Meet Lisa Davis

Lisa, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How’s you first get into your field – what was your first job in this field?

Securing my first job in the mental health field was a pivotal moment, colored by a blend of apprehension and eagerness. After relocating from Fort Drum, NY, where my husband was stationed in the military, to Illinois, I found myself navigating a new environment while seeking meaningful employment. St. Colletta’s in Palos Heights, IL, became my initial foray into the field. I vividly remember the mix of nerves and excitement as I embarked on this journey. My primary task was caring for drug-exposed infants at a shelter, a responsibility that felt both daunting and profoundly important. At the time, my aspirations were simple yet profound—to make a tangible difference in the lives of those I served. Reflecting on the recruitment process, it seemed straightforward, perhaps owing to the urgency I felt in securing employment in a new location. Looking back, I realize the significance of that first job and the impact it had on shaping my career trajectory. While the road ahead was uncertain, I am grateful for the experiences that unfolded at St. Colletta’s, laying the groundwork for a fulfilling career in mental health.

Lisa, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

 I’m Lisa Davis, and I’m all about making a positive difference in people’s lives through counseling. My journey in the mental health field started from the ground up, and it’s been quite the ride. I’ve worked as a case manager, Program Director, and clinical director before taking the leap to start my own practice, Starting New Counseling Services LLC.

With a background in both Communications and Counseling Psychology, I bring a unique perspective to the table. My goal is to help individuals facing a variety of challenges, from personality disorders to trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief. I’m all about creating a safe, non-judgmental space where my clients can truly be themselves.

What really drives me is seeing my clients grow and thrive. I’m all about encouraging them to push their boundaries and become the best version of themselves. And it’s not just about counseling sessions; I love sharing my knowledge through workshops and training sessions too.

Right now, I’m on the journey to earn my PhD, and I couldn’t be more excited about what the future holds. So if you’re looking for a counselor who sees you as a person first and foremost,

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

One of the most effective strategies I’ve found for growing my clientele in the counseling field is good old-fashioned word of mouth. Building strong relationships with my current clients and ensuring they have a positive experience with me is key. When they feel supported and see progress in their own lives, they’re more likely to recommend me to their friends, family, or colleagues who might benefit from counseling. This organic approach has been incredibly powerful in expanding my reach and bringing new clients through the door.

Additionally, I’ve seen great success in hosting workshops and training sessions. Not only do these events allow me to share my expertise and connect with others in the community, but they also serve as fantastic marketing opportunities. By showcasing my knowledge and skills in a public setting, I not only attract individuals who are interested in counseling but also potential referral sources such as other healthcare professionals or community organizations. These workshops and training sessions have proven to be a valuable tool for both client acquisition and networking within the field.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

If I could turn back time, I’d still choose the path of a counselor without a second thought. Helping others navigate life’s challenges and witnessing their growth and resilience is incredibly rewarding. It’s a profession that aligns with my values and passions, allowing me to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives every single day. However, if I were to explore a different path, it would undoubtedly be within the helping field as well. Whether it’s social work, psychology, or another avenue focused on supporting and uplifting others, I know I would find fulfillment in any role that allows me to contribute positively to the well-being of individuals and communities. There’s something truly special about being able to lend a helping hand and being a source of support for those in need, and I wouldn’t trade that for anything else.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.startinganewcounselingservices.com/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/startinganewcounseling/#

• Linkedin: Starting Anew Counseling Services LLC.