Meet Shawnè Poplar | Owner & Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor (LPC-S)

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

Hi Shawnè, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Creating a private practice therapy center, focused on anxiety, OCD, and chronic illness, came to fruition during 2020, when the world appeared to be turned on its head. Suddenly, I had time to mull over my personal and professional goals and figure out what mark I wanted to make on the mental health community.

The big “aha” moment happened when the reality of my own chronic illness symptoms smacked me in the face. Dealing with the daily health rollercoaster made me realize the importance of creating an accommodating environment not only for my clients but for myself. As a business owner and therapist I embrace imperfection as an inherent part of the therapeutic process. This belief is the foundation for my private practice, a sanctuary where imperfections are accepted and embraced as catalysts for healing.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?

I am originally from Grand Prairie Texas, and have known since 9th grade I wanted to be a therapist. The initial spark came from witnessing the mental health struggles of family members go untreated. As I learned more about psychology, I was hooked! The hallways, filled with social strata and teenage awkwardness, gave me a front-row seat to human behavior.

Fast forward a bit, and life threw me a curveball in the form of chronic illness. Dealing with my health hurdles shifted my focus toward understanding and treating chronic conditions. Chronic illnesses have a profound impact on mental health and can lead to an increase in depression, anxiety, and OCD symptoms. My therapeutic work isn’t just about academic understanding; it is a deeply personal quest to navigate the daily challenges and find ways to help others going through the same. I am thankful for my roots and family experiences that have shaped my path in ways I could have never predicted.

A lesson I learned pretty quickly as a private practice owner is that taking risks is a necessary part of the growth process. Of course, it’s so tempting to just stay in the comfort of the familiar and the same old routine. Deciding to start my private practice counseling center was a total game-changer. I had to step out of my cozy bubble and dive into the wild world of entrepreneurship. Using my unique skills to help clients was both exciting and nerve-wracking. The decision to establish my private practice therapy center was a pivotal moment where risk-taking took center stage. It meant stepping away from the known and embracing uncertainties.

Add in the fact that I’m dealing with a chronic illness – it’s like an extra layer of adventure. The daily challenges forced me to confront the unpredictability of life and underscored the importance of resilience. Instead of viewing my chronic illness as a barrier, I began to see it as a catalyst for embracing the unknown. It became a reminder that life itself is a risk, and navigating it requires a willingness to lean into discomfort.

I hope Poplar Counseling & Wellness represents the growth, resilience, and compassion that has been a grounding force in my own life.

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 someone is visiting the DFW area, I would recommend stopping by The Music Hall at Fair Park, which holds a special place in my heart. Growing up my family often enjoyed the experience of live theater and musicals. I would also recommend Four Day Weekend, in Fort Worth. It’s an improv comedy show set up much like the TV show “Whose Line Is it Anyway.”

If you are looking for something a little more active, try Chicken N Pickle, which is an indoor and outdoor entertainment complex. One thing I love about this restaurant is that it has something for everyone! Next time I visit I want to try my hand at Pickle Ball.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to express my sincere appreciation for Rebeca Mata LPC-S, a dedicated therapist in Flower Mound, Texas. Rebeca has been an invaluable source of support both during my internship years and as a current peer in the mental health space. Her expertise in treating trauma, coupled with her passion for working with both children and adults, is truly commendable. Rebeca’s willingness to provide case consultation, peer feedback, and general encouragement has made a significant impact on my journey in the mental health field. Her dedication to the well-being of the community is truly inspiring, and I am grateful for the guidance and support she has generously offered. I am lucky to not only call her a colleague, but a friend.

Website: https://www.poplarcounseling.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poplarcounseling

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PoplarCounseling

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