Tomara Wilding: Sparking Change and Building a Counseling Practice
There is a movement happening. One where driven individuals are seeking his or her betterment by sparking the initiative for change.
Ever wondered what it takes to build a successful counseling practice from the ground up? In this episode of AllBetter, Joe Van Wie sits down with Tomara Wilding, a Nationally Certified, Licensed Professional Counselor, to uncover her inspiring journey. Tomara’s story is one of passion and perseverance, driven by her commitment to help others discover their potential and achieve personal growth.
With a Master of Arts degree in Mental Health Counseling and a background in Communication Arts and Humanities, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Tomara's academic journey includes an award-winning research study on healthy and unhealthy relationships through the lens of Social Exchange Theory. This foundational work set the stage for her career in mental health counseling. Throughout the conversation, Joe and Tomara explore the challenges and triumphs of establishing a counseling practice.
They dive into the importance of self-care for counselors, the role of empathy in effective therapy, and how peer-to-peer relationships can be a cornerstone in recovery. Tomara also shares her experiences working in a school-based behavioral health program, shedding light on how early intervention can change perceptions of behavioral issues in children. The episode doesn’t shy away from discussing the complexities of the drug court system and progressive approaches to tackling addiction.
As they look ahead, Tomara talks about the future of her practice and the various levels of care she offers. Whether you’re a counselor, someone in recovery, or just curious about mental health, this episode is packed with valuable insights and heartfelt stories.