Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie Paddon
Hi Katie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I initially became drawn toward the mental health field as a police officer. I was a mental health officer and hostage negotiator. I attended every wellness and crisis intervention training I could and developed a peer support program. I sought help after working a critical incident and realized there was a lack of therapists who understand first responders. I decided to help fill this void for those in need. I received a Master of Science in clinical mental health counseling. I currently work for a group practice in Austin called New Vision Counseling and have a private practice in Buda called Anchored Resilience Therapy.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I encountered some challenges during this journey of becoming a therapist. I had been out of school since 2009, so becoming a student again was quite an adjustment. I worked full-time while in graduate school. Completing an unpaid 600-hour internship while working the night shift was also challenging. I did not know anyone in the field and had much to learn about the process and profession. My graduate program lasted almost 3 years. After graduation, I had to pass the National Counselor Exam (NCE) and begin the licensure process. Texas requires us to start as licensed professional counselor associates until we reach 3,000 hours and pay for supervision during this time. Becoming a counselor has many steps and obstacles, but it has been worth it.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Anchored Resilience Therapy?
My private practice is called Anchored Resilience Therapy. I work with adult individuals and couples and provide group therapy. I offer virtual and in person counseling sessions. Many of the clients I see are experiencing work stress, life transitions, anxiety, OCD, religious trauma, and domestic violence. My personal experience and ability to relate to my clients sets me apart from others. Working in law enforcement for almost 8 years allowed me to understand the unique challenges and culture first responders and shift workers face. I contract with some of the local police departments to offer counseling services to their employees. I am proud of my private practice’s growth this year. It is also very rewarding to see the client’s progress and achievements.
What’s next?
I am looking forward to becoming trained in EMDR in 2025. This will be a valuable tool to help my clients experiencing PTSD or trauma. I am also starting Gottman training to advance my skills in couples counseling. I am eager to continue growing my private practice and helping as many clients as possible.
Pricing:
- $70-$100
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.anchoredresiliencetherapy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anchoredresiliencetherapy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchoredresiliencetherapy
- Other: Katie@anchoredresiliencetherapy.com
