We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Brendan Nierenberg. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Brendan below.
Brendan , so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
Finding my purpose has been a lifelong journey. I think it starts with a simple thought, “To help others when they are in need and asking for it”. To me, the greatest calling was to help people psychologically. Since I was young, a lot of people noticed how I had a natural ability to be present with people in their dark times and be able to provide empathy, support, and compassion. Nothing brings me more joy than watching people around me become “unstuck” in their daily lives and become thriving individuals. I grew up watching friends and family suffer from challenges related to mental health and I have seen what the power of a good therapeutic relationship could do for people. It was a long journey to become a skilled clinician but it was one that was absolutely worth it.
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?
Currently, I am focused on private practice and I worked as a private contracted for some organizations that specialize in rehabilitation for brain injury patients. I provide psychotherapeutic services to a wide range of populations. I grew a massive audience on social media with TikTok and Instagram which allowed me to create creative ways to provide psychoeducation. As a result of being a content creator, I have decided to pursue acting & writing as a way to finally address a creative itch I have been having. I have always had a passion for acting since I was younger and I love telling stories. I grew up around some of the best storytellers, my own family. I have a passion for writing about worlds that exist beyond our own and one day would love to see them come to life as well as play a part in them.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
I think It all begins with the individual’s early years. As a teenager, you may have noticed that you possessed a unique ability to connect with people on a deep level. This could be seen in your willingness to listen empathetically, provide a non-judgmental space, and offer support during tough times. maybe you might not have fully understood the significance of your actions, but you recognized that helping others felt like second nature. secondly, you likely possess an innate sense of empathy and compassion. you genuinely care about the well-being of others and find fulfillment in making a positive difference in people’s lives. This inner drive fuels your desire to explore ways to help others further. I would say the third quality is growth and transformation, meaning along everyone’s journey, you will experience personal growth, especially learning more about yourself, your own vulnerabilities, and how you can use their experiences to connect with others on a profound level. This self-awareness becomes a valuable tool in their future work. These all have benefited me and continue to do so, to this day
Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?
Life is constantly overwhelming. But I think a huge part of the challenge is how you perceive life around you. depending on your state of mind, A small thing might overwhelm you or a giant thing might appear smaller and more able for you to take on. The most important thing to remember is the ability to self-soothe. Ask yourself “When I get anxious about something happening, does it actually happen the way I think?” The majority of times, I am willing to bet it doesn’t, it’s probably less worse and more manageable than you perceive it. You are a problem-solver, you have survived every challenge up until this point and you will be able to do so tomorrow. Also ask yourself “In times of crisis, did I panic? Or was I able to be calm and navigate myself through the situation”. chances are in the second thought. If you need to step away from aspects of your life to address others, the power of saying “No, I can not take that on right now” can be a powerful tool and a very important boundary.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.brendannierenberg.com/
- Instagram: @dreadbehemoth
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/brendan-j-nierenberg-simi-valley-ca/837042
