Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Bethany Kroesing. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Bethany thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Looking back on your career, have you ever worked with a great leader or boss? We’d love to hear about the experience and what you think made them such a great leader.

Without a doubt, the best boss and mentor I’ve had as a therapist was a former supervisor named Ann. I knew I would like her the moment I had my interview when she asked me, “If we were to have an employee potluck, what would you bring?” I laughed and told her I’d probably bring the napkins and silverware —because I wasn’t sure anyone would want to risk trying my cooking. Without missing a beat, she said, “You’ll have to pick something else—I already called dibs on that.”

That moment of humor and ease stuck with me because it reflected who Ann was as a leader: approachable, warm, and genuinely human. She had a way of making people feel comfortable and valued, and that quality extended far beyond the interview room. As my clinical supervisor, Ann created a space where I felt both supported and challenged. She never micromanaged, but she always made herself available. Whether I needed clinical guidance, help navigating complex situations, or just someone to remind me that I was doing okay—she was there.

She modeled the kind of therapist and clinical supervisor I aspire to be: someone who listens deeply, encourages growth, and leads with humility. Her influence shaped not just how I practice as a clinician, but also how I wish to show up as a clinical supervisor. Ann taught me that leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about fostering an environment where people feel safe enough to ask questions, make mistakes, and grow.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I’m a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and the owner of Cedar & Ivy Counseling Services, a private therapy practice where I specialize in working with trauma, anxiety, and couples. I provide individual and couples counseling with an emphasis on building a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship where real, lasting healing can take place.

Private practice had always been a dream of mine, but like many dreams, it felt out of reach at first. I didn’t know where to start or how to balance the business side with the clinical side. But with encouragement from my husband, family, and trusted colleagues, I took the leap—and in February 2023, Cedar & Ivy Counseling Services was born.

Right now, it’s just me—I manage everything from the therapy itself to the marketing, billing, and administrative work. But I have big goals for the future. I plan to grow my team and eventually offer paid internship opportunities for graduate students entering the field. One thing that sets me apart is a commitment to equity within the profession. So many budding clinicians are expected to work for free during their internships or survive on minimal income early in their careers. I believe that when therapists are cared for and supported, they’re able to offer the highest quality of care to their clients—and I want to build a practice that reflects that.

Clinically, what sets me apart is a combination of deep specialization and genuine connection. I’ve pursued extensive training in trauma, anxiety, and couples work because I want my clients to know they’re in skilled hands. But more than that, I focus on the human element—creating a space where clients feel truly seen, heard, and safe. The research backs it up: no matter how many certifications a therapist has, it’s the strength of the therapeutic relationship that drives positive outcomes. That’s what I strive to build every day.

What I’m most proud of is the way this practice has stayed true to my values. I’m proud of the care I provide to my clients, the community I’m building among other therapists, and the model I’m creating for future clinicians. I want people to know that Cedar & Ivy is more than just a therapy practice—it’s a space where growth is nurtured, stories are honored, and healing is possible.

Whether you’re seeking support through a difficult season, navigating complex trauma, looking to strengthen your relationship, or simply ready to explore your mental and emotional wellbeing, my hope is that you’ll feel welcomed, supported, and empowered here.

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

Without a doubt, I would choose the same profession again in a heartbeat. I truly love what I do, and I feel deeply connected to the work. Being a therapist has given me a sense of purpose that continues to evolve and expand with every client I meet and every experience I grow through.

That said, my specialty has shifted over time—and that evolution has been a natural and important part of my journey. During my undergraduate studies, I earned dual bachelor’s degrees: one in Psychology and one in Corrections. At the time, I envisioned working as a therapist with individuals who were incarcerated or on probation. That passion led to internships where I provided therapy to individuals on probation for sexual offenses, which eventually became my clinical focus after earning my Master’s degree.

While I no longer work in that specific area, the golden thread that connects my past and present work is empathy. Today, my focus is on treating trauma, anxiety, and couples—and I feel incredibly aligned with that work. Even though the client populations are different, the core themes are often the same. Whether someone is navigating the aftermath of trauma, the weight of anxiety, or complex relationship challenges, my approach remains rooted in human connection, compassion, and understanding.

I’m grateful for my early clinical experiences, even in areas that were emotionally demanding. Working with clients who had offended against others taught me valuable lessons about the nuances of connection, accountability, and empathy in a therapeutic setting. Those lessons continue to shape how I show up with my clients today—and I wouldn’t trade that growth for anything.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

Beyond training and education, I think one of the most essential ingredients for success in the counseling field is the ability to take care of yourself as a whole person. This work can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires a lot of emotional energy. Having a well-rounded life outside of sessions is key to showing up fully and providing excellent care to clients.

For me, family time is one of the most grounding parts of my life. Spending time with my husband, our daughter, and the baby we’re expecting brings me so much joy and refills my cup in a way that nothing else can. I also feel very lucky to have strong, close relationships with my parents, my in-laws and siblings— those connections are such a source of support and comfort.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is another big piece of my personal self-care. Movement is truly the key to balance for me. I enjoy going for walks, getting in a good workout at the gym, paddleboarding in the summer, and just spending time outside. Being in nature and staying active helps me recharge both physically and mentally.

And, of course, friendships matter. I have a wonderful social circle of friends who are there for me—and I make it a point to invest time in those relationships. Having people to laugh with, share life with, and lean on when things get tough has been invaluable both personally and professionally.

Ultimately, I believe therapists can only do their best work when they’re also caring for themselves. It’s not just about preventing burnout—it’s about living fully so we can help others do the same.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cedarandivycounseling.org
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cedarandivycounseling/