We recently had the chance to connect with Arlee Pryor and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Arlee , thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Things that are currently bringing me joy are nature, movement, and music. I recently made a move to Southern California and I love being surrounded by its beauty. There’s fruit growing on the trees, exotic looking flowers, the beach, mountains, you name it. It feels like I live in the garden of Eden and it’s done wonders for my mental health. I’m also really leaning into fitness this year for my mental health. I’ve gotten into Lagree and while it’s been a humbling experience it’s helped me to push myself and have fun doing so. Music also always brings me joy. Over the last couple of years I’ve grown to deeply appreciate EDM music. I find it to be very somatically therapeutic, really fun, and connective! I also love its history and cultural queerness.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Arlee. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and I’m the owner of Balanced Life Psychotherapy, a solo virtual private practice for adults and couples across Texas. I just celebrated two years in private practice, and I couldn’t be more grateful or motivated to keep doing this work. As a queer person myself, I’m passionate about supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. In today’s political climate, it’s more important than ever to be visible, affirming, and unapologetically inclusive. I love helping people move toward authenticity, connection and deeper understanding.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?
I was a spunky tomboy in overalls. I was climbing trees barefoot, curious, goofy, and creative. I find my way back to her every time I let go of expectations and lean into joy and authenticity. Inner child work is a big part of what I do with clients too. I love asking them that question: ‘Who were you before the world told you who you had to be?’. Those younger parts of ourselves still live within us. They just want to be seen and nurtured.
Do you remember a time someone truly listened to you?
When I met my partner, I was struck by how deeply seen and heard I felt. She wasn’t listening to respond, she was listening to be with me, and to understand me. To truly listen without an agenda is such an undervalued skill! It’s something I work on every day with my couples in therapy. When we can listen without defensiveness, we open the door to a truly magical connection.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
They’d say community and humor and they would be right! I thrive when my relationships feel vulnerable, fun, and connected. Connection and humor are also things I bring to the therapy space too. How connected and safe the therapeutic relationship feels really shapes the course of the therapy. Some of my most treasured moments with my clients are when we can share a laugh, even in the midst of deep processing.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What will you regret not doing?
I would regret not enjoying the journey. I pride myself on being professional, motivated, and boundaried but that can come with a side of anxiety and stress. As a business owner, I’d like to ride the highs and lows with more ease, and really allow myself to enjoy the process. I’m incredibly privileged to do the work I do, and I want to make more space to slow down, take it in, and appreciate the journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://balancedlifepsychotherapy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arlee_texastherapist/
- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.
com/@arlee_texastherapist
