Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassia Helena.
Hi Cassia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory. Can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and got to where you are today? You can include as little or as much detail as you’d like.
Hello there! I’m delighted to share my story with you. I grew up in Brazil and moved to the US in 2009 to pursue my academic dreams. I began my studies at UT Austin with English as my second language, which was challenging. Luckily, I had a background in teaching ESL back in Brazil for three years before coming here.
I was determined to complete my higher education as quickly as possible, eager to begin the work I felt deeply called to do. At 18, I knew I wanted to be a counselor and support people at a profound level. I was motivated by a strong desire to help people overcome trauma and guide them toward lives filled with positive transformation and growth.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way? Has it been a smooth road? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
As a first-generation immigrant, I encountered a unique set of challenges. At first, it often felt like I didn’t quite belong anywhere. I worked hard to adapt and learn American culture, customs, and perspectives because I truly appreciate being here. Embracing these aspects was a necessity and a choice driven by my gratitude for the opportunity to live in this beautiful country. Today, I have lived half of my life here and am as American as I am Brazilian. I remember one big hurdle that happened when I first moved to Texas. I had to wait an entire year before starting college because I couldn’t afford the international student tuition fees. For that first year, in the eyes of colleges, I was still classified as an international student despite being a Texas resident. Oh gosh, becoming a therapist was no walk in the park either. It’s all about hard work and dedication. Entering this profession is quite a journey. First, you need a master’s degree, and then you face a rigorous state license exam. After that hurdle, it’s 3000 hours of supervised work and 100 hours of supervision under a fully licensed professional. Once completed, you must pass another state license exam to work independently. But the learning never stops, which is a great thing. Our field constantly evolves, embracing new approaches and acknowledging human needs through improved treatments. We engage in extensive continuing education to stay current, completing at least 30 CEUs between each license renewal. In addition to these educational demands, we navigate a maze of fees and adhere to strict rules set by our state licensing boards. It’s a comprehensive and demanding process that ensures our professional standards and expertise. Since I wanted to offer my clients a unique and advanced treatment, I decided to specialize in EMDR therapy. Surprisingly, it’s not covered in our graduate programs. So, I have invested my time, money, and effort into this advanced training for over three years. It meant extra supervision hours, out-of-pocket expenses, and more. Every bit of it has been worth it. I love what I do. Helping people heal and watching them thrive – that’s what keeps me going. All the challenges and hard work? It’s all part of the journey; I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
Thanks for sharing that. So, you could tell us more about your business next. Please tell us more about your business or organization. What should we know? What do you do, what do you specialize in / what are you known for? What sets you apart from others? What are you most proud of brand-wise? What do you want our readers to know about your brand, offerings, services, etc?
I’d happily share more about my business, The Counseling Choice. I specialize in providing top-notch therapy services, focusing on EMDR therapy. My strong commitment to my client’s well-being and passion for helping them overcome trauma and other challenges set me apart. At The Counseling Choice, I take pride in offering personalized and effective therapeutic interventions crafted to meet the unique needs of each individual. And of course, I can provide services in English and Portuguese. My brand is built on empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to make a difference in people’s lives. I believe in the power of human connection and creating a safe, non-judgmental space where my clients can heal and grow. I’m most proud of the positive transformations I witness in my clients – seeing them embrace new, positive beliefs and lead fulfilling lives is incredibly rewarding for me. What I want you to know about The Counseling Choice is that I am your dedicated support system. I am here to help you navigate challenging times, facilitate positive change, foster personal growth, and guide clients toward a more balanced and joyful life.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us? Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
There’s something important I’d like to share with our readers. Therapy is not just for those going through a crisis; it’s a valuable resource for anyone seeking personal growth, self-discovery, or even a little extra support. In today’s fast-paced world, taking care of our mental and emotional well-being is essential. Therapy offers a safe and confidential space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It’s a place to gain valuable insights, learn coping strategies, and develop a deeper understanding of yourself. The benefits of therapy are truly remarkable – it can enhance your relationships, boost your self-esteem, and improve your overall quality of life. Let’s work together to normalize therapy and break down the stigma surrounding mental health. Seeking therapy is a courageous step towards a happier, healthier you. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness. So, if you’ve ever considered talking to someone, I encourage you to take that leap. Therapy is a transformative journey, and its positive impact on your life is truly awe-inspiring. Remember, you deserve to live your best life, and therapy can be a powerful tool to help you achieve just that. I’m grateful for the chance to discuss my journey with you. Thanks for your time and consideration. I wish you all the best!
Pricing:
- $165 for 55 minutes
- $225 for 90 minutes
- $275 for 120 minutes
- Group vary in price
- EMDR intensives vary in price
Contact Info:
- Website: www.thecounselingchoice.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassia_thecounselingchoice/
Image Credits
Larissa Goldoni Photography
