Today we’d like to introduce you to Brandy Unger.
Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
Certainly! I discovered a unique knack for connecting deeply with people from a young age. Strangers would often open up, sharing with me the mosaic of their life, with each tile representing a memory, a lesson, a moment. These interactions, rich in genuine human connection, were moments I cherished. Life, with its blend of sunshine and storms, brought its own set of challenges my way, including traumatic experiences and profound losses during my early years. Amidst these trials, at 11, I found myself grappling with depression, feeling adrift in a vast sea of despair. During this trying phase, a therapist shared her voyage through tumultuous waters and how she emerged stronger, eventually choosing her profession to be a lighthouse for others. Her words resonated deeply, sowing a seed of resilience and hope within me. As I grew, my innate curiosity about human behavior and motivations changed slightly. I pursued a law degree fueled by an intrigue for justice, human rights, and the intricate interplay between psychology and the legal landscape. After earning my degree, I spent valuable years working within the legal system. This immersion offered me a unique perspective into the countless ways human behavior, emotions, and the law intertwine. Before transitioning into psychotherapy and establishing my practice in Austin, I delved deep into forensic psychology, serving as a mitigation specialist on capital cases; this role melded my legal background with my passion for understanding the human psyche. The insights garnered from these experiences have been invaluable, adding depth and dimension to my therapeutic approach. Today, my journey feels beautifully interconnected. With a rich mosaic of personal and professional experiences, my mission stands clear. I aspire to guide and support others, just as my therapist did for me all those years ago.
Alright, let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what challenges have you had to overcome?
Is any road in life ever entirely smooth? Life has a talent for tossing in unexpected twists, and I’ve certainly had my dance with them. My route to psychotherapy wasn’t a straight line—it was a winding path with its share of potholes and scenic detours. But isn’t that what adds depth to our stories? Sure, there were moments when I grappled with my challenges while immersing myself in the complexities of others. Yet, it’s those exact hurdles that carved me into the therapist I am now. They instilled resilience, deepened my empathy, and illuminated the beauty of life’s highs and lows. So, while my journey might have had its rough patches, it’s been incredibly enriching. Those bumpy stretches? They’ve been my most outstanding teachers, guiding my evolution and professional growth.
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At the core of my practice is an unwavering dedication to understanding the uniqueness of each individual’s journey. My therapy approach is rooted in person-centered methodologies, ensuring that each client feels validated, understood, and truly at the heart of the therapeutic process. By merging this with evidence-based interventions, I ensure that the guidance and techniques provided have a strong foundation in scientific research, ensuring effectiveness in addressing specific challenges. My specialization lies in trauma-informed care, and over the years, I’ve delved deep into narrative therapy and Eudaimonia Psychology. This approach allows my clients to re-author their own stories, moving from feeling ‘stuck’ to empowerment and self-direction. It’s a transformative process that yields profound results, helping individuals redefine their relationship with their past and re-envision their future. A concept that deeply resonates with me and often weaves into our sessions is ‘eudaimonia’ – a Greek term for the highest human good, often translated as “flourishing” or “fulfillment.” It’s about aligning one’s life with one’s true self, finding purpose, and living authentically. I’ve always believed in the importance of alleviating suffering and fostering a deeper sense of well-being and fulfillment in my clients. What am I known for? It would have to be the delicate balance I strike between warmth and professionalism. Clients often share that they feel enveloped in a safe, non-judgmental space and receive structured guidance to navigate their challenges. What I’m most proud of? The genuine, transformative moments of breakthrough and realization in my clients. Witnessing the spark of understanding, the release of burdens carried for too long, or the birth of newfound hope are the milestones that truly matter to me. What sets me apart? It’s the synthesis of tried-and-tested therapeutic techniques with a profoundly human touch. It’s the fusion of science and soul, understanding that while evidence-based strategies are crucial, the magic often lies in the nuances of human connection and understanding. I see therapy as a dance – sometimes structured, sometimes free-flowing – but always moving towards greater understanding, healing, and eudaimonia.
We’d love to hear about your fond memories from growing up.
Growing up, some of my most cherished memories revolve around the Texas Hill Country. Every summer, my parents would gather my brothers and me, and we’d go to that haven of rolling landscapes and clear waters. The Hill Country was more than just a destination; it was our summer playground. We’d spend our days splashing in the river, with its waters always offering a cool respite from the Texas heat. As the sun dipped, summer nights came alive with the infectious rhythms of live music, creating a soundtrack to our childhood adventures. Those melodies, combined with the laughter of family and the gentle hum of nature, have left an indelible mark on my heart. This deep-rooted connection to the Hill Country influenced my decision to make Austin my permanent home and is a significant reason I’m raising my family here. Austin encapsulates the warmth and vibrancy of those summers, balanced with the pulse of a dynamic city. I aim to bring this fusion of personal nostalgia and the promise of the future into my professional realm. It’s about understanding where we come from, appreciating the present, and looking forward to what’s next – a perspective I hope resonates with many and aids in establishing genuine connections in my therapeutic space.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://brandyunger.com/
- Instagram: @BrandyUngerTherapy
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandyungertherapy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandyunger/
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/brandy-unger-bee-cave-tx/303392
Image Credits
All photos are by Jessica at Jessica Rockowitz Photography. Her website is: https://jessicarockowitz.com/ and IG: @jessicarockowitz. Hair and Makeup Credit to: Lisa Gleeson, IG: @ lisagleesonmakeupartist
