Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Devan Gardner. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, Devan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory of how you established your own practice.
I knew that I wanted my own therapy practice very early on, however, I thought it would happen much later in life. Starting a new practice as a solo-practitioner seemed like a convoluted process. At the time, I didn’t know anyone that was a practice owner and thought it would be much easier to join a group practice instead. It wasn’t until I was scrolling Indeed one day for a part-time gig (needed in this economy!) that I found a private practice hiring in my area. Again, still thinking that my only goal here is to be a part of a group practice, I applied and interviewed a few days later. The interview was with the owner and solo-practitioner of her own thriving practice, and it went fairly well. Turns out, she was having a baby later in the year and wanted someone on the ground to run her practice while she took maternity leave. This was equally exciting and terrifying for me. Even though I was taking on something completely new that I had never done before, I wasn’t left to figure it out alone. I had a lot of support and more importantly, trust. I learned the ins and outs of how to successfully run a private practice and I couldn’t have done it without the trust of my supervisor at the time, and also trusting myself. I’m deeply grateful to her for that opportunity and it has led me to create my own practice, Good Energy Therapy, where I continue to provide excellent mental health services!
Devan, 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?
I’m Devan (she/her) a Licensed Clinical Social Worker that genuinely loves therapy! I’m originally from Indianapolis, IN but I’ve spent a lot of time growing up in Atlanta. I graduated twice from The University of Georgia (GO DAWGS) and currently live and work in Philadelphia. I specialize in working with adult women navigating intrusive thoughts, depression, stress & anxiety, difficult relationships,and trauma. Therapy is my jam. I’ve been certified and practicing for about seven years and I’m looking forward to what’s ahead.
Good Energy Therapy is my private practice that I founded early last year (2023). I’m so proud of it! Just as any business owner will tell you– it was not easy. I struggled seeing and believing that it could happen for me. I knew that I wanted to be a therapist early on, but had no idea how to make the dream of being a practice owner come true. I’m filled with gratitude for all of my lived experiences, that were divinely placed, and led me to where I am now.
Once I learned the logistics, the branding and marketing is where I let my light shine. One thing that makes Good Energy special is the authenticity. At heart, I am a sunshine-y, expressive, creative, passionate, professional troublemaker and therapist revolutionary. Whenever you land on my website, come across my content, or meet me in person for coffee, I want you to leave with that impression. By being authentically myself, it encourages others to do the same.
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Absolutely! 100 percent! Well, I’ve also thought about being an international flight attendant to see more of the world and meet people. But I love it here! I don’t imagine that I will be in direct practice forever (primarily seeing therapy clients one on one), there’s so many avenues you can take in being a therapist. I would love to teach at the collegiate level! I’m eager to share valuable lessons to the therapists coming after me and discuss lessons I’ve learned and want to pass down– such as marketing and branding, clinical skills, how to learn from mistakes, and much more!
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
I say this often, but to be a GREAT therapist isn’t something that you can just learn in a textbook. When clients are in the darkest place in their lives, and they turn to you for help, it can be scary. I don’t think we talk about it enough. There’s this expectation as the mental health professional, to fix whatever’s happening and make someone “better”. I think we all, in our own unique way, pull from a special place to help people live safer and healthier lives. It’s not easy. And it’s not just a matter of doing bubble bath self-care on the weekends. I really think as therapists, we develop a deep, intimate understanding of ourselves that requires a lot of introspection, quiet moments, grounding, shadow work, and for me– prayer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.goodenergytherapy.com
- Instagram: @realgoodenergy