Friends. Such a simple word that rolls off our tongue without thought or hesitation. Think about how often you throw the word “friends” around, almost as if we have “friends” growing on trees and we’re never worried that we would be without them. It’s kind of a shame when you think about it… because of all the things we have in life, friends should never be taken for granted. Let me tell you why.
I can think back at my life and reflect on the friendships that developed over the years. From the friends I’ve made as a child who I had the privilege to become an adult with and now raise families together. The friendships I made in college who were there for me during the first round of pivotal change, my 20’s! And the friends I made in “adult world” where you actually have to focus on things other then being just a friend- because now you’re a colleague, a wife, and a mother.
While reflecting on my friends  it became abundantly clear that I am one lucky gal. I began to think about the dynamics of the friendships and asking myself why these relationships, and the other friendships in my life are so significant? I came up with some answer I’d like to share:

• Hodgepodge- My friends come from all different backgrounds, have different careers, enjoy different things, and value the differences in each other
• Compassion- My friends and I truly care about the happenings in each others lives and can provide empathy and sympathy when needed
• Honesty- There is an underlying value of sincerity that floats in every interaction. The ability to be true to yourself around others is cathartic
• Humor- The fact that we can be silly and appreciate small moments that make us cry with laughter bonds us and sometimes saves us from despairing moments later on
• Longevity- To know with confidence that this relationship is there for the long haul, well that’s where the gratitude comes in doesn’t it?

Now there is one major point to consider here- these relationships need to be taken care of, to be nurtured, and to be paid attention to. If you’re lucky enough to have a friendship that looks similar to what I described above, well don’t let it slip away. Just like any other relationship in our life we need to work at it. The exception here is that friendships are our chosen relationships, which means it needs even more love and dedication. I’m not always the best at this, life gets by me and time moves quickly and I don’t focus on friendships as much as I should. I’m making a commitment at this time to change that. I am utterly grateful that I have them in my life and I want them to stick around.
“I define connection as the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued; when they can give and receive without judgment, and when they derive sustenance and strength from the relationship.” ~ Dr. Brené Brown

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​Please enjoy the spotlight on Renee Concepcion LCSW, owner of Elevate Premier Counseling 

• Why did you choose to become a private practice therapist?

I was lucky enough that at a young age I knew that I would go into the helping profession and at 16 years old I decided I would own a private practice (ambitious I know). I began my career mostly working for non-profit organizations and community based work. The foundation of working with a wide variety of patients and their concerns was invaluable.  I couldn't wait to begin my work as a private practice therapist as I have a unique opportunity to assist others in meeting whatever goals they wish to accomplish and be a first hand witness to extraordinary change. I’m grateful to be apart of something so wonderful.

• What is special to you about the therapeutic relationship?

The therapeutic relationship between my clients and myself is something I treasure and have the utmost respect for. The most critical component of the therapeutic relationship is trust. With trust comes a vulnerability and closeness that allows for real change to occur. I tell all of my clients at their first appointment with me that the hour they spend in session is completely theirs and the space that we conduct our therapy sessions in is a sacred ground where they can be truly authentic. Once my clients allow themselves to be genuine with their thoughts and feelings is when the magic begins to happen. I dedicate myself to my clients and am fully committed to being their partner while they ride the rollercoaster of transformation.

• Why do you enjoy treating the concerns in your area of expertise?

Treating those who want to rid themselves of anxieties, sadness, low self-esteem, or lack of confidence is important work for me. I am an expert at helping clients move through different stages of life gracefully and assist them in deeper level of understanding and being the best version of themselves.  I believe that we all can function as our best selves and simply need the tools to be able to do so. I take a psychodynamic approach to my counseling and go on a journey with my clients to get a better sense of themselves. I help them understand how their history has made an impact on their present day and learn from things they’ve been through. We take the time to truly get to know who we are, that way they become the expert at what steps to take to make the changes to become their very best self.

• How do you keep yourself mentally healthy and connected?

I am lucky to have a wonderful husband, a beautiful daughter, a 110lb Labrador retriever, and amazing family and friends to share my journey of life with. I am dedicated to a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle. I enjoy exercise and spending quality time with people I love. I take pride in knowing myself well and treating myself with compassion and patience.

• What is special to you about Elevate Premier Counseling?

Elevate is a dream come true for me. After being in private practice for many years I know what works and more importantly what gets in peoples of way of success. We live in a life that is fast and demanding and all too often my clients were finding themselves last on their "to do" list. The excuses were always time, convenience, and discretion. That's why I have decided to go to my clients, wherever that may be. We can no longer put ourselves last because we can only be 100% for everyone and everything if we feel as important. Elevate Premier Counseling is a service that gives back to others. A space where anyone could come and leave self-doubt at the door and explore themselves. I believe that therapy is the single most wonderfully selfish thing we can engage in and I feel privileged everyday that my amazing clients allow me to be apart of their journey with them.

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