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

Johanna, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear about how you went about setting up your own practice and if you have any advice for professionals who might be considering starting their own?

I started my practice gradually, building it up over time. For five years, I saw clients part-time while maintaining a full-time job. It wasn’t until some major life changes pushed me to take the leap that I transitioned into full-time private practice. Looking back, I feel fortunate that I had already laid a strong foundation. Moving into full-time practice wasn’t as overwhelming as starting from scratch might have been. While there was still plenty to learn, I wasn’t juggling both building a caseload and figuring out how to run a business. Instead, I could focus on understanding the business side of private practice.

I often reflect on what I would have done differently, and the answer is simple: I wish I had trusted myself enough to start sooner. What was I so afraid of? Failure, as usual. But honestly, even if I failed, I could always start over. That’s the biggest piece of advice I’d give to new clinicians considering private practice—just do it. What are you so afraid of? Failure isn’t the end; it’s just another step toward success.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m a first-generation college graduate, Latina, a proud business owner, and an elder millennial navigating the beautiful chaos of first-time motherhood while building a business rooted in my values. My journey into private practice stems from a deep passion for creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and empowered. Growing up with the “ni de aquí, ni de allá” experience uniquely shaped how I view identity and belonging, and it fuels my desire to serve those who may feel similarly caught between worlds. I believe in the power of connection, and I’m committed to fostering a sense of community and authenticity in all that I do.

Saname Counseling reflects that vision. We provide boutique mental health therapy services designed to meet the unique needs of our South Texas community. Our practice is intentionally small and focused, offering a deeply personalized and connected experience. Clients aren’t just numbers—they’re individuals whose wellness we prioritize fully. Our therapists specialize in areas such as trauma, anxiety, grief, depression, and relationship challenges, bringing expertise and care to every session. What sets us apart is our responsiveness, including reduced wait times and same-day appointments for those needing timely support. Rooted in the culture and resilience of South Texas, Saname Counseling is more than a therapy practice—it’s a space for healing, growth, and authentic connection.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

There’s a trend on TikTok right now where people share their struggles from a year ago compared to where they are now, thriving. Honestly, that’s exactly how I feel answering this question.

Last November, I had just found out I was pregnant—after a miscarriage and four years of infertility. I was heading into my third year as a business owner, and I was terrified. I kept asking myself, What now? I wasn’t mentally prepared for this huge change, and suddenly I had to make some of the toughest business decisions of my life to prepare.

As a first-generation entrepreneur, I didn’t have a blueprint for how to navigate pregnancy, postpartum, and running a small business all at once. I felt completely out of my depth. Thankfully, Katy Manganella at Austin City Counseling in Austin, Texas—who’s not just a grad school friend but has become family—was my anchor. Her support kept me grounded. Even so, scaling back my business was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. It’s tough to intentionally pull back when everything feels like it depends on growth—but I did it. Somehow, I pushed through.

I prioritized myself and my business, even when it felt impossible. I worked up until the day before my scheduled induction—because that’s just who I am: a recovering overachiever. Then everything shifted. I was diagnosed with severe preeclampsia, which was both life-changing and terrifying. I now understand how fortunate I am to have been well cared for and to have healed. Many moms don’t survive that diagnosis, and I don’t take for granted that I got to go home, hold my baby boy, and focus on recovery.

During my maternity leave, my team showed up in ways I’ll never forget. They stepped up with confidence and care, and I didn’t have to worry about Saname Counseling. That space to heal was transformative. When I returned, I felt different—bolder. Some of the fears I’d carried were gone. I started making big, intentional decisions that strengthened my business, fueled our growth, and ensured we could continue providing boutique mental health services to our community.

For me, resilience means not giving up, even when fear feels all-consuming. It means showing up, even when you don’t feel ready. That’s what I did this past year: I kept going, even when I was scared out of my mind. I grew a human, almost died, and came out stronger—for myself, my family, and my business. If nothing else, I’ve come to understand one undeniable truth, deep in my soul: women are tough as hell.

To anyone navigating something similar—whether it’s entrepreneurship, parenthood, or both—I want you to know: You’ve got this. Even when it feels like you don’t, you do. You’re stronger than you think. Keep going.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

Right now, more than ever, we need clinicians who are authentic and genuine—therapists who bring their personal life experiences and unique worldviews into the therapy space. It’s not just about what we’ve learned in school or training; it’s about who we are as people. Clients come from all walks of life, and they need to see that their therapist gets it—whether it’s through shared experiences, cultural understanding, or just being real and relatable.

We need all kinds of therapists because we serve all kinds of clients. Someone might connect best with a therapist who’s been through a similar struggle or who understands their identity or background on a deeper level. Therapy isn’t one-size-fits-all, and the more we embrace our humanity and individuality as clinicians, the more we can truly show up for our clients and meet them where they are.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sanametx.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sanamecounseling
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sanamecounseling
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sanamecounseling

Image Credits

Photos by Iliasis Muniz Photography: www.iliasismunizphotography.com
Logo by HRMG Agency: hrmg.agency
Website by RGV Web Design: rgvwebsitedesign.com