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Therapists answer…

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

Damaris GraciaD

Damaris Gracia

Damaris Gracia LPC
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 human connection and the potential for growth and healing within everyone. My own experiences inspired me to help others navigate life’s challenges with compassion and hope. What motivates me to continue is seeing the transformation in my clients—their resilience, growth, and courage inspire me every day. Guiding others toward balance and fulfillment is my purpose and my passion.
Hello, I’m Damaris Gracia, a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor committed to supporting individuals on their journey to peace and self-discovery. With a Master's in Education Counseling and Guidance and a Bachelor’s in Psychology, I bring both expertise and compassion to every session. At Favorite Self Therapy & Coaching, I offer a safe and confidential space where you can explore your emotions, face your challenges, and uncover the strength within you. I specialize in working with individuals navigating mental health concerns or seeking personal development. My approach is rooted in collaboration and trust. Together, we will evaluate your needs, create meaningful goals, and develop a treatment plan tailored specifically to you. Whether you're working through anxiety, depression, addiction, or simply seeking growth, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way. As a bilingual therapist, I’m proud to offer services in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility and understanding for a diverse range of clients. I am also deeply committed to ongoing education and community involvement to continually enhance my ability to serve others. Healing starts with embracing your inner self, and my mission is to help you find harmony within. Let’s work together to create the balanced, fulfilling life you deserve. Treatment Philosophy I believe true healing begins by embracing every part of ourselves with compassion and understanding. My approach is rooted in collaboration, trust, and respect, focusing on your unique needs and goals. I blend person-centered therapy with cognitive-behavioral techniques to help you navigate emotions, overcome challenges, and achieve personal growth. Together, we’ll build a strong therapeutic relationship to foster healing and balance, empowering you to live your most authentic, fulfilling life. Specialties & Conditions Mental Health Depression Anxiety PTSD Addiction Relationship issues Trauma Mood disorders Panic attacks LGBTQIA+ Family Issues Grief Loss Identity Issues Treatment approach Person-Centered Therapy Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Trauma-Informed Care Eclectic Approach Crisis Intervention Family Systems Therapy Co-occurring Disorders Treatment Mindfulness-Based Techniques Psychoeducational Support Coaching and Guidance Trauma-Focused Gestalt Jungian Codependency Behavioral Motivational Interviewing Internal Family Systems (IFS) Behavior Modification Strength-Based Rational Emotive Behavior (REBT) Positive Psychology Psychoanalytic Solution Focused Brief (SFBT) Insurance Aetna Cigna Blue Cross Blue Shield Oscar Health Anthem UnitedHealthcare Carelon Behavioral Health Quest Behavioral Health Oxford Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
Celina EgemasiC

Celina Egemasi

Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner Open to your mental health needs.
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist because I have a deep-seated passion for helping people navigate their mental health journeys. Witnessing the transformative power of therapy in the lives of individuals is incredibly rewarding. Knowing that I can provide a safe and supportive space for someone to explore their emotions, challenges, and aspirations is truly fulfilling. What motivates me to continue is the knowledge that mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being. Seeing my clients make progress, gain insight, and ultimately lead more fulfilling lives is a constant source of inspiration. Additionally, the belief that everyone deserves the opportunity to live their best life keeps me committed to this profession. It's an honor to be a part of someone's healing process and to contribute to their path towards greater mental and emotional well-being.
I'm Dr. Egemasi, a Dual Board-Certified Family and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. I believe in a dignified, integrative approach to healing. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in treating (but not limited to) Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar, Schizophrenia, and ADHD. My practice is marked by a commitment to individualized care, whether through traditional psychiatric medications or alternative approaches such as natural treatments, supplements, and lifestyle modifications. With a background spanning behavioral health, primary care, urgent care, emergency room, and internal medicine, I bring a comprehensive understanding to my practice. I offer extended office hours during the week, ensuring that I can meet the unique needs of my patients. I have a dedicated team focused on creating innovative, personalized treatment plans for patients of all ages. By working closely with each client, we develop tailored strategies to achieve their mental health goals. Experience the difference of a holistic, integrated, and compassionate approach to mental health care. Choose me, Dr. Egemasi, for a journey towards healing and well-being.
Kimberly TeleshK

