Today we’d like to introduce you to Angela Sims.
Hi Angela, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor and I began my journey in the mental health field in 2018 after graduating from Texas Tech University. Since then, I have been fortunate to gain experience in a variety of roles. Most recently, in 2023, I started my own therapy private practice where I primarily work with clients who are navigating grief and loss, difficult medical diagnoses, or traumatic experiences.
My interest in this work began long before my professional training. When I was young, I had a significant grief experience that changed the course of my life. In the aftermath of that loss, I realized that I would never “get over” this loss and that the grief would be with me, in some form or another, for the rest of my life.
When I started thinking seriously about my career path, I knew that my personal experiences with grief would be at the heart of it. This journey led me to counseling, where I now have the privilege of walking alongside others in their own grief. It is truly an honor to do this work, to be a witness to my clients’ grief, and to support them as they learn to incorporate their grief into their lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I feel very fortunate to be where I am today, but the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Early on, I worked in entry level positions with long hours and low pay, and along the way, I’ve often wrestled with imposter syndrome. The most difficult part, by far, has been navigating my self-doubt.
Over time, I’ve done a lot of work to better understand and manage these feelings. I’ve come to accept that self-doubt may never disappear completely, but that doesn’t mean it has to hold me back. Instead of avoiding those emotions, I’ve learned to work with them. When I notice self-doubt creeping in, I often remind myself that it’s a sign I’m pushing myself outside of my comfort zone.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Angela Sims Counseling, PLLC?
I own my therapy practice, Angela Sims Counseling, PLLC where I see clients in person in Dallas and via telehealth with clients across the state of Texas. My approach to therapy is trauma-informed, client-centered, and uniquely tailored to each of my clients’ needs. I firmly believe that the therapeutic relationship is the vehicle for meaningful change, so I put intentional effort into creating a healthy, meaningful therapeutic relationship with my clients.
I draw from evidence-based practices including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). I incorporate mindfulness and somatic techniques to assist clients in processing emotions rather than just understanding them intellectually.
I like to think of my practice as a “come as you are” space. Want to take your shoes off and sit criss-cross on the couch? Perfect. Prefer to bring a cozy blanket or fidget toy to help you feel grounded? Absolutely. Need to laugh, cry, or sit quietly for a moment before we begin? That’s welcome here, too.
At the moment, my practice is just me, offering individual therapy. In the future, I hope to expand by offering group therapy for clients navigating grief and loss, chronic or terminal illness, or the challenges of caregiving.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I feel incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system surrounding me. Throughout my journey, I’ve been very intentional about building both personal and professional networks that support me, guide me, and encourage me to grow. My goal has always been to be a sponge and soak up as much wisdom as possible from the people around me.
Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of learning from mentors and colleagues, who have not only shared their knowledge but also nurtured my growth along the way. I’ve also been inspired by my clients, who trust me with their deepest emotions and continually teach me about resilience.
In my personal life, my husband has been the biggest cheerleader I could have ever asked for. He has celebrated every success, big and small, and provided a soft landing when I needed it most. His encouragement has given me the courage to take risks and follow through on building my own practice.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://angelasimscounseling.com
