Healing with purpose: Stephanie Jackman expands inclusive therapy practice

June 24, 2025
Velvet Spicer for LaLew Public Relations

Stephanie Jackman’s journey into private practice began with a single, powerful observation: the mental health professionals serving Rochester’s children and families in the early 2000s didn’t reflect the communities they worked with. That realization, made while she was working in child welfare, became the catalyst for what is now a thriving and mission-driven business — Stephanie Jackman LCSW PLLC.

Jackman, a clinical therapist with more than two decades of experience, founded her behavioral health and consulting practice in 2010 after a decade of work in group homes, corrections and urban mental health clinics. From her base in Rochester, she leads a diverse team of clinicians and consultants providing culturally responsive therapy and mental wellness services.

Since its founding the practice has grown into a five-clinician team, including remote therapists in New York City and out of state, as well as a clinical director and administrative staff. Earlier this year, the business reached a significant milestone — receiving Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise (MWBE) certification from both New York State and Monroe County.

“It was a daunting process,” Jackman acknowledges of the MWBE certification, “but so worth it. It opens the door to partnerships, RFPs and subcontracting opportunities that help us expand our reach.”

A mission rooted in representation

Jackman’s mission has always been deeply personal. Early in her career, she often witnessed families of color being referred to therapists who didn’t share their cultural backgrounds—a barrier that contributed to mistrust and disengagement from care.

“There were very few Black or brown mental health professionals,” Jackman recalls. “And in our communities, we were taught, ‘what happens in the home stays in the home.’ Therapy wasn’t something we sought.”

Determined to change that, Jackman earned her Master’s in Social Work from Roberts Wesleyan College in 2003, as well as a Master’s degree in Human Development from the University of Rochester. She is also a proud member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and actively serves on the Monroe County Disaster Response Team.

“I want everyone to be able to partake in therapy services if they choose to,” she says. “Access and cultural connection are critical.”

Jackman has made it a priority to not only serve communities of color but to mentor and support future practitioners of color through coaching, sponsorship and clinical supervision. Her practice’s philosophy emphasizes empowerment over pathology.

“Many individuals come to therapy thinking they’re broken,” she says. “But my role is to help them build—build on the strengths they already have. It’s not about fixing brokenness; it’s about growth.”

Jackman has learned key business lessons along the way—chief among them, the importance of scaling. “You can’t do everything yourself,” she says. “I had to invest in a team: clinical director, billing support, administrative staff. That’s what allows the business to grow and our clients to get the best care.”

Despite the growth, Jackman acknowledges the occasional isolation of private practice, especially in a virtual era. “It’s rewarding, but it can be lonely,” she says. “There aren’t always other practitioners to lean on unless you’re intentional about making connections.”

Still, she finds balance by observing firm boundaries: “I don’t work weekends— no emails, no voicemails. Saturdays and Sundays are for my family and church.” Her faith, family and close-knit support system continue to be cornerstones of her personal and professional resilience.

Affordable access for all

One of Jackman’s proudest business decisions is also one of the most impactful: ensuring her practice accepts Medicaid and Medicare.

“Mental health services can be expensive. I wanted to eliminate that barrier for low-income families,” she says.

Her practice has also spent 15 years subcontracting with the New York State Department of Labor, providing mental health support for job seekers— including stress management, interpersonal skills and coping strategies. It’s work Jackman calls “deeply rewarding,” particularly when paired with her ongoing community mental wellness workshops.

Looking ahead

With MWBE certifications in place, the future is focused on strategic growth. Jackman plans to expand her clinical team by two therapists before the end of 2025 and pursue new partnerships through state and local contracting opportunities.

“I’m grateful we’ve built a team that reflects the diversity of our city,” she says. “That was always the goal—to make mental health accessible, inclusive and grounded in community.”

Jackman’s passion for serving the community is evident in every aspect of her work.

“There are so many other therapists people could choose. When they choose me, I see it as a responsibility and a privilege,” she says. “My service to them is to help them build—not because they’re broken, but because they deserve to thrive.”

From a one-woman mission sparked in a child welfare office to a flourishing behavioral health firm, Jackman’s path is a testament to leadership, representation and the power of purpose in business.