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November 3, 2025 β€’ 61 mins

I got to sit down with Jennifer Prendergast, LMHC, owner of Placid Soul Counseling, to talk about the messy middle of finding yourself in your 20s and what it really looks like to grow through it.

Jennifer shares her journey from navigating imposter syndrome and early career doubt to building a private practice that actually aligns with her life. We unpack how childhood experiences shape our core beliefs, why attachment styles play out so strongly in relationships, and how to create a more flexible, grace-filled plan for your life.

πŸ”₯ Spark Notes Version

  • Failure is a sign of growth, not a setback.
  • Attachment styles reveal where we still need healing.
  • Imposter syndrome is normal β€” especially when you’re evolving.
  • You can change your path without losing your purpose.


πŸ‘₯ Connect with the Guest

Jennifer Prendergast, LMHC

Website: placidsoulcounseling.com


πŸ•“ Episode Chapters

00:00 β€” Embracing Failure in Your 20s

02:45 β€” The Journey to Becoming a Therapist

05:23 β€” Imposter Syndrome and Early Career Challenges

08:04 β€” Taking the Leap: Starting a Private Practice

10:57 β€” Navigating Fear and Uncertainty

13:37 β€” Understanding Clients in Their 20s

16:20 β€” The Impact of Comparison on Mental Health

19:14 β€” Identifying Core Beliefs and Patterns

21:55 β€” The Role of Childhood in Adult Relationships

24:56 β€” Curiosity Over Judgment in Therapy

27:27 β€” Attachment Styles and Their Influence

30:22 β€” The Importance of Self-Reflection

32:07 β€” Understanding Attachment Styles

34:47 β€” The Evolution of Attachment Styles

37:23 β€” Navigating Relationships in Your 20s

42:52 β€” Becoming More Secure in Relationships

46:40 β€” The Anxious-Avoidant Dynamic

51:59 β€” Communicating Needs Effectively

🌿 Work with Samantha

If you’re ready to begin your own healing journey or explore therapy visit:

πŸ‘‰ wellnesshubtherapy.com


Follow along for inspiration, wellness events, and community connection:

🌊 @thewellnesshub.ri

πŸ’¬ @wellnesshubtherapy


⚠️ Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and inspirational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health services.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.


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