Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexis Nguyen
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My journey to founding a mental health practice was not a typical path. As a first-generation Vietnamese American, I grew up in a cultural environment where success was narrowly defined—typically through prestigious careers like medicine, engineering, or law. Discussing feelings or emotional struggles was discouraged, and mental health concerns were often met with silence or stigma. In alignment with these expectations, I initially pursued business administration with plans to attend law school.
While working in a jail environment, I found myself drawn to conversations with the social workers who were making a profound difference in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments. These interactions challenged the cultural programming I had received about what constituted meaningful work and sparked something in me. Despite facing some resistance from my family, I made the decision to pivot my career toward mental health by obtaining my master’s in social work.
My professional experience spans diverse and challenging environments—I practiced in correctional facilities, drug rehabilitation centers, and hospital settings. Each environment taught me different aspects of mental health care and crisis intervention. Navigating these spaces as an Asian American woman also gave me insight into how cultural backgrounds influence both the provision and reception of mental health services. Seeking to blend my passion for helping others with practical business knowledge, I later earned my MBA to understand the complexities of operating a sustainable mental health practice while maintaining quality care.
The catalyst for launching my own practice came after losing a dear friend to suicide. Her passing was devastating and awakened in me a deeper calling to create a space where people could receive the support she hadn’t found. A year after her passing, I launched my practice as both a tribute to her memory and a commitment to making quality mental health care more accessible, especially for those from communities where mental health is stigmatized. Throughout my own mental health journey, I’ve found tremendous healing through my faith and through service to others. This personal experience informs my therapeutic approach, I understand both professionally and personally that recovery isn’t linear, but with proper support and faith, transformation is possible.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Building a mental health practice has presented numerous hurdles. Initially, finding clients was a significant challenge—establishing trust in a field where clients need to feel safe is a gradual process. The administrative complexities of paneling with insurance companies created unexpected delays and paperwork burdens that took time away from client care.
The unpredictable nature of this work presents ongoing challenges such as cancellations, no-shows, and the inherent uncertainty of client retention can make financial planning difficult. The weight of professional liability in caring for vulnerable individuals is substantial, and often I found myself navigating complex situations with limited guidance. Unlike many other fields, there isn’t a clear roadmap for building a successful therapy practice, which meant learning many lessons through trial and error.
As you know, we’re big fans of Imago Dei Counseling. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
My virtual mental health practice serves clients throughout Florida. I create a unique therapeutic environment by integrating spiritual principles with evidence-based psychological approaches for client’s that would like to utilize this approach. What sets my practice apart is the incorporation of unique elements, such as using piano and guitar during sessions for clients who respond to musical expression as part of their healing journey.
I made the choice to accept insurance, which isn’t always common among faith-based practitioners, because I believe quality mental health care should be accessible to everyone. This decision has allowed me to reach members of church communities who might otherwise struggle to find care that honors both their psychological needs and spiritual beliefs. I’m most proud of creating a practice where clients don’t have to compartmentalize their faith from their mental health journey, they can bring their whole selves to the healing process.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Looking at the next 5-10 years, I see a critical industry shift toward addressing mental health needs in traditionally underserved communities. Churches, cultural groups, and high-pressure professional environments have long stigmatized mental health support, creating treatment gaps with serious consequences.
As a Vietnamese American therapist working with faith communities, I’ve observed firsthand how cultural expectations to “stay strong” and religious beliefs that frame mental struggles as purely spiritual issues prevent many from seeking help. The industry is finally recognizing these barriers and evolving to address them.
I anticipate growing collaboration between faith leaders and mental health professionals, with more churches establishing mental health ministries and referral networks. We’ll likely see more culturally responsive therapy models and training programs designed to equip clinicians with the cultural competencies needed for diverse communities.
Virtual therapy will continue expanding access for those concerned about privacy or being seen entering a therapist’s office. The telehealth revolution that began during the pandemic has particularly benefited clients from stigmatized communities who can now receive care discretely.
These industry changes represent not just business opportunities but the potential to prevent tragedies like the one that inspired my practice. By bridging these gaps, we can ensure that help reaches those who have historically suffered in silence.
Pricing:
- Aetna
- Cigna
- United
- Optum
- Out of network- $150/hr
Contact Info:
- Website: https://imagodeitherapy.com/book
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imagodeicounseling/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WhffjYpcB/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/profile/1438177
