Life and Work with Brigid Mooney

Today we’d like to introduce you to Brigid Mooney.

Brigid, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
From the time I was young, I’ve felt drawn to helping others. When I graduated from college, I knew I wanted more education in a helping field, but I wasn’t sure which. I taught English in Quito, Ecuador for a year, which was a fantastic experience. However, I knew I did not want to be a teacher (one of the toughest jobs in the world!). I decided to pursue a Master Degree in Social Work, as it was a versatile degree that could lend itself to a variety of job opportunities.

While in graduate school, I dealt with some unexpected and challenging health issues. I actually had to take a year off in between my years of school. This health crisis was sprinkled with loads of anxiety. It was through this experience that I decided that I wanted to pursue medical social work. I wanted to be a source of support and assistance for patients and families going through medical challenges and/or navigating the end of life journey.

I was a medical social worker for 12 years! I learned so much from this setting, but the hospital and I outgrew each other. I was eager to build long term relationships, work on my own terms and schedule, and play a different role with clients. Private practice was the perfect fit! I work with both children and adults and enjoy it all!

Through my experience with anxiety, which dates back as long as I remember, learned how to be empathetic. I learned, and continue to learn that we all have our struggles, our traumas, our stories. I know how debilitating anxiety can be, and I also know how empowering it can be to learn to work with it. I strive to help others tap into their empowered and confident selves!

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Smooth? What’s that? The answer is HECK, NO! Here’s the long and short of it – starting my private practice has challenged every negative believe I’ve held about myself while also forcing me to work through areas of insecurity.

I have a comfort zone part of me and a perfectionist part of me. So, when I was thinking of starting a business, these parts were very concerned! Ha. What will people think of you? You have your own struggles, so how in the world can you help others? Who would want to come to see you? What if you cannot support your family through this business? And the list goes on.

My biggest advice is to view these negative thoughts, beliefs, and feelings as a part of you. They are not all of me, just as they are not all of you. What other parts of you are there? And are they ready to come out of hiding a bit? Change feels uncomfortable; in fact, discomfort – both physical and emotional – is a sign of growth. A sign that you’re doing something differently! So, embrace the discomfort. Befriend it and let it help you move towards your goals!

Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I am a therapist who sees both kids and adults (couples and families included). I strive to meet each client where they are, and no session looks the same! I approach my work from a strengths-based perspective – I believe that we all have the resources within ourselves to grow and create change.

I work with clients with a variety of mental health concerns. Some areas special interest include anxiety, depression, reproductive mental health, concerns of pregnancy and parenthood, relationship problems, grief and loss, trauma, stress-reduction, and navigating life transitions.

I am Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) trained. I also speak Spanish and do serve Spanish-speaking clients and families.

I am most proud of the fact that I create a space where people feel cared for and supported. I feel truly honored to be part of clients’ journeys during times of difficulty as well as times of hope and transition.

What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
Don’t be afraid to mess up. I am a recovering perfectionist, so the idea of “messing up” still makes my heart beat quickly and my stomach knot up. The difference now? I push through these feelings – I work with them and know that they are there because I am being bold, doing something differently, or putting myself out there. GET VULNERABLE!

Pricing:

• $130/50-minute session

Contact Info:

• Address: 609 W. Littleton Blvd. Littleton, CO 80120
• Website: http://brigidmooney.com/
• Phone: (720) 440-2680
• Email: BrigidMooneyLCSW@gmail.com
• Instagram: brigid.mooney

Getting in touch: VoyageDenver is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.