Meet Ciara Blake | Mental Health Therapist
We had the good fortune of connecting with Ciara Blake and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ciara, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Control, Accessibility & Transparency which would not surprise anyone who knows me! Like most, I feel a need to have some level of control within most aspects of my life. When starting my business I loved the concept of being in full control and playing by my own rules. Accessibility in the mental health world was something I knew I wanted to prioritize. For some people finding a therapist can feel like an obstacle course, navigating insurance, waitlists, paperwork all during a time when you are seeking support can sometimes feel like more stress! Providing telehealth services is an intentional choice and allows me to provide therapy to any Ohioan, not just those in a 25 mile radius. Transparency for me is necessary wearing the many hats of “business owner” and therapist means navigating in and out of session for billing and other fun administrative things. Being transparent about services, prices and scheduling keeps clients able to continue building the therapeutic relationship.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My business is called Midwest therapeutics Ohio and I provide telehealth mental health therapy to Ohioans! I started Midwest on a mission to provide quality telehealth services. Being a homebody myself I love the concept of doing the hardest work from the comfort of your own space. I also love that I get to service an entire state providing quality telehealth services to people who may not be able to access them. My dad successfully has run his own business for over 30 years and I think I have picked up a lot from him. I think a lot of my past jobs have also prepared me and given me a lot of transferrable skills to be able to wear the many hats the running a small business requires. I truly think everyone should have to work in retail or customer service- lifelong lessons! Starting a business felt a lot like dropping from tower rollercoaster. You’re putting yourself way out there into the world hoping to be received well and in my case wanting to help as many people as possible. I provide mental health therapy to those struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, Autism, work stress, life stress, relational stress and self esteem. Typical sessions may or may not include: exploring and processing present and past stressors, learning about the individuals diagnosis and how it impacts them, discussing strategies to alleviate some symptoms and practicing coping strategies! One thing I am passionate about is providing good therapy that meets the needs of each client, individualizing care is critical in providing good therapy as each client is different. Providing a safe space is another goal of mine. I’ve seen so many documentaries and articles about behavioral treatment centers for teens that market themselves as “therapeutic” when really they are causing significant trauma. I want people to have the access to good treatment and be part of the solution!
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Dayton is so underrated and under appreciated! There are so many surrounding five rivers metro parks open to the public and all providing a different type of adventure! My favorites are: Aullwood Garden, Englewood Metro Park, & Riverscape, My favorite days in Dayton often include stopping by Val’s downtown for some coffee & baked goods then snacking on those while exploring the Oregon District. My friends and I love to shop through Heart Mercantile and Luna the whole area is great vibes and amazing company! The food is also delicious with lots of options s/o Lily’s Bistro, Dublin pub, Trolley stop, Roost and Thai 9 all amazing and special in their own ways!
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?
My parents, siblings, friends, pets, professors & Taylor Swift. I’ve always been encouraged to go after my goals, my support system is wonderful and my siblings set great examples of how to reach them! Having people around you telling you your dreams are possible and encouraging you to go outside of your comfort zone has absolutely lead me to Midwest. S/o Taylor Swift for her confidence, boundaries, expectations & advocacy – she inspires me!
Website: https://midwesttherapeuticsohio.clientsecure.me/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/midwesttherapeuticsohio?igsh=MTUwYjgxeTE3b2d6OA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550117247329&mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@midwest.therapeutics?_t=8lo4ZkLnsty&_r=1
Nominate Someone: ShoutoutOhio is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
