A. Whitney Shea, MA.
1. What's your practice focus and what kind of clients knock on your door ?
The beauty of our practice is that we have been able to bring on talented team members with many different specialties. We support couples with a Gottman-trained therapist, those suffering from trauma/anxiety/addictions with an EMDR-trained clinician, and just about everything in-between; with the addition of hypnotherapy and a nutritional psychology perspective to treat a plethora of diagnoses as well.
2. Tell us about yourself.
I am an active-duty military spouse, and started this practice in support of mental health clinicians who are also milspouses, veterans and/or connected to the military in some way. We have very unique circumstances/experiences and historically have had to wrestle with challenges and obstacles in securing continuity of care for our clients, keeping our resumes and careers consistent, etc., which Mindful Vision Counseling helps to change.
What a gift for all involved!
3. Tell us the story of a patient who you are most proud of helping.
One of my very first clients was a young adult, dealing with gender dysphoria and social anxiety. While very shy, I could tell this individual was ready to work on being the best and truest version of themselves possible, and I was humbled to have the opportunity to assist on the journey. We both learned much in the identification, exploration and reflection of/upon topics that had the very real ability to create a more fulfilling life for them. Seeing that phenomenon in action was priceless.
4. What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a practitioner in private practice?
I think one of the biggest "bittersweet" challenges for me is when we get to the point where I realize as a mental health clinician that it is time to let my client "fly solo". Spending such quality time week after week with one another definitely creates a strong bond and sometimes it can be tough to let go, but I am grateful each time for the amazing opportunity I have been given to partner with my fellow humans in working together to heal, grow, and meet (many times exceed!) their goals.
5. What are the top 3 tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a private practice today?\
The top 3 tips I'd give.
- Do not think you can do it all by yourself.
- Have a spirit/mindset of abundance and encourage your fellow practitioners.
- Take care of yourself; after all, you can't pour from an empty cup!