Caring Therapists: A Holistic Approach to Mental Health and Community Well-being

When Amanda Landry first ventured into the field of mental health counseling 18 years ago, she envisioned a practice that would not only deliver top-tier therapy but also prioritize accessibility and community-centered care. Today, as co-founder of Caring Therapists, Amanda has transformed that vision into a thriving network of practices that spans Florida, providing high-quality mental health services to individuals and families across eight locations.

Origins and Mission

Amanda’s journey into private practice began in 2013 as a solo practitioner, breaking away from traditional agency-based models that often left therapists underpaid and overworked. Recognizing the need for an alternative, Amanda, alongside her husband, David Landry—a psychologist—set out to create a therapist-led, insurance-accepting group practice. “We wanted to build a practice that not only served the community’s needs but also allowed therapists to thrive,” Amanda shared.

From its inception, Caring Therapists has been dedicated to understanding the unique needs of the communities it serves. This personalized approach, combined with a commitment to insurance accessibility, has enabled the practice to meet the growing demand for mental health services while removing financial barriers for many clients.

Innovative Approach and Community Impact

The growth of Caring Therapists was catalyzed by its adaptability, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many businesses faced uncertainty, the demand for mental health services soared. Amanda credits their ability to pivot quickly, implementing virtual therapy services while maintaining a robust in-person presence. This adaptability, coupled with their focus on community engagement, has solidified Caring Therapists as a leader in mental health care.

Amanda emphasizes that the practice’s success stems from its commitment to in-person therapy, which has remained a cornerstone despite the rise of virtual care. “People want to connect with their mental health professionals face-to-face. In-person therapy accounts for 70% of our sessions, demonstrating how much clients value this connection,” Amanda explained.

Building a Thriving Team

Caring Therapists operates with a team-first philosophy, fostering an environment where therapists feel empowered and supported. With over 80 therapists and 10 administrative staff members, the practice balances flexibility with structure. Employees benefit from comprehensive training in specialized areas such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), along with access to supervision and mentorship programs.

Amanda and her team have also focused on cultivating a workplace culture that promotes collaboration and well-being. Regular team-building events, holiday celebrations, and an emphasis on work-life balance help create a sense of belonging among staff, even in an industry often marked by isolation.

Challenges and Resilience

Like many businesses, Caring Therapists faced its share of challenges during the pandemic. Initially unsure how the shift to remote work and increased demand would impact the practice, Amanda and her team leaned into technology and community support to not only sustain operations but grow exponentially.

“While the pandemic brought immense stress and anxiety to individuals, it also underscored the critical importance of mental health care,” Amanda reflected. “We were there to meet the moment, ensuring our clients received the support they needed.”

A Vision for the Future

As Caring Therapists continues to grow, Amanda remains focused on thoughtful expansion. By targeting suburban areas with high demand for services and partnering with insurance providers, the practice aims to bridge the gap in accessible mental health care. Amanda also plans to continue investing in her team’s development, ensuring that both clients and employees benefit from the practice’s growth.

The Significance of the GrowFL Award

Being named a 2024 GrowFL Florida Companies to Watch honoree is a testament to Caring Therapists’ impact on both its industry and community. For Amanda, the recognition validates the years of hard work and dedication to improving lives. “It’s an honor to be recognized for doing what we love—helping people. This award is a reminder that our work truly makes a difference,” she said.

Advice for Entrepreneurs

Amanda encourages budding entrepreneurs to think creatively and remain open to new ideas. Reflecting on her decision to accept insurance despite industry norms, she shared, “Don’t be afraid to do things differently. Sometimes, the unconventional path leads to the greatest success.”

Community Involvement

True to its mission, Caring Therapists is deeply rooted in its community. From working with local schools and hospitals to providing specialized testing for ADHD and autism, the practice has become a trusted resource for families across Florida. Through its continued commitment to accessibility, quality care, and community engagement, Caring Therapists exemplifies the spirit of GrowFL’s Florida Companies to Watch. As Amanda and her team look to the future, they remain steadfast in their goal: to provide exceptional mental health care that empowers individuals and strengthens communities, one session at a time.