Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Gardner.
Hi Stephanie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I have always had an interest in mental health because I had many people with addiction and mental health struggles around me growing up. I was selected to be a part of a Peer Assistance Leadership and Service (PALS) program in High School, a program that paired high school students with elementary students to mentor and support them during difficult seasons.
Later on I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, but through various life circumstances was unable to complete it at that time.
As my adult life unfolded, and I encountered various unexpected trials, I reached a point where I desperately needed professional support. I found an incredible Christian counselor who I worked intensively with for nearly two years and found healing and freedom I truly did not know was possible given what I had been through. I wanted to be able to extend that same hope and healing to others who faced unimaginable loss and trials that felt insurmountable.
I was called back into finishing my bachelor’s degree and pursue my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I completed my education in 2023, and opened my private practice in The Woodlands, Texas in September of 2025.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Growing up in a lower socio-economic home, I had significant difficulty in paying for my education. As such, I did not finish my bachelor’s degree until I was nearly 40 years old, after spending most of my 30s as a stay-at-home-mom.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I opened Anchored by Light Counseling PLLC to provide hope and healing to women who are struggling with the lies that have been sewn from past trauma and narcissistic abuse. I work holistically integrating faith and evidence-based modalities such as EMDR and Family of Origin work to get to the root of what is causing nervous system disruption in my clients. My work is measured, intentional, and responsive.
I respect client choice and support the strengthening of boundaries that support healthy relationships. I am a pattern-finder and truth-seeker. I am passionate about meeting with women who have been mistreated, discarded, and used for far too long – women who were sold the lie that there just isn’t any more that can be done.
I believe healing begins with connection.
I have walked with so many women through the darkness and lies of abuse, trauma, and narcissistic betrayal that left them with crippling anxiety and depression – women who needed someone who believes them, sees them, and reconnects them to the core of who they are.
I am most proud of the way I am able to tend to my clients’ needs and support each of their goals in dynamic ways that are tailored to each unique person and situation. I am a low-volume, high-quality practice that allows for more attentive care because I do not see more than 12 clients per week.
Women that reach out to me can be assured of their privacy, encouragement, and practical tools to walk toward healing and wholeness. I specialize in Christian Counseling, EMDR, High-Functioning Anxiety & Burnout, Narcissistic Abuse Recovery, Women-Focused Therapy, and Boundaries.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
I think something that is surprising for people who are meeting me in this season of my life is learning my background in Musical Theatre and Photography. I was a professional photographer for over a decade in San Antonio, Texas, and specialized in headshots and family portraits.
As a musical theatre performer I was given the opportunity to meet so many different kinds of people, and “try on” different stories as I brought different characters to life. I now use that same passion in my work with clients, striving to understand their struggles from their own perspective …how it affects them given their own history and framework.
Pricing:
- $150-$200+ per session
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.anchoredbylight.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredbylightcounselingpllc/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580282087794
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/anchored-by-light-counseling-the-woodlands?osq=anchored+by+light+counseling
