Meet Forward Counseling’s new provider, Ryan Pepperman, NCC, a seasoned mental health professional with over a decade of experience who helps clients rise above challenges and embrace their strength!

Ryan is dedicated to helping individuals achieve their optimal well-being. With a bachelor's degree from the University of North Texas and an Ed.S. from Middle Tennessee State University, Ryan has a solid academic foundation in counseling. His career journey, which began as a teacher, has been marked by a consistent passion for guiding others through life's challenges. He is currently working towards an LPC-MHSP to enhance his expertise further, allowing him to provide even more comprehensive and effective care to his clients.

Having served as a school counselor in Tennessee for the past three years, Ryan brings a wealth of experience in addressing the unique needs of students and their families. His global perspective, shaped by his Peace Corps service in Malawi and his time in Hong Kong, allows him to connect with clients from diverse backgrounds. When not working, Ryan enjoys spending time with his loved ones and pursuing his personal interests.

Join us for a Q&A session with Ryan Pepperman, our newest mental health provider. Learn about his expertise and how he can help you achieve your well-being goals.

1. Clients often wonder about the motivations behind a therapist's career path. Your journey from teaching to counseling is unique and inspiring—what drove you to make this shift?
   

   My journey from teaching to counseling was driven by a deep desire to support individuals on a more personal level. I felt drawn to help others navigate their struggles, build resilience, and find their own paths to healing. Ultimately, it was about creating meaningful connections and making a difference in people’s lives. Seeing clients gain insight and make positive changes is incredibly fulfilling and keeps me motivated every day. That is what makes my job so rewarding.
   

2. Having worked closely with students in a school setting, how has that experience influenced the way you work with clients today, especially when it comes to understanding their challenges?
   

   In teaching, I saw firsthand how students often struggled with emotional and psychological challenges that impacted their learning and growth. I realized that I wanted to provide a space for people to explore those issues more deeply. The shift to counseling allowed me to combine my passion for education with a focus on emotional well-being. This has let me use what I learned from teaching to help people feel better.
   

3. Traveling and working abroad can bring a wealth of experience. How have your international adventures enriched your perspective and approach as a therapist?
   

   Traveling and working abroad have significantly enriched my perspective as a therapist. This helped me to understand people better. Exposure to diverse cultures, beliefs, and ways of life has deepened my understanding of the human experience. I’ve learned that each culture has its own narratives around mental health, resilience, and support systems, which allows me to approach therapy with a more open and inclusive mindset.

   These experiences have also enhanced my empathy and adaptability. I’ve encountered various communication styles and coping mechanisms, which has informed my approach to building rapport with clients from different backgrounds. Additionally, living and working in different environments has taught me the importance of context in understanding individual challenges. This broader perspective helps me tailor my therapeutic techniques to better meet the unique needs of each client. Ultimately, my international adventures have reinforced the idea that healing is a universal journey, shaped by personal and cultural narratives. This understanding enriches the therapeutic space I create, fostering a deeper connection and trust with clients. All of this helps me be a better therapist.

4. In your opinion, what is the key to establishing trust and connection with clients, especially those who may be hesitant to seek help?
   

   Establishing trust and connection with clients, especially those who are hesitant to seek help, hinges on a few key elements:

   Authenticity,

   Active Listening,

   Non-Judgemental Attitude,

   Empathy,

   Pacing, and

   Patience.

   By focusing on these elements, I strive to create an environment where clients feel comfortable exploring their thoughts and feelings, ultimately making it easier for them to engage in the therapeutic process and work together harmoniously.

5. What techniques or strategies do you use to empower clients in their journey toward emotional well-being?
   

   Empowering clients in their journey toward emotional well-being involves several techniques and strategies:
   
   Strengths-Based Approach, Goal Setting, Mindfulness and Self-Compassion, Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, Psychoeducation, Encouraging Self-Advocacy, and Fostering Resilience.

   With these techniques and strategies, I help clients feel better, focus on their strengths, help them set goals, teach them mindfulness and self-care, use thinking techniques, and provide education.

   By employing these strategies, I aim to create a supportive environment where clients feel empowered to take active steps toward their emotional well-being.
   

6. Self-care is crucial for everyone, including therapists who do it as a  profession. How do you maintain your own mental and emotional health while supporting others?
   

   Maintaining my own mental and emotional health while supporting others is essential, and I prioritize self-care in several ways:
   
   Regular Supervision and Consultation, Personal Therapy, Boundaries, Mindfulness and Meditation, Physical Activity, Creative Outlets, Social Connections, and Ongoing Learning.
   
   

   By prioritizing these self-care practices, I can maintain my well-being, which ultimately allows me to be more present and effective in supporting my clients. It helps me stay healthy and be a better therapist.
   

7. Serving with the Peace Corps is a significant experience. What did you learn during your time in Malawi, and how does it continue to shape your work today?
   

   Serving with the Peace Corps in Malawi was a transformative experience that deeply influenced my perspective and approach as a therapist. I learned about different cultures, the importance of community, how people can be strong, how to adapt to new situations, the power of education, and the importance of taking care of the whole person. These experiences still influence how I work as a therapist today.
   

8. Mindfulness is a popular practice in therapy today. How do you use it to help clients stay present and manage their stress or anxiety?
   

   I incorporate mindfulness into therapy as a powerful tool to help clients stay present and manage stress or anxiety in several ways: Breathing Exercises, Mindful Awareness, Body Scan, Grounding Techniques, Mindful Meditation, Daily Mindfulness Practices, and Reflection. By using these mindfulness strategies, I aim to empower clients to develop greater self-awareness, reduce anxiety, and cultivate a sense of calm in their daily lives. This practice can significantly enhance their emotional resilience and overall well-being.
   

9. Continuous learning is key in the field of mental health. What resources, trainings, or practices do you rely on to keep your skills sharp and relevant?
   

   Continuous learning is essential in the mental health field, and I actively seek out various resources and practices to keep my skills sharp and relevant: Workshops and Conferences, Supervision and Peer Consultation, Content Relevant Books, Mindfulness and Self-Reflection, Training in New Modalities, and Community Involvement.
   

10. Sometimes, clients need a little extra encouragement or a reminder of their strength. What is the core message you hope they leave with after working with you?
    
    I hope clients take away after working with me is that they are resilient and capable of navigating their challenges. I want them to feel empowered to trust in their own strengths and abilities, recognizing that growth is a journey, not a destination. I also aim to instill a sense of hope—that change is possible and that they have the tools within themselves to create a fulfilling life. Ultimately, I want them to leave with the understanding that seeking help is a sign of strength, and they are not alone in their journey. Each step they take, no matter how small, is a significant part of their personal growth.

Ready to rise above challenges and embrace your strength? Forward Counseling is here to guide you in-person or virtually.

Together, we'll create a safe space where you can be seen, heard, and understood. Let's explore your journey toward healing and growth.