Name: Kimberly Magnuson
Licensing Info: Washington LMFT # LF60461043
Where you live: Tacoma, WA
Hometown: Tacoma, WA
Time working at Talkspace: Four months
Time working as a Therapist: Six years
Why are you working in therapy/mental health?
I have always been drawn to helping others. I was the friend who was always there to listen and provide support. My father worked in community mental health and we joke that I decided to go into the “family business” of helping others. I find great joy in being able to help others find new ways of looking at life.
What made you start working at Talkspace?
Talkspace uses technology to provide much-needed therapy services in a way that is user-friendly while being very client-centered. As soon as I heard about Talkspace, I knew I wanted to a part of this pioneering service platform. This platform allows people flexibility in their treatment.
What has made you feel the most pride in your work?
As my time with my clients continues and they get some relief, I encourage them to look at some of our first interactions. They are able to reflect and notice a big change even after a few weeks of therapy.
Can you think of a specific instance or moment that was inspiring?
During my work with individuals requiring inpatient psychiatric care, I was working with a young man who had been at the top of his class in high school and had just started college. Mental illness doesn’t discriminate and he was admitted to our unit experiencing psychosis. This young man initially was resistant to care, but at the time of his discharge, he realized having a mental health diagnosis does not mean he would not be able to reach his goals. He is now back in college and has been active in ending the stigma of mental illness. This young man showed me once again that anyone can reach their goals and make lasting change for others.
Why is what you do important?
When working with individuals who have started to lose hope, I know I can be the one to hold onto it until they are ready to have it back. Building and maintaining relationships with others is an integral part of what it means to be human. I am honored to have so many deep and meaningful relationships with others.
If you had one piece of advice for a therapy-seeker, what would it be?
Give it time. Therapists want to get to know YOU, not get to know your problem. By having a better understanding about who my clients are, I will be able to have better insight as to what may be the root of the problem or help them identify ways to grow.
What do you do for fun?
I am a self identified crazy rabbit lady. I have one that lives in my home and has full roam. I dabble at crafts, particularly sewing my own clothing. I am also an avid PC gamer.
Note: You will need to sign up for Talkspace to continue chatting with Kimberly or any other Talkspace therapist. Make sure you live in the same state as Kimberly before you choose her.
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