Why I Became a Therapist: Representation, Change, and Personal Inspiration
I became a therapist because I wanted to be the change I wished to see in the world. Growing up, I noticed how critical mental health support is, yet how often it felt inaccessible or misunderstood, especially for people who looked like me or came from communities like mine. Representation matters, and I wanted to create a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and understood.
Shadena Natty Counseling exists to provide compassionate, personalized therapy for individuals and couples navigating anxiety, stress, relationships, and life transitions. It’s important to me that every client who walks through my door feels valued, supported, and empowered to grow emotionally and mentally.
But my journey to opening my own private practice is more deep and personal: One of the reasons is my 16-year-old son. He inspired me to take this step. Knowing that my work could serve as a positive example for him, and for other young people, motivated me to create a space where mental health is prioritized, normalized, and accessible. His dream of becoming a therapist himself reminded me that the impact we make can ripple across generations. The other reason is my 14 year old daughter. I wanted her to grow up seeing a woman who believes in her own strength. Who creates her own opportunities, and walks through doors she once thought were impossible to open. Her dream is to become a Dentist, and I want her to know that the sky is truly the limit. By pursuing my own path with purpose, I hope to show my children that they have the power to shape their own future and achieve everything they envision.
Every decision I make in my practice is guided by this inspiration. I strive to model empathy, resilience, and self-care—not just for my clients, but for my children and the next generation they represent. Opening Shadena Natty Counseling has allowed me to build a space where representation matters, where people from all backgrounds can feel understood, and where the work we do together creates lasting, meaningful change. Therapy isn’t just about sessions; it’s about shaping lives, modeling growth, and sowing the seeds for a healthier, more compassionate future.
If you’re ready to prioritize your mental health, work through life’s challenges, or simply have a safe space to be heard, I invite you to take the first step today. At Shadena Natty Counseling, you’ll find a compassionate, judgment-free environment where your growth and well-being come first. Reach out to schedule a session, and let’s start this journey together—because you deserve support, understanding, and the opportunity to thrive.
