Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Bloodworth.
Stephanie, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I’ve wanted to be a therapist and be involved in psychology since I was 16. I didn’t have much guidance on the many options, so set my sights on a doctorate with the goal of being a Clinical Psychologist. This has really ended up one long-term goal for me that I’ve continued through countless life and job changes. I grew up in California, moved to the St. Louis area in college, and moved to Houston about seven years later. I went to a number of schools, held a number of jobs to pay the bills, was married and divorced and now married again. And all the while, I’ve kept up my education with the focus of a doctorate in clinical psychology. About halfway through that doctorate, I realized I could do the work I want to do with my masters, so I went for my license as a Marriage and Family Therapist Associate. I completed masters-level training at Covenant House Missouri, working with homeless and at-risk youth. I’ve continued my doctorate because, hey, might as well finish it, right? Right now, I’m just a few months away from that ultimate goal but, in the meantime, I really do already have my dream job working as a private practice therapist. I love the opportunity to never stop growing and learning, whether it’s in constant reading and workshops or in the one-on-one therapy experiences with clients.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Oh goodness, no, I think I only know what a smooth road means in theory. Figuring out how to reach my goal by myself meant non-traditional tracks and whatever I could figure out for myself. I’ve had relationships that disrespected the time I needed to invest in both the goal and myself. I’ve had to figure out how to continue while I also struggled to pay bills and take care of family needs. I’ve sat at tables and asked for help from seasoned professionals, who were supposed to be colleagues, and had my concerns brushed off before they went back to talking to each other because they couldn’t grasp how helping me could benefit them. I’ve built myself to the place where I do have something to offer them now, regardless, and I’m more than happy to: I can’t imagine going through a difficult situation and not wanting to make it easier for others. My journey still includes late nights and dedication, but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. If I have any advice, it’s to keep going and find ways to enjoy the trip along the way. Prioritize the things that are important to you as non-negotiable and work from there. It’s still a difficult journey, but this way you end up with an outcome that really matters to you.
Please tell us about your business.
I am a private practice Marriage and Family Therapist Associate and a doctoral candidate in clinical psychology. I am proud of the connections I form with people in the therapeutic space. These are real conversations with someone who cares about the well-being of others. I’m not the generalized expectation of an aloof professional without emotions. We’re going to engage, we’re going to connect about what you want in your life, and you’re going to make something beautiful from your time. Being part of this process with people is such a sacred space to me, and I am grateful for everyone who chooses to share it with me.
What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
Find the people who do what you want to do and ask them how to do it. The best advice comes from the people who have done it. And if you realize you have to make your own path without guidance, be open to reaching back and helping others. That’s where your army comes from.
Pricing:
- $150 per 50 minute session
Contact Info:
- Address: 3131 Eastside St. #415, Houston, TX 77098; 9950 Cypresswood Dr. #214, Houston, TX 77070
- Website: StephanieBloodworth.com
- Phone: 832-422-8005
- Email: Stephanie@StephanieBloodworth.com
- Instagram: @yourtherapybuddy
- Facebook: @yourtherapybuddy
Image Credit:
Stephanie Bloodworth
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