We were lucky to catch up with Mariah Cooney recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Mariah, thanks for joining us today. Let’s go back in time to when you were an intern or apprentice – what’s an interesting story you can share from that stage of your career?

My internship experience proved to be profoundly enriching, providing invaluable insights into the intricacies of the Mental Health Field. It afforded me a comprehensive understanding of therapeutic practices beyond the confines of academic literature. While progressing through my clinical counseling program, the emphasis naturally gravitated towards mastering session-based skills, implementing various therapeutic approaches, and adeptly managing non-verbal communication cues. However, it was within the dynamic environment of my internship placement that I could apply and refine these skills organically, thereby honing my personal therapeutic approach & style. Furthermore, under the guidance of an exceptionally supportive and proficient supervisor, I was exposed to the potential for assuming leadership roles within this field. This pivotal experience significantly influenced the trajectory of my career, serving as a catalyst for my current professional endeavors.

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

My name is Mariah Cooney, and I am both a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC). Currently, my role at Makin Wellness encompasses serving as the Clinical Supervisor, a position through which I support and mentor our growing team of therapists, while also tending to the needs of a select group of clients on my caseload.

I am very passionate about providing support to individuals who are navigating significant life transitions. I assist them in finding practical, solution-focused approaches to attain their goals and foster a deeper sense of confidence and fulfillment in their lives. Witnessing the transformative journey of my clients as they heal from past traumas and take significant strides towards their self-defined aspirations is truly rewarding and fuels my passion for this work.

While I deeply value the direct therapeutic work with my clients, my greatest joy lies in the mentorship and support I provide to our team of therapists at Makin Wellness. Playing a role in their professional growth and development brings me immense fulfillment. I take pride in nurturing their skills and confidence, ultimately enabling them to provide exceptional care to their own clients. Contributing to the collective success and growth of our team is a responsibility I cherish, and I am committed to fostering an environment where every therapist can thrive and flourish in their practice.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I firmly believe that mastering the art of ‘pivoting’ is a fundamental skill that holds paramount importance for therapists early in their careers. While we may initially conceive brilliant ideas, the reality often unfolds differently when we encounter individuals with diverse and evolving needs throughout their life journeys. Flexibility in our approach is essential to effectively meet clients where they are and adapt strategies when our initial plans prove ineffective.

Throughout my career, I have encountered numerous instances where the ability to pivot has been crucial, especially when supporting clients in navigating challenging emotions. Despite meticulously crafting coping plans and identifying relevant skills, we have encountered scenarios where our intended approaches for de-escalation have fallen short of expectations. This realization underscores the importance of remaining adaptable and open to alternative strategies tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances.

Embracing the concept of pivoting not only fosters professional growth but also cultivates a collaborative environment where clients actively participate in the exploration of novel solutions. By acknowledging and embracing the need for flexibility, we can navigate setbacks with resilience and ultimately empower our clients to achieve meaningful progress on their therapeutic journey.

Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?

Despite the hurdles that come with working in the mental health field, I stand firm in my dedication to serving the community. I value the broad spectrum of opportunities available in this field, accommodating a wide range of skillsets and interests.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is witnessing the progress of my clients as they achieve their goals or navigate through challenges. It’s incredibly rewarding to be a part of their journey.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.makinwellness.com
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariah-cooney-lpc-ncc-24bba3210/