Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Pryor
Hi Lisa, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I discovered my passion for working with teens during my internship, which set the foundation for my career. Over the years, I’ve worked in a variety of settings, including inpatient hospitals, residential programs, and intensive outpatient programs (IOP). I earned my degree from the University of Phoenix, where I was told I wouldn’t be a “typical” therapist—a sentiment I’ve embraced wholeheartedly. I proudly identify as a Disney Adult, Potter-head, and all-around geek. I’m fluent in video game terminology, Disney song lyrics, and even the meanings behind different light-saber colors.
When I was contemplating starting my private practice, I sent a question out to the universe: “If this is what I’m meant to do, let the light-sabers make noise.” The light-sabers in our living room emit sound effects when their batteries are low, but they hadn’t made any noise for months. It was something significant to me but entirely out of my control. That afternoon, when I returned home, the light-sabers went off three times within a few hours. In that moment, I knew I was meant to start my private practice. Since then, whenever I find myself doubting my decision, they go off again, reminding me I’m on the right path.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The journey hasn’t always been easy. Transitioning from a corporate salary to relying on insurance payments was a significant financial challenge. In the early days, there were weeks when my schedule was nearly empty, and it was difficult to make ends meet.
One of the hardest parts of being a therapist is witnessing a client’s pain and knowing I can’t fix their problems for them. Healing is their journey—I can only sit with them in their pain and offer support. Some days, I come home carrying the weight of the emotions I’ve helped process, and I need time to decompress before I can fully engage with my own home life.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
At Pop Culture Counseling, we strive to meet clients where they are and use what they love to help them develop meaningful skills. Our approach incorporates evidence-based modalities such as DBT, CBT, and experiential learning, while also weaving in pop culture references (roll credits), geek speak, and media to make therapeutic concepts more relatable and engaging. We’re passionate about helping teens and young adults grow into the person they aspire to be, one level at a time.
What sets me apart as a therapist is my unique approach to therapy. In grad school, I was told to be more “professional” and conform to traditional norms, with the implication that Disney and therapy couldn’t coexist. But I proved otherwise. Through the Geek Therapy community, I discovered other therapists like me who embrace their individuality. Over the years, clients have even described me as a unicorn—something rare and different.
One of the things I’m most proud of is my office space. It doesn’t look like a typical therapy office with ocean prints or standard motivational quotes. Instead, it’s filled with Disney plushies, a giant teddy bear named Sherbert, boxes of Legos, and coloring books. The walls feature artwork from clients, showcasing their unique perspectives on mental health. It’s a space designed to feel comfortable, creative, and inspiring.
I’m currently accepting new clients, working primarily with adolescents and young adults, though I also enjoy working with “adult-lescents.” Most of my sessions are individual, but I’m open to family, couples, and group sessions when appropriate.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
It’s okay to be yourself and still be a great therapist. You don’t have to conform to the stereotypical image of what a therapist “should” look like. Most days, I wear jeans and a t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt because that’s what feels authentic to me. The key is to practice therapy in the way that feels right for you—your clients will sense that authenticity. The ones who are meant to work with you will find their way to you.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://popculturecounselingut.com
- Instagram: @popculturecounseling
- Facebook: @popculturecounseling