Kimberly Telesh

Psychologist
Online Therapy
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I think like a lot of therapists, I wanted to know why I felt they way I did (BTW I do think therapists who say "I wanted to help people" really mean they wanted to help themselves first). I had an early knack for being the supportive, "cheerleader" person, and soon learned I really enjoyed (and was good at) the science, problem-solving and analysis that psychotherapy requires. I am a staunch believer in if you want to be an effective therapist, you have to have some kind of grip on yourself first- not to be perfect (we are all human, with all the trappings of what that means- no one is immune from the thing we call "life"), but to practice what you preach. I don't want to go to a mechanic who personally owns a bunch of broken cars. So I really don't want to go to a therapist that doesn't implement their own skills, or who doesn't know what its like to be a client.
There is a lot of “noise” in our lives that challenges our sense of self, our direction, our place in this world that causes self-doubt and conflict (within ourselves and with others). Using a flexible, client-centered approach I focus on what parts of that “noise” the client seeks clarity with, and how to quiet that “noise” to finally hear yourself. We set goals for therapy together in a safe and affirming space. My private practice also includes a psychological concierge service for individuals navigating complex life crises that involving multiple entities (family/group, hospital/treatment facility, jail, court, private security services, attorneys). Call for a free consultation.
Michael NwannaM

Michael Nwanna

PMHNP-BC,APRN,MSN
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a therapist to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families facing mental health challenges. Witnessing the resilience of my clients and their progress toward wellness is my greatest motivation. I’m passionate about providing compassionate, individualized care, using evidence-based practices and open communication to foster healing and trust. My goal is to empower clients to overcome their challenges and achieve lasting mental wellness and personal growth.
Hello, I'm Michael Nwanna, a compassionate and experienced Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. With over 20 years of experience in both the mental health and medical health care field, I am committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive mental health care that empowers you to achieve your wellness goals. With a focus on patient-centered care, I work closely with individuals across the lifespan, addressing a wide range of mental health disorders including Depression, Anxiety, ADHD, Mood disorders, PTSD, Schizophrenia, and Substance use. I believe in open communication with patients and their families, ensuring they are informed and comfortable throughout the care process. My aim is to foster a supportive environment that encourages healing and trust. My mission is to provide compassionate, individualized care that empowers each client to achieve mental wellness and personal growth. I am committed to fostering a therapeutic partnership where clients are respected, and supported. Through a holistic approach, I integrate evidence-based practices with empathy and, at times, humor to create a healing environment that nurtures mind, body, and spirit. Treatment philosophy: I believe in compassionate, patient-centered care that meets individual needs. Every patient is unique and deserves personalized attention. My approach includes thorough assessments and open communication with patients and their families. I prioritize building trust, so we can work together towards your health goals. Using evidence-based methods, I provide tailored treatment plans, whether for mental health or physical recovery. I focus on comfort and support during your journey. I am dedicated to your well-being and recovery every step of the way. Specialties: Addiction ADHD Adult Psychiatry Alcohol dependency Anger Management Anxiety Autism Behavioral therapy Bipolar disorders Child Psychiatry Chronic Conditions Circadian rhythm disorders Conditions treated Co-occurring disorders Counseling Depression Detoxification management Eating disorders Emotional trauma Family Counseling Female Psychiatry Geriatric Psychiatry Insomnia Medication administration Men's Issues Mental Health Mood disorders Narcolepsy Nursing Obsessive-Compulsive OCD Opioid addiction Panic attacks Pediatric Psychiatry Personality disorder Phobias Prescription drug misuse Psychiatry Psychotherapy PTSD REM sleep behavior disorder Restless leg syndrome Schizophrenia Sleep disorder Stress Substance Abuse Trauma and PTSD Withdrawal symptoms Treatment approach: Behavior Modification Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT) Collaborative Care Team Involvement Compassionate Care for Diverse Populations Crisis Intervention Techniques Data-Driven Clinical Documentation Evidence-Based Medication Management Individualized Treatment Planning Mindfulness & Stress Reduction Strategies Motivational Interviewing Patient Education & Support Psychiatric Assessment & Diagnosis Therapeutic Psychotherapy Approaches Trauma-Focused
Rita AsiegbunamR

