Her Story
About Tina
Tina McConnell has been working in the counseling and behavioral health field since beginning her career as a school counselor before transitioning into clinical mental health therapy. Since July 2025, she has served as a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in private practice, where she continues to expand her clinical experience while working toward full LPC licensure. Her professional focus is primarily on supporting children and families through play therapy and art therapy, while also providing counseling services to adult clients. Her long-term goal is to become fully licensed, establish her own counseling practice, and expand access to quality mental health services within her community.
McConnell is particularly proud of the positive impact she has made while working with children and adolescents in behavioral health. Witnessing clients make meaningful progress in their emotional well-being and reach important milestones in their treatment has been among her most rewarding professional experiences. Her four years of military service and transition into private practice also represent significant milestones in her career, reflecting her dedication, resilience, courage, and commitment to serving others. In addition to her clinical work, she serves as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), volunteering on behalf of children involved in the court system and advocating for their best interests and voices during difficult circumstances.
Originally from Germany, McConnell immigrated to the United States in 2005 and values maintaining close connections with family and friends. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with loved ones, reading for both personal and professional growth, and taking time to recharge. She also enjoys returning to Germany to visit family approximately every other year. Through her work, military service, advocacy, and personal experiences, McConnell remains committed to helping others navigate challenges, supporting emotional well-being, and creating opportunities for healing and positive change.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Tina
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, resilience, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Although my childhood dream of becoming a therapist was initially discouraged, I remained focused on my calling and continued pursuing a career dedicated to helping others. I have also benefited greatly from strong mentors who have encouraged my personal and professional growth, while prioritizing self-care has helped me maintain the resilience and balance necessary to continue moving forward.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received has come from several important mentors who have shaped my professional journey, including my clinical supervisor and a longtime Army friend who holds two Ph.D.s. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in the value of continuous education have inspired me to keep learning, growing, and challenging myself professionally. Their support has also reminded me to remain committed to my purpose and to continue developing both personally and professionally while making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the mental health profession is to make self-care a priority from the beginning. This work can be deeply rewarding, but it can also be emotionally demanding, so establishing healthy boundaries and taking care of your own well-being is essential to preventing burnout. I also strongly encourage every young professional to find a mentor who can provide guidance, perspective, and support throughout their career. Most importantly, I believe every therapist should have a therapist. Prioritizing your own mental health allows you to remain grounded, resilient, and better equipped to support the people you serve.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges for professionals entering the mental health counseling field is finding employment and securing opportunities to complete the supervised clinical hours required for full Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensure after graduate school. The transition from academic training to independent clinical practice can be challenging, particularly for new counselors who are building experience and working toward full licensure. At the same time, the field offers significant opportunities for professional growth and independence. Once fully licensed, counselors may have the opportunity to become self-employed, establish a private practice, and create a career structure that aligns with their professional goals and personal values.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Compassion, resilience, integrity, self-care, and service are the values that guide both my professional and personal life. I believe that caring for others begins with caring for oneself, which is why I prioritize maintaining my own well-being so I can be fully present for the people I serve. In my work, I strive to create a safe, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment where clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout their healing journey.
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