We hear a lot from our clients. After all, therapy is YOUR time and YOUR space to explore the issues that matter most to YOU. But we also realize you may at times be curious about us, or wonder what therapy looks like from the other side of the couch. 

In this series, we’ll be hearing from the therapists on staff here at Elevate Counseling + Wellness about what therapy means to them. Today, we hear from Whitney Henderson, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist from the great state of Texas. Read on to find out how she learned to trust her gut, why she views all clients from a relational lens, and her surprising answer to a ~magical~ question. 

Tell us a little about your background and why you became a therapist.

I began my college career with the intention to study psychology and become a family therapist. But after taking some well-intended yet ultimately poor advice about my career path, I made the practical decision to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in elementary education. At the time, this felt like a more efficient way to finish school and focus on my growing family, but for fifteen years I wished I had chosen differently. In fact, I never even used my elementary education degree. 

I enjoyed staying home with my children when they were young, but I never stopped regretting my career path. Finally, desiring change and listening to the “voice” within, I returned to school full-time and began the Marriage and Family Therapy Master's program at Abilene Christian University. At the end of 33 months, I graduated with Honors and felt incredibly grateful to be in a profession that allows me to be invited into individuals’ and families’ stories, where I can provide tools so that they, too, can find their “voice” within and accomplish their goals. 

Do you specialize in a particular area or niche? Tell us about that niche and how you help clients experiencing those concerns.  

Relational therapy is my niche, whether I am doing couple therapy, family therapy, or even individual therapy concerning familial patterns, influence, or conflict. Family relationships are the most influential cultural systems we associate with. The patterns and belief systems of our families greatly influence how we develop as an individual and how we interact with others. I help clients identify these patterns and belief systems, recognize their influence, and then choose how to navigate forward with this new understanding. 

What has surprised you most about being a therapist?

There has not been a client from any socio-economic background, life circumstance, or ethnicity whom I have not been able to connect with and experience empathy for. My favorite quote by Marjorie Hinckley — and the catalyst that inspired me to become a therapist— is: “You can love anyone when you know their story.” Becoming a therapist has repeatedly proven the truth of this statement. I am privileged to have stories shared with me, and I am impressed how each story solidifies the goodness and strength of humanity.  

What is your advice for people starting therapy for the first time? 

There is no wrong way to experience therapy. All spectrums of emotion are welcome. You do not have to be prepared. Your session is for you; allow it to develop organically.  If you feel stuck or aren't sure where to start, I'll jump in and ask questions to get the conversation started. 

If you had a magic wand as a therapist, how would you use it? 

If I had a magic wand, I wouldn’t use it. Pain provides an environment to build skills. Discomfort provides an opportunity for growth. Confusion allows us to contemplate our experiences. Although it would be great to “twinkle” my clients to the other side of change, experiencing the process is where true growth, development, and change are nurtured.