Meet Thom Allen | Psychotherapist & Yoga Teacher

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

Hi Thom, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Early in my career as a psychotherapist, the idea of balance was nonexistent. My first job in mental health was working with terminally clients and grieving survivors. It was in the height of the AIDS epidemic, so as you might imagine the work was a never-ending trial by fire. I counseled clients by day then spent many nights facilitating support groups, taking crisis calls or sitting bedside with hospice nurses as clients faded away. At the same time, I spent weekends trying to squeeze in every moment of fun with my circle of friends; dancing the night away at clubs, socializing at impromptu house parties or attending whatever concert or social event I was invited. In hindsight I was clearly using the gravity of my job to justify burning the candle at both ends. For years I said “yes” to everything that felt exciting to escape the emotionally draining work I was doing. I was young, full of drive both professionally and personally, so I could afford the lack of balance in an attempt to maintain this lifestyle. However, I eventually learned it was unsustainable. Things needed to change, as I began to speed out of control towards burnout. I took a leap and walked away from this highly rewarding, yet extremely tough clinical work, to open a private counseling practice. Now my focus is to help busy professionals create sustainable wellness through mindfulness, stress management, emotional healing, and improved skills to deal with their life challenges. Professionally, I no longer measure my success by the quantity of my work but by the quality of change my clients experience. Personally, I do my best to maintain routines that supports my mental, physical, and spiritual well-being. I finally learned to say “no thank you” to people and things that aren’t in harmony with the life I desire. I understand that my peace requires ongoing management but is worth the effort. I believe healthy boundaries are essential and at the heart of work-life balance.

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?
While the issues I help with may be diverse, a common theme I see among clients is ultimately the desire for wellness. We all crave less stress and more happiness, but often don’t fully understand how to get there. I meet clients exactly where they are to help guide them on their journey. Together we work to understand their challenges, what needs to change and create a plan of action. This work requires vulnerability, and I am there every step of the way. What excites me in recent years is the increased acceptance of therapy. We are finally beginning to understand the profound role stress plays in our physical and mental health. For many this became even more clear over the past two years. When I began to see the overwhelming emotional impact the pandemic was having, I knew I needed to step up to the challenge. Fortunately, my business was able to quickly pivot to a virtual platform so I could remain available for current, as well as new clients looking for help. Thankfully my hard work paid off. The reception to this new approach is tremendously positive. I’m delighted to see that clients love the convenience and flexibility that teletherapy provides. Meeting from the comfort of their home or office means they can schedule at a time that works with their busy life. I believe everyone deserves a life of emotional health and happiness. My job is to help you get there.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If there’s one thing I know about Texas weather, it’s to be prepared for anything. If it’s rainy or cold, a downtown visit to the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center and Dallas Contemporary; treasure hunting through the antique shops along Riverfront Boulevard; then popcorn and an indie movie at the Angelika Film Center followed by a deep dive discussion at a local coffee shop. Of course, no visit is complete without enjoying a few nice dinners and Dallas has no shortage of options. Fearing’s and Al Biernat’s, are among my favorites because of their incredible vegan options. Now if it’s sunny, we’ll spend as much time outdoors as possible. We might enjoy biking around White Rock Lake; a trip to the Dallas Farmers Market; strolling through The Dallas Arboretum; exploring Arbor Hills Nature Preserve and of course dining everywhere there’s a patio, bonus if it includes chip, salsa and something frozen! Along with my therapy business, I also teach yoga so at some point of the visit they’ll probably find themselves Zenned-out in a class with me at The Yoga Factory.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
It would be impossible to name just one. I’m extremely grateful I come from a family of caregivers that inspired my journey to helping others. My parents were always my biggest cheerleaders; also my trusted friends that have gotten me through a number of challenges, both personally and professionally. Most importantly, I don’t know where I would be today without the love from my husband of 30 years who constantly keeps me grounded.

Website: https://www.PranaDynamics.com

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

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

Image Credits
Black & Light Studio