In this Q&A with Shea Pugliese she talks about what drew her to working in the mental health profession, why being committed to learning is an important quality for a therapist, what skills she applies from her work to her own life; and other insightful things. You can work with Shea by clicking the button at the end of the blog and reaching out to us at Forward Counseling.

What are the top benefits to seeing a therapist?

First and foremost, therapy provides a space to be seen and heard. Therapy also provides tools to better cope with life’s challenges, improve relationships and self-esteem, and improve mental health.

What made you choose to work in the mental health field?

I was drawn into the mental health field from a young age with my curiosity around the emotional and mental struggles people around me faced. As a survivor of someone who died by suicide, the passion to help others pushed me to get into a profession where I could hold hope and space for those who felt hopeless.

In your opinion, what makes a therapist a great one?

A great therapist is someone who is authentic, empathetic, and genuinely cares about others. Someone who listens, remains curious without judgment, and works to understand clients that come from all walks of life and backgrounds. A great therapist also continues to do the work within themselves and practices the tools to model and help clients learn how to overcome life’s greatest challenges.

Why did you choose your specialty?

I pursued marriage and family therapy because it takes a systemic or relational approach that aims to help the individual, as well as, improve relationships. With that said, marriage and family therapy includes everyone such as individuals, couples, and families.

What are the characteristics of a client who is the best fit for you?

I welcome all clients and believe the relationship happens naturally within the space of the session. I have experience working with clients who are open to the process and those who are completely shut down. With both, I have seen firsthand amazing transformations and healing.

What therapeutic approaches do you use?

There are so many that I pull from but I lean more towards collaborative and somatic work with clients. Within those two approaches, I use a variety of techniques and interventions that may come from other models but would benefit the client. I am client-led and remain curious about the unique client experience.

How do you use skills you have learned as a therapist in your own life? Do you have an example?

Throughout my training and own therapy experiences, I have learned several techniques that I use myself. For example, when working through my own trauma I became aware of my survival habits and how to acknowledge the parts of me that needed reassurance and validation. I also remind myself that I am human and thoughts are not facts and feelings do not last forever.

How do you pass your time when you’re not working with clients?

Aside from the duties of being a mother of three, when I do have free time I love to read, learn something new, or be outdoors.