We’re looking forward to introducing you to Alana Gissen. Check out our conversation below.
Alana, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
Building the Healing Professionals Network with my two colleagues has been such a rewarding journey. So much of the work happens behind the scenes, but the impact is deeply felt — we’re creating a space where healing professionals can connect, support one another, and ultimately help countless people in need. It’s an honor to be part of something that brings so much good into the world.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Alana Gissen. I’ve been a licensed clinical therapist for over 30 years, and I’m also a Board-Certified Sex Therapist and Addiction Specialist in private practice.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is being a connector and matcher. I love bringing people and resources together — it’s a specialized skill that I value deeply, and one that continues to bring me so much fulfillment.
Alongside my two incredible colleagues, Dr.Eva Ritvo and Patricia Stauber,LCSW, I am dedicated to building and expanding the Healing Professionals Network, a unique community where we collaborate to create meaningful pathways of healing and support for others.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
I was fortunate to grow up in a family whose mission in life was helping others. My parents, Matthew and Helene Gissen, were pioneers in the substance abuse treatment field, dedicating their lives to supporting people struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.
My father was a true icon and innovator in our industry. His groundbreaking work touched the lives of thousands, and since his recent passing, I feel a deep responsibility to honor him by continuing his legacy of healing. My mother, a highly respected clinical therapist, influenced countless lives with her compassion, wisdom, and angelic presence. Even in retirement, her impact is still felt by those who had the privilege of working with her.
Their devotion has shaped who I am today. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Sex Therapist, and Addiction Specialist, I carry forward their legacy while creating my own path — connecting people, resources, and communities to expand access to healing. Their example continues to guide and inspire me every step of the way.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me lessons that success never could. Success often brings validation and joy, but suffering has been my greatest teacher in humility, empathy, and resilience. It has shown me how to sit with pain, how to understand others more deeply, and how to value connection and healing in ways that success alone could never reveal. Suffering strips away illusions and reminds me of what truly matters: compassion, gratitude, and the strength to keep going.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what really matters to me is connection, integrity, and helping others. They know I value relationships above all else — whether it’s family, friends, colleagues, or clients. They would also say that I care deeply about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and valued. To me, what truly matters isn’t recognition or success — it’s leaving people better than I found them and making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
When I’m gone, I hope people will tell the story of someone who lived to bring light into the lives of others. That I carried forward my parents’ legacy of healing, and in my own way became a connector of people, resources, and hope.
I hope they’ll say I made others feel seen, valued, and never alone. And that — just like the many sunrises I have shared — I added a little more sunshine and happiness into the world each day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alanagissen.com
- Instagram: alanagissen
- Linkedin: Alana Gissen, LCSW
