Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Fucik
Hi Laura, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always been a listener and an observer. As a young child, I was attentive to ensuring no other child felt excluded and addressed any injustices that occurred. Helping others emotionally has always been a passion of mine. Some of my first career goals were to be a child psychologist, but like most childhood dreams, it went unnurtured and fell to the wayside. The fire was not rekindled until several decades later.
It was while addressing a dissatisfied customer in my corporate cubicle, I realized that my skills and sociology degree were intended for greater purposes.
I spent the next decade obtaining my teacher certification and educating our youth, some of whom are now adults in this world. Like many other educators, I saw the challenges in the classroom and just knew. I knew families needed help with processing behaviors, learning how to effectively communicate with one another, and needing a safe place to experience social emotional growth. It was during my last years as an educator that I knew these families and children were meant for something bigger, and to help them get there, I would need to listen and educate them on a level that was not obtainable in the classroom.
It was during the pandemic, I applied to Lamar University and began pursuing a master’s degree in education with a focus on Counseling and Development. After completing several courses and an internship, I graduated. But what next? Where should I begin?
One notable aspect, that has always stood out to me, is the limited availability of mental health resources and services in my small town. After much consultation and self-reflection, I decided to move forward with opening my own Hy-bird practice. I offer weekday virtually counseling and Saturdays in person counseling, at an office in Marble Falls, TX. The business was given the name AGAPE Mental Health. AGAPE, is the highest form of love, and I aim to offer this to our small community by building rapport and offering a safe place for everyone to be heard. As my small business approaches its one-year anniversary, I aspire to establish a physical location in the heart of Bertram, Texas, to address the mental health needs of the community and the surrounding Hill Country.
A nascent idea that originated in a corporate cubicle evolved into a well-nurtured vision for an individual dedicated to counseling others. My mission is to guide people from all walks of life. Serving not just those who are dealing with trauma, but those who also just need to be heard. Those who need someone to connect with.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Embarking on a retrospective journey of personal growth and professional development often unveils diverse experiences. It is my own personal belief that every life experience adds incredible value to shaping us as humans and enriching our own life stories.
While Some may perceive my difficult times as easy and my easy times as difficult, I acknowledge and value the significance of both closed doors and opened pathways.
For example, the challenges associated with the finances of establishing my practice have enhanced my financial literacy and business ownership skills. The setbacks encountered in establishing a physical location for my practice have instilled in me a sense of humility and patience. Although there have been numerous obstacles, my resolve and determination assure me that my practice will succeed. Every opportunity is a chance to improve as an individual, therapist, and business owner.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My goal as a Licensed Professional Counselor – Associate working under Brook Bonnema LPCS, is to allow my clients to really feel, and be safe, in doing so. In our world we have become accustomed to keeping our thoughts/feelings tucked away and not questioning barriers or other perspectives. I encourage my clients, using cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT, to reflect on their life. I challenge cognitive distortions, and most importantly, I celebrate their wins with them. When working with children, we explore emotions and how our bodies react to those emotions. We explore ways to help us cope and understand situations.
My past experience, which includes education, residential treatment centers for teens and private practice has allowed me to work with the youth of the community in different capacities. In my current practice I work with children, teens and adults. I am committed to providing education to families and individuals to enhance their life experiences in a meaningful and productive manner.
I am most proud of my journey to help end the stigma associated with mental health. Too often people associate mental health with being “crazy”, and it is not that at all. Mental health means taking care of yourself and talking to someone even when your challenges may not seem massive. Mental health involves recognizing when to seek help and understanding one’s emotions.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice for networking is “Do not be shy.” In my earlier years of life I was reluctant to reach out, but unknowingly in doing so, I passed up some great opportunities. Advocating for your business and its core values is a crucial aspect of establishing and growing your name.
Pricing:
- $85 self-pay 50 min session
- free 10 min consultation
- Reduced cost sessions available
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AGAPEMH.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Agape-Mental-Health/61556754884869/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/agape-mental-health-bertram
- Other: Laura@agapemh.com
