Meet Megan Garzaglass | Ph.D., LPC-S, RPT-S

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

Hi Megan, any advice for those thinking about whether to keep going or to give up?
I believe giving up was never an option. When I began my journey out on my own, it was succeed or succeed. There was no other option, but to believe in myself. This is not to say that there have not been times that I have doubted myself, however knowing this and keeping going anyways; is what has made all the difference.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPC-S), Registered Play Therapist Supervisor (RPT-S), certified early childhood–12th grade special education teacher and certified school counselor. I have my master’s degree in counseling and my Ph.D. in counselor education and supervision. I have provided counseling services for nearly 9 years. I have worked with all types of races, populations and ages children- adults. I have worked with youth and young adults for approximately 25 years in school, residential treatment, private care, and outpatient settings. I have experience with experiential and person-centered therapy, have used ARET techniques for over 4 years and am the creator and founder of Aquatic Relational Experiential Therapy. Some of my specialties are working with adults focusing on life coaching as well as working with athletes and focusing on life blocks to personal performance. I have worked with families and youth for over 15 years and also developed and organized parent trainings. I believe everyone is capable of creating their own future and with the correct tools, support and commitment to self, anything is possible. Currently I am Clinical Director, Founder of my own business, in which I use Aquatic Relational Experiential Therapy (ARET) which builds on the teachings of aquatic proficiencies and is defined as a therapeutic approach that facilitates individual client experiences/challenges within the aquatic–client–therapist relationship. I currently use this approach in my practice seen as a nontraditional approach to swim therapy based on the relationship growth and positive experience for all levels infant to adult.

The process to define my therapy and the work I am currently doing was a journey within itself. I fully embraced my own idea of buoyancy and the need to let go and allow my therapy approach to define itself. The concept of ARET and this journal is published in The Humanistic Psychologist Journal in an article titled: The buoyant self: A conceptual journey of aquatic relational experiential therapy.

One thing that has carried me through many obstacles, is stopping and acknowledging, what is working. I think when a person can step back and really see the positive aspects of even a negative situation you have really allowed your mindset to create your happiness, instead of waiting for your happiness to configure your mindset.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
One, of my most favorite places to visit in the city is the Zoo. Something about the quiet oasis escape right in the heart of downtown that is very appealing. Additionally, I have often found myself wondering the halls of the Natural Science and History museum. Another one of my favorite places is the Art Museum, because you do not have to be a connoisseur to really appreciate the art. I absolutely love outdoors, and the city offers so many spots to have a picnic or just take a walk.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
When I think back on my doctoral career and dissertation, so much has happened, and it is all part of the journey of becoming who I am and who I am meant to be. With that said, I would like to dedicate this work to the two most important people who have travelled on this journey with me. To my wife, Celia for her love, support, motivation, and inspiration, and for seeing me through this process. You allowed me to not have any excuses and to strive to be better, embracing a growth mindset. Additionally, to my daughter Auriane, for her love, patience, and understanding that sometimes Mommy couldn’t play but had to work. I love you both so much and could not possibly have done this without your love, time, and support.

Website: https://www.cmsdrcoach.net/

Instagram: meg.garzaglass_lpcs

Linkedin: Megan Garzaglass