Meet Litza Bodden | Mental Health Therapist & Life Coach

We had the good fortune of connecting with Litza Bodden and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Litza, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Work-life balance is a bit of an art form, isn’t it? Over time, I’ve learned that balance isn’t about rigidly dividing time between work and personal life but rather about fluidly integrating the two in a way that feels harmonious. As a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and the owner of Shining Lights Counseling LLC, I wear many hats—therapist, coach, mentor, and business owner. But I’ve come to realize that in order to be effective in these roles, I must prioritize self-care and listen to my body’s needs.

One key aspect I emphasize with my clients is the importance of self-care. It’s something I practice daily—not just the indulgent self-care we often hear about, like spa days or massages (although those are lovely when you can get them)—but the everyday kind. For me, that means carving out time for prayer or meditation, moving my body, and nurturing my creativity.

Balance, for me, also involves making space for rest and introspection, spending time with people who nourish my spirit, and, crucially, learning to ask for help. As therapists, we’re often so focused on pouring into others that we forget to fill our own cups. It’s taken time and maturity for me to embrace the idea that allowing others to care for us is just as important as the care we give.

In the end, balance is less about perfection and more about creating a rhythm that supports both my professional and personal well-being.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I founded Shining Lights Counseling LLC out of a deep passion for helping others. For me, it’s about being the kind of support I would want in my own life—someone who genuinely pours into others with care, empathy, and understanding. My journey to establish my practice wasn’t a straightforward or easy one. I’ve worked in various settings as a therapist, each experience adding a new layer to the professional I am today. It took time to gather the courage and resources to open my own practice, but I was driven by the desire to create a space where everyone feels safe, validated, understood, and heard.

What sets Shining Lights Counseling apart is our strength-based approach. I want my clients to recognize their own power—their ability to overcome challenges, no matter how daunting they may seem. Trauma and life’s difficulties don’t have to define us; we have the strength within to navigate through them. A cornerstone of my practice is teaching the importance of self-care, not just as a buzzword but as a vital component of mental health.

The path to where I am now was filled with challenges, from building a client base to managing the demands of running a business. But I’ve learned that perseverance, a strong sense of purpose, and the willingness to learn from every experience are key to overcoming obstacles. The lessons I’ve gathered along the way have shaped me into a more resilient and compassionate professional.

What I want the world to know about Shining Lights Counseling is that we are here to illuminate the path for those struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, and other life challenges. We empower our clients by highlighting their inner strengths and guiding them toward a more enriched life. My mission is to challenge stereotypes and stigmas surrounding mental health, especially within our community. I want people to see that with the right support, they can break free from limiting beliefs and achieve their goals.

In addition to therapy, I’m also a professional speaker and educator, passionate about inspiring others to let their inner light shine. Originally from the Republic of Panama, I now call Dallas, Texas, my second home. I draw from my diverse experiences to connect with clients from all walks of life. Through my practice and public speaking, I aim to reshape the landscape of mental health by encouraging people to take ownership of their wellness and confidently pursue personal growth.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend were visiting, I’d make sure they experienced the best that Dallas has to offer—good food, great music, fascinating culture, and a bit of nostalgic fun!

Day 1: Caribbean Vibes & Live Music We’d kick off the week with a night out at Heroes Lounge. This spot is a must for anyone who loves vibrant music and flavorful Caribbean cuisine. We’d indulge in some jerk chicken or oxtails while enjoying live music from local bands. The energy here is infectious, and it’s the perfect place to immerse in the rhythm and soul of the city.

Day 2: Sweet Treats & Sophisticated Sips Next, we’d satisfy our sweet tooth at Chocolate Secrets, a gourmet chocolate and fine wine shop that’s truly a hidden gem. Not only would we savor exquisite chocolates and carefully selected wines, but we’d also take part in a chocolate-making class. If we’re lucky, we might catch some live entertainment—a jazz band or a soulful singer to set the mood while we indulge.

Day 3: Science Meets Art I’m a fan of both art and science, so I’d take my friend to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science. It’s a place where curiosity comes alive, with exhibits as educational as they are entertaining. After that, we’d stroll through the Dallas Museum of Art, soaking in this city’s creativity and cultural richness.

Day 4: Nostalgic Gaming Fun For a bit of nostalgic fun, we’d head to the National Videogame Museum in Frisco. It’s a trip down memory lane, showcasing the history of video games and ending with an arcade where we can unleash our inner child and play some classic games. It’s a unique and playful experience that’s sure to be a highlight of the trip.

Day 5: Farmers’ Market Finds To wrap up the week, we’d visit the Dallas and Frisco Farmers’ Markets. These markets combine local produce, artisanal goods, and a wonderful community spirit. We’d pick up some fresh ingredients, grab a bite from one of the food vendors, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and support small businesses.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Without a doubt, my shoutout goes to the incredible Dr. Kristen Guillory. Dr. Guillory is a distinguished international public speaker, speaker coach, consultant, former social work and counseling professor, author, business coach, and mental health professional. She’s a powerhouse in every sense of the word, and her influence on my journey has been profound.

One piece of wisdom she’s shared with me, which I carry with me daily, is to “Lean into ease.” This simple yet powerful phrase is a reminder to expect good in life, to trust that things can work out, and to embrace the flow rather than resist it. Watching Dr. Guillory live this out, despite her incredibly busy schedule, has been nothing short of inspiring. She has always taken the time to pour into me, helping me build the courage to step into the world of public speaking and pushing me to elevate my career.

Although we are around the same age, Dr. Guillory has achieved so much, and her accomplishments have motivated me to reach higher in my own path. Her mentorship and encouragement have been invaluable, and for that, I am deeply grateful.

Website: https://www.ShiningLightsLLC.com

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Image Credits
Cassidy DeGrate of Degrate Photography