Hello, I’m Heather Friend, MSW, LCSW, LMSW,  a licensed clinical social worker, trauma-informed educator, and founder of TheraGuide Essentials™, a training series built to support new and emerging therapists in developing strong clinical foundations.

With over a decade of experience across child welfare, early intervention, inpatient psychiatry, and community-based mental health, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to transition from the classroom into the therapy room. I created TheraGuide to bridge that gap, with courses that are practical, empowering, and rooted in real-world clinical wisdom.

My teaching focuses on the emotional, ethical, and relational skills that therapists need but are rarely taught in school, like managing nervous system activation, navigating countertransference, building presence, and staying grounded in moments of uncertainty.

Whether you are beginning your practicum, starting your first clinical job, or returning to the field, my goal is to help you feel more confident, clear, and connected in your role as a healer.

Let’s grow your practice from the inside out, together.