Meet Ariel Landrum

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Ariel Landrum. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Ariel, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
Reflecting on resilience, I envision it as a rich tapestry, each thread symbolizing a challenge faced, a victory celebrated, or those nights when I survived one more episode. As a child, life threw me a curveball in the form of a learning disability. But, with the guidance of a school counselor who became my beacon of hope, that curveball transformed into a defining moment. She illuminated the transformative power of therapy, teaching me that resilience isn’t just about enduring but evolving. That’s when the spark ignited, and I thought, “I want to be that beacon for others.”

Navigating the labyrinth of academia, securing degrees, clocking in intern hours, and conquering licensing exams, I was at a pivotal juncture: agency work or private practice? I’d been dabbling in online therapy since 2016, but it was more of a side quest. When the pandemic cast its shadow, I stood at a crossroads. Do I play it safe or take the bold leap into full-time online therapy? The weight of uncertainty was palpable. But, in true plot-twist fashion, I leaped. And the outcome? My Guidance Teletherapy Cooperative didn’t just stay afloat; it soared to new heights. This journey underscored that resilience is about facing the unknown with unwavering determination.

At the core of my resilience narrative is my father. A single parent, dedicating over two decades to the Navy while nurturing my brother and me. Witnessing him shatter societal norms and navigate life’s tumultuous seas, I internalized a profound lesson: resilience is not merely about rebounding but relentlessly forging ahead.

Then there’s the geeky essence that infuses my approach. As a ‘Geek Therapist,’ I’ve been inspired by fictional characters who, against all odds, emerge triumphant. Who would’ve imagined that my geeky inclinations would evolve into a therapeutic powerhouse? Embracing my authentic self not only magnetized clients and networking opportunities but also fortified the trust in the therapeutic bond. This journey illuminated that resilience is also about embracing every facet of oneself, even the parts others might overlook, and channeling them into strengths.

So, if you’re curious about the roots of my resilience, it’s a blend of personal milestones, professional plot twists, invaluable lessons from my father, and a generous sprinkle of geeky zest. It’s about constantly leveling up, adapting, and always remembering our primary mission: to uplift others, all while ensuring we’re fortified for the journey ahead.

Essentially, resilience is about transformation, confronting doubts, forging ahead, and cherishing authenticity.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Starting off in the bustling corridors of a Naval base and now navigating the digital waves of teletherapy, my journey as a therapist has been… let’s just say, “eventful.” I began working with our brave military folks and their families, which was both challenging and inspiring. Given that my Dad served in the Navy for over 20 years, I thought it a great opportunity to give back to the community that helped raise me. But as Bob Dylan said, “The times they are a-changin’,” and by 2020, I was all-in with my online therapy private practice.

Now, what sets me apart in this vast sea of therapists? Two words: Geek Therapy. Yep, in my sessions, we might dive into a movie scene, play a game of Tetris (and not just because I’m trying to beat my high score), or even pen some fan fiction. And while I proudly wear my ‘Geek Therapist’ badge, I’m also an Art Therapist. So, if you’re thinking paintbrushes and palettes, you’re on the right track!

Currently, I’m geeking out over being the co-host of ‘The Happiest Pod On Earth’ (Disney fans, where you at?), which is part of the Geek Therapy Network. I am also an Editor, oversing a bunch of talented journalists with Geek Therapy’s People of Con.

Looking ahead, I’ve got dreams. Big ones. Maybe even a doctorate. But for now, I’ve got a more “down-to-earth” goal: tackling those pesky student loans. Engaging with the community is close to my heart, and I actively moderate two large Facebook groups, ensuring they remain safe, resourceful spaces. And for those keen on enhancing their clinical documentation skills, keep an eye out for my upcoming webinar on “Hacking Clinical Documentation for the Neurodivergent Clinician.”

Readers, if you ever hop onto a session with me, you’ll be greeted by a backdrop that’s quintessentially me: from Wonder Woman and Sailor Moon to the Muppets and Hello Kitty. It’s my way of ensuring that even in the digital realm, there’s a personal touch, a slice of my world that I share with you.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back on my journey, if I were to pick three game-changing qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge, I’d say they are: communication, art therapy, and continuous learning.

