Today we’d like to introduce you to Litza Bodden.
Hi Litza, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I was born in the Republic of Panama, where, despite my parents’ best efforts, I witnessed a lot of trauma and violence while growing up. During high school, I discovered my passion for psychology and counseling, thanks to my health and psychology teacher, who initiated peer-led processing groups where students could discuss their common issues. Recognizing my empathy and ability to listen, she encouraged me to pursue a career in therapy, planting the seed for my future endeavors.
After high school, I moved to the United States to spend time with family and decided to pursue my studies further. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology and Spanish from the University of North Texas, where I delved deeper into my passion for understanding and helping others navigate their mental health challenges.
My journey took a definitive turn when I pursued a Master’s in Community Counseling at Argosy University. During my studies, I realized my calling lay in supporting African American and Latinx individuals in confronting their past traumas and dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health in our communities. Additionally, I became passionate about promoting self-care practices and advocating for a more inclusive approach to therapy.
After completing my master’s degree, I gained valuable experience working in various community-based agencies and hospitals, providing therapy and mental health education. However, driven to make a greater impact, I took the leap to establish my own practice, Shining Lights Counseling LLC.
At Shining Lights Counseling, I offer various services, including therapy, life coaching, speaking engagements, and supervision for aspiring therapists. My mission is to challenge societal stigmas surrounding mental health, empower my community through education, and ensure that therapy is a culturally sensitive and empowering experience for all.
Through my dedication and passion, I am actively working to erase the stigma surrounding mental health, promote self-care practices, and pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible approach to therapy for everyone who seeks it.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
My journey hasn’t been a smooth road. Moving to the US at 17 was a significant culture shock for me. Despite knowing English, navigating the Texan accent and cultural differences posed challenges in communication. Being an Afro-Latina, I faced a type of discrimination I hadn’t experienced in Panama, where my background was more commonplace.
Moreover, the transition to college required me to handle paperwork and secure resources largely on my own, with minimal assistance. Battling homesickness and struggling to find my community compounded the difficulties of adapting to a new environment.
Furthermore, the business aspect of being a therapist was a hurdle. Schooling didn’t prepare me for this aspect, but thankfully, I had a mentor, Paula Agulefo, who guided me through the essentials of starting a practice. With the support of my family and friends, I gradually built my practice, gaining confidence in my abilities and expanding my skills.
It’s been a journey filled with challenges, but with perseverance, prayers, and encouragement, I’ve overcome each obstacle, emerging stronger and more resilient.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
In my practice at Shining Lights Counseling LLC, I offer a comprehensive range of services aimed at empowering individuals and reshaping the narrative around mental health. As a licensed therapist, I provide personalized therapy sessions tailored to each client’s unique needs, fostering a safe and supportive environment for healing and growth.
Beyond therapy, I am a professional speaker and educator, leveraging my expertise to spread awareness and promote mental wellness. Through workshops, seminars, and speaking engagements, I aim to inspire others to prioritize self-care and break free from the stigma surrounding mental health.
As a supervisor for incoming therapists, I play a pivotal role in shaping the future of mental health care by mentoring and guiding aspiring professionals. I am deeply committed to fostering excellence and compassion within the field, ensuring that future generations of therapists are equipped to make a meaningful impact.
My unwavering dedication to shining a light on mental health and self-care sets my practice apart, especially for communities that may face barriers to access. I take great pride in erasing the stigma associated with mental health and providing valuable resources and support to those who need it most. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
What do you think about happiness?
What brings me happiness is the opportunity to help others. It might sound like a cliché, but it’s fundamental to who I am. I find immense joy in being there for clients, especially those who share similar backgrounds and experiences. Understanding them, empathizing with their circumstances, and truly listening to their stories is incredibly fulfilling to me. I firmly believe that being a therapist is a calling, and even if I can make a small difference in someone’s life, it brings me happiness.
Beyond my profession, I find happiness in my spiritual relationship with God, as well as in the love and support of my family and friends. Music and art are also integral parts of my life. I make it a point to listen to music every day, and I find solace and expression through painting, coloring, or creating new things as a form of self-care.
Traveling and exploring new places, especially those near the beach or bodies of water, are additional sources of happiness for me. Being near water evokes a sense of peace and nostalgia for my home country, Panama, and my childhood. It’s where I feel most connected and grounded, reminding me of the beauty and serenity of life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.ShiningLightsLLC.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/shininglightsllc
- Facebook: facebook.com/shininglightsllc
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shininglightsllc/
- Twitter: twitter.com/shininglightsco
- Other: tiktok.com/shininglightsllc
Image Credits
Cassidy Degrate
