Meet Ayesha Youngblood

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

Hi Ayesha, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I view risk not just in the traditional sense of making big, bold moves, but as a deeper, more nuanced concept. I believe that risk, at its core, is about being vulnerable, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and embracing the possibility of growth. In this sense, I see risk as a tool for transformation, a necessary element of progress that invites change and fosters resilience.

Risk has played a significant role in my career as a therapist. I had to learn to adapt when stepping into unknown territories within my education and training, and when reaching new levels with clients. There was always a sense of uncertainty when trying something new, whether it was adopting a new therapeutic approach or tackling unfamiliar challenges with clients. But I’ve learned that growth happens in those moments of discomfort, which is a concept that I try to instill in my clients. The risk of vulnerability is a powerful catalyst for connection. It’s often through the most vulnerable moments that I build deeper empathy and understanding, both as an individual and professional.

Taking risks within my career also means speaking out about things that may make others uncomfortable, whether it’s talking about mental health disparities or advocating for more inclusive care. I think that risk is a necessary part of pushing the boundaries of what we accept or understand about mental health, challenging the status quo, and breaking down stigmas.

Not every risk I take results in others’ definition of success, and that’s okay. Some of the most valuable lessons have come from situations that did not turn out as expected. Facing setbacks doesn’t mean I’ve failed, it means I have an opportunity to reflect, learn, and adapt. It creates greater self-awareness when taking the next risk. It allows me to be mindful and intentional, and to be attuned to my own limits. It also reminds me that not every risk is worth taking, and sometimes the greatest risks come from saying no when it’s necessary for self-care or professional integrity.

Ultimately, I think risk is something that keeps me passionate about my work. It pushes me to be better and encourages my clients to do the same. Whether it’s challenging my own biases, deepening my clinical skills, or helping clients embrace their own vulnerability and strength, risk is an integral part of my ongoing journey as a therapist.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Hello! I’m Ayesha Youngblood, a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in trauma, maternal mental health, and mood/anxiety disorders. My passion for this work stems from a desire to help individuals navigate life’s most challenging experiences. After seeing firsthand the profound impact of trauma and mental health struggles, I dedicated my career to supporting others through these transformative times. I’ve since gained advanced training and certifications in trauma-informed and maternal mental health care.

I offer individual, couples, and family therapy, addressing emotional challenges such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and maternal mental health. I also provide clinical consultations and speaking engagements.
I believe therapy should be personalized, so I use an eclectic approach, blending evidence-based methods to best meet each client’s unique needs. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of their healing.

The driving force behind my work is the transformations I witness in my clients. Whether it’s a mother reconnecting with herself after postpartum depression or an individual rebuilding their life after trauma, these moments of progress inspire me daily and remind me why I chose this path.

Getting to where I am today has definitely not been easy, but it has been an incredibly rewarding journey. My path into this profession was fueled by a deep desire to help people navigate the most challenging aspects of life. I started out with a clear goal, but I quickly realized that the road to becoming a licensed professional counselor was much more complex than I anticipated.

The challenges I faced ranged from the intense pressure of balancing school, internships, and starting my career as a therapist. There were moments when I doubted myself, especially early in my career when I was still building my confidence and finding my voice as a therapist. I also faced the challenge of developing expertise in specialized areas like trauma and maternal mental health, which required continuous learning and advanced training.

What helped me overcome these challenges was my deep sense of purpose. I knew that the work I was doing was meaningful and important, and that kept me going during tough times. Mentorship and support from colleagues also played a huge role in my development. I was fortunate enough to have guidance from experienced therapists who helped me navigate difficult cases and gave me perspective when I needed it most.

Along the way, I’ve learned several key lessons. First, I’ve learned that no one’s
healing journey is linear, and neither is the journey of becoming a therapist. Growth takes time, and setbacks are a natural part of the process. I’ve also learned the importance of flexibility. Each person is unique, and I’ve had to adapt my methods to best meet the needs of my clients. Lastly, I’ve learned that compassion for others starts with compassion for myself. I’ve had to become comfortable with imperfection and embrace the fact that I won’t always have all the answers. What matters is being present, open, and willing to learn.

Although it hasn’t always been easy, every step has brought me closer to the therapist I am today, and I continue to be inspired by the people I work with and the progress they make in their healing.

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?
Here’s an exciting day in Houston based on a mix of adventure, fun, culture, and good food:

Morning: Adventure & Challenge
Activate Houston: Start your day with a fun, physical and mental challenge experience with activities that test your abilities as you race through interactive rooms and puzzles. It’s perfect for a group of friends looking for something active and engaging.

Mid-Morning: Fun & Interactive
Houston Aquarium: Head over to the Aquarium for a mesmerizing experience. Explore more than 500,000 gallons of water with exhibits featuring exotic sea creatures, and take a spin on the Ferris wheel for a stunning view of downtown.

Lunch: Delicious Dining
City Centre: After your adventure, enjoy a leisurely lunch at City Centre, a vibrant shopping and dining destination. With plenty of restaurants offering diverse cuisines, you’re sure to find something to satisfy your cravings. It’s also a great spot for a stroll around and checking out the shops.

Afternoon: Culture & Art
Museum of Fine Arts: If you’re a fan of art and culture, make your way to the Museum of Fine Arts. Spend a couple of hours immersing yourself in world-class exhibits and collections. From modern art to classical pieces, the museum offers a wide variety of visual experiences that are sure to inspire.

Evening: Relax & Enjoy a Movie
Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown: As the evening sets in, head to Rooftop Cinema Club Uptown for a unique movie experience under the stars. Relax in comfortable lounge chairs, enjoy a drink or snack, and watch a great film with the city skyline as your backdrop. It’s a perfect way to wind down after an active day.

Night: Shopping & Dining
The Galleria: End your day with some shopping and a delicious dinner at The Galleria, Houston’s largest shopping center. With a wide variety of stores, dining options, and even an ice skating rink, you’ll find plenty of entertainment to enjoy as the night unfolds. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale shopping or a casual bite to eat, this spot has it all.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to acknowledge and give credit to my family, my colleagues, and my clients. They have played an integral role in shaping my journey as a therapist.

My family’s unwavering support, love, and understanding have been the foundation upon which I’ve built my personal and professional life. They’ve shown me the importance of empathy, resilience, and compassion which are values that I carry into my work.

I am also incredibly grateful for the supportive network of professionals I’ve had the privilege to work alongside. Whether it’s through collaboration, sharing insights, or providing much-needed encouragement, my colleagues have been instrumental in pushing me to grow and evolve. We all share a commitment to helping others, and the ability to learn from one another has been invaluable. Together, we’ve created an environment that prioritizes continuous learning and self-reflection, and for that, I’m deeply thankful.

Lastly, my clients are truly the heart of my work, and I dedicate my deepest gratitude to them. It is their courage to seek help, to face their vulnerabilities, and to trust the therapeutic process that inspires me every day. I am truly honored that they trust me and allow me to be a part of their healing journeys. Each client teaches me something new, and watching them grow reminds me of why I pursued a career in mental health.

Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today, both personally and professionally. They all deserve a huge amount of credit and recognition for the impact they’ve had on my life and career.

Website: https://www.intentionaltherapypllc.com/

Image Credits
Have Hope Photography