Christy Pennison,
LPC-S

When I first became a counselor, I thought my life’s work would always be sitting across from individuals, helping them navigate life’s challenges one conversation at a time. And for many years, that’s exactly what I did. I was honored to hold space for each person I met along the way—individuals who had the courage to be vulnerable and the bravery to ask for help. Those moments were sacred, and they shaped me as much as I hope I helped support them. But over time, something shifted.

I began to see that the impact I wanted to make went beyond the therapy room. I had a vision—one of creating an organization that could touch thousands of lives, not just the handful I could see each week. I dreamed of building a place where people from all walks of life could come, feel truly seen, heard, and understood, and begin the process of healing in an authentic, safe space.

Because I believe this with my whole heart: when people have a space where they can be their real selves without fear or judgment, healing happens. And when healing happens, it doesn’t stop with one person—it ripples out, transforming families, strengthening communities, and shaping a better future.

My Role Today

These days, I no longer provide counseling directly. Instead, my passion is leading and growing our team so we can continue to serve thousands of individuals across Central Louisiana. My focus is on cultivating an environment where our therapists feel supported, valued, and empowered to bring their authentic selves to their clients—because when our team thrives, so do our clients.

I spend my days developing systems, expanding our reach, and ensuring that we can meet the mental health needs of our community for years to come. In short, I work behind the scenes so that healing can happen up front.

A Bit About My Journey

My path to founding Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting began long before our doors opened in 2019. After earning my Bachelor’s in Sociology from Louisiana College and my Master’s in School Counseling from Northwestern State University, I spent over a decade in the mental health field.

I served as a child forensic interviewer, where I learned the power of listening with compassion in the most difficult circumstances. Between that role and becoming a Regional Director of home and community-based services programs, I worked as a Multisystemic Therapy (MST) therapist, supporting teens at risk of becoming involved in the juvenile justice system. I also worked at the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program, helping youth build resilience, self-discipline, and new paths forward. Alongside these roles, I provided therapy to children, teens, and adults, deepening my belief in the resilience of the human spirit.

These experiences ignited my passion to make seeking mental health support not only okay, but encouraged—removing barriers and stigma, and creating a welcoming place where true transformation can happen. In 2019, with a leap of faith and a clear mission, I opened Be Inspired Counseling & Consulting. What started with one therapist in a small office has grown into a thriving team serving multiple locations and offering telehealth across Louisiana. Every step of the way, my mission has been to inspire hope for change—and to ensure our clients experience authentic, compassionate care.