Vanessa Richards, LMHC - Therapist in Wellington, FL

What distinguishes me as a therapist is my ability not only to empathize with my clients, but also to thoughtfully challenge them when they move away from their personal goals. I view therapy as a process that is not solely intended to provide comfort, but also to encourage growth and transformation. At times, this may involve addressing and reflecting on choices that may not align with the client’s desired outcomes. Additionally, I am open to incorporating faith into the therapeutic process when it aligns with the client’s preferences. My approach is grounded in compassion, warmth, and authenticity, while also ensuring that clients remain actively engaged in taking meaningful steps toward achieving their goals.

What inspired me to become a therapist was the realization that many of the thoughts and emotions I had struggled with in the past continued to surface throughout different stages of my life. I recognized that without addressing these challenges, I would remain stuck in the same patterns of reaction and feeling. Growing up, the lack of open conversations around mental health and the limited resources available to me led me to seek support from a therapist and, ultimately, to explore the field more deeply. Through this journey, I developed a strong desire to help others by advocating for mental health and contributing to greater awareness within the community. Supporting mental health is something I am deeply passionate about, and it remains at the core of my work as a therapist.