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Therapists answer…

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

Jen HyattJ

Jen Hyatt

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
1. Personal Journey: Having personally trekked the path within mental health, dealing with anxiety, depression, and ADHD as a neurodivergent mind, I understand the complexities of these challenges from a deeply empathetic standpoint. 2. Passion for Personal Growth: I have a deep passion for personal growth and a strong desire to help others find their paths to well-being and self-actualization.      3. Empathy from Experience: My own experiences have cultivated a profound empathy for individuals facing similar struggles, enabling me to connect on a more profound level with my clients. 4. Diverse Interests: My diverse interests and willingness to embrace unconventional thinking allow me to connect with a wide range of clients and provide holistic support.   5. Empathy and Authenticity: I bring empathy and authenticity to my practice, fostering strong therapeutic relationships with clients from various backgrounds.   5. Holistic Approach: My diverse interests and willingness to embrace unconventional thinking allow me to provide a holistic approach to mental health, addressing the unique needs of each client. 5. Love for Learning: My love for learning and knowledge absorption keeps me engaged in the evolving field of therapy, ensuring I provide the best possible care. 6. Humor and Sarcasm: I believe in the power of humor and sarcasm to make therapy approachable and relatable, helping clients open up and engage in the process.   My motivation to continue comes from witnessing the positive transformations in my clients' lives. Seeing individuals overcome challenges, discover their inner strength, and achieve their goals fuels my commitment to this profession. Additionally, the opportunity to connect with a diverse clientele and constantly learn from their unique experiences keeps me inspired and motivated in my role as a therapist.
Welcome to a journey of self-discovery and transformation! I'm Jen Hyatt, a mental health psychotherapist with an integrative approach, and I'm here to help you navigate the intricate terrain of your inner world. If you find yourself caught in the whirlwind of anxiety, lost in the depths of depression, or simply seeking to level up and live your best life, I'm your fellow traveler on this path. As a therapist, I embrace outside the box thinking and deep introspection. I am also not afraid to venture into the realm of the "woo-woo" and explore the mystical.   I am a knowledge absorber, a lover of learning, and a firm believer in the power of healthy humor to lighten even the darkest of moments. My clients come from all walks of life, and they include deep thinkers, authors, book lovers, practitioners of witchcraft, tarot enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, creatives, and those striving for a more optimal existence. I also connect with tech and sci-fi nerds, Marvel fans, and comic book geeks. I engage with RPG and TTRPG enthusiasts, life lovers, empaths, highly sensitive individuals, military families, seekers of self-actualization, members of the LGBTQIA+ community, and neurodivergent individuals.  In essence, I work with authentic and/or aspiring authentic human beings who are doing their best in this complex journey called life. Together, we'll embark on a therapeutic adventure to help you find clarity, resilience, and the tools you need to thrive. Let's embrace your uniqueness and work towards a radiant, more fulfilling future. Whether you're seeking relief from anxiety and depression or aiming to reach new heights in your personal growth, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Let's take this journey together. 🌟💛🧳
Michelle ChristianM

