Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Svetchnikov
Hi Anna, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story starts in Ukraine, a place I hold close to my heart. My family moved to the United States in 1999, which has been our home ever since. I’ve always been fascinated by how people think and feel, so I studied psychology at UMass Boston. Now, I’m working towards my Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology in West Palm Beach.
Being a therapist is just one part of who I am. I’m also a presenter and author. During the pandemic, I wrote and published my first books to help families navigate that difficult time.
Right now, I’m really interested in how technology affects our relationships. I’m writing a book about how we connect and build intimacy online. I’ve also written a screenplay about a therapist’s life. It shows how their work affects them, even when they’re not at the office. It’s a peek behind the curtain, after the last client has left and the lights are off.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It’s never a smooth road for anyone, is it? Life is more like a journey through hills and valleys. There have been challenges, of course, but I’ve always held onto the idea that happiness and success isn’t a destination you reach, it’s the journey itself.
I often re-center myself by remembering the “circle of control.” I can only control my own actions, feelings, and words. I can’t control other people, the past, or the future. This helps me focus my energy on what I can change, which makes navigating the ups and downs of life a bit easier.
Staying present, celebrating even the small wins, and taking life one day at a time has also helped me appreciate the view from the hilltops and find joy in the journey.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Helping others has always been at the core of who I am. I’ve always been that person people turn to for advice or a listening ear. While I dreamt of being a fashion designer or a doctor as a child, life guided me down a different path. With my upcoming Ph.D. in Clinical Sexology, I like to joke that I’ll be a fashionable doctor after all!
But jokes aside, I’m deeply passionate about my work as a therapist. I work with couples, families, and individuals, navigating the complexities of relationships and intimacy. I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, understood, and empowered to create fulfilling lives.
I’m also an author and have a blog on Psychology Today called “Life, Love, Etc.” where I share my insights on relationships, mental health, and personal growth. I love to speak and teach, sharing my knowledge and experiences with others.
One of my proudest accomplishments is my recent trip to Japan, where I presented my innovative approach to family therapy at the World Family Therapy Congress. My “Tripartite Personas Approach” explores the unique identities we develop as individuals, partners, and parents. It highlights the importance of nurturing all three personas for healthy, balanced relationships.
I believe what sets me apart is my unique blend of clinical expertise, creativity, and passion for helping others. Whether it’s through therapy, writing, speaking, or teaching, my goal is to empower people to build stronger connections, navigate life’s challenges, and discover their own paths to happiness.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
On a personal note, I’m a mom of three amazing boys – yes, my high school sweetheart promised me a girl three times, but oh well! That’s where my circle of control philosophy comes in handy; I appreciate what I have. My boys are my world, and my husband still brings me coffee every morning – those are the small wins I celebrate every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: www. annalmft.com
- Instagram: @annalmft
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mentallyblondeauthor
- Twitter: @annasvetch
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_B3UhexuaTJSu-qRlFISjA
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/life-love-etc
