Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amanda Shaw . We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Amanda, thanks for joining us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
Taking the Leap: From Community Mental Health to Private Practice
I want to share a pivotal moment in my life when I took a bold risk and ventured into owning my very own private practice for mental health counseling and art therapy. It was a decision that was both exhilarating and terrifying, but it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my career.
Working in community mental health had been a fulfilling but challenging journey. I dedicated my time and energy to help those in need, but I couldn’t ignore the burning desire to create a space that aligned with my personal vision for therapy and healing. The mental health field can be emotionally demanding, and burnout can creep up on even the most resilient of us. I realized that I needed to prioritize my own well-being and professional growth.
As an art therapist, I often felt undervalued in the community health setting. While my unique skill set had a profound impact on my clients, there were limitations to what I could accomplish within the system. I yearned for the freedom to fully explore the transformative power of art therapy and tailor my approach to each individual’s needs.
Leaving the security of a stable income and letting go of benefits was undoubtedly a scary prospect. Additionally, the thought of not having a full caseload initially brought up feelings of uncertainty. But deep down, I knew that taking this leap of faith was necessary for my personal and professional growth.
Pivoting into private practice was a learning experience like no other. One of the most significant challenges I encountered was marketing myself and building my brand. It was a whole new world that I had to navigate, and I quickly realized the importance of understanding the ins and outs of advertising and reaching potential clients. I faced a learning curve, but with persistence and a willingness to adapt, I gradually gained confidence in promoting my services.
Despite the initial struggles, there were countless positive aspects of owning my own private practice. The freedom from the corporate world allowed me to create a therapeutic environment that reflected my values and philosophies. I could fully integrate art therapy into my practice, and the results were remarkable. Witnessing the transformative power of art in healing processes was incredibly rewarding, both for me and my clients.
Moreover, I discovered the joy of being in charge of my own destiny. Building a business from the ground up required dedication, perseverance, and resourcefulness. I learned valuable lessons about entrepreneurship and discovered my strengths in areas I had never explored before. The fulfillment that came from owning a successful private practice surpassed any security that a traditional job could offer.
Now, I thrive on my own terms. I have the flexibility to set my schedule, choose my clients, and create a space that nurtures healing and growth. The journey was undoubtedly challenging, but the sense of fulfillment and autonomy I have gained is immeasurable.
For anyone considering a similar path, I encourage you to embrace the unknown, face your fears, and take that leap of faith. You may find that the rewards far outweigh the risks. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and build your brand. With passion, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in yourself, you can create a thriving private practice and make a profound impact on the lives of those you serve.
Amanda, 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?
From a young age, I possessed a deep love for art and psychology. The way colors, shapes, and images could express emotions fascinated me, and I was equally intrigued by the inner workings of the human mind. It was during my time studying at the University of Central Florida that I discovered the field of art therapy, a perfect blend of my passions.
As an artist at heart, I spent countless hours painting and participating in community events that celebrated the power of artistic expression. These experiences further solidified my belief in the transformative nature of art. I realized that art could serve as a powerful tool for healing, self-discovery, and personal growth.
Motivated to delve deeper into this field, I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Art Therapy at George Washington University in Washington, D.C. It was there that I had the opportunity to study trauma-informed art psychotherapy, which further fueled my passion for helping others navigate their emotional journeys.
Now, as the founder of Create Flow Heal Art Therapy & Counseling LLC, I provide a range of services, including individual, family, and group art psychotherapy for teens and adults in the St. Petersburg, FL area. I am committed to meeting my clients where they are, offering both in-person and virtual therapy options to ensure accessibility and flexibility.
At Create Flow Heal, we understand the weight of sadness, the suffocating feeling it can bring, and how anxiety can keep you on edge, robbing you of peace of mind. We recognize the lingering effects of trauma and the way it can leave you feeling helpless, haunted by memories that refuse to fade. Our dedicated therapists provide a safe space where you can share your pain, heal old wounds, and find the strength to break free from the grip of these challenges.
What sets Create Flow Heal apart is our deep compassion, expertise in trauma-informed art therapy, and commitment to guiding you on a path towards healing and resilience. We believe in the transformative power of art as a therapeutic tool, and we integrate evidence-based approaches to help you navigate your unique healing journey.
One aspect of my work that fills me with immense pride is the impact I’ve made on the community, particularly through my partnerships with local nonprofits. By collaborating with these organizations, I have been able to extend the reach of art therapy and provide support to individuals who may not have had access to these services otherwise.
The most rewarding part of my job is witnessing clients accomplish their therapy goals and discontinue services, equipped with the tools they need to tackle any problem that comes their way. It brings me immense joy to see individuals regain their strength, resilience, and reclaim their lives.
If you’re seeking a compassionate therapist who integrates art therapy and trauma-informed approaches, I invite you to join the Create Flow Heal community. Together, we can embark on a journey of healing, self-discovery, and personal growth, allowing you to create a life filled with flow, empowerment, and well-being.
Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?
My journey through life has been marked by countless obstacles and challenges, but it is through these struggles that my resilience has truly blossomed. From a young age, I faced the heart-wrenching loss of my father, leaving me with a deep void that seemed impossible to fill. In addition, my mother battled addiction, leaving me with an absent figure in my early childhood.
