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

Hi Meredith, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?

Growing up I was always taught to work hard and do everything to the best of my ability (working hard). As I entered the counseling world I wanted to be the best counselor that I could be to truly help people. That included getting education and continuing to expand my knowledge as new evidence- based treatments were developed.

 Being in the counseling world listening has been a habit I worked to develop. I learned early on there is a difference in hearing what people say and truly listening to them. I have always had a heart for those who seemed to be struggling, I longed for them to find meaning, to help them ease the pain they were experiencing and to do that I had to truly listen to them. 

Finally, growing up I was innately sensitive to the climate in the room. As a counselor I had to learn to use that in the therapy room, to sense pain, hope, or sorrow even when a client has not verbalized it yet. It helps me offer connection to the client even in silence.

I believe I succeed as a therapist because I am committed to being the very best that I can be. As a counselor that means bringing expertise, care, compassion, and hope to the therapy room.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.

If you would have asked me when I first became a counselor if I would have ever owned my own practice I would have said, “you are crazy”. It honestly scared me and I wanted nothing to do with marketing myself (honestly I still don’t) but as I grew professionally my curiosity about owning my own practice grew as well and about 18 months ago I took a big leap and opened Journey Counseling.

Working with children, students, individuals, and couples I have learned that we all long to belong. At our core, we want to be known and loved. I love what I do because I meet people that are searching, struggling, and wanting more out of life. I consider it an honor to be a part of that journey with them and bring hope when they feel hopeless.

One of the things I am most proud of is a book I wrote, Magnificent Grief. It was released in August and has been an Amazon best seller in three different categories. It is my story of infertility and child loss. I spent years pouring my heart and soul writing and rewriting, grieving as I wrote. I am passionate about sharing my story because so many women and men suffer from infertility and loss each year and I long to speak comfort and hope to them in their grief. My journey as a loss mom has shaped a new niche for me and the types of clients I like to treat. While I see clients who struggle in various stages of life, my favorite is to moms and families who are struggling after loss. It is hard and painful at times, but work I feel gifted and called to do.

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?

Ahh! That one is easy for me. I would hands down take them to the stockyards in Ft. Worth. The Drover Hotel in the Stockyards is a great place to stay anytime. It is walking distance to all the cute shops, restaurants, and of course the rodeos! I live here and when I get a staycation Ft. Worth is always my go to! I haven’t got a real cowgirl hat yet so maybe that should be on the list for this year!

Shopping wise I love any city’s Main Street boutique shopping! My personal favorites are Weatherford, Lewisville, and McKinney!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Wow! The list is so long! Personally, first, my family. I would not be who I am today without them.They always sacrifice to provide for me and I am forever thankful. In high school my youth pastor, Lance Sherer, always encouraged me, believed in me, pointed me to God  and told me I could do far more than I imagined. In college, so many deep friendships were made and even though we may not see each other these days, they became family. After college one of my mentors and dearest friends, Brooke Flickinger, believed in me, supported me, and challenged me to never just take the easy way. Brooke taught me to slow down and not be afraid to risk even when it is scary. My husband Kyle who has always championed me and believes in me way more than I believe in myself. In my darkest days, he always showed up and provided for us so well. Finally, my friend Meredith Ready who did not laugh at me when I told her I wanted to write a book. Instead, she helped me edit it and my book Magnificant Grief would not be if it was not for her. Honestly, there are more people than I can mention that deserve a shout out because so many people have supported me, comforted me and believed in me. 

Professionally, Kristen Hale, she  was my LPC supervisor and I learned everything I know about kids and attachment from her. To this day, she is one of my first calls when I am stuck, or I need to process through something professionally.

Spiritually, my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. In my deepest valleys it was God who sought me out, comforted me, and sustained me. I am nothing without Him and I want all that I do to show others who He is.

Website: Www.journeycounselingfm.com

Other: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Grief-Following-Thankfulness-Longing/dp/B0B92FYDZF/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1672638822&sr=8-1 This is the link to the book I wrote.

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.