Therapists are as unique as the clients who seek their help. Talkspace’s “Meet Our Therapists” series offers intimate access to the mental health professionals who provide care. It’s a view of their passion for making therapy more accessible. Check out our latest interview below!
Name: Matt Lawson
Licensing Info: Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois
Where You Live: Chicago, Illinois
Time Working With Talkspace: 4 years
Time Working as a Therapist: 7 years
Why are you working in therapy/mental health?
I got into therapy as a second career and went back to school in my early 30s. I had my own personal training business at the time and was seeing more and more people with eating disorders, body image issues, and a lot of other problems they were using exercise to escape from. To provide a deeper level of service, I needed more education and insight.
Why did you want to start working with Talkspace?
Originally, I started working for Talkspace as a supplement while I was getting my private practice off the ground. As the years have gone by, it has become a more significant part of my professional life.
What has made you feel the most pride in your work at Talkspace?
As a consultation therapist, I get so see first hand the relief we provide to people who come here. Oftentimes simply getting started with therapy really puts people’s minds at ease. I take a lot of pride in what we offer and see so many people benefit. Many of them would have never gone to see someone face-to-face.
Do you have any special credentials, modalities, or specializations? If so, how do they complement your work as a whole?
I am also a certified personal trainer and have maintained this part of my career for around 15 years. I have worked with hundreds of people on weight loss and healthy lifestyle creation. I tend to use a lot of CBT/DBT and ACT, with a client-centered lean, and have had multiple trainings with motivational interviewing and coaching.
What do you do for fun?
I’m a total gym rat. Chicago really caters to my addiction with all the big clubs and boutique gyms. I regularly do mud runs, am a big fan of Crossfit, and will even throw a little Yoga in every once in awhile. I travel a lot and will get out of town two to three times a quarter. This flexibility underlines one of the best parts of working with Talkspace.
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