Meet Amanda Bradley | Mental Health Therapist

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

Hi Amanda, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
Balance is tricky. I used to think of it as a perfect 50/50 split, something evenly distributed or level. Over time, I’ve realized that balance is more about recognizing the season I’m in and honoring what that season requires. Sometimes that means pulling back from work or social obligations; other times, when home life feels overwhelming, it means checking in with myself and making sure I’m putting on my own oxygen mask first.

I know that if I burn out, I’m no good to anyone else. When things at home start to feel dysregulated, that’s my cue to unplug—whether it’s eating better, taking walks, or reconnecting with my family. I make a conscious effort to set my phone aside so I can be fully present. In fact, I try to take 24 hours each week where I’m not accessible to the outside world. Those intentional breaks leave me feeling refreshed and far less pulled in every direction.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I was first starting out, building my practice, it was chaos. I didn’t have a clear roadmap — I was listening to every podcast, reading every book, paying for consultations, and showing up at networking events. I was grinding. And still, I felt like I was missing something. Everyone else seemed to have the blueprint, and I was piecing things together one client at a time.

I finally asked someone I respected for advice, and what I got back was basically, “You just do it, it’s not that hard.” Now, I was confused, hurt, frustrated, all the things. This just added salt to the wound and confirmed the gap between where I was and where I wanted to be. That’s when the doubt started to creep in.

But here’s the thing — I didn’t quit. My husband pushed me, my faith grounded me, and I kept showing up. Slowly, the pieces started falling into place. That’s the lesson: persistence wins.

Today, I wake up fired up to do this work. I get to sit with people every day and help them move from brokenness to healing, and that is deeply meaningful. It’s work with purpose. It’s not about me — it’s about the lives I get to impact, the families that get stronger, and the communities that benefit when people heal.

And because I built a career that actually works for my life, I’ve been able to expand my impact beyond the office — through nonprofit involvement, speaking engagements, and community work. That’s the point: take what you’ve been given, multiply it, and give back.

What’s next? I’m thinking bigger but in the sense of mentoring the next generation of therapists, making sure no one has to feel like they’re stumbling in the dark the way I did. No gatekeeping, no elitism — just helping others rise. I trust that God called me here, He has a plan for me and He will see me through.

Here’s the truth: doubt doesn’t disqualify you. It’s fuel. If you feel lost, keep going. Push through. On the other side of the grind is clarity, calling, and impact.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Oh wow !!! Well, she’s a foodie like me so we have to start there. I would say SoulFreak for pastries and coffee, then we must go thrifting, day spa at Jasmine Journey (need a facial and massage), little afternoon treat at Space City Cow for some icecream. Then we would have to work that off so go to class at Defend Fit in Webster. I would highly recommend a therapeutic massage from Interstellar Wellness after Defend Fit class. Also I would have to have a tea from Nutrition Boost in Webster after my massage, everything there is good. Of course, we love local festivals, markets and events so anything going on in ClearLake or Houston we would hop on that.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Lord and Savior first and foremost! I feel like He led me down this path and is keeping me here. My family, of course, because they have been through it all with me. Jennifer Anderson, for this opportunity, thanks girl. And there is a team of Clear Lake therapists, networkers, and supporters that I would love to shoutout to, you all know who you are. I love you and appreciate you.

Website: https://www.amandabradleycounseling.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-bradley-3b0a2029b

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559461915779

Image Credits
Megan Drummond