Rita Asiegbunam

Rita Asiegbunam, APRN,PMHNP-BC
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I became a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. My passion lies in helping individuals struggling with mental health challenges and substance use disorders, especially those in underserved communities. Seeing my patients regain control, find hope, and improve their quality of life keeps me motivated every day. My goal is to continue providing compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers lasting healing and recovery.
Hello! I'm Rita Asiegbunam, a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a career spanning over 15 years. I focus on delivering exceptional care to mental health patients, veterans, and underserved communities. My professional journey started with an Associate Degree in Nursing and progressed to a Master's in Nursing specializing in Psychiatric Mental Health from Maryville University. I am passionate about providing comprehensive mental health assessments and personalized care. My expertise includes medication management and working closely with an interdisciplinary team to ensure the best possible outcomes for my patients. I have a strong ability to handle high-pressure situations calmly and ethically. I take pride in my organizational skills and excellent communication with patients and healthcare team members. Fluent in English and Igbo, I aim to make every patient feel understood and supported. In my practice, I emphasize patient-centered care and continually strive to enhance the quality of services through collaboration and innovation. I look forward to making a positive impact on the mental well-being of all my patients. Treatment philosophy: My treatment philosophy centers on compassionate, patient-centered care. I strive to foster genuine connections with my patients, understanding their unique journeys and challenges. With over 15 years of experience caring for diverse populations, including veterans and underserved communities, I prioritize personalized assessments and treatment plans. I believe in a holistic approach, addressing both mental health and substance use issues through collaboration with an interdisciplinary team. My goal is to empower patients by providing education and support, guiding them on their path to recovery. Together, we can overcome obstacles and achieve lasting wellness.
Teresa FranzT

Teresa Franz

LCSW
Online & In-Person
Why did you become a therapist, and what motivates you to continue?
I feel like I was made to be a therapist! I love working with people who are struggling and helping them find joy again. I'm so excited to watch my clients grow and heal, and we often celebrate each success together with laughter and tears (and I may cry right along with you). People think that being a counselor is hard, but at the end of my day, I feel energized! I look forward to meeting with each and every client each session.
I get it! On the outside, maybe you seem fine. You’re balancing everything life throws at you...but there are times when you’re overwhelmed. You feel like whatever you do, it doesn’t seem to be “enough.” Everyone around you seems to be happier, more put together, and you can't figure out why. You spend so much effort pushing feelings away, that you’re not enjoying life. It doesn't have to be this way. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, trauma, stressful relationships, parenting, depression, or grief, there's a path towards joy and calm! Asking for help can be scary, but don’t worry! I’ve got you! I want to work with you to let go of the dark cloud that hangs over you so you can enjoy life again (or maybe for the first time). I use evidence-based therapies and tailor your treatment to you. I specialize in counseling for teens, young adults, women, first responders, and veterans, and can provide Christian counseling, but treat people from all backgrounds. My clients tell me that they've never felts so safe and cared for than in our therapy sessions. You don't have to feel alone in this any more. I offer a FREE 15 minute consultation for you to get to know me and to make sure you feel comfortable. I received my Masters of Science in Social Work from the University of Texas and trained at the Veteran's Health Administration in the PTSD Clinic. I also provided school-based mental health to high school students, worked in a group practice treating individuals and couples, and have led grief groups and camps. I'm an active volunteer for justice and to make the world a safer, kinder place for everyone.