Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Russell

Michael, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?

My name is Michael Russell, and I am the CEO and Founder of Therapy & You. My journey is one of humble beginnings and overcoming adversity, deeply rooted in my upbringing in The Bronx, New York. The energy, resilience, and diversity of the city have profoundly shaped my personality, style, and approach to life. Growing up in The Bronx taught me the value of perseverance, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to oneself—qualities that have been essential in both my personal and professional journey.

From an early age, I was instilled with the values of hard work, dedication, and the importance of execution. These principles were modeled by my mother, who tirelessly worked to provide me with the best opportunities possible. Watching her strive and sacrifice left a lasting impression on me, shaping my approach to both life and business. My immediate family was always supportive of my desires and passions, which gave me a strong foundation to pursue my goals.

However, being a first-generation Jamaican born in the U.S. came with its own set of trials and tribulations. While my immediate family was a pillar of support, my connection with my extended family was less strong. This dynamic introduced me to many relational concepts early in life—both positive and negative. Navigating these relationships and cultural differences taught me a great deal about human behavior, connection, and the complexities of family dynamics.

These early experiences deeply influenced my interest in mental health. I found myself drawn to understanding the emotional and psychological experiences that people go through, particularly those related to identity, belonging, and interpersonal relationships. This curiosity and empathy became a part of the driving force behind Therapy & You. My goal has always been to create a space where people feel understood, supported, and empowered to work through their own challenges—much like the ones I faced in my own life.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?

The journey to establishing my private practice has certainly been rewarding, but it has also come with its share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles has been navigating the credentialing process with insurance companies. The time it takes to get credentialed, coupled with the complexity of understanding insurance claims, can be overwhelming. It requires patience and persistence, and it’s a steep learning curve that I had to tackle head-on.

Another challenge has been managing the overhead costs associated with running a private practice. From the outset, there’s so much to consider—how much is necessary upfront to get the practice off the ground, how much is required to maintain operations, and how to budget for expansion. These are not topics that are typically covered in formal training, so I had to learn as I went along, often through trial and error. Understanding the financial demands of a private practice has been a crucial but sometimes daunting task.

Additionally, learning about NYC/NYS codes and laws has been a significant challenge. There are specific requirements and regulations that must be met, and the penalties for not getting things right can be severe. I had to dedicate a considerable amount of time to understanding what was necessary to ensure compliance, which was a stressful process, particularly because these requirements are not always straightforward.

Perhaps the most difficult aspect of my journey has been the absence of a mentor. Without guidance, I had to navigate this complex landscape on my own. The learning process involved a lot of trial and error, and there was no safety net. While this has made the journey more challenging, it has also made the successes more meaningful. I’ve gained invaluable experience and resilience along the way, but it has been far from a smooth path

Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Therapy & You?

Therapy & You as mental health private practice provides compassionate, personalized care that meets the unique needs of everyone. We specialize in a holistic approach to mental health, offering a comprehensive range of services, including individual, family, and couples therapy, support groups, and educational courses designed to enhance understanding and management of various mental health conditions. Our practice is known for its warm, welcoming environment where patients feel empowered on their journey to better mental health.

What sets “Therapy & You” apart from other practices is our commitment to bring forth consistent life altering changes. We integrate the latest research in evidence-based treatment with a compassionate, client-centered approach, ensuring that each experience is tailored to the specific needs and goals of the individual. Our team of experienced therapists brings diverse expertise to the table, allowing us to address a wide variety of mental health challenges with confidence and care.

Brand-wise, we are most proud of the trust and positive reputation we have built with our patients, that is currently expanding into the community. Our practice is not just a place for therapy; it is a space where patients can feel safe, supported, and understood. Patients explore their thoughts and feelings, develop coping strategies, and work towards lasting change. We have cultivated a brand that represents hope, resilience, and the possibility of transformation.

We want readers to know that our practice is here to support them every step of the way. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern, or simply looking to improve your overall well-being, we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to help you thrive. With our holistic approach, our mission is to help you achieve your fullest potential in a way that feels authentic and sustainable. We are committed to providing a personalized relationship with mental health through being a trusted partner in your journey, providing the highest level of care with empathy, respect, and professionalism.

Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.

When it comes to risk, I don’t see anything inherently wrong with it. Life itself is full of risks—we encounter them every day, whether we recognize them or not. The key is in how we manage those risks through preparation, careful planning, and sometimes a bit of faith. I believe that taking risks can make success and the rewards that come with it all the more meaningful.

I don’t typically see myself as a risk-taker in the traditional sense. I’m more inclined to take calculated risks, ensuring that I have a solid plan in place to guide my decisions. However, stepping into the world of entrepreneurship has been the biggest risk I’ve ever taken. No amount of planning can fully prepare you for the unpredictable nature of running your own business. It requires a willingness to embrace uncertainty and adapt on the fly.

Leaving the comfort of a stable 9-to-5 job with a consistent income, health insurance, and other benefits to venture into creating my private practice was a significant risk. It meant giving up the security of a steady paycheck and stepping into a realm where success wasn’t guaranteed. But it was a risk I was willing to take because I believed in the vision I had for my practice. The journey has been challenging, but it has also been incredibly rewarding.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.Therapyandyou.org