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

Hi Michelle, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
I learned early in my career that you cannot do anything alone. You need the support of your community to acheive your goals. My community is the most valuable resource I have in my life. I am constantly consulting and learning from others. I could never have learned the information I’ve learned from a book or class or on my own. Practical experience and sharing of stories is how I became successful.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’m really proud of the work I get to do with my clients. I worked at treatment centers for many years, and I got a beautiful education on how I wanted to treat clients and what type of clients I wanted to work with. In the beginning of my private practice, I was just happy to have people wanting to work with me, I wasn’t very selective. As my practice has grown and I’ve grown, I’ve been able to narrow down my specialties, so that I’m doing the kind of work I want to be doing. It’s been challenging coming to these conclusions, and narrowing down my focus, because by nature, I want to help everyone. But ultimately I’ve learned the importance of authenticity, and working in my niche is where I can be most authentic.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love this community. I often take friends to Balboa Island or Laguna Beach for a nice walk around. I enjoy Huskins Coffee or Shirleys Bagels for morning snacks and coffee. I would take them out on a boat, for a harbor cruise, usually stopping by the Cannery or Billy’s for drinks or lunch. I think enjoying the nature of Newport is what draws my attention. We are a coastal town, and whether it be the farmers market at Newport Pier or a milkshake at the shake shack, being close proximity to the ocean is nurturing.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
One person that stands out, as a friend and mentor, is Rachelle Marshall. She has been in private practice for many years, I knew her before I started to transition to this career, and she has been an invaluable resource for me. When I started my private practice in 2020, she encouraged me to do so. She told me, “all you need is a laptop and a ring light” and that is how I started. Any time I have questions or need a resource, I reach out to her first. She’s truly the greatest friend.

Website: www.hobsontherapy.com

Instagram: hobsontherapy

Image Credits
Michelle Hobson

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutSocal is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.