Today we’d like to introduce you to LOREAL LABAT.
Hi LOREAL, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey of helping others begins at my parents divorce when I was 8 years old. My mom introduced me to psychotherapy to help me heal after the trauma of my parent’s divorce. I was angry and not adjusting well to my new world. However, after a few sessions of therapy, I realized that I wanted to help others in some capacity. I told my mom I wanted to be a lawyer or a therapist. Though becoming a therapist was not an easy feat, as I had some struggles along the way, it did not stop me from accomplishing my goals.
Throughout college I changed my major many times but always landed right back in the world of psychology. I started earning my master’s degree after a few years of not being able to obtain employment in the field of family studies. On the first day of the master’s program I was stated that I wanted to start a private practice and years later, here I am! Starting my practice isn’t something that happened over night. I have worked in a few behavioral hospitals which has afforded me much experience with working with individuals of many backgrounds. I have also worked in an eating disorder residential treatment facility. As well as, facilitating group therapy for families that were experiencing trauma in the home.
My journey to becoming a therapist has been full of learning about others, as well as myself. I have enjoyed this journey so far and I look forward to continuing to serving many more in the years to come.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has not been an easy road to travel. In 2005 I experienced a huge lost, after hurricane Katrina hit my hometown New Orleans. We lost many of the memories and items from my childhood. As well as, the home that my mom purchased after the divorce. I had to build my self awareness, develop coping skills, and a new plan to keep living life. I continued attending college but also endured other personal setbacks which lead to more healing.
Over the years I continued to work in the social services field but it was hard to obtain substantial employment. This lead me to obtaining my master’s in psychotherapy. Then my father’s health declined and eventually passed away. This impacted me in so many ways but I did not let it stop me from obtaining my goals. I was able to complete my hours towards licensure within the minimum time frame of 18 months and began my private practice in the midst of the pandemic.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am most proud of my approach to therapy. I enjoy getting to know my clients and developing a life long relationship with them. I pride myself on being approachable and easy to talk to. This provides a safe space for them to lean in and release whatever maybe on their minds. Though every client isn’t around for the long haul, I try my best to be a space that they may want to come back to.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
Qualities for success include resilience, patience, and balance. Life is all about evolving and adapting to change. However, that is not always easy to approach. With my success I saw the need to be patient with the process and myself. Setting goals and not giving up when things don’t always go as planned. Being resilient and not allowing negative self talk to keep me from following through. Lastly, practicing balance, through my thinking, the way that I approach my goals, and my personals life. Success is subjective, not allowing other’s success to determine my success has been a standard for myself.
Pricing:
- 150 for 1 hour session
- 250 for 1 hour couple session
- I accept insurance for most providers
Contact Info:
- Website: loreallovestolisten.solutions
Image Credits
JL Ward
