Today we’d like to introduce you to William Prasad.
Hi William, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I remember standing in front of the White House thinking, I am here, now what? After 20 years as a newspaper, radio, local TV, and network correspondent, and one Emmy, reality had eclipsed my dreams. Now, it was time to wake up to a new challenge. I entered the world of mental health in 2006 in Alexandria, Virginia. Starting with a private practice of me, myself, and I, I built a case load. Simultaneously, I worked as Behavioral Health Coordinator for a large fire department, working closely with firefighters, their families, and some law enforcement. Eventually, my journey led me to Houston, where I worked as a Director for several psychiatric hospitals, leading teams of doctors, therapists, mental health techs, and admin. After deciding to go out on my own, I launched a practice specializing in psychotherapy, corporate trainings, and disaster psychology. About a year ago, I started building a group practice. We have grown to 5 therapists, working with adults, teens, and children. It has been hard work, but extremely rewarding.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In journalism school, I remember a professor opening up a lecture by counting heads and then saying, “There are 12 of you in this classroom. About 4 will make this a career, and one may make it to a large city.” I decided I was the one. Beginning a career in news meant squeezing dimes out of nickels. The pay was so poor, I remember being on TV and working weekends at The Gap during Christmas. The poor pay, moving (9 cities in about 15 years), and working holidays challenged my confidence, my resilience, and my skills. After arriving at the networks in Washington, the hours were very difficult, but I loved the work. When I changed from TV news to mental health, many people were shocked. “How can you walk away when you are at the top?” I heard this question frequently. In addition, I was told that I would never make a decent salary. I remade myself and remade my career in the process of becoming whole. I have become a fierce advocate for the mentally ill, for mental health, and the fight against stigma. It has been a challenging road. But it is a road I would travel again!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
How much you know matters little compared to how much you care. We are a small group counseling practice that is big on individualized care. While other therapists have phased out in-person therapy, we offer a warm, welcoming environment along with virtual sessions. Our brand is a personal touch with compassion, knowledge, and care. We work with children, teens, adults, and couples on a wide range of challenges to include trauma, drug addiction, relationship fractures, anxiety, and depression. We take insurance because we believe people have a right to affordable psychotherapy. Through us, our clients find hope, embrace change, and discover solutions.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
One of our specialties is disaster psychology. I respond to mass shootings, natural disasters, and other workplace trauma. When there is a suicide in the workplace, I get a call. When a child dies unexpectedly, I work with providers at the hospital’s NICU. When there are large-scale layoffs, I work with those who have gotten the bad news. It is a calling, and it gives me purpose and hope. On a side note, I am a certified rescue scuba diver and a spin instructor.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Prasadcounseling.com
- Instagram: Prasadcounseling
- LinkedIn: Bill Prasad
- Twitter: Billprasadlpc
- Youtube: Prasad Counseling and Training
