Today we’d like to introduce you to Gayle Alexander.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I went back to grad school when my three kids were little to become a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I met my business partner and we founded Project SAFE: Strategies Aimed at Family Empowerment to help kids, teens, young adults, parents and families empower themselves to solve problems through individual, family and group therapy. Our motto is that you are NOT broken and you have the tools needed for healing. With the help of the therapeutic process you can find the solutions to function as genuinely as possible. It is important to normalize mental health while learning to tolerate uncomfortable thoughts and feelings. Group therapy is particularly powerful as you learn you are not alone! Community through improved communication and direct support are key for overall well-being! In 2020 my business partner died from ALS which was a devastating loss. I have continued the business and our legacy for helping people. I now employ 8 people and supervise masters level graduate students to help nurture the next generation of therapists. I am very fortunate to say I love my job! My life is good! I regularly see my three adult kids and two adult step kids, run my therapy practice and sing in a band. This journey is not an easy one and finding your support systems is vital. It is particularly difficult today as people feel lonely and disconnected despite all the technology. Being emotionally mindful, finding gratitude, and your anchors bring healing. I am glad to be part of this process.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing in life is smooth. When my business partner of 17 years died, this was a huge loss. I basically lost a chunk of the business and had to move forward while grieving ALL during COVID. I’ve endured a divorce after 25 years of marriage, a serious drug addiction with one of my adult children, a severe stroke for my mother that left her wheelchair bound and the death of my father, brother and nephew. Finding love again with my current life partner/husband has been one of my anchors.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am a therapist who works with children, teens, young adults, parents and families. My practice runs group therapy for kids, teens and young adults. This is one powerful strategies that helps connect people so they learn they are not alone, learn to manage uncomfortable feelings and connect with others. Our motto is you are not broken and that you are able solve your problems if you lean into the process. It is a great honor to help families and individuals find peace and healing.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
So many wonderful people helped me get to where I am today! My business partner was a remarkable soul who had a heart for people. He and I built a business that hopefully will last after I am gone as well! My family, especially husband and kids provide love and support. My sweet cats provide so much comfort! Furthermore, it is an honor to work with my clients who allow themselves to be vulnerable to bring about healing. I am forever grateful for the hard work my clients are doing! Lastly, my fabulous staff of licensed professionals, residents and interns who give their time, energy and emotional support to help maintain this wonderful business are invaluable!
Pricing:
- We offer different prices depending on clinician and services
- Residents have lower fees
- Interns have lower fees
- Group therapy has lower fees
Contact Info:
- Website: https://projectsafe4u.com
- Instagram: projectsafe4u
- Facebook: projectsafe4u
