Meet Lashanna Stephens | Psychotherapist

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

Hi LaShanna, where are your from? We’d love to hear about how your background has played a role in who you are today?
I’m from Houston, MS, a small town that played a big role in shaping who I am today. My parents divorced when I was five, and as kids do, I created my own story about why it happened. At that age, I didn’t have the full picture, so I filled in the gaps with my own interpretations—some of which made me question my worth and whether I was somehow to blame.

Growing up in a close-knit community, I learned the values of resilience, hard work, and perseverance. Excelling in school became my way of coping, a way to prove—to myself and others—that I was enough. Looking back, those early struggles fueled my passion for mental health. They gave me a deep sense of empathy and a personal understanding of how childhood experiences shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world.

Now, as a psychotherapist, I help others untangle the stories they’ve carried since childhood, guiding them toward self-compassion and healing. My work isn’t just about overcoming pain—it’s about rewriting the narratives that no longer serve us and learning to thrive despite the past. That perspective is woven into everything I do, from my private practice to the content I create to help others on their journey.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career as a psychotherapist has been deeply personal and purpose-driven. I specialize in helping people heal from childhood wounds, navigate relationships, and reconnect with themselves in meaningful ways. What sets me apart is my ability to blend clinical expertise with real-life wisdom—I don’t just talk about healing; I’ve lived it. I know what it’s like to question your worth, to carry the weight of childhood stories, and to work through the challenges of becoming the person you were meant to be. That lived experience allows me to connect with my clients in a way that goes beyond textbook knowledge.

Getting to where I am today professionally wasn’t easy. As a teenage mother, I had to push against the odds and prove—to myself and the world—that I wouldn’t be defined by statistics. Juggling school, work, and parenting required resilience, discipline, and an unshakable belief that my future could be different. Along the way, I faced doubts, setbacks, and moments of exhaustion, but I kept going.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that healing and success aren’t linear. There are highs and lows, moments of clarity, and moments of struggle. But every challenge has been a stepping stone, shaping me into the therapist, entrepreneur, and person I am today.

Through my brand, Sound Advice Counseling, LLC, I want people to know that healing is possible, no matter where you come from or what you’ve been through. I also want to empower other therapists and mental health professionals to build fulfilling, profitable careers without burning themselves out. Whether it’s through therapy, workshops, or content creation, my mission is to help people rewrite their narratives and step into the life they deserve.

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?
I am not from Dallas so this would be good for both me and my best friend. If my best friend were visiting Dallas for a week, I’d make sure they experienced the perfect mix of outdoor adventures, arts and culture, and some of the best food the city has to offer! Here’s how the week would go:

Day 1: Explore Downtown & the Arts Scene
Breakfast at Café Momentum – A nonprofit restaurant with a mission, serving incredible farm-to-table dishes.
Dallas Museum of Art & Nasher Sculpture Center – A must for any art lover. The sculpture garden is a peaceful retreat in the city.
Deep Ellum Murals & Street Art Walk – This neighborhood is filled with vibrant murals, cool shops, and live music.
Dinner at Pecan Lodge – One of the best spots for Texas BBQ—brisket is a must!

Day 2: Outdoor Adventure & Skyline Views
Morning Hike at Cedar Ridge Preserve – Gorgeous trails with great views and a peaceful escape from the city.
Lunch at Tribal All Day Café – A healthy but delicious spot with smoothie bowls and fresh juices.
Visit Reunion Tower (The Ball) – A panoramic view of the entire city at sunset.
Drinks at The Henry – A rooftop bar with amazing cocktails and a stylish vibe.

Day 3: A Day of Fun & Thrills
Brunch at Bread Winners Café – A local favorite for delicious breakfast and pastries.
AT&T Discovery District – Cool digital art installations and interactive experiences.
Afternoon at Six Flags Over Texas – If we’re in the mood for roller coasters and adrenaline!
Dinner at The Rustic – A great spot for live music, Texas-style comfort food, and a relaxed outdoor setting.

Day 4: History & Culture
Breakfast at The Biscuit Bar – Because you can’t visit the South without indulging in biscuits!
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza – A deep dive into JFK’s history and legacy.
Afternoon at Bishop Arts District – Boutiques, coffee shops, and a fun, artsy vibe.
Dinner at Paradiso – A dreamy, garden-like setting with incredible food.

Day 5: A Relaxing, Self-Care Day
Yoga & Coffee at The Gem – A wellness café perfect for a slow morning.
Spa Day at Hiatus Spa + Retreat – Massages, facials, and relaxation.
Lunch at Flower Child – A fresh and healthy lunch spot.
Klyde Warren Park for a Picnic – Grab food from the food trucks and enjoy the green space in the heart of downtown.
Evening at The Dallas Arboretum – Beautiful gardens, perfect for unwinding.

Day 6: Sports & Entertainment
Brunch at Meddlesome Moth – A gastropub with amazing food.
Tour of AT&T Stadium – Even if you’re not a Cowboys fan, the stadium is impressive!
Afternoon at Topgolf or iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Something fun and interactive.
Dinner at Nick & Sam’s Steakhouse – One of the best steakhouses in Dallas.
Live Music or Comedy Show – Options like House of Blues or a comedy club.

Day 7: A Chill Wrap-Up
Brunch at The Porch – A cozy and delicious spot.
Dallas Farmers Market – A fun way to browse local goods and grab last-minute gifts.
Relax at White Rock Lake – A peaceful spot to reflect on an amazing week.

Dallas has so much to offer, and this itinerary would be the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. No matter what you’re into, there’s always something exciting to experience here!

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?
Success is never a solo journey, and while I didn’t have the most traditional sources of support, life itself became my biggest motivator. Having a child as a teenager put me at a crossroads—I could either become another statistic or push forward and create something greater for myself and my child. That drive to defy the odds fueled me in ways I didn’t fully understand at the time.

I also have to give credit to the teachers who saw potential in me, especially my band directors and chorus instructors. There were also tennis coaches and aunts along the way that encouraged me. They pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of and showed me the power of discipline, creativity, and perseverance.

Books have also played a huge role in shaping my mindset. You Are the One You Have Been Waiting For and Tuesdays with Morrie stand out as two that deeply resonated with me, offering profound lessons on self-discovery, relationships, and what truly matters in life.

Every challenge, every push, and every lesson along the way has shaped who I am today, and for that, I’m incredibly grateful.

Website: https://www.sacounselingllc.com

Instagram: @soundadvicecounseling.llc

Linkedin: LaShanna Stephens

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Facebook: Sound Advice Counseling, LLC

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