Today we’d like to introduce you to Anthony Ards, LMHC, NCC..

Hi Anthony, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.

My journey started in 2017 after I earned my master’s degree in Counselor Education, along with my clinical certification, and professional license. I gained professional experience, having worked in sectors of both private practice and public facilities, providing individual and couple’s psychotherapy along with addictions recovery treatment before launching my own practice in 2023.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?

While I love my work, and truly believe that it is a calling upon my life that has brought me purpose, the journey in getting here has not always been a smooth ride. Undergoing full-time rigorous educational studies in preparation for licensure and practice, while also working full-time was extremely difficult, not to mention at times feeling like an imposter in the field. I often doubted my abilities to do this work, wondering if I had what it took. My graduate studies forced me to look inward to address some of my own challenges that I knew would show up in the therapy room at some point as I occupied shared space with clients. I know now why some people are initially afraid to go to therapy, as having to address your own issues can feel terrifying, but it is truly worth it in the end, if by doing your work, you’re able to go on to becoming the best version of yourself that is most rewarding.

Having also suffered a significant professional loss in the passing of my mentor and clinical supervisor Michael Story, a month before graduation was both tragic and traumatic. I had loss someone who truly believed in me and my abilities as a therapist, someone who gave me a chance when I was constantly turned down or overlooked for student internship positions. While I am thankful that I was able to complete my studies, there was a time where I wasn’t sure if I would due to the loss. Reflecting on it today actually still impacts me. I like to think that by persevering in completing my studies, earning my degree, and showing up everyday to serve my clients is the best way to honor Michael’s memory and his impact on my life. He is definitely one of my biggest inspirations. I miss him.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?

I am licensed and national certified clinician. I specialize in providing both individual and couples psychotherapy, helping my clients navigate mental health challenges and relationship distress. I have been in practice since 2017, serving the Central Florida area as one of its most trusted relationship experts. My objective is to create a safe space for my clients throughout the therapeutic process in efforts to address some of the most difficult hardships.
I use various clinical methods and therapeutic modalities that are designed for each client’s unique experience, designing the best treatment plan to meet their needs, goals, and objectives in efforts to achieve the most desired outcome. I take a collaborative approach when working with my clients to ensure their pathway to healing, mental wellness, and enhanced connections for healthy relationships. I provide clinical experiences that are safe in practice for my clients, while reassuring them that no matter the outcome of the experience, we will get through it together. With me, they are never alone.

Who else deserves credit in your story?

Getting to this place in my journey would not have been possible without the opportunities and support of my mentors Michael Story, Douglas Paul, Debbie and Scot Lake and the entire clinical teams from Everyone’s Counseling Center, Inc. and Positive Steps Counseling, LLC. I am truly grateful for the support, guidance, and belief that they have had in me that has contributed to my work as a clinician and in fulfilling my purpose.

Of course, the love and support of my family serves as a motivational factor for me to keep pursuing my dreams, such as starting my own practice, even in moments where I have felt uncertain of my abilities.

My faith and eternal gratitude to my heavenly Father inspires me most of all to do this work. What I do is not just a job, but a call to purpose which motivates everyday.

I often say this to my clients and it is certainly true, that even despite some of the hard moments, I love what I do!

Contact Info:

Website: https://pathwaystorenewalcounseling.com/