Meet Angela Ficken | Psychotherapist and Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Angela Ficken and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Angela, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
My approach to work-life balance has evolved significantly over time, reflecting my journey and the insights gained from my practice. Early in my career, like many professionals, I found myself immersed in my work, striving to establish myself and make a meaningful impact in the lives of my clients. This dedication, while fulfilling, often came at the expense of personal time and self-care. Over time, I’ve learned that to be effective in helping others, I must first ensure my well-being by adopting a more holistic view of work-life balance.

I’ve understood that work-life balance is not a static goal but a dynamic equilibrium that shifts with life’s changing demands and personal growth. It’s about integrating work and life in a way that aligns with my values, sustains my energy, and supports my overall well-being. This balance involves setting boundaries, recognizing the importance of self-care, and making time for relationships and activities outside of work.

When considering this balance, I adopt a flexible approach, understanding that there will be times when work demands more attention and other times when personal life needs precedence. It’s about making intentional choices and adjustments to maintain this balance, ensuring that neither area suffers at the expense of the other.

From a therapeutic standpoint, I encourage my clients to reflect on what work-life balance means to them and to recognize that it’s deeply personal and varies from one individual to another. It’s about finding what works best for each person, depending on their current life stage, responsibilities, and personal aspirations. I emphasize the importance of self-awareness, boundary-setting, and the courage to make changes that honor one’s needs for rest, recreation, and personal growth alongside professional commitments.

Overall, my perspective on work-life balance is rooted in the belief that a fulfilling life encompasses meaningful work, enriching relationships, and personal well-being. It’s a continuous process of reflection, adjustment, and self-compassion as we navigate the complexities of modern life.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My journey and what sets me apart stem from a passion for understanding the human mind and a commitment to creating resilience and growth in my clients. I’m most proud of my ability to create a therapeutic environment where clients feel genuinely seen, heard, and supported. This approach has been central to my practice.

Reaching where I am today in my business took much work. It required a blend of professional dedication, learning, and the willingness to embrace the successes and challenges of building a practice. The road was filled with hurdles, from establishing my presence in a competitive field to adapting my practice to the evolving needs of my clients, especially in the face of global challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

One key challenge was finding the balance between staying true to my core values and therapeutic approach while also being adaptable and innovative. Overcoming these challenges involved much self-reflection, seeking mentorship, and being open to feedback. It also meant embracing technology and finding new ways to connect with and support my clients remotely.

The lessons I’ve learned are numerous, but a few stand out. First, resilience is essential—not just as a concept I teach my clients but as a principle I live by. It’s about bouncing back from setbacks and viewing them as opportunities for growth. Second, the value of community and collaboration. Building relationships with other professionals and being a part of a supportive network has been invaluable. Last, there is an ongoing need for personal and professional development; there’s always more to learn and ways to grow.

Therapy is collaborative where the therapist and client work together to navigate life’s challenges and work toward achieving the client’s goals. My approach is rooted in empathy, evidence-based practices, and a holistic understanding of mental health. My story is one of dedication to this profession and to the belief that everyone deserves a place where they learn to cultivate resilience and joy in their lives.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I believe in the importance of acknowledging a broad spectrum of contributions. The support and encouragement I’ve received have come from various sources, each playing a role in my development and success.

First, I’d like to highlight the mentorship and wisdom my professional mentors and peers imparted in psychotherapy. Their insights, shared experiences, and guidance have been invaluable in shaping my approach to therapy and my understanding of mental health.

Second, my clients themselves deserve immense recognition. Their courage in sharing their stories, their trust in the therapeutic process, and their resilience in facing life’s challenges have inspired me and deepened my commitment to this profession. They are a constant reminder of why I chose this path.

Additionally, I must acknowledge the role of continuing education and the wealth of knowledge I’ve gained from various books and research in the field. These resources have been instrumental in expanding my horizons and enhancing my practice.

Last, my personal support system—family, friends, and loved ones—has been my bedrock. Their love, encouragement, and belief in my work have given me the strength and motivation to pursue my passion for helping others.

Each of these influences has contributed to my journey in significant ways, and it’s crucial to recognize that our growth and achievements are often the result of many hands and hearts supporting us along the way.

Website: ProgressWellness.com

Instagram: Instagram.com/progresswellnes

Other: Worriedtowellbalanced.com Pinterest.com/progresswellnes Instagram.com/worriedtowellbalanced

Image Credits
Elyse Pono