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Inspiring Conversations with Sandra Kushnir of Meridian Counseling

Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandra Kushnir.

Hi Sandra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I started Meridian Counseling 3.5 years ago as my own private practice. I wanted to start a counseling center that made therapy less intimidating to go to by creating a space that felt more modern and hip, offered client the ability to use their insurance instead of having to pay out of pocket or get superbills and provided good quality care. In the past 3.5 years, we have grown to a team of 37 and are still rapidly expanding in both California and Utah. We work with hundreds of clients and are in-network with multiple insurance payors. It has been such a privilege to help so many people that might have otherwise not been able to afford therapy. Mental health is covered by most plans- however, finding a therapist that takes your insurance can be really overwhelming and difficult for clients, especially if they are struggling with anxiety or depression. We make it easy for both the client and the clinician!

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I have learned that business relations can bring out the worst in people. I had a very traumatic experience with the founders of a large brand and a colleague that stole my concept and took credit for it. The entire experience felt extremely exploitive and totally caught me off guard considering the founders of this brand had previously offered to mentor us and had us on their podcast and because I had previously also mentored colleague who partnered with them a few months prior when she was newly entering the field.

It was a lesson to me to keep my ideas close to my heart and to slow down before trusting other’s intentions when it comes to business. I looked up to the founders of this large company and believed they truly support entrepreneurs. I believe that they truly support other entrepreneurs doing it all themselves because this is how they represented themselves on social media and on their podcasts. However, this was not the case and they completely stole the concept and blindsided us. This experience taught me that integrity is extremely important and that I want to be the type of leader that lives in my values and to always practice what I preach.

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Meridian Counseling?
Modern therapy for the modern client. Our mission is to bring high-quality mental health services to the masses. What sets us apart from other counseling centers is that we are in-network with all private and public insurance plans and can bill insurance directly, we have beautiful modern offices or telehealth options and diverse staff of clinicians with different backgrounds and specialties on our team. I am proud of our growth in the past year, we went from a team of eight to a team of 37 and growing.

The crisis has affected us all in different ways. How has it affected you and any important lessons or epiphanies you can share with us?
Cherish the moments with people you love and never take your freedom for granted.

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