Neona Russ, LCPC
I have a lifetime of experiences that help me to relate to individuals facing challenging life circumstances. Growing up in Wyandotte County and attending public schools in Kansas City, Kansas has provided me with a unique perspective on the struggles that many individuals in our community face. Through personal experiences such as marriage, divorce, and being a single parent raising four children, I have firsthand knowledge of the hardships and disappointments that can come our way.
However, it is through these difficult moments that I have discovered the true value of perseverance and resilience. These experiences have shaped me into a person who is not easily deterred by setbacks but rather uses them as stepping stones towards personal growth. I firmly believe that life's trials and tribulations are not meant to tear us down, but rather to provide us with opportunities to become more resourceful and resilient individuals.
Moreover, I am grateful to have had the support of those around me during these trying times. Whether it was friends, family, or mentors, their unwavering belief in my abilities and their guidance have been invaluable. Their presence has taught me the importance of extending a helping hand and being a pillar of support to those who find themselves at a crossroads in their own lives.
In conclusion, my diverse life experiences have given me the empathy, understanding, and determination needed to connect with individuals facing difficult circumstances. I recognize that everyone has a unique story and brings their own set of challenges, but I firmly believe that through compassion and support, we can help one another navigate the crossroads that life presents us with. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community.
My Education
I have always been passionate about helping others, which led me to pursue my education in Counseling Psychology. At Park University, I gained a solid foundation in the field, honing my understanding of human behavior and therapeutic techniques. Eager to expand my knowledge and skills, I continued my studies at Avila University, where I focused on specialized areas within counseling.
During my time at Truman Medical Center, I was fortunate to work on the perinatal floor, providing support to women in various stages of childbearing. It was a humbling experience, witnessing the strength and resilience of these mothers-to-be. This opportunity allowed me to develop crucial skills in working with individuals facing unique challenges during this pivotal time in their lives.
From there, I ventured into the realm of correctional facilities, accepting a position in a local county jail. In this setting, I oversaw the mental health ward, providing counseling and therapy to inmates. It was an eye-opening experience, as I learned firsthand about the complex intersection of mental health and the criminal justice system.
Driven by my passion for making a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations, I extended my expertise to working with children and families in the foster care system. This role allowed me to advocate for the well-being of these individuals, providing them with the support and resources they desperately needed.
In 2020, I took a significant leap and opened my private practice. Since then, I have been dedicated to working primarily with adults facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and eating disorders. Guiding my clients on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being has been immensely rewarding, and I continue to witness the transformative power of therapy every day.
To further deepen my knowledge in my areas of specialization, I obtained my license as a Licensed Professional Counselor in 2015 and became a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in 2020. This allowed me to provide a higher level of care and expand the scope of my practice. Furthermore, in 2022, I achieved another milestone by obtaining the licensure to supervise LPCs in their path towards becoming LCPCs.
Always passionate about staying at the forefront of advancements in the field, I completed certification as an Intuitive Eating Certified Therapist in 2023. This specialized training has equipped me with the tools to support individuals in developing a healthy relationship with food and their bodies, addressing underlying emotional and psychological factors that contribute to disordered eating patterns.
My journey in the field of counseling psychology has been shaped by diverse experiences and a commitment to lifelong learning. Each step has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally, as I strive to empower others to navigate their own paths of healing and growth. Together, we can foster positive change and create a brighter future for those in need.
Theoretical Approach
In therapy, my primary goal is to work collaboratively with my clients, providing them with a safe and supportive environment where they can explore their symptoms of mental illness. Together, we delve into the underlying causes and triggers that contribute to these symptoms, recognizing that self-awareness is a crucial foundation for insight and healing.
Throughout this process, I strive to cultivate curiosity in my clients, encouraging them to approach their experiences with their symptoms with confidence. By doing so, they embark on a journey of understanding, unraveling the origins of these emotional responses and gaining a sense of clarity and enlightenment. It is within these newfound insights that my clients often find solace, navigating the calmer waters that lead to self-compassion and a more complete understanding of their inherent strengths.
Moreover, I emphasize the significance of effective self-care in our therapeutic discussions. Recognizing the importance of this aspect in my own life, I am grateful to be surrounded by a close-knit community of dedicated clinicians. Their unwavering support and readily available consultations enrich my practice, enabling me to further assist my clients in their therapeutic journeys.
To enhance my ability to provide comprehensive care, I have completed extensive training in various therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), mindfulness techniques, and Intuitive Eating. By continually engaging in professional education and staying abreast of new discoveries in mental illness and best practices, I ensure that my clients receive the most effective and evidence-based treatment available.
In conclusion, my approach to therapy not only focuses on empowering my clients to understand and manage their symptoms but also emphasizes the importance of self-care and ongoing professional development. Together, we navigate the complex web of mental health, unveiling inner strengths, and equipping individuals with the necessary tools to conquer life's challenges and embrace the fullness of their existence.
