We had the good fortune of connecting with Parisa Malekzadeh and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Parisa, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I have worked in the mental health field since 2008 and I knew going into graduate school at the University of San Diego that I wanted to own my own practice. I wanted to be my own boss, manage my own schedule and make a difference because of all my experience both personally and professionally. I worked for different non profits to complete my hours for licensure and that experience was invaluable but also eye opening in how leadership can either be uplifting and supportive or a hinderance to growth. I had supervisors who were positive, encouraging and supportive and that is why I knew that I could do my own thing one day and be a positive influence in the mental health field.
As I navigated through my hours and worked with different people (families, kids, individuals, couples), I realized how much I enjoyed working with moms and couples which was unexpected.
I had my own unique experience as a mom and I wanted to support other moms. I see how helpful a supportive relationship can be (romantic, friendship, etc) and working with couples/partners is encouraging.
I also have a background in martial arts, hold a 4th degree black belt in Taekwondo and enjoyed teaching and working with people most of my life. I knew I wanted to help others and be supportive of life transitions as I have had several that were unexpected in my life. I got through these transitions with my support system and reaching out to therapists who helped guide me, challenged me and reminded me that I was allowed to be happy. I also wanted flexibility to enjoy my life with my daughter; to be able to be a mom, a friend, a daughter, and a therapist and be fully present to enjoy my life.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My brand is a butterfly which comes from my daughter’s love for butterflies and learning about the cycle of a butterfly during COVID when we were home. The name Mindful Therapy comes from exploring butterflies in the context of what they represent: transformation, beauty, freedom, resilience and connection. Staying mindful and present in day-to-day life is something I strive for and I wanted that motto involved in my practice. I also wanted to bring my love of being a mom, being a woman and putting family first along with connectedness into my practice and it finally became reality this year. It was not easy to quit a steady paying job, but it was time for me and I knew I had a lot to offer. I joined therapy groups/list serves in San Diego and over the last ten years I have also kept in touch with colleagues, clients, to build my network as I entered private practice.
There were always challenges along with way such as the LPCC license not being approved while I was in graduate school, taking longer to complete hours so I could be a mom, and navigating life as a single parent. However all of it showed me that I can do it with support and persistence.
I am most proud of starting a business and showing my daughter that women can do anything and find balance in a career and parenting. I come from a Persian background where we are a community and we take care of each other; I bring that into my practice and want my clients to know that their support system is important and their worth is seen in each therapy session. I have learned that being kind and honest with others is the best approach and being open to sharing your own story is key to being a good therapist. Treating every client as an individual rather than enforcing strict rules regarding cancellations, etc allows me have policies that fit clients and are flexible. The benefit of a small business is to provide myself and clients with flexibility and I love that piece for not only myself and my clients. I want my clients to see me as a human being and not just a therapist with a degree as it makes me more approachable and it helps others realize that I am genuinely here to be supportive in whatever goals they have for therapy.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
San Diego is a fun city!! There is so much to do and I would start with Liberty Station Market to wander around, explore yummy food and drinks and great atmosphere. I love the sushi in San Diego and would take any friend to RK sushi in Hillcrest. My daughter and I also love Balboa Park which has museums, place to walk around and a fun vibe so we spend a lot of time there. San Diego always has festivals, events going on and especially in the summer. There are Summer Movie in the Park which change locations every month and show family friendly movies outside which makes for a fun picnic and enjoyable evening. Since I love food, another one of my favorite spots is Tasty Noodle House on Convoy; some of the best noodles, ginger scallion beef and dishes I have had!
There are some fun hikes in San Diego as the weather is so beautiful. Torrey Pines is a favorite! And just a simple walk on the beach (La Jolla Shores or even Mission Bay) is fun.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The people in my life are the main reason why I am here and do what I do. I have such an amazing village of people; so much support and love that I feel every day. I cannot single out one person but I have never felt alone as a woman, business owner and mom. I will say that I come from a very close family whom I talk to daily and their constant support and encouragement is never ending! My daughter, parents and sister are my rock and have always encouraged me to go for what I want. I am part of several wonderful group of moms that are inspiring, encouraging and show me every day how strong women are. I have a network of therapists I collaborate with and organizations such as the Postpartum Health Alliance, Facebook therapists groups and alumni groups I keep in touch with daily.

Website: https://www.mindfultherapyca.com

Instagram: @mindfultherapyca

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parisa-malekzadeh-owner-at-mindful-therapy-03435213

Twitter: none

Other: https://www.sandiego.edu/news/detail.php?_focus=77007

parisa@mindfultherapyca.org
619-800-2146

Image Credits
Photos by Izabela Sekowska Photography

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