Isabel Farrell, PhD, LPC, NCC

Isabel Farrell, PhD, LPC, NCC, is an Associate Professor and Associate Department Chair in the Department of Counseling at Wake Forest University. Farrell discusses her work with immigrant clients and how to best serve this community.

Why did you decide to become a counselor?

Growing up, I was raised in health systems that emphasized holistic care, which gave me a strong foundation for understanding how interconnected physical and mental health truly are. I knew from my teenage years that I wanted to work in mental health, but in Venezuela where I grew up, counseling wasn’t really recognized as a profession. I was introduced to counseling as a career path in adulthood and realized it was the perfect way to combine my passion for mental health, my relationship-driven cultural self and my desire to serve others.

Tell us about your professional background and your areas of specialty.

I hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology, a master’s degree in counseling psychology and I’m trained in clinical mental health counseling. I’ve worked primarily with Spanish-speaking clients providing school-based therapy within educational systems and counseled survivors of domestic violence in shelter settings. Working in these environments taught me how to adapt my skills to meet the unique needs of each population and reinforced my commitment to culturally responsive care.

What do your licenses mean and who does it qualify you to provide counseling to?

I am a licensed professional counselor and a national certified counselor, and both signify that I have met rigorous educational, training and ethical standards. I am qualified to provide counseling to individuals, couples, families and groups across diverse populations. They also mean that I am held accountable to a professional code of ethics and the responsibilities of my role. My licenses allow me to work independently, assess client needs, develop treatment plans and provide therapeutic interventions.

If someone is searching for a counselor with expertise in working with the immigrant population, how would they find you or someone like you?

I believe the responsibility for connection rests with both counselor and client. Clients can search professional directories, where they can filter for multicultural or immigrant-focused expertise. Community centers, immigrant advocacy groups and faith-based organizations often maintain referral lists as well. Counselors who highlight bilingual services, multicultural counseling or immigrant mental health in their profiles make it easier for clients to identify them as a good fit. Counselors who want to serve marginalized communities can actively build relationships with local organizations, connect with stakeholders and make their presence known as safe and trustworthy professionals.

What do you think is the biggest misconception about counseling?

That counseling is only for people in crisis or those with severe mental illness. In reality, counseling is for everyone. Counseling can help people process difficult experiences, adjust to new identities, cope with stress or simply gain clarity in their lives. The more we normalize counseling as a resource for growth and wellness the more people will feel comfortable seeking support before challenges escalate.

What role do you think counseling plays in the delivery of mental health services in today’s society?

While we are not the only profession providing mental health care, our approach is wellness-oriented and strength-based. Counseling bridges the gap between prevention and treatment by offering accessible support before issues become overwhelming. We provide culturally sensitive care, complement psychiatric and medical services, and often act as advocates and educators. In today’s society, counselors are essential connectors, helping individuals navigate systems while promoting resilience and holistic well-being.

Why is it important for people to take their mental health seriously?

Mental health is one of the foundations of overall health. We often see physical symptoms that are directly tied to mental health struggles, and untreated mental health concerns can trigger or worsen other health conditions. Taking mental health seriously means recognizing it as equally important as physical health and investing in it to ensure balance, resilience and long-term wellness.

How can someone recognize when they should see a counselor?

Signs that counseling may be helpful include persistent sadness or anxiety, difficulty functioning in daily life, struggling with transitions such as immigration or loss, or feeling stuck in repetitive patterns. But ultimately, if someone believes they could benefit from counseling, that’s reason enough to seek it. Counseling doesn’t require a crisis; it can be a proactive step toward growth.

What gives you the most satisfaction in being a counselor and serving clients who are immigrants?

The most rewarding part of my work is witnessing transformation, seeing clients reclaim their voice, adapt to new environments and thrive despite systemic barriers. Serving immigrant clients is deeply meaningful because it allows me to honor their stories, celebrate their resilience and help them build a sense of belonging.