We recently connected with Curlisha Creighton and have shared our conversation below.

Curlisha , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Over the course of your career, have you seen or experienced your field completely flip-flop or change course on something?

Over the course of my professional career, one of the most profound U-Turns I’ve witnessed in the mental health field was the widespread adoption of telehealth. Before the pandemic, there was a consensus among many therapists, and clients alike, that virtual therapy was less desirable than in-person sessions, and many seasoned therapists were adamantly against it. It was a relatively new territory that was still developing and growing in popularity, and there was a noticeable learning curve in navigating technology and providing clinical support over virtual platforms.

However, as the world adapted to social distancing, telehealth emerged as a lifeline for mental health services, breaking previously conceived notions about its effectiveness. Therapy became more accessible than ever, removing barriers for clients who had issues with transportation or disabilities that made in-person visits impossible. It also opened doors for those in rural or underserved areas to connect with specialists they otherwise wouldn’t have access to.

Since then, the field had adjusted, and therapists have been embracing various modalities and interventions to ensure clients receive the quality care they deserve, virtually.

Now it has become so popular that many therapists are exclusively virtual and some have had challenges finding in-person sessions. At Counseling 360 we recognize that while virtual therapy is convenient, there are still clients who value the experience of in-person sessions. So we offer both options, ensuring that our clients have the freedom to choose the setting that best supports their healing journey.

Curlisha , 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 a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW) and certified Masters Addiction Counselor with 20 years of experience in mental health, substance use disorders, and trauma-informed care. I’m also the founder of Counseling 360, a mental health practice dedicated to helping those needing extra support with life’s challenges and mental wellness. My journey into this field began with a deep-seated passion for service and community, which was nurtured through a lifetime of service beginning with my involvement in Girl Scouts of America, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and mentoring programs throughout high school and beyond. These early experiences taught me the power of connection, resilience, and the impact of compassionate support, inspiring me to pursue a career dedicated to mental health and personal growth.

What sets Counseling 360 apart is our commitment to holistic healing and culturally responsive care. We understand that mental health is deeply connected to one’s environment, community, and lived experiences. Our goal is to not only address immediate concerns but to empower you with the tools and confidence to navigate life’s complexities with resilience and strength.

Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?

I believe the most critical element for succeeding in this field is empathy the genuine ability to understand and connect with those who are experiencing challenging life circumstances. Empathy allows you to meet clients where they are, without judgment, and create a safe space for them to express their vulnerabilities. It’s not just about understanding their struggles but truly feeling with them, recognizing the courage it takes to seek help, and honoring their journey toward healing

Do you have any insights you can share related to maintaining high team morale?

I saw an article not too long ago about a CEO who believes that work-life balance is an employee issue and not an employer issue, and it really put into perspective how out of touch many leaders are. Leadership goes beyond just meeting quotas and metrics you’re managing people and personalities. Understand that work is often a means to an end for many individuals is crucial; it may not always be their top priority, and money alone is not always the primary motivator.

To truly inspire and engage your team, take the time to understand what drives each person whether it’s professional growth, work-life balance, creativity, or a sense of purpose. We often spend the bulk of our time working for others, at the expense of spending time with our family and friends and focusing on what truly matters to us as individuals. As a leader you set the culture for your team, and when you understand what matters to them, you can work collaboratively to support those needs while aligning their goals with the team’s objectives.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.counseling360.org
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/counseling_360
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/counseling360

Image Credits

Photographer: VividVivisions