Living in the rural countryside of Arkansas, where friends were few and far between, I struggled to find a sense of belonging. I bounced between family members’ homes, never truly feeling grounded or secure. The transition back into my mother’s care, brought me to Florida and with my second stepfather, proved to be difficult. I found myself navigating adolescence without the guidance and support of a reliable role model, feeling lost in a web of education and career choices.
However, despite these immense challenges, I refused to let my circumstances define me. I sought solace and support from mentors, therapists, and professors who recognized my potential and guided me on the right path. They provided me with the tools and encouragement I needed to believe in myself and strive for a brighter future.
I discovered the power of community groups such as Alanon and CoDA, where I found support and understanding from individuals who had experienced similar struggles. These groups became a source of strength and solidarity, allowing me to navigate each difficult life situation with resilience and grace.
In my journey of overcoming adversity, I have achieved numerous accomplishments that are testaments to the power of resilience and the potential for growth even in the face of challenges.
During my academic years, I was honored to be a part of esteemed organizations such as the National Honor Society and the Golden Key Honor Society. These achievements recognized my dedication to academic excellence and served as reminders of the strength I possessed within.
Overcoming financial illiteracy was another hurdle I had to face, but with determination and a willingness to seek assistance, I began to educate myself on managing finances and building a secure future. At the age of 21, I accomplished a remarkable feat by purchasing my first house. This achievement was not only a testament to my personal growth but also a symbol of the strength I had cultivated within myself.
Through hard work and perseverance, I had the privilege of winning several scholarships and grants throughout my college years. These opportunities not only provided financial support but also served as validation for my commitment to my education and personal growth.
One of the most impactful experiences during my academic journey was the opportunity to study abroad in Croatia. This transformative experience broadened my horizons, deepened my cultural understanding, and instilled in me a sense of adventure and curiosity about the world.
Maintaining financial independence was another significant accomplishment. Despite the challenges I faced in my early years, I learned the importance of financial literacy and took control of my financial well-being. This independence provided me with the freedom to explore my passions, travel, and embrace new opportunities.
As I grew in my field, I had the privilege of speaking at conferences, sharing my knowledge and experiences with others. The ability to contribute to the professional discourse and engage with like-minded individuals was a source of great fulfillment.
Additionally, I had the honor of having my work published in articles, allowing me to share my insights and expertise with a broader audience. These publications not only validated my contributions but also opened doors to further collaborations and opportunities.
Through these accomplishments, I want to remind others of the power of post-traumatic growth. Adversity does not define us, but rather shapes us into individuals with a remarkable capacity for resilience and achievement. Despite the challenges we face, we have the ability to keep moving forward, to grow, and to thrive.
In my journey, I discovered the strength within me to overcome obstacles, to excel academically, to explore the world, and to make meaningful contributions to my field. It is my hope that by sharing my story, I can inspire others to believe in their own potential and embrace the power of post-traumatic growth.
No matter what difficulties lie in your path, remember that within you is a wellspring of resilience and untapped potential. Embrace the challenges, learn from them, and let them fuel your determination to achieve greatness. Keep moving forward, and you will be amazed at what you are capable of accomplishing.
I have learned the importance of seeking assistance in the right places. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a display of strength and a commitment to personal growth. The support I received from mentors, therapists, professors, and community groups played a pivotal role in shaping the person I am today.
I am proud of the resilience I have developed over the years. It has been a journey of self-discovery, healing, and perseverance. Every obstacle I faced became an opportunity for growth, and every setback was met with the determination to rise above it.
Today, as I walk the path of healing and guide others on their own journeys, I carry with me the lessons learned from my past. I understand the power of resilience and the transformative impact that support and guidance can have on one’s life. It is my mission to be a source of strength and inspiration for others, just as the mentors, therapists, and community groups were for me.
Remember, no matter what challenges you may face, there is resilience within you waiting to be ignited. Seek the support you need, surround yourself with a nurturing community, and never lose sight of your potential. You have the power to overcome, grow, and thrive in the face of adversity.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
One lesson I had to unlearn was the notion of hyperindependence, which stemmed from not having my needs met during childhood. Growing up in an environment where relying on others was not a viable option, I developed a mindset of self-sufficiency and the belief that I had to solely rely on myself to get my needs met. This hyperindependent approach served me well in some respects, but as I entered adulthood, I realized it had its drawbacks.
The backstory behind this lesson lies in the challenges I faced during my formative years. The lack of support and nurturing in my childhood forced me to become fiercely independent, as there was no one else to rely on. This mindset became deeply ingrained, shaping my beliefs about needing assistance and vulnerability. However, as I matured and encountered greater complexities in life, I began to realize the limitations of hyperindependence.
Learning to unlearn this lesson involved a process of introspection and growth. I had to recognize that asking for help when I needed it was not a sign of weakness, but rather a necessary step towards personal and professional success. It required letting go of the guilt associated with relying on others and developing trust in the support systems around me. Embracing the idea that achieving great things often requires collaboration and the contributions of others became essential in my journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. 
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.createflowheal.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfharttherapy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100016891057496
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-shaw-ma-lmhc-atr-b9a85232/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ImOwQD_ZWmU
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Conference photos: Jay Negron @stpetelens Business photos: Jenny Roberts @heartistreestudios