Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Bedoya
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Why I Became a Therapist: A Journey of Passion and Purpose
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I often get asked why I chose this career path. It’s a question that invites reflection, bringing me back to the moments and experiences that shaped my journey. My decision to become a therapist was not a single epiphany but a culmination of experiences, personal growth, and a deep-seated desire to make a difference in people’s lives.
Early Influences and Personal Experiences
From a young age, I was attuned to the emotions and struggles of those around me. Growing up as a Latina and a Dreamer, I faced unique challenges. Fear of deportation, reluctance to speak to adults about my feelings, and a hesitation to express my emotions to avoid drawing attention to myself were constant companions. These experiences sparked a curiosity in me about human behavior and the underlying reasons for people’s actions and feelings.
Being undocumented also meant that opportunities for higher education were limited. The dream of going to college seemed out of reach until my mom, with her unwavering persistence, found the dual language honors program at Miami Dade College. Thanks to Jennifer Bravo, I was able to pursue my AA in psychology at the InterAmerican Campus. This was a pivotal moment in my life, opening doors I once thought were closed forever.
The Decision to Pursue Counseling
With a newfound appreciation for the field of mental health, I decided to continue my education. Although my dream schools were Stanford or the University of Florida, I was accepted into St. Thomas University, which welcomed me with open arms and did not make my legal status an issue. It was here that I found a supportive community and was able to join social justice groups, advocating for the rights of Dreamers like myself.
During my time at St. Thomas University, the DACA law was passed, which allowed me to pursue my master’s degree in mental health counseling. This legal shift was a game-changer, giving me the stability and opportunity to fully commit to my studies and my future career.
Opening My Private Practice
In 2020, I took a significant step forward in my career by opening my private practice, Empowered Woman LLC, to serve the BIPOC population and empower other women to pursue their dreams. This practice is more than a business; it is a mission to provide accessible, culturally competent mental health services to those who need them the most.
Why I Love What I Do
Being a therapist is more than just a profession for me; it is a calling. Every day, I am reminded of the importance of mental health and the need for compassionate, empathetic support. My role allows me to create a safe space for individuals to explore their feelings, confront their challenges, and discover their inner strengths.
The therapeutic relationship is a powerful tool for change. Witnessing my clients’ progress, whether it’s small steps or significant breakthroughs, is immensely rewarding. It reinforces my belief in the potential for growth and healing that exists within each of us.
Specializing in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues, I have been able to help clients from all walks of life. Each client’s story is unique, and being part of their journey towards healing and empowerment is incredibly fulfilling. I am continually inspired by the resilience and strength of the individuals I work with.
Looking Ahead
As I continue my journey as a therapist, I remain committed to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help. Through my work at Empowered Woman LLC and my involvement with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, I strive to make a positive impact in my community and beyond.
Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, and together, we can work towards a brighter, healthier future.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The journey to opening my practice has been anything but smooth, but each challenge has shaped me into the therapist and business owner I am today. As a Latina and a Dreamer, my path has been filled with obstacles that many others may not have to face.
Growing up, the fear of deportation was a constant shadow over my life. This fear made it difficult to speak openly about my feelings or seek support when I needed it most. I was always cautious about drawing too much attention to myself, which stifled my ability to express emotions and seek help during challenging times.
Being undocumented presented significant barriers to pursuing higher education. The dream of going to college seemed distant until my mother’s persistence led us to discover the dual language honors program at Miami Dade College. Even then, the road was tough. Navigating the complexities of being undocumented while trying to succeed academically was incredibly stressful.
When it came time to continue my education, I faced another hurdle. Although my dream schools were Stanford and the University of Florida, my legal status was a significant barrier. Thankfully, St. Thomas University welcomed me with open arms, allowing me to pursue my passion for psychology and advocacy work for Dreamers like myself.
