We had the good fortune of connecting with Katheryn Perez, LMFT and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Katheryn, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The thought process behind starting my business has a lot to do with my upbringing and being the daughter of hard-working immigrants. My parents worked long hours, which did not allow them to be emotionally and physically present when I needed them the most. They missed many special events, graduations, and parent conferences, which led to feelings of sadness and unworthiness. We can say that starting my own business is my version of breaking cycles of intergenerational trauma in my family and future children.

The thought of being emotionally and physically present for my future children brings me so much joy and a sense of accomplishment. Entrepreneurship is the hardest thing that I have done in my life. However, it gives me the flexibility that I will need to attend all of the activities that my parents did not get to enjoy. I always think of my future children when I’m dealing with a barrier in my business. It encourages me to keep moving forward because it will all pay off when I attend school activities in the middle of the day or volunteer at my future children’s school. Currently, my business gives me the flexibility to spend quality time with my nieces, pick them up from school when needed, and be emotionally present for them. It also encourages them to dream big and follow their wildest dreams!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

The journey to becoming a psychotherapist is not an easy one. Therapists are often underpaid, undervalued, unappreciated, and overworked. Most of us start our careers in community mental health, which often leads to burnout due to the unrealistic expectations that we are required to meet. These expectations and work load often leave us with little time and energy to prioritize our own mental health. My business has allowed me to better care for myself while prioritize my physical and mental health. Something that I do not take for granted!

Entrepreneurship as a mental health therapist can be challenging when you are just starting. No one teaches you how to run a business in graduate school or how to charge clients without feeling guilty. These are daily challenges that come with owning a private practice, which can feel debilitating at the beginning of your journey. Entrepreneurship means believing in your dreams and taking risks. It’s important to surround yourself with people that support you unconditionally, genuinely love you and believe in you.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One thing about me that you must know is that I love matcha lattes and tacos! Maru has hands down the best matcha in town. You can visit their DTLA or Los Feliz location Monday through Sunday. Heads up, they can get pretty busy so get ready to wait in line. Now, you must visit Villas Tacos in Highland Park. The tacos are delicious, fun, and the owner and his team have the best energy. They are so good that there is always a line but definitely worth the wait!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Many individuals have played a role in my success, accomplishments, and current well-being. First, my hard-working, humble, and caring family supports every idea that crosses my mind. They keep me grounded and remind me that I always have an emotional and safe home to return to at the end of the day. None of this would be possible without them.

Second, my therapist; yes, therapists need therapy, too! She has been instrumental in my healing journey, which has made me a better person and therapist. She has held a safe space for me during some challenging and dark times in my life. Therapy with the right therapist is truly life-changing!

Website: www.perezfamilytherapy.com

Instagram: @perezfamilytherapy

Image Credits
Rachel Carrillo from L.A. Momma Photography

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