From Teacher to Mental Health Therapist: Building Confidence and Trusting Your Instincts with Erika Hanna Part One
What does grit look like when life doesn't follow the plan?
In this episode of Gettin' Gritty for Mental Health Therapists, we sit down with therapist Erika Hanna to explore the winding path from teacher to therapist, the challenges of balancing motherhood and career aspirations, and the courage it takes to trust your inner knowing when the next step isn't clear.
Erika shares how unexpected detours led her to communities she never anticipated serving, how becoming a parent reshaped her perspective on helping others, and what it was really like transitioning from graduate student to practicing therapist. We unpack the role of nervous system awareness, attachment, and self-trust in building a sustainable career in mental health.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that grit isn't about having all the answers. It's about staying present in the messy middle, listening to what your body and mind are telling you, and continuing to move forward even when confidence hasn't caught up yet.
Erika also shares her passion for Access Period a non-profit that helps combat period poverty by providing free menstrual products to anyone who needs them in Nebraska.
If you've ever questioned your path, doubted your abilities, or wondered whether you're really ready for the next step, this episode is for you.
We discuss:
Transitioning from teaching to therapy
Trusting your intuition and nervous system cues
The challenges of motherhood and professional identity
Finding purpose through unexpected career detours
Moving from intern to therapist with confidence
Why growth often happens before you feel ready
What grit really looks like in the therapist journey
Because therapy takes more than knowledge. It takes grit. 💛
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Follow along on Instagram @grittytherapist and go get your gritty on.
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More Resources Made For Therapists
A simple, in-the-moment reset for therapists when imposter syndrome shows up.
This free ACT-based tool guides you through awareness, connection, and grounded action so you can interrupt the spiral and return to presence in session.