The Journey to Still Waters — Why I Opened My Private Practice
If you’ve found your way here, welcome. My name is Anna “Annie” Lee Flores, MS, LPC, and launching Still Waters Counseling has been one of the most meaningful steps in my personal and professional journey. This practice wasn’t born overnight, it grew slowly, quietly, and intentionally over years of life experience, healing, and service. Today, I’d love to share the story behind it.
From Behind the Camera to Sitting Across from the Heart
For the past 6 years, my world revolved around photography, capturing seniors, athletes, families, and countless moments that became chapters in people’s lives. What began as a small dream grew into a full studio, a thriving senior rep program, and a creative space I poured my heart into.
But over time, something deeper stirred within me. As I photographed teenagers, I found myself listening to their stories, the pressure they carried, the anxiety behind their smiles, and the quiet ways they were learning to navigate an overwhelming world.
Their vulnerability pulled me in. And I realized something important:
I didn’t just want to capture their lives. I wanted to support their lives.
This was the beginning of a shift. A calling.
Answering a Calling to Mental Health
Long before photography, I had always been drawn to helping people. I was an LPC before I was a full time photographer, but something tragic happened in my life and I was so heart broken I couldn’t find a way to to help others heal until I myself was healed. Before that I was thriving as a counselor. Pulling away from that to pursue photography full time and work with teens and athletes was helping me heal and I didn’t even realize it. Just like a movie, one day I woke up with what I felt was a calling to return to helping in the mental health field. I was ready. I was healed and ready to help others heal.
Why Still Waters?
The name “Still Waters” grew from a personal blend of faith, mindfulness, and hope.
It reflects a truth I’ve lived and witnessed:
When we are overwhelmed, stressed, hurt, or lost, the mind feels turbulent.
But healing begins in the moments we slow down, breathe, and allow the waters of life to settle.
Still Waters is a space where clients can:
Put down what they’re carrying
Feel seen without judgment
Learn tools to calm their nervous system
Reconnect with who they were created to be
In my practice, I integrate evidence-based therapy with mindfulness techniques that help stabilize symptoms, regulate emotions, and bring clarity back to the mind.
I also honor the spiritual side of healing when clients desire it, understanding that mental, emotional, and spiritual restoration often intertwine.
Closing One Chapter to Begin Another
Deciding to close my photography studio was emotional and deeply meaningful. It represented 17 years of growth, creativity, and connection, and I will forever be grateful for the young people and families who trusted me with their stories.
But seasons change. And while photography taught me how to see people, counseling taught me how to walk with them.
Opening Still Waters isn’t just a business decision.It’s a calling, a purpose, and a way to serve my community on a deeper level.
What You Can Expect from My Blog
This space will be a blend of:
Mental health education
Stress-reduction tools
Mindfulness practices
Encouragement for teens, adults, and parents
Personal reflections from my journey as a therapist and business owner
My hope is that each post feels like a moment of pause, a gentle breath, a safe place to reflect, and maybe even a reminder that you’re not alone.
Thank You for Being Here
Whether you’re a former photography client, a current counseling client, a parent, a teen, or someone simply navigating the ups and downs of life, thank you.
Still Waters exists because of the people I’ve met, the stories I’ve held, and the calling God placed on my heart.
I’m honored to walk with you.
— Annie