Warm, Accepting, Nonjudgemental - Aly Giesbrecht Counselling
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Aly Giesbrecht, Founder of Aly Giesbrecht Counselling, located in St. Pierre Jolys, MB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a therapist/counsellor. I meet with adults from a variety of walks of life.
Tell us about yourself
What ultimately led me to pursue a career in counselling was meeting with a patron, Joseph, at a drop-in centre for those who are homeless. I will never forget him or the pain in his eyes as I listened to his story. From that night on, I was set on pursuing a career in counselling. However, I actually didn't plan on starting my own practice until later on in my career (I didn't expect I could do so so soon). That plan changed the year I graduated from my Master's program when my chiropractor suggested I come 'open up shop' in the Wellness Centre he was building in town (set to complete around the time I graduated). I honestly didn't take the option all that seriously at first (again, I didn't think I could make it on my own that early on in my career), but between his serious invitation, the push from a self-employed friend who was absolutely confident I could start my own business, and the support of my husband, I went for it. And I'm glad I did (though it was a huge learning curve).
As for what motivates me each day, I truly value getting to sit with (and help) people and their pain. I love witnessing (and celebrating) the moments of breakthrough and healing for them. It's incredibly rewarding to work, and I really do consider it an honour to get to know people so deeply.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I'm torn between two answers: A) just starting a business was a big accomplishment, one that was fairly sudden, but also B) every time I get to assist someone in their growth and healing.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
There's no economic safety net. A lot of people are experiencing financial strain these days... as a sole-proprietor business owner, it does make things more challenging. People have to make hard decisions about their own finances, and sadly my services aren't always covered by clients' insurance. It's just an unfortunate reality.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Take things one step at a time.
- Consider what personal boundaries you need in order to thrive in your business (and protect you from burnout).
- Networking makes all the difference. Advice, encouragement, referrals--it's important!
Where can people find you and your business?
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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