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

Jessica, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. One of our favorite things to hear about is stories around the nicest thing someone has done for someone else – what’s the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?

When I was an undergraduate student, I was unsure of what my next steps could be after finishing school. I knew what I wanted to do but didn’t know the steps I needed to take to get there. I was resourceful and looked online for a licensed therapist who approached therapy similarly to my interests. I boldly contacted them and set up an in-person meeting. This individual was very kind to take time to meet with me and let me pick their brain. From that meeting, I knew exactly what I needed to do next to get to where I wanted to go. That involved applying to an authorized graduate school program that would pave the way to licensure. Funny enough, I was able to interview them again during graduate school for a homework assignment and even went on to reach out post-graduation as I was looking for insight on how to build a private practice. This mentorship really opened doors for me, and I will be forever grateful. When going for a goal, I think it can be helpful to reach out to a support system or to someone who has accomplished what you hope to one day.

Jessica, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is Jessica, and I own Jessica Pavelka Counseling, LLC based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 2016 I opened my private practice to support emerging adults across their lifespan. I provide talk therapy, mental health education, and holistic interventions to help clients combat symptoms such as anxiety and depression. I provide in-person and online individual therapy to Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware residents.

Since I was young, I knew I wanted to be a therapist. I was fascinated by human behavior, psychology, and holistic health.

Training-wise, I graduated from Temple University and the University of Pennsylvania. I am currently enrolled at Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine as I work towards my doctoral degree in educational psychology. I am also training in yoga, trauma-informed mindfulness, and Instinctive Meditation.

I strive to be the best I can be at my job. I work hard to understand each client’s life holistically. It is important to maintain a wide view of a client’s life in an effort not to deduce issues at hand to a diagnosis. My clients appreciate the variety of services I offer, the one-on-one care, and the interdisciplinary collaboration I promise at the outset of services.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

In addition to specialized training, experience paired with feedback has been invaluable. Feedback can improve the quality of services and results, be used as a growing point, and broaden perspective. I believe accepting feedback demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and relationship building, even if it feels difficult at first.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

Establishing local mentorship helped me early in my education by allowing me to ask questions and develop a path for myself. Seeking out opportunities to provide services, gain experience, and build relationships was and still is vital to my professional journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.jessicapavelkacounseling.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thethoughttherapist/

Image Credits
https://www.mariayoung.photos/