If you’re searching for a therapist in Madison WI, I’d love to share my story of how I became one — and why this work means so much to me.

Get gentle monthly support and mental health tips from the HEART Counseling team — direct to your inbox.

Why I Chose to Become a Therapist in Madison WI

The question I get asked most often: Why did you choose to change careers and become a therapist? I’ve been asked this over a hundred times in the past few years — by classmates, friends, neighbors, former colleagues, even other parents on the sidelines of my kids’ games.

Becoming a therapist wasn’t one single decision. It was the culmination of moments, prayers, and conversations that slowly reshaped my path.

My Corporate Career Before Counseling

Before this new chapter, I spent 18 years in the corporate business world, working in consumer goods, medical devices, and diagnostics. I traveled globally, collaborated with diverse teams, and led multimillion-dollar projects.

Those years taught me a lot about developing people, leading teams, and learning from leaders all over the world. And while I enjoyed that work, I noticed I was most fulfilled when I was encouraging and supporting others. StrengthsFinder confirmed what I already sensed — I’m a natural encourager and developer, driven by responsibility and belief.

A Turning Point Toward Counseling

Even during a successful corporate career, I felt a quiet pull toward something different. I had always loved psychology and human development — my bookshelves were stacked with books on those topics. There was a small but steady glimmer in my heart that maybe, someday, I’d become a counselor.

That “someday” came sooner than expected when my family and I experienced a devastating house fire. We all made it out safely, but the loss was life-changing. Watching our home burn is an image I’ll never forget.

In the aftermath, neighbors, family, and friends surrounded us with care. We also met with a trained counselor who helped us process what we’d been through. That experience reminded me of how trauma changes us — how it reshapes the way we relate to ourselves, others, and the world.

Stepping Into My Calling as a Therapist in Madison WI

That season of loss clarified what I wanted for the next chapter of my life. I realized that if I could use my heart for others and my own experiences to support people who are suffering, stuck, or simply in need of encouragement, I’d be stepping into more than a job — I’d be stepping into my calling.

Today, I’m passionate about walking alongside pre-teens, teens, and adults who have experienced trauma, as well as those navigating the everyday challenges of work, family, and expectations.

One of my favorite quotes is from Elisabeth Kübler-Ross:

“The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths…beautiful people do not just happen.”

If my story resonates with you and you’re looking for a therapist in Madison WI, I’d be honored to walk with you.

Work With Amy Racki, Therapist in Madison WI

If you’re looking for a therapist in Madison WI, I am currently accepting new clients. I specialize in supporting pre-teens, teens, and adults who are navigating trauma, life transitions, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of everyday life.

You don’t have to go through this alone. Learn more about working with me >>HERE

Ready for extra support? Meet with one of our Madison therapists and start your next chapter.