Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Maria Spada, Founder of wakened Path Counseling & Psychotherapy, LLC., located in Monmouth Junction, NJ, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Awakened Path is a Holistic Counseling Practice inspired by a commitment to provide effective mental health care that is affordable and accessible to the community. Our practice is founded upon the necessity of incorporating not only psychology but all components of the 'self' in healing: mind, body, and spirit. In addition to evidence-based psychotherapy treatment, we teach clients how to tap into their innate healing power via neuroscience education, nutritional support, breathing, meditation, and other holistic practices. Awakened Path has moved away from the typical disease-focused model of mental health treatment and is committed to a healing strategy that works long-term.

Tell us about yourself

As a passionate Mental Health Practitioner since 2005, I always felt there was something we were missing in the science of therapy and counseling. We were taught how to treat the mind with theory and systematic, evidence-based strategies that were almost always paired with psychiatric medication. Through my professional experience and my own personal physical, mental and spiritual health journey, I came to understand that we were, in fact, missing key factors in treatment that could expedite a reduction in symptoms, empower people to be active in their healing and free them from the limiting beliefs that come with the disease-focused medical model that is the primary form of care in the United States. I wanted to offer so much more, and in order to do that, I needed to step out of the mold and start my own practice with an atypical treatment model that incorporated the whole person.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is my ongoing commitment to fostering a work environment that embodies respect, transparency in communication, a commitment to personal and professional growth, identifying and fostering individual talents, diversity awareness, and self-care. The well-being and work satisfaction of my team are one of my top priorities.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

As the owner and director of a small business, I wear many hats, not limited to Psychotherapist, Human Resource Officer, Clinical Supervisor, Teacher, Marketing Strategist, Content Developer, Public Relations, Financial Officer, Operations Manager, and so on. Therefore, finding balance and boundaries within myself to incorporate self-care and rest is an ongoing commitment.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Be clear about your vision, company values, your mission, and the culture you want to create.
  2. Do not let imposter syndrome stop you. It will creep up, and this is normal. Stay committed to your growth.
  3. Read, Read, Read about leadership, marketing, and self-improvement.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I am grateful for your time and interest in Awakened Path. We are always interested in connecting with learning from like-minded professionals who are committed to an abundance mindset. Feel free to reach out!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.awakenedpathcounseling.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AwakenedPath878/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakened_path/
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3GG2rSv

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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