The passage of the DACA law was a turning point, granting me the legal status needed to pursue my master’s degree in mental health counseling. However, this didn’t eliminate the struggles. Balancing the demands of graduate school while dealing with the uncertainties of my legal status was challenging, but it also fueled my determination to succeed.
Opening my private practice, Empowered Woman LLC, in 2020 was a dream realized, but it came with its own set of challenges. The process of establishing a practice, particularly during a global pandemic, required resilience, adaptability, and a deep commitment to my mission of serving the BIPOC population. Navigating the business side of therapy, securing clients, and ensuring that my services were accessible and culturally competent were all part of the learning curve.
Despite these challenges, the road to opening my practice has been incredibly rewarding. Each struggle has reinforced my passion for mental health and my commitment to empowering others, especially women and individuals from marginalized communities. The obstacles I’ve faced have not only made me stronger but have also deepened my empathy for my clients, allowing me to connect with them on a more profound level.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Empowered Woman LLC is a mental health counseling practice dedicated to providing compassionate, culturally competent care to individuals from all walks of life, with a particular focus on serving the BIPOC community. We specialize in helping clients navigate life’s challenges, whether it’s managing anxiety, coping with life transitions, or healing from trauma. Our approach is rooted in empowerment, with a deep commitment to fostering resilience and personal growth.
What sets us apart from others is our focus on creating a safe, inclusive space where clients feel seen, heard, and supported. As a Latina and a Dreamer, I understand the unique challenges that marginalized communities face, and this perspective is woven into the fabric of our practice. We are known for our culturally sensitive approach, which respects and honors the diverse backgrounds of our clients.
At Empowered Woman LLC, we are also deeply committed to advocating for mental health awareness and reducing the stigma associated with seeking help, particularly within communities of color. Our services are not just about providing therapy; they are about building a community where individuals feel empowered to pursue their dreams, overcome obstacles, and live their most authentic lives.
One of the things I am most proud of, brand-wise, is our dedication to empowering women. Our practice is built on the belief that every woman has the strength within her to overcome challenges and achieve her goals. We offer specialized services that focus on empowering women through various life stages, from young adulthood to motherhood and beyond.
In 2020, I opened Empowered Woman LLC to fulfill my dream of creating a space where people could find not just therapy but also empowerment and community. We offer a range of services, including individual counseling, group therapy, and mental health intensives. Our goal is to provide holistic, personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each client.
What I want readers to know about our brand is that we are more than just a counseling practice. We are a movement dedicated to uplifting, supporting, and empowering individuals to live their best lives. Whether you are seeking help for anxiety, looking to navigate a major life transition, or simply wanting to explore your potential, Empowered Woman LLC is here to support you every step of the way.
What makes you happy?
Happiness for me is rooted in the simple joys of life, particularly when it comes to spending quality time with my family. My husband, son, and our dog are the heart of my world, and the moments we share together bring me immense joy. Whether it’s a quiet evening at home or an adventurous day out, being with them is what makes life truly fulfilling.
I also find happiness in the great outdoors. There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about exploring a new nature scene or engaging in outdoor activities. Whether it’s hiking through a forest, walking along the beach, or simply breathing in the fresh air, nature has a way of grounding me and bringing a sense of peace and happiness.
Beyond family and nature, I am deeply passionate about the progression of social justice and the power of community. Seeing positive change and being part of a collective effort to create a more just and equitable world fills me with hope and happiness. Knowing that I can contribute to this progression through my work and advocacy is both fulfilling and motivating.
In essence, what makes me happy is a combination of these elements: family, nature, social justice, and community. Together, they form the foundation of a life that is not just lived but deeply cherished.
Pricing:
- Individual Therapy (Private pay and Health Insurance)
- Anxiety Therapy Intensive (Inquire for cost)
- Groups (varies from free to small fee)
- Coaching ($150/hr)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.empoweredwoman.blog
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/empowered_woman_llc/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100087911156901&locale=fa_IR
Image Credits
Photographer Eva
