We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Amanda Whitlow. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Amanda below.

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

From Passion to Purpose: The Journey of Concrete Roses

At just 18 years old, I had a defining moment that shaped the course of my life. During a college event, we were asked to reflect on a passion—something we would do wholeheartedly, with or without a paycheck. Without hesitation, I said, “Help people.”

That revelation stirred something deep within me. The next day, I spoke with my late mother, sharing my desire to switch my major from accounting to social work. Without missing a beat, she fully supported my decision. She often spoke of her own regrets—of not following her true passion in college—and she didn’t want me to make the same mistake. Encouraged by her unwavering belief in me, I took the leap, changing my major and immersing myself in my new path.

Earning my Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) was just the beginning. My early goal was simple: give back to at-risk youth. But as I gained experience in different areas of the field, I found myself asking a deeper question—“What is my true passion within social work?” It was in that moment of reflection that Concrete Roses was born.

A Legacy of Strength

One of my greatest inspirations was my mother, Rose—a woman of resilience, wisdom, and love. Sadly, she passed away before I graduated from Virginia State University, just a year after encouraging me to follow my passion. But her name, her spirit, and her story lived on. The name Concrete Roses felt divinely placed. It symbolized my own journey, honored my mother’s legacy, and spoke to the many people who have transformed their pain into purpose.

I knew I wanted to empower others through therapy. Having experienced the transformative impact of therapy myself, I was inspired by my own therapist, Erika Parker, LPC, who helped me navigate challenges and emerge stronger. I wanted to provide that same level of support to others—to help them rewrite their narratives and embrace their victories.

But building a practice wasn’t just about passion; it required action, knowledge, and courage.

From Dream to Reality

For a long time, I wasn’t a risk-taker. If I didn’t have all the answers, I hesitated. But I soon realized that hesitation wouldn’t lead me to my dreams. So, I observed, listened, and learned from seasoned therapists, business owners, and mentors who had walked this path before me.

I started asking, “What kind of therapist do I want to be?” I reflected on the populations I thrived in serving and the type of healing space I wanted to create. I was already successfully applying therapeutic skills, but stepping into private practice required an entirely new skill set—one I wasn’t initially familiar with.

The Power of Networking and Trust

If there was one key lesson I learned, it was the power of networking. I asked questions, sought guidance, and surrounded myself with people who had the knowledge I needed. I joined social media groups for therapists, attended virtual workshops, and connected with experienced professionals who graciously shared their insights.

At the same time, I had to confront an important truth: I couldn’t do everything on my own. I had to trust others.
• I leaned on my college friend, Carlos Young, whose business, CYOUSUCCEED, helped bring my vision to life by building a website that truly represented me and my mission.
• I connected with Jasmine Houchens (Thompson) of Omega Billing Solutions, who helped me navigate the complex process of getting credentialed with major insurance companies—ensuring that my services remained accessible to those in need.

Letting go of control was tough, but it was necessary. I learned to delegate, trust, and embrace collaboration. I didn’t have to master everything at once—I could focus on what I did best while allowing others to support me in areas beyond my expertise.

Stepping Into My Purpose

With determination, guidance, and faith, Concrete Roses became a reality. I established my LLC, secured my EIN, set up a business bank account, and launched my private practice. I reached out to old colleagues, promoted my services on social media, participated in vendor events, and built a strong foundation for my business.

Within just four months, my practice was full—as a part-time therapist balancing multiple demanding jobs and planning my wedding!

This journey has been one of growth, perseverance, and transformation. I once feared taking risks, but today, I am proof that stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to extraordinary opportunities.

To anyone with a dream but afraid to start, take the leap. Surround yourself with a strong support system, ask for help, and never stop learning. You don’t have to have everything figured out—you just have to start.

Today, Concrete Roses is more than a practice. It’s a testament to resilience, a tribute to my mother, and a safe space for those seeking healing.

And it all started with one bold decision: to follow my passion.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Amanda Whitlow and I am the owner of Concrete Roses Counseling and Consulting LLC. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Virginia. I earned my Bachelors degree in social work from Virginia State University in 2015 and I received my Master’s in social work from Walden University in 2018. I am most proud of the way that I can serve others in my daily work. My passion for social work is deep rooted in having a purpose beyond myself. I love giving back, especially to youth. I find creative ways to create space and inspiration for those around me. I am grateful to have started a scholarship “Rep the Pep” scholarship for seniors pursing a college education. Additionally, I am grateful for the Pre-Easter Bash event that my family and I started in 2022 as a way to give back to my hometown and bring kids/families together to enjoy community, fun games, food, prizes, and activities.

My practice information and expertise can be found on www.concreterosescounseling.com

Any advice for managing a team?

Treat others like the humans they are and not the robots we overwork ourselves to be. Invest in the importance of self-care and compassion towards others. Be a representation of what you want your team to look like. Be humble enough to understand your team needs, encourage caring for your physical and mental health, and build an open-door policy. Learn the balance of hearing your team while also pushing your team to believe in themselves, like you already do.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I believe I have a friendly and humble personality. I know how to connect with others to make them feel seen and heard for who they are. I try to create spaces where people can be themselves. My work ethic and professionalism, combined with my welcoming and funny personality, allows others to connect with me and trust me.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.concreterosescounseling.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concreterosescounseling?igsh=MTVrMzEzOTN5bnMzaw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EEiRewCaP/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-whitlow-lcsw?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Image Credits

Margarita Orange
Tremayne Minor
Twilight Granum