health care does not need to be scary, learning how to approach care can make all the difference. My approach includes empathy, understanding, and acceptance no matter how big or small the need.