Bold Journey Interview

Written By Lindsay Orleans

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Lindsay Orleans. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Lindsay below.

Hi Lindsay , thank you for being such a positive, uplifting person. We’ve noticed that so many of the successful folks we’ve had the good fortune of connecting with have high levels of optimism and so we’d love to hear about your optimism and where you think it comes from.

As a therapist, I consider optimism a dynamic process within everyone that is intricately woven through biological, psychological, and sociological threads. Biologically, it arises from neurotransmitters and hormones that shape our moods and perception. Psychologically, it is influenced by our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes, which guide how we interpret and respond to life’s challenges. Sociologically, our environment, relationships, and culture further mold our capacity for optimism, enriching or dampening our hopeful outlook. Far from being static, optimism evolves through interactions with both our inner selves and the world around us.

Over the years, I’ve realized that the sociological aspect of optimism is deeply influenced by the communities we build and the people we surround ourselves with. Whether it’s in my practices in Colorado or Florida, I’ve actively sought social opportunities that align with where I want to go in life. Being my authentic self is a cornerstone of my optimism; it enables me to connect with others who support and validate my values and beliefs, fostering a profound sense of belonging. By sharing my life with others who embrace and encourage my true self, I am continually nurtured by a network of optimism, reinforcing the dynamic process that keeps it alive and thriving within me.

Mindfulness, too, plays a crucial role in my perspective on optimism. By focusing on the present moment, I can truly appreciate the richness of life and the opportunities that exist within even the most challenging experiences. Through mindfulness, I’ve learned to see difficulties not as failures but as a chance to grow, which in turn brings greater happiness and fulfillment. Being present in each moment with an open heart and mind has allowed me to foster resilience and hope, even in the face of uncertainty, while fueling my optimism and bringing positive energy into both my personal and professional life. A key practice that has shaped my optimism is daily gratitude. A few years ago, I began using a gratitude app to write three things I was grateful for each day, even on my toughest days. This small, consistent act helped me uncover hidden moments of hope and optimism, reshaping my view of life and reminding me of the confidence that exists amid challenges. Through these practices – gratitude, mindfulness, and connection I’ve cultivated a deep and enduring sense of optimism that guides me daily.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

In the serene landscapes of Colorado and Florida, my practice, whether in person or virtually, provides a space for hope and transformation for individuals of all ages. As a therapist deeply committed to the art of healing, I am passionate about guiding children, teens, and adults through the intricate maze of life’s challenges. Whether grappling with issues at school or work, navigating the complexities of daily life, or mending relationships, my mission is to provide a sanctuary where growth and healing are not only possible but inevitable.

Therapy, from my perspective, is a journey that evolves with each individual’s unique experiences and needs. In my experience with children, adolescents, adults, and their families, I’ve come to deeply appreciate the importance of a tailored approach, one that respects and responds to the specific circumstances and challenges each person faces. There is no “one size fits all” method in therapy. Each individual I work with is at a distinct point in their life journey, facing unique challenges and possessing individual strengths. Because of this, I adapt my therapeutic approach to meet them where they are, honoring their journey and fostering their growth.

A cornerstone of my practice is the creation of a safe, inclusive, and judgment-free environment. Therapy should be a place where individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. My goal is to make each session not just a step towards healing but an experience that clients look forward to, even when confronting life’s most daunting moments. This environment is meticulously crafted to ensure that every client feels supported and encouraged as they embark on their path to wellness.

In this nurturing space, my certified therapy dog, Oliver, plays a pivotal role. Oliver’s presence adds a layer of warmth and comfort, making the therapeutic environment more welcoming. His gentle demeanor and intuitive nature help clients relax and open up, facilitating deeper, more meaningful progress, while Oliver’s invaluable contributions embody the unconditional support and companionship essential to the healing process.

Empowerment is at the heart of my therapeutic philosophy. I believe in guiding clients to take charge of their mental health, equipping them with the tools and insights necessary to navigate their lives with confidence and resilience. Therapy is not just about addressing immediate concerns but fostering long-term growth and balance. It is a journey towards self-discovery, where clients learn to harness their inner strength and find harmony within themselves.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Curiosity
Humbleness
Mindfulness

Looking back, I believe three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in my journey are being open-minded, humbleness, and mindfulness.

As a therapist and social worker, being open-minded has allowed me to continuously learn from my own experiences, mentors, and even my clients. Asking questions and always being open to new perspectives has helped refine my approach and better understand the world around me and what people are seeking. Therapists don’t know everything, and humbleness has allowed me to recognize that I don’t have all the answers and that growth truly does come from listening, learning, and being open to change. Mindfulness has been an invaluable tool in maintaining my optimism, presence, and focus for both me and my clients. It’s helped me create a grounded, safe space for others while also ensuring I take care of my own mental, emotional, and physical health along the way.

For those early in their mental health journey, my advice is to embrace these qualities in practical ways. Always be open-minded, and do not hesitate to ask questions or for feedback. Practice mindfulness, not only to enhance the work you are putting into yourself but also to manage life’s challenging moments. Lastly, stay humble by acknowledging that learning never stops and that it’s okay to make mistakes as long as you reflect and grow from them. Willingness to learn and evolve will ultimately make you a stronger and more empathetic therapist.

Tell us what your ideal client would be like?

The ideal client for me is someone who embodies openness and receptivity. This individual appreciates that the therapeutic journey is more than just attending sessions; it involves integrating and applying the insights and strategies discussed during our time together into their daily life. Such a client understands that true growth requires more than passive participation; it demands active engagement, self-reflection, and a willingness to make meaningful adjustments based on their evolving self-awareness.

An ideal client is also someone who is committed to the process of growth, recognizing that it is an ongoing journey rather than a quick fix. They approach therapy with a sense of curiosity about themselves and a genuine desire to explore and understand the underlying factors that influence their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This client is willing to embrace vulnerability, face challenges head-on, and take responsibility for their personal development.

In essence, the ideal client for me is one who sees therapy as a collaborative partnership, where both therapist and client work together towards achieving lasting change. They are motivated, proactive, and dedicated to making the most of the therapeutic experience, both within and outside of the session.

Lindsay Orleans