““You are not the darkness you endured. You are the light that refused to surrender.”
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More about Mary
THERAPY, COACHING
Mary LeRouge, LCSW
In 2012 I reached a pivotal point in my career. I worked for many years in management with a great company. One day I realized that management was not where my heart was at. I wanted to show up in the world in a different way. I took a leap of faith (with plenty of fear right alongside me) and started back at the beginning, seeking out positions in the human services field. It was easily one of the scariest decisions I ever made, and included a significant pay cut in order to move forward. I had three children under the age of 10 and returned to school to pursue my master’s degree. Many nights were filled with exhaustion and occasional tears as I balanced caring for young kids, attending a graduate program, and working full-time. Following your heart isn’t always easy.
I worked with individuals with developmental disabilities, went through training for behavioral analysis and then moved on to completed my masters in social work at Fordham. I worked in child welfare in Orange county while in my masters program and transitioned into a role overseeing a substance abuse program that served adolescents in the Hudson Valley. I moved through different clinical positions throughout the Hudson Valley until I found where my heart felt at home.
I started my private practice in Middletown, NY in 2020 with a clear and profound vision to empower individuals as they navigate through various stages of their lives. As a dedicated mom, a career-focused woman, and someone who has a deep passion for health, I aspire to show others a meaningful way to ignite their own light and confidently follow their own unique path.
A fun little aside about me… I love Crossfit. It is a primary means of self-care for me and I credit it for changing my relationship with my body. I love to run, bike or any mode of movement, though you will likely never find me jumping out of a plane.
Mocha
Mocha is currently in training to become a therapy dog, and her gentle demeanor and intuitive nature make her an excellent candidate for this important role. With each session, she is learning to provide comfort and companionship to those in need, observing how her presence can create a calming impact on others. Mocha’s playful spirit, combined with her ability to approach people with a sense of warmth and empathy, highlights the potential she has to brighten the days of individuals facing various challenges. Through her training, she is not only growing in confidence but also embracing the responsibility of bringing joy and support to those who would benefit from her unconditional love.