From the Heart of Thrive
Reflections from a Therapist on Life, Growth, and Leadership
Reflections from a Therapist on Life, Growth, and Leadership
By Laura Kietell, MSW, LCSW – Psychotherapist & Owner of Thrive Counseling Services
“This is my story, a journey that began as a shy, sensitive child who often felt invisible and struggled to find my voice. Being bullied taught me early on what it feels like to be unseen, misunderstood, and alone. Yet those experiences also planted the seeds of empathy and compassion, and over time, they ignited a desire to help others feel seen and supported.
As I grew, that desire became a calling, leading me to become a therapist. Each client I worked with, each challenge I faced, and each lesson I learned helped me understand the profound impact that care, understanding, and guidance can have on someone’s life.
Eventually, that journey led me to the next chapter: founding and leading a group practice. This is more than running a business—it’s about creating a space where therapists are supported in their work, and where every client can feel heard, valued, and empowered on their path to healing.
From a shy, bullied child to a therapist and practice owner, this is my story of growth, resilience, and the privilege of walking alongside others on their journeys toward hope and healing.”
Where Healing Led Me
When I first began my undergraduate studies, my plan was to become an English teacher. Life shifted, as it often does, when my marriage ended and I found myself navigating grief, shame, and profound change. With the support of a licensed clinical social worker, I learned how to move through that pain with compassion and resilience. That experience inspired me to change my degree to social work. Knowing that a master’s degree was the natural culmination of that path, I mapped out the years ahead with that goal in mind.
The journey wasn’t always easy, but I continued tending to my mental health, my home, and my education. In time, I earned my master’s degree, a milestone that meant a great deal to me and made my parents proud. My first role after graduation brought me from Colorado to Cheyenne, Wyoming, and over time, Cheyenne truly became home.
As I grew into the work of counseling, I held a quiet dream of someday entering private practice. That part of the profession isn’t taught in school, so I learned it the way many do: by asking questions, seeking guidance, and remaining open to the wisdom of supervisors and colleagues. I discovered that even my most difficult experiences in work and in life shaped me into a stronger, more grounded therapist. I am deeply grateful for those lessons and even more grateful for what they have allowed me to build in Thrive Counseling Services, now a growing and thriving group practice.
I also came to understand that my happiness has to come from within. Throughout this journey, I leaned more deeply into one of my lifelong passions: riding horses. Investing in that part of my life not only grounded me but also opened the door to meaningful friendships and a supportive community. I learned that when we make space for joy and balance, even the most complicated chapters of life become easier to navigate.
What I hope others take from my story is that the challenges life throws our way are not signs to give up. They are often invitations to choose a different path, one that may ultimately be healthier and more fulfilling. Hold on to your dreams. Push back against the unkind voices, both external and internal, and remind yourself that you are worthy of happiness, growth, and a life that feels meaningful.
