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Community Highlights: Meet Alyssia Anderson of Southern Pine Counseling

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssia Anderson.

Hi Alyssia, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was a bright-eyed teenager in high school, cruising through life in my little town like I own the place. One day, I was assigned to take a career quiz. The kind where they ask you a million questions about your personality… Well, after all the answers, they hit me with the big reveal: counselor. I couldn’t help but laugh! A counselor? Come on! I was sure I’d be a hotshot journalist, changing the world one headline at a time, or maybe even a famous author. Young and naïve, right?

Flash forward to college, I’m living my best life, playing tennis and diving into elementary education. When it came time for those required human development classes, something clicked. I found myself fascinated by people, their stories, their struggles, what makes them tick. It was like uncovering a secret world of emotions and connections. I thought, “Hmm, maybe I’d be a marriage and family therapist!”

But life has a funny way of steering you in unexpected directions. I started seeing friends and loved ones dealing with some serious mental health challenges. It was heart-wrenching, but then I witnessed how social workers swooped in with their superhero capes, helping people navigate through the storm. That’s when it hit me. I wanted to be that person, the one who steps in to help other people’s loved ones, just like someone once helped mine.

So, I made the bold move, applied to social work school, and here I am now! It’s wild how a silly quiz, a love for human stories, and a desire to make a difference led me straight into the counseling field. The rest, as they say, is history!

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Becoming a therapist is not all champagne and roses, there are some pretty rough moments along the way. The road to counseling has been a rollercoaster ride full of ups and downs. Before I could step into my dream job in private practice, I had to pay my dues, and let me tell you, those dues were earned in some pretty tough places.

I spent years in various trauma units, where every day was a new challenge. Sure, it was hard, but you know what? I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything. They shaped me into the therapist I am today, like a diamond formed under pressure. I’ve had the privilege of working with people from all walks of life, grieving with families and celebrating miraculous recoveries. Connecting with people when they’re at their lowest well, that’s where the real magic happens.

And can we talk about mentorship for a minute? I’m so grateful for the amazing people who guided me through my therapist journey. They helped polish off the rough edges and pushed me to keep growing. Along the way, I piled on the continuing education classes and certifications. It took a ton of hard work, but every late night and study session was worth it.

Now, I step into my office with the confidence of a seasoned professional. When someone dealing with anxiety or trauma walks through that door, I know I can help them. I’ve been there, I’ve seen it all, and together, we’ll create a personalized plan of care. So, yes, the road has been bumpy, but those bumps made me the therapist I am today, and for that, I’m truly grateful.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Southern Pine Counseling offers a cozy, welcoming space where people can come in, let their guard down, and start to address their trauma and anxiety. We’ve carved out a special niche in treating trauma and anxiety, with a keen eye on how these issues uniquely impact women. Studies show that, when it comes to trauma and stress, women’s symptoms can differ from those of men. We get that, and we’ve made it our mission to cater to their specific experiences. Many people walk through life thinking, “Eh, it’s not that bad,” and convincing themselves their pain doesn’t count as trauma or is not worthy of therapy. They do not know that everyone’s trauma is different. Trauma can be a series of little things that stack up or one big life event that shakes you to your core. At Southern Pine, we dive deep into this notion. We’re here for those who are grappling with everything from adverse childhood experiences to the aftermath of major incidents like shootings or accidents. About 85% of what we do revolves around trauma treatment, while the rest focuses on anxiety. We help women find what fuels their anxiety and self-doubt so they can truly heal. Trust me, when you start to dismantle that inner dialogue, it’s like lifting a weight off your shoulders, allowing you to accelerate your career and relationships.
What I’m most proud of at Southern Pine Counseling isn’t just that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our clients during their most challenging times; it’s that we empower them to know they will be okay. We are dedicated to guiding women in rediscovering their strength, even when they can’t see it themselves. I get the joy of witnessing these incredible women take charge of their lives, embracing their true selves, and stepping boldly into the future. And let’s not forget the tools we bring to the table! We offer individual counseling that employs strategies like CBT, EMDR, ERP, and DBT to craft personalized care plans for overcoming the tremors of trauma and anxiety. In short, what sets Southern Pine apart is our unwavering commitment to guiding women on their journey to healing, doing so with confidence, empathy, and empowerment. Now that’s something to be proud of!

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
We offer in person and virtual therapy sessions.

Pricing:

  • Please call or text 713-548-3367 for a free consult

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