Check Out Anna’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I started my psychotherapy practice in 2022 while pregnant with my second child (wouldn’t recommend starting a practice while pregnant—haha). At the time, I knew very little about running a business, but I remember thinking that if other people could figure it out, so could I. As I grew in my work, I realized I wanted more autonomy in how I showed up as a therapist and how care was delivered to my clients. That clarity led me to start my own practice, where I could center clients’ best interests, prioritize the therapeutic relationship, and practice in a way that felt fully aligned with my values and sense of integrity.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—it’s been a road of tremendous growth (haha). There have been stretches that felt smooth and steady, but overall it’s been more like an uphill hike. I like that metaphor because I used to do a lot of hiking around Los Angeles and the Inland Empire, where the trails are beautiful and the destination is usually worth the effort, even though you never quite know what you’ll encounter along the way.

Along this journey, there have been moments of real beauty—witnessing healing and growth in individuals and couples—and there have also been stretches that burn your lungs and quads as you keep pushing forward. Those harder moments often show up as learning curves, whether that’s navigating business decisions or working through particularly complex clinical cases. Even so, the process has been deeply meaningful and worthwhile—and I don’t say that lightly, as therapists tend to stay away from absolute statements.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a Certified Gottman Couples Therapist and am currently working toward a Gestalt therapy certification. My background is in social work, with much of my early training and experience rooted in serving underserved communities throughout Los Angeles. That work deeply shaped my approach to therapy and continues to inform how I show up with clients today.

My work is grounded in being highly relational, authentic, and intentional. I tend to be very personable as a therapist and I take a resource-driven, solutions-focused approach, while still honoring the depth and complexity of each client’s experience. I believe meaningful change comes from understanding our history and recognizing our capacity to shape the present.

I’m especially proud of creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe being fully themselves while also feeling supported in making real, tangible shifts in their lives. What sets my work apart is this blend of warmth, honesty, and practical tools—helping clients not only gain insight, but also move forward with clarity and intention.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice for finding a mentor and for networking is essentially the same: focus on building genuine, trusting relationships. Because my work is inherently vulnerable, it’s important for me to truly know and trust the people in my professional circle. I approach networking not from the perspective of what I can gain, but from how I can support, collaborate with, and serve my colleagues well. When relationships are grounded in mutual care and integrity, trust and community naturally develop—and that ultimately leads to better care for the people we serve.

Pricing:

• 50-minute sessions are $250

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.thrivetherapyandcouplescounseling.com/
• Instagram: @thrivetherapycouplescounseling

Image Credits
Luke Cardona