Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Stephanie Sorady. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Alright, Stephanie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you recount a time when the advice you provided to a client was really spot on? (Please note this response is for education/entertainment purposes only and shouldn’t be construed as advice for the reader)

I often work with first-time therapy seekers. Naturally, folks have a lot of questions and even nerves around starting psychotherapy. First I like to let my clients know that all mixed emotions are normal. I like to remind folks to be compassionate with themselves above all. Parts of this process are uncomfortable and difficult, so being kind to yourself is key. For anyone starting therapy I also recommend you share those questions and nervousness with your therapist. It’s important for them to know what you’re feeling and it’s all a part of the process.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My challenges with mental health & navigating dysfunctional systems are what brought me to a career in clinical social work. Now I’m a licensed clinical social worker providing virtual psychotherapy sessions for adults in California.

Many folks who come to see me are high-achievers who’ve worked hard to get where they are today. These individuals are oftentimes seen as the “strong ones” in their family or friend group but are also struggling with anxiety and feeling overwhelmed. These folks are also looking to explore their identities and break harmful generational cycles.

My approach is rooted in mindfulness and self-compassion and she is also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) a type of therapy that treats trauma and negative beliefs about ourselves.

I am most proud of the clients I work with. Their resilience and capacity for change inspire me every day. I love witnessing someone move from a space of anxiety and burn out to feeling calm and empowered.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

Yes! I’m a big book lover so there are many. The first that come to mind, however, include “The Four Tendencies” by Gretchen Rubin. This is a great book for better understanding yourself and others to help you reach your goals. Rubin discovered that people fit into Four Tendencies: Upholders, Questioners, Obligers, and Rebels. Per her work, our Tendency shapes every aspect of our behavior!

A second book that impacted me as an entrepreneur is Marie Forleo’s “Everything is Figureoutable” which helps you to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. What I love most about this book is the practical tools, techniques, and exercises that Forleo weaves into her lessons.

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

There are countless skills needed in the mental health field, especially as an entrepreneur. Yet I’d say one of the most helpful for success is: openness. For example, it’s key to stay open to your clients, their experiences, and their strengths. You also need to stay open to asking for help & support to prevent overwhelm and burnout. Lastly, you have to be open to making mistakes and learning from them.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://luztraumatherapy.com/
• Instagram: @stephaniesorady
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniesorady/

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