One Year of Dear Family: A Legacy of Healing, Growth & Purpose

Cicely Simon
Oct 2
2 min read

October marks one year since the doors of Dear Family Counseling officially opened, and what a year it has been.

When I started this journey, I didn’t just want to “open a private practice.” I wanted to create a space where families, couples, and individuals, especially in communities of color, could be seen, heard, and healed. A place where breaking generational cycles wasn’t just a buzzword, but a way of life.

A full year later, I can say that the mission is working. The healing is happening. The legacy is being built.

What I’ve Learned This Year

1. Healing Takes Many Forms: Sometimes it’s in the quiet pause after a breakthrough. Sometimes it’s in the tears that come when someone finally speaks their truth. And other times, it’s in the slow, consistent showing up, week after week, even when it’s hard.

2. Therapy Is Sacred Work: This isn’t just a profession. This is ministry. Holding space for families in crisis, for couples on the brink, for adults working to understand their childhoods… it’s deeply personal. And I’m honored to do this work.

3. There’s a Need and a Hunger for Culturally Responsive Care: Representation matters. Culturally-informed therapy matters. And so many people are seeking therapists who “get it” when it comes to their lived experiences. I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to provide that space.

What I’m Grateful For

The brave clients who chose Dear Family Counseling to begin their healing journey
The moments of clarity, peace, and laughter shared in session
The support from friends, family, colleagues, and even strangers on the internet who believed in this mission
God’s grace, which carried me through every high and low

What’s Next

This anniversary is not a finish line. It’s a launch pad. In the year ahead, I’m excited to:

Expand services and serve more families and couples
Host workshops and community events that teach, empower, and uplift
Create more tools (like journals, courses, and groups) to support healing outside the therapy room
Continue advocating for mental health awareness, especially in our communities

Final Words

If you’ve followed this journey, shared a post, booked a session, or just silently rooted for me...thank you!

If you’re on your own healing journey, know this: It’s never too late. You’re never too far gone. The legacy you want to build for your family starts with you.

Here’s to one year of purpose and to many more. As usual, I'm rooting for you!

With love,

Cicely | Dear Family Counseling

Call to Action

Want to start your own healing journey? Visit www.dearfamilycounseling.com to schedule a free consultation or refer someone you love.