Today we’d like to introduce you to Anna Baxter.
Hi Anna, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Growing up my parents empowered me to be and do anything I wanted to do. They supported my curious, creative mind and encouraged me to be my authentic self. When I grew up and realized how rigid gender norms and monogamy can be, I realized how much of a blessing they had given me. As a genderqueer, polyamorous person who enjoys the darker side of sex I always knew I wanted to support the mental and relational health of people who don’t fit society’s norms. When I started providing counseling services 11.5 years ago, I knew I had chosen correctly because I absolutely love my work. As a result of working with folks who live and love authentically/differently I’ve become an expert in neurodivergence and trauma without intending to. I provide both relationship therapy with romantic, sexual partners or family members and individual therapy with a focus on strengthening relationship with self, authentic expression of self, and building your ideal life with intention. I always knew I wanted to change the world through one person at a time. A lofty goal, I know, but I believe I’m well on the way through success with clients and their work in the world. And now I get to supervise new therapists as they develop their professional identity and style, supporting their clients in feeling and living better.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. Getting the education and experience to be a licensed counselor requires a lot of time and money so I needed to have significant determination. The licensing process creates obstacles for anyone who isn’t privileged with an abundance of financial support from either their family or a life partner. Thankfully, my parents believed in my goals and have supported my work my whole life. Honestly, it’s still not a smooth road. Pain and struggle is inevitable, as is change. COVID-19 was a significantly traumatizing event for everyone, my clients especially. Chronically ill and pained folks felt worse after catching COVID, being locked in at home with partners or parents who are not affirming lead to a lot of heartache and now the struggling economy has affected so many people’s mental health and resources. Many clients have had to reduce their frequency and their rate so some months it’s difficult to meet all the bills. A couple years ago I had my own experience with an autoimmune condition causing debilitating pain on a daily basis. Thankfully I found the right doctor and got access to life changing medications and body work treatments that virtually eliminated my pain. There was a time in my life when I thought I would be disabled and suffering for the rest of my life. I still remember those days and empathize with anyone experiencing chronic pain or emotional anguish to that degree.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Love Positive Counseling is a group practice providing mental health and relational health services to teens and adults. Our team provides individual and relationship therapy as well as coaching for clients who want to Live and Love Authentically. We’ve become known as a destination for LGBTQ+, ENM and Kinky folks to find affirming therapy services. What many folks don’t know is we can support ANYONE with their struggle between their most authentic self and the rigid expectations of human society. One of things I’m most proud of as a group practice is how relaxed and welcoming all of our clinicians/coaches are plus how warm and comforting our office space in Roswell has become. We all have our own approach, our own specialties, and we all compliment each other’s work in such beautiful ways. What draws us together is our shared beliefs in healing the person and the world from racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, fat-phobia, sex repression and abuse.
To support the mission of changing the world one person at a time, we also provide continuing education for mental health providers, free support groups on various experiences (trans, poly, or kink for now) and we are now a retail bookstore! When your therapist recommends a book, zine or card deck you can now buy it from us immediately rather than waiting for it to arrive from Amazon (or another amazing local bookstore). We firmly believe in the magic of bibliotherapy to support your healing and growth journey alongside talk therapy and psychiatric medical support.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
My favorite childhood memories are times when I was reading in the woods, volunteering at my local library, and springing off a giant balloon with the neighbor kids in my front yard. Some of my favorite memories now are times when life felt hard like the time my brother compulsively slapped himself across his own face. When Mom heard the noise from the backseat, she tried to include me in the discipline at first, thankfully he fessed up right away! We’ve had so many good laughs retelling stories of stressful moments in our childhood that are hilarious when we look back.
Pricing:
- Varies based on clinician, service, insurance
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lovepositivecounseling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lovepositivecounseling/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LovePosCounseling/
