We recently connected with Erica Taylor and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Erica thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Setting up an independent practice is a daunting endeavor. Can you talk to us about what it was like for you – what were some of the main steps, challenges, etc.
Sometimes you have a vision that no one can see. I started out simply wanting to provide quality mental health services that were affordable and convenient. 6 years ago there were very few virtual platforms for therapy. In spite of that I created Taylormade Counseling to meet a need. I sought out software and tools to help give people access to therapist securely from the comfort of wherever they are. The pandemic really sky rocketed business as more people saw the benefits of utilizing online platforms for service. I wouldn’t change a thing that I have learned on my journey. When you have a dream you have to go for it. It doesn’t have to make sense to others, you should follow your heart. My advice to any young professional looking to start their own practice or business is make sure you know your “why”. Let that dictate what you do and why you do it. There is a blessing in being uniquely you and staying in your lane. Obstacles will come but keep striving for what you have in your heart. Dreams are successful through the power of partnerships. Seek out people to give you advice and help as you are on your journey. We are always so much better together.
Erica, 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?
I am a Social Work graduate of the University of Texas at Arlington. I always knew I would go into a profession that allowed me to help people in some capacity and listening to people and helping them through challenges has always come natural. For the past 12 years I’ve worked to shed light on the importance of mental health and therapy. I am a certified Trauma therapist that specialized in depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. What sets me apart from others is my ability to meet clients where they are but help them formulate a solid plan to get to where they want to go. I am real but rational and passionate about them overcoming what was meant to destroy them.
I’m most proud of my ability to overcome so many obstacles in my own life to continue to be a blessing to others. I don’t just believe that people have hope because of my training or education. I believe it because I have seen what mindset shifts and changes in perspectives have done in my own life.
I want people to know that everyone needs to take care of their mental health. I also want them to know that I am a living example of what it means to keep going and keep growing. Taylormade Counseling is designed with you in mind and seeks to give you faith hope and healing.
If you could go back in time, do you think you would have chosen a different profession or specialty?
If I could go back I’d choose the same profession again I just would have realized my purpose and passion sooner. I learned that the sooner you become comfortable in your own skin and the unique gifts and talents that you possess, the sooner you can find your passion.
Have you ever had to pivot?
I had to pivot in the pandemic. I was used to people opting for a more traditional form of therapy. But when the pandemic happened there was an influx of people who were open to the virtual method I had been providing for years. I had to seek out information and advice to hire more therapist to manage the workload so that Taylormade could help more people. I went to school to be a therapist not a business owner so I am always learning about effective ways to manage a business. I learned that there is power in my ability to pivot and if I embrace change I can continue to be successful in new ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.taylormadecfs.org
- Instagram: @taylormadecfs
- Facebook: @Taylormadechildandfamilysolutions
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-taylor-lcsw-s-6a584a35
Image Credits
Photos: Tyana Danae Photography & Jeremy Anderson Photography