We were lucky to catch up with Alicia Collins recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alicia, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. 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?

One of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken was deciding to start my own group counseling practice, The Well, right in the heart of Uptown Dallas. I was tired of the stale, clinical therapy settings where so many women felt misunderstood or disconnected. I wanted to build something different — a space that felt like a warm hug, a place where women could truly open up, heal, and grow.

I poured every dollar and every ounce of energy I had into renting a space, hiring a team, and marketing our practice. There were so many nights I lay awake, wondering if I was completely out of my mind. But I was driven by this belief: therapy shouldn’t feel like a chore. It should feel like coming home. And I knew that to make that happen, I needed to create a practice where therapists also loved showing up. So, we pay them well, let them make their own schedules, and support them in living lives they’re genuinely excited about.

And you know what? It worked. The Well has become a thriving community where clients feel seen and therapists bring their best selves to the table. Every day, I see the magic that happens when we create a space that people actually want to be a part of. Taking that risk wasn’t easy, but it’s been the most rewarding decision I’ve ever made.

Alicia, 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’m Alicia, a therapist and the founder of The Well, a group counseling practice in Uptown Dallas. I’ve always been fascinated by the human mind — I have a bachelor’s in neuroscience and a master’s in counseling — but what really pulled me into this field was the desire to help women feel seen, heard, and empowered. I’ve watched so many women struggle with anxiety, self-doubt, and feeling stuck in a life that doesn’t actually make them happy. I wanted to create a space that felt like a sanctuary, a place where women could come to not just talk about their struggles but truly understand and overcome them.

At The Well, we offer a range of services, including individual therapy, group therapy, EMDR, and equine-assisted therapy. We believe therapy should be more than just a 50-minute session; it should be an experience that meets you where you are and supports you in every way possible. That’s why we also host community events and yoga classes to deepen our clients’ healing journeys. We’re not just about treating symptoms; we’re about fostering real growth and connection.

What sets us apart is our holistic approach and our commitment to our therapists’ well-being. We believe that therapists who love their jobs — who feel valued, supported, and excited about their work — show up better for their clients. So, we pay them well, let them set their own schedules, and make sure they have a balanced, fulfilling life outside the therapy room.

I’m most proud of the community we’ve built — a place where clients feel truly understood and supported, and where therapists are passionate about the work they do. At The Well, we’re not just another therapy practice; we’re a place where you can feel at home, explore who you are, and become the person you want to be. I want our clients to know that this is a place where you’re allowed to be exactly who you are, wherever you are on your journey. And that’s what makes all the difference.

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

Aside from training and knowledge, I believe the most important factor for succeeding as a therapist is genuine empathy and the ability to connect deeply with people. Clients don’t just come to therapy for clinical expertise; they come for the feeling that someone truly understands them, sees them, and is committed to helping them navigate their struggles. It’s about creating a safe, nonjudgmental space where people feel comfortable enough to be vulnerable and explore the deepest parts of themselves.

Self-awareness is also crucial. As a therapist, you have to be willing to do your own inner work, confront your biases, and constantly check in with yourself to ensure you’re providing the best care. Being aware of your own emotions, triggers, and boundaries is key to not projecting your own stuff onto your clients and staying present with them in the room.

Adaptability matters too. Every client is different, and no two sessions are the same. Being able to adapt your approach, meet each client where they are, and navigate the unexpected requires flexibility and creativity. It’s not just about having a toolbox of techniques; it’s about knowing when and how to use them in a way that truly resonates with the person in front of you.

Lastly, resilience and self-care are non-negotiables. This field can be emotionally intense, and you need to take care of yourself to continue showing up fully for your clients. Whether it’s through your own therapy, setting boundaries, or finding hobbies and activities that recharge you, taking care of yourself allows you to sustain a long, meaningful career without burning out.

How do you keep your team’s morale high?

The best advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale comes down to embracing vulnerability and leading with empathy. Create an environment where people feel safe to express themselves, share their ideas, and even admit their mistakes without fear of judgment. Show up as a leader who genuinely cares about each person on the team and who models authenticity — this builds trust and fosters connection.

Encourage open, honest communication and provide regular feedback that is both direct and kind. Recognize and celebrate successes, both big and small, and make sure every team member feels valued for their unique contributions. Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask for feedback yourself; let your team know you’re invested in growing and learning alongside them. This openness inspires loyalty, creativity, and a shared commitment to your collective goals.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.bewelldallas.com
• Instagram: @thewellmind.tx
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliciafike

Image Credits

Demri Rayanne