Today we’d like to introduce you to Sheena Cooper.
Hi Sheena, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have been a therapist for over a decade, working in a variety of agency settings that gave me the opportunity to grow as a clinician and serve diverse populations. Opening my own practice had always been a goal, and during the pandemic I felt it was the right time to take that step. I began by offering virtual sessions, which allowed me to stay connected with clients during an uncertain time. As things began to open up, I moved into a shared office space to accommodate those who preferred face-to-face sessions. Today, I have a private office in Pembroke Pines where I work with teenagers and adults, primarily supporting individuals navigating depression and anxiety, anger , grief and trauma. I also work with military personal and those that are court ordered to receive anger management.
Bi-annually we host a Vision Board brunch. 2026 will be our 3rd Vision Board brunch. We are in the planning phase searching for locations and creating our theme. In 2024 we titled it “The Girl Math of Vision Boards “the science of overspending & underdelivering.” Both events were a success.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road, but I can definitely say it’s becoming easier to manage as time goes on. When I first opened my practice, I started by seeing clients virtually, and eventually I rented office space for a few hours a week. That in itself was an adventure because I was never assigned the same office each time. I remember one session in particular when I was placed in a boardroom—it was private, but honestly, it felt more like negotiating a business deal than having a therapy session with a client! Moments like that remind me that flexibility and humor are essential in this work.
Everything about building a private practice has been a learning process, and in truth, I continue to learn something new every single day. From managing schedules to marketing, and most importantly, understanding and supporting my clients’ needs, there’s always room to grow and improve.
I’d say the most challenging part of running a private practice has been navigating insurances. Many practices choose not to accept insurance, and I completely understand why—it can be exhausting trying to get reimbursed at a fair rate. There are countless phone calls, follow-ups, and paperwork that come with it. Despite the challenges, I continue to accept insurance because it’s what works best for the majority of my clients. It allows them to access care without the added financial stress, and that is ultimately my priority.
At the end of the day, every challenge along the way has been an opportunity to grow, learn, and refine my approach to providing the best care possible. While it hasn’t always been easy, the journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I feel grateful to be able to support my clients in meaningful ways every single day.
We’ve been impressed with Prospect Institute LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Prospect Institute, LLC is a private practice dedicated to providing high-quality individual and family therapy for adolescents and adults. We are guided by the belief that every individual possesses the capacity to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful personal growth.
Our mission is to promote the core values of freedom, growth, and independence, fostering resilience and empowering clients to create lasting change.
We recognize that accessing mental health services can feel daunting. At Prospect Institute, we are committed to offering a supportive and professional environment where clients can confidently begin their therapeutic journey.
We offered 1:1 therapeutic sessions as well as anger management sessions/groups.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
I am a proud South Florida native who was raised in Overtown. From an early age, I enjoyed riding my bike and going to church with my Mom and my sister. I also witnessed firsthand the impact of mental illness, substance abuse, and unresolved trauma as my father, a Vietnam veteran, battled these challenges. Watching his struggles gave me a front-row seat to the realities many families face—and it inspired my lifelong calling to help people like him find healing, stability, and hope.
Before starting my clinical career, I proudly served in the United States Army, completing a 13-month tour in Taji, Iraq, and participating in international missions including Marcala, Honduras. My service provided opportunities to connect with people across cultures while deepening my respect for resilience, adaptability, and the human spirit.
Today, as a trauma-focused social worker, I blend my personal history, military experience, and professional training to provide therapy that is both compassionate and effective. I understand that healing looks different for everyone and I try to create a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and empowered.
Outside of my professional role, I value personal growth, balance, and joy in everyday moment. I bring this same energy into my work, guiding clients toward freedom, growth, and independence while walking alongside them on their unique path to healing.
Pricing:
- Initial session $150.00
- Follow up $100.00
- Consultations FREE
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.prospectinstitutellc.com
- Instagram: prospect_institute
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/prospectinstitutellc
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheena-cooper-lcsw-qs-oef-veteran-certified-anger-management-specialist-ii-752b576b
Image Credits
Pictures: IG: virgesimoneimages