Michelle Christian

Licensed Mental Health Counselor & CASAC
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I have a deep passion for helping others navigate life’s challenges and discover their inner strength. Witnessing the transformative power of therapy in people’s lives inspires me every day. My motivation comes from seeing my clients grow, heal, and regain hope, even in the face of adversity. The resilience of the human spirit and the opportunity to provide a safe, supportive space for healing continue to drive my commitment to this work. Every step my clients take toward a healthier, more fulfilling life reaffirms my purpose and dedication to mental health care.
Hello, I'm Michelle R. Christian, and I'm here to help you on your journey towards mental well-being. With a dual Master's in School Counseling and Mental Health Counseling, and a strong background in Psychology, I've dedicated my career to supporting individuals facing challenges with mental health and substance abuse. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor, I offer compassionate, evidence-based care. Currently, at UPMC Chautauqua's Outpatient Chemical Dependency Program, I work with adults and teenagers, creating personalized treatment plans that fit their unique needs and encouraging positive change. I believe in empowering my clients with skills for sustainable recovery and coping strategies for their mental health concerns. Whether through group or individual therapy, I'm committed to guiding you every step of the way. Let's work together to achieve a healthier, happier you. *Specialties •Mental Health *Conditions treated •Depression •Anxiety •Bipolar disorders •PTSD •Addiction •Relationship issues •Mood disorders •Trauma •Panic attacks •Codependency •Divorce •Family Conflict •Grief •Marital and Premarital •Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) •Parenting •Personality Disorders •Self Esteem •Stress •Maternal Mental Health *Treatment philosophy My treatment philosophy centers around compassion, empowerment, and collaboration. I believe in a patient-first approach, where each individual's story matters. I take the time to listen, understand their unique challenges, and involve them in their treatment plans. With specialties in mental health and substance use disorders, I focus on developing practical skills for coping and resilience. I use evidence-based methods like EMDR and relapse prevention strategies to support growth. Guiding clients towards independence and brighter futures is my goal. Together, we create a supportive environment where healing and transformation can thrive. Your journey is important, and I'm here to walk alongside you. *Treatment approach •Trauma-Informed Care •Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) •Motivational Interviewing •Relapse Prevention Strategies •Crisis Intervention Techniques •Group Therapy Facilitation •Psycho-Educational Sessions •Client-Centered Counseling •Skills Development Training •Positive Psychology •EMDR •Trauma Focused •Schema •Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT) •Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) •Mindfulness-Based (MBCT) •Dialectical Behavior (DBT) •Family / Marital •Person-Centered •Progressive Counting *Practice description As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor, I specialize in helping individuals and families overcome challenges related to mental health and addiction. With over a decade of experience, I provide compassionate support in individual and group settings and prioritize your mental health and well being. My approach includes developing personalized treatment and relapse prevention plans tailored to your unique needs. I am also trained in Progressive Counting and EMDR techniques to enhance your healing journey. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or substance use issues, I am here to guide you toward a brighter future. Let’s work together to unlock your potential! *Insurance •UnitedHealthcare •Aetna •Cigna •Oscar Health •Optum •Independent Health •All Savers •Anthem EAP •AvMed •EAP: Cigna •EAP: UnitedHealthcare/Optum •Golden Rule •Horizon Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Jersey •Medicare Advantage •Oxford •Quest Behavioral Health •Surest (formerly Bind) •United Medical Resources (UMR) •Carelon Behavioral Health
Lynn HelwigL

Lynn Helwig

Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC-MHSP)
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I grew up with a mom who struggled with mental health issues. At that time, seeing a therapist was not common but my mom was determined to understand what was going on and how to cope better. I watched her go to therapy on a regular basis and talk to her family about what she was experiencing. My mother essentially removed the stigma of mental health in our family, normalizing the struggles and reaching out for help and talking about it. My mom is one of the bravest people I have ever known. Her mental health journey played a very significant part in my decision to pursue a career as a therapist. When I was finishing up my bachelors degree in business and marketing, I felt that God was definitely guiding me towards counseling and away from business. I believe that He placed a special gift and love of counseling in my heart. I know it is my calling in life and I love to help and walk with people on their own mental health journey to wellness and healing.
Hello! My name is Lynn and I have 10 years of experience working with the adult population. I provide individual therapy and over the last 7 years I have had the opportunity to work with adults of varying ages, primarily women who have experienced abusive or toxic relationships, specifically narcissistic abuse. Our understanding of how relationships work originate from our family of origin. We learn attitudes and behaviors from our caregivers and many times these behaviors are toxic, dysfunctional or destructive. I can help with understanding the patterns in your relationships or behaviors that create strife or stress. I focus on mind, body and soul. I use integrative therapies to help you to identify unhealthy thoughts and behaviors and replace them with healthy ones to creating meaningful change and learn to successfully navigate the relationships and interactions with the people in your life. I approach all of life including therapy from a Christian worldview. I would be happy to integrate faith into the counseling process by request. My approaches to therapy primarily includes; Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) some Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), Interpersonal therapy, Solution Focused therapy and recently I have been trained in basic EMDR therapy and FLASH. To learn more about EMDR, go to www.EMDRIA.org. I believe that you are the expert about you. My job is to partner with you and walk along with you through your journey of healing.
Jamie ThorpJ

Jamie Thorp

Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because of my own experiences with therapy, which for me, were deeply helpful. The people I work with motivate me to continue and being able to be a part of their healing process is extremely rewarding. Plus, the field of therapy is always evolving, so I am motivated to look at the future developments.
If you are curious, hesitant, or intimidated about seeking therapy, I am here to help. I create a nonjudgemental, safe and confidential space where you can freely express yourself without fear, judgment or criticism. This space is dedicated solely to your well-being, where you can explore your emotions, build your self-esteem and cultivate self-compassion. If you value a creative and holistic approach to therapy, we may integrate art or other expressive techniques like mindfulness. I am passionate about trauma and women's issues. My training and experience allows me to navigate the complex needs of survivors of all ages, including young survivors. One area of particular interest to me is the mind-body-spirit approach. These therapies focus on the body's wisdom in healing trauma and provide a holistic approach to recovery. As part of Wellspring Therapeutic Partners, I regularly consult with our team of therapists, prescribers, and psychologists who specialize in a variety of areas. I can provide seamless referrals for medication management or testing, though we always welcome and encourage you to keep working with your outside provider if helpful.