Hey there, Cincinnati! I’m Mike Madanat, the founder of Authentic Life Counseling, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself and a new collaboration with CityBeat: the “What’s On Your Mind, Cincinnati?” advice column.
In December 2022, I graduated from Xavier’s Clinical Mental Health Counseling program and became a Licensed Professional Counselor here in the heart of Cincinnati. This city is not just my place of work; it’s my home — a vibrant place I’ve come to love. Exploring Cincinnati’s diverse food scene and culture, challenging disc golf courses and immersing myself in its vast parks have been incredible parts of my journey.
My background as a second-generation Jordanian and Palestinian immigrant enriches my therapeutic approach. It provides me with a deep understanding of the cultural nuances, familial dynamics and the intersection of identity that individuals from culturally diverse backgrounds may experience. This cultural insight allows me to create a safe and empathetic space where clients feel truly understood, fostering a more effective therapeutic relationship. Embracing diversity and appreciating the richness of each individual’s story is at the core of my practice at Authentic Life Counseling and what I hope the readers of the advice column feel with each post.
My passion is helping people navigate the labyrinth of life’s challenges and embrace their most authentic selves. However, I also understand that not everyone is ready or able to engage in therapy. This understanding led me to join forces with CityBeat to launch an advice column. The goal is simple: making mental health guidance accessible to all. Often, we feel like our struggles are unique, but in reality, many of us share similar challenges. Through the “What’s On Your Mind, Cincinnati?” advice column, I aim to create a sense of community where we can recognize that we’re not alone in our journeys. By reading or participating in this column, I hope you’ll find solace in knowing that others are facing similar hurdles, and together, we can uncover solutions to navigate life’s twists and turns.
In this advice column, I’m ready to dive into a wide spectrum of questions, whether they pertain to professional, friendship, or romantic relationships, stress management or the art of embracing change. Whatever is on your mind, I’m here to provide expert guidance, unwavering support, and those “a-ha” moments that lead you closer to living your most authentic life.
So, what’s brewing in your thoughts? What questions are keeping you up at night? Let’s connect, and together, we’ll embark on the journey toward living your best, most authentic life. Stay tuned for the first installment of the “What’s On Your Mind, Cincinnati?” advice column, coming your way in January 2024.
How to submit your questions
Each month, CityBeat will be publishing a question (or two) answered by Mike in our print issues and online. These questions can be related to personal relationships, your professional life, mental health issues or anything else you feel could use Michael’s guidance. Your identity will not be disclosed. Submit your burning questions now via email to advice@citybeat.com.
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This article appears in Nov 29 – Dec 12, 2023.
