Check Out Megan Ortiz’s Story (LMFT, LPCC)

Today we’d like to introduce you to Megan Ortiz.

Hi Megan, 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?
With pleasure! My name is Megan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I clinically treat my clients using a client-centered, holistic approach. I believe my clients are the experts of their life, and that I am here to join and support them on their journey. My career as a clinician started just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. I was in search of more meaning in my work, and have always been told that I am an excellent listener. I wanted to put this skill to good use and make a career out of it. I was aware that this career path would require a Master’s degree and then some. Naturally, I experienced ambivalence on whether this path was one I was willing to embark on. After making the decision that this was the career that I wanted to pursue, I went all in. I completed my Master’s program while working full-time and, as soon as I was eligible, began working as an associate therapist. This entire experience truly tested what I believed I was capable of achieving. I am so happy that I overcame my ambivalence!

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not in the slightest! This venture, from start to finish, was an uphill battle, at least for me. For starters, completing a Master’s program full-time while also working full-time was a challenge in and of itself, but one that was necessary. One, I needed the income, but two, the way I saw it, time is money. I wanted to complete my Master’s in the shortest amount of time possible. Which, I am happy to say, I did. However, obtaining a Master’s degree was only the beginning. The real work began when I began my work as an associate therapist, where I was to gain clinical hours and supervision. For me, this part was the toughest, but it was also where I saw the most growth. The knowledge I gained during my experience as an associate was invaluable. As soon as I became eligible to take the clinical exams, I registered immediately. I had already been studying for these exams for months! Knowing that many individuals do not pass these exams on the first try, I mentally prepared for the worst, while also hoping for the best. I am pleased to say that I passed both of my exams on the first try! From that moment forward, I was confident that this feat would open many doors for me professionally.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I work as a remote therapist in an outpatient setting. I treat clients with a variety of presenting concerns, such as trauma, depression, anxiety, suicide ideation, and grief, and my areas of specialty include treating eating disorders, suicide prevention, and grief and loss. I am most proud of the pride I take in providing my clients with individualized care. I take the time to truly get to know my clients and hear their story. I prioritize ensuring that my clients feel heard and feel better overall! What sets me apart is that I emphasize the rapport I build with each of my clients. The therapeutic alliance is the strongest indicator of client success in treatment!

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
Like the emphasis I like to have on building rapport with my clients, I believe it is equally as important to prioritize building rapport with your cohort. Things like making the time to step away from desk and connect with your coworkers for 5 minutes may not seem like much, but it can truly set the tone for the duration of your time spent where you are studying/working. Remember, your cohort is in the same boat as you – help each other out! And on a personal note – my key to success is not budging on self-care. For me, that’s daily movement – workouts, dancing, and pickleball. Even if on some days it’s just taking a ten minute walk, I’m happy. I truly believe that action is the antidote to anxiety. Plus, a body in motion stays in motion. The benefits are endless!

Contact Info:

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ meganortiz124