First off, communication. You know, wearing the hat of a QAQI Supervisor wasn’t just about ticking off boxes. It was like being a translator, decoding the intricate language of regulations and making it relatable. I had to find the sweet spot between what was expected from licensing boards and what was achievable for my team. It’s like trying to explain the plot of a complex sci-fi series to someone who’s never watched a single episode. You’ve got to be clear, concise, and, most importantly, engaging. This role taught me the art of effective communication and the importance of tailoring my approach to suit individual needs.

Then there’s art therapy. I’ve always believed that a picture is worth a thousand words, but through art therapy, I’ve seen it’s worth a million emotions. Whether it’s teenagers capturing their recovery journey or adults revisiting their inner child through photography, the results have been nothing short of transformative. One of my most heartwarming experiences was guiding trans clients to express their multifaceted identities through self-portraits and collages. It’s like giving them a canvas to paint their soul’s landscape. Art therapy isn’t just about creating; it’s about healing, understanding, and celebrating oneself.

Lastly, continuous learning. I’m a firm believer in the “Beginner’s Mindset.” It’s like being a kid in a candy store, every single time. Whether it’s exploring new therapeutic techniques or researching business strategies for therapists, I’m always on the lookout for the next learning adventure. This insatiable curiosity keeps my practice fresh and ensures that I’m offering the best to my clients.

For those just starting their journey, here’s my two cents: Embrace every learning opportunity, even if it’s outside your comfort zone. Remember, every challenge is a lesson in disguise. And always, always listen – not just to respond, but to understand. Your clients, colleagues, and experiences have a wealth of knowledge to offer. So, keep those ears perked up, and you might just hear the universe whispering its secrets.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
When life throws its curveballs, and trust me, it’s got a mean pitch, I’ve found solace in a blend of the traditional and the unique. Sure, I indulge in the classics: a good rest, getting my nails done (because who doesn’t love a fresh coat of empowerment?), and diving into a book. But then, I like to add my own personal twist to the self-care recipe.

Enter cozy gaming. Now, I’m not talking about those adrenaline-pumping, edge-of-your-seat games. I’m all about those games that wrap you up in a virtual blanket of calm. Think of it as a digital cup of cocoa. Games like Stardew Valley and Animal Crossing have been my go-to. They’re like these little pockets of peace where you can escape, recharge, and come back ready to face the world.

Then there’s my foodie side. Food, for me, is more than just sustenance; it’s an experience. It’s about savoring flavors, exploring new cuisines, and celebrating the joy that a well-cooked meal can bring. And here’s a little food for thought: I firmly believe in not putting moral markers on food. Labeling foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ can have adverse effects, potentially fueling unhealthy relationships with what we eat. Instead, I embrace food as a form of self-care, a way to nourish both body and soul.

But here’s the golden nugget: self-care is a practice. It’s not a one-off spa day or a weekend getaway. It’s an ongoing commitment to yourself. I often talk about the six pillars of self-care: Physical, mental, emotional, medical, social, and spiritual. They’re a holistic approach to ensuring you’re not just surviving but thriving. For those just starting their self-care journey, here’s my advice: Dive deep into understanding what truly nourishes you. It’s not always about what feels good in the moment but what enriches you in the long run. And hey, if that means diving into a cozy game or trying out that new sushi place downtown, go for it! Remember, self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. And every time you feel overwhelmed, just think of it as life’s way of saying, “Hey, it’s time for a little self-love.”

Contact Info:

Suggest a Story: BoldJourney is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
Resilience
Where does your optimism come from?

Optimism is the invisible ingredient that powers so much of the incredible progress in society

Confidence
Stories of Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Learning from one another is what BoldJourney is all about. Below, we’ve shared stories and

Resilience
The Power of Persistence: Overcoming Haters and Doubters

Having hates is an inevitable part of any bold journey – everyone who has made