At Healing Spaces Psychological Services LLC, we take pride in our team of dedicated therapists. As we highlight our therapists, they were asked to answer a series of questions to tell you a little bit about who they are as a person. Today, you will get a glimpse into Sydney Bain!
Hi there, I'm Sydney, and I'm excited to share my journey and approach to counseling with you. I'm a proud St. Louis native, hailing from Pagedale, and Normandy High School. Yes, I'm from the Lou, and I'm very proud!
What Inspired My Career in Mental Health Counseling
My journey into mental health counseling was motivated by the stigma surrounding mental health, particularly within the Black community, where talking about your mental health was taboo. It always bothered me to see friends, family, and others in my community normalize their trauma, depression, and anxiety without seeking help. Things changed for me when I found myself on the other side of the room as someone’s client. All those stigmas everyone else had begun to come during my first moments in therapy. I had a lot of doubt, couldn’t trust the person I sought to help, and just overall uncomfortable. What helped me push through and continue therapy was simply this: I owe it to myself to have a healthy life and mental space but to do so I must be transparent and embrace the feelings I may have. The past has wounded me but that’s not how my story ends, let’s see what you can create for yourself! Since then, I’ve never been the same person internally. Once I finished my BA in psychology, I applied to UMSL graduate program for Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I wanted to be part of the reason that an individual gets the strength to improve their mental health.
Professional Journey
My educational background includes an Associate in Education from St. Louis Community College, a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UMSL, and I'm currently pursuing a Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I've spent the last six years working with SSD, gaining valuable experience working with individuals dealing with conduct issues, ADHD, sexual deviance, schizophrenia, and nonverbal individuals with autism.
Therapeutic Approach
I incorporate a range of therapeutic approaches, such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Gestalt, and Existential therapy, based on my client's unique needs and preferences.
Why I Joined Healing Spaces
Seeing a company that not only provides the core traditional counseling services but
also provides a service catered to black women exclusively was a big interest to me. The well-being of Black women isn’t valued the same as other genders and races at times, and I wanted to be a part of that change. My internship goals are simple - learn, ask questions, embrace my clients' journeys, and be accepting of my own learning curve.
Personal Interests:
When I’m not providing a safe space for my clients, I love playing tennis, volleyball, and traveling. I’ve always had a passion for volleyball since high school, and I occasionally still play recreational at different volleyball. Tennis has been a newfound hobby of mine. I love the workout I get paired with a cute outfit to make sure I’m looking the part. Traveling is my favorite out of the three. The memories I get to create with my loved ones will always be unmatched!
Balancing Self-Care
Balancing self-care can be a challenge, wearing so many different hats in my life. But I always remind myself that I only have one body, and its well-being must be a priority. Sometimes self-care means saying "no" more often, prioritizing rest, or indulging in a guilty pleasure like a plate of wings. Life is all about balance!
Quotes That Guide Me and Core Values
Two quotes that resonate with me are "Your time is limited, so don't waste it living someone else's life." by Steve Jobs and "If you set your goals ridiculously high and it's a failure, you will fail above everyone else's success." by James Cameron. Two main values I always operate under are being my authentic self and showing respect to all individuals. To me respect can displayed by addressing individuals by their pronouns, always asking before assuming, and showing common courtesy.
Client Approach:
When you work with me, expect a safe, warm, and supportive environment. I'm naturally funny, and there might be moments of laughter and smiles in our sessions. You'll also experience accountability, as I believe in holding you accountable and praising your progress, especially if you're serious about achieving your goals.
Future Plans
In the next few years, I see myself becoming a well-known and highly recommended therapist within my community. I plan to obtain certifications in areas such as art therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and psychosis within two years of my graduation.
Advice for Clients
My advice to you is simple yet impactful: Show up as your authentic self and be patient with your journey. Therapy, like exercise, requires consistency. Consistent effort and self-acceptance are keys to seeing the improvements you're searching for.
My Ideal Client
As I continue to refine my expertise, I currently find my greatest value in working with older teens (16+), young adults, and adults dealing with trauma, depression, and anxiety. I'm growing particularly interested in young Black adults navigating life transitions and college. As I expand my expertise and undergo specialized training, my ideal client base will evolve and become more defined.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Ready to take the first step towards your own healing and empowerment journey? Let's connect and start this transformative process together. Whether you're navigating trauma, dealing with depression or anxiety, or facing significant life changes, I'm here to support you. Your well-being matters, and it's time to prioritize it. Reach out now, and let's co-create a path to a brighter and more fulfilling life. Contact me today, and let's get started on your unique healing journey.