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

Dr. Lisa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

My parents, especially my mother, taught me a vital lesson that has helped me. She taught me always to be kind and to use our limited resources to help others. Growing up, we had very little money, but my mom’s heart was generous like my dad’s. She fed the neighbors that didn’t have enough, even when we were tight on resources. My parents showed me that real wealth comes from within. The smiles we give, the encouraging words we share, and the helping hand we extend that matter most in life. She knew how to stretch a dollar and a tortilla. She taught me that no matter what, one’s wealth should never be the measure of one’s kindness and willingness to help others. So I have always tried to help others as best I can. Before opening my practice almost 14 years ago, I had helped so many and given so much to my community that I was blessed to have a thriving full caseload just three weeks after opening my practice. I watched my parents give and serve others; it was an inspiration that has made me a better person.

Dr. Lisa, 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 am a psychotherapist. I decided to study psychology after taking an abnormal psychology class. I was fascinated by how the Mind worked. Shortly after that, I experienced severe anxiety and became determined to learn all there was to know about the disorder and how to get rid of it. This difficult time in my life led me to further my studies in psychology, earning a Ph.D. Now I have my practice and see adult, teenage patients, and couples. I am passionate about finding solutions that work differently and provide lasting results. Helping my many patients throughout the year has taught me that we should all value taking care of our minds. This brought upon my passion for helping everyone prioritize their Mind and creating the many other things I do besides my private practice. This past year I created Mind. Set. Grow project is determined to bring preventative mental health to schools across the U.S. We teach children how to care for their bodies with physical education courses, but the brain is always excluded. MIND. SET GROW. is a purpose-driven brand, and 50% of all proceeds will go directly to our project.Aside from this, I have started a wellness tea company, Té Sana Tea and Wellness, which helps to promote healthy lifestyles and mental wellness. Through my journey and passion for helping others, I have curated these wellness teas and my fashion brand to help others. I have been able to turn my passion into action, and I am determined to bring preventative mental wellness to all. I know from experience that we tend not to take breaks, to be hard on ourselves, and to never talk about our feelings. We want to change that, and I plan to continue to strive for positive change.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

Practicing what I preach, as a therapist. Taking care of the mind is essential for everything, especially success. The mind is an intricate part of our entire body, so it’s important to ensure it’s functioning at its best. Take that break if needed, learn few calming techniques. Engaging in healthy self-care and even if just the basic needs are not being met, it can throw us off. Sleep, healthy eating, and getting some sort of workout in is important for our overall health. Put yourself on the list or priorities. learn to meditate, find what works for you. The power of meditation is powerful.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

How I first grew my practice. I am always giving back to my community.  No matter how busy I always try to give back.  I strive to be of service to those in need.  I want to make a difference in people’s lives, whether they’re my clients or not.  I now reach more people via my podcast, The Anxiety Dr. Podcast, and the many volunteer hours I give to different organizations.  And now with MIND. SET. GROW. Project.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.drlisacortez.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theanxietydr/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theanxietydr
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-lisa-cortez-phd-007829119/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/theanxietydr
• Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/7wQlyLJ8DorFkI41mT3EEF

Image Credits
Credit: Allison Wilkins at Evin Thayer Studios