Today, we’d like to introduce you to Mandy Heisler, LCSW-C.
Hi Mandy, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up, I always knew I wanted to work with children and families, which eventually led me to pursue a career in social work. As a graduate student, I gained invaluable experience interning in Baltimore City schools as well as a children’s inpatient unit. Soon after, I started my career as a school social worker in special education — a position I held for five years.
Although I loved being a school social worker, my long-term goal was to open a practice. During the pandemic, I had the opportunity to work part-time at a private practice, which helped familiarize me with that part of the field. After three years of working in others’ practices, I decided to go out alone and recently celebrated one year in business.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There were challenges on my journey to become a therapist and even more as I set out to open my practice. When I first started working, I experienced first-hand how important self-care is. Burnout comes on quickly and can be challenging, even for a therapist. I had to step back and learn how to create a work-life balance to show up as the best version of myself. When I started my practice, there were plenty of learning curves.
Although my higher education helped me become a clinical social worker, it became abundantly clear that no one teaches you how to be a business person. The process forced me to step out of my comfort zone. I’ve learned so much along the way and continue to recognize my ongoing and constant evolution as a therapist and person. Imposter syndrome is real, and I’m sure this is something many people can relate to – we are always a work in progress!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
My practice is Mindful Therapy Collective, based in Baltimore, Maryland. The practice has a clinical focus on the care of preteens, teens, and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem challenges, life transitions, and stress.
Mindful Therapy Collective was founded to provide a safe space for individuals to heal, grow, and achieve their goals. Therapy in my practice is centered around trust, empathy, and collaboration. I view clients as the experts of their own lives and use tools and techniques that will help them reach their fullest potential.
Beyond the practice, I am a Registered Yoga Teacher, and I see infinite value in incorporating mindfulness techniques that promote a feeling of connection, awareness, and balance between the mind and body. This is a unique and integral part of my efforts as a therapist.
I currently offer virtual individual therapy sessions for people residing in Maryland. In addition to my work with clients, I’m a Maryland board approved supervisor and offer supervision services for social workers working towards their clinical licensure.
Who else deserves credit for your story?
I’m so grateful to have the most supportive friends and family. They’ve been the biggest cheerleaders and have always encouraged me to chase my dreams – I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.
I want to give a special shout-out to my brother-in-law, Sam, the most creative person I know. He’s helped me capture my vision for my branding and website, which I’m extremely proud of!
From a therapy point of view, I’ve gained so much experience from my dear friend and mentor, Kristi (owner of Baltimore Family Therapy). With her support, I’ve learned so much about how to be the best therapist and private practice owner. She gave me my first job as a private practice therapist, and I couldn’t have done this without her constant guidance and encouragement!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mindfultherapycollective.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindfultherapycollective?igsh=NTQ0M3d4c3cyNWh3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088614573688
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindful-therapy-collective
- Other: https://the-grounding-guide.beehiiv.com/
Image Credits
Sam Sherfey
