We were lucky to catch up with Danielle Dores recently and have shared our conversation below.

Danielle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

Leaving a stable job to become an independent practitioner was a daunting decision. Despite the advice of others in my field, I trusted my abilities and knew I could make a positive impact. Running my own practice gave me the freedom to help others in the way I felt was best. Even though I was scared and unsure of the future, I had faith in myself and my skills, which gave me the courage to take the leap into entrepreneurship. I found people I trusted in the field to lean on when uncertain of the next steps. Acknowledging the need for help was my #1 lesson in starting my own practice.

As a mother with experience balancing a chaotic life, I found the transition easier. However, running a small business is not for the faint of heart. I’ve learned that to succeed, I must be organized, detail-oriented, and provide excellent customer service. Along with all of the administrative tasks,I devote a significant amount of effort to improving my clinical skills, in order to offer the most effective interventions to all of my clients. I take pleasure in working with individuals, couples, and families to achieve favorable outcomes.

I’m grateful for the support I have at home and in the industry to help me be the best version of myself every day. Upgrading my office to offer more sessions has allowed me to reach more people, and I’m currently looking to hire another therapist who shares my passion for providing high-quality interventions and services to our clients. Taking risks and following your dreams can be scary, but it’s worth it when you believe in yourself and the impact you can make.

Danielle, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Ohio, I am the owner of Partners in Growth Counseling & Wellness. My journey began years ago when I coached volleyball for a middle school team and formed invaluable relationships with each player. I realized that I had a talent for connecting with others and identifying ways to support them. So, I decided to pursue graduate school. After obtaining two master’s degrees, one in School Counseling and the other in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, I worked in the field and found a significant gap in services in my local area. There were no available services for individuals, families, and couples without at least a 6-month waiting list. This realization led me to contemplate opening my own practice, which has now become a thriving business with plans to continue expanding.

Partners in Growth Counseling & Wellness is dedicated to supporting individuals, couples, and families through challenging transitions and mental health struggles. Our evidence-based interventions are personalized to suit the distinct needs of each client. We take a holistic approach to therapy, incorporating cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Additionally, we use play-based and art-based interventions to engage all clients, including those who may be disengaged during their sessions. We welcome clients of all ages, starting from 4 years old and above, and are committed to providing them with the necessary tools to promote their growth and well-being. We also collaborate with local schools and children’s programs to teach social-emotional lessons to students and teachers. Our team provides valuable psychoeducation to promote emotionally aware classrooms. Lastly, we offer telehealth sessions to Ohio residents, as our license covers this service. Contact us if you’re an Ohio resident and in need of our services.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

The most valuable and effective strategy for growing my clientele has been word of mouth. Although it takes time to establish, it is the most rewarding option. When clients refer new clients to our practice, it creates an environment of trust and comfort from the start. Therapy is an intimate business, and clients must feel safe to keep coming back. When clients hear from friends and loved ones that they had a positive experience with us, they feel even more comfortable stepping through our doors.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

As a therapist, I have a unique background that sets me apart from others in my field. My previous careers and positions have given me a more comprehensive worldview that has enabled me to connect with my clients on a deeper level. Although being a therapist requires emotional stability and discipline, my varied experiences have prepared me to assist clients in implementing evidence-based strategies and interventions that can transform their lives. Despite the challenges, this profession is rewarding as it allows me to make a significant difference in the lives of others. Therefore, I wouldn’t change anything in my journey!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.partnersingrowthllc.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partnersingrowthllc/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Partners-in-Growth-Counseling-Wellness/100085428022831/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
• Other: linktr.ee/partnersingrowth https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/danielle-dores-cincinnati-oh/1031028?_ga=2.71812688.21483721.1667839352-778321477.1662988128&preview=1&return_to=https%3A%2F%2Fmember.psychologytoday.com%2Fus%2Fhome

Image Credits
Katherine Dooros Photography