Igor Light LMHC, NCC, BCC

- What motivated you to pursue a career as a therapist?

For as long as I can remember, I've held a deep conviction that every human being has the potential to live a truly meaningful and fulfilling life. This belief was nurtured through my studies in philosophy and contemplative practices, and it ultimately led me to psychotherapy.

As an existential therapist, I see my clients as fellow travelers on the same journey—toward a more authentic and purposeful existence. There is something profoundly meaningful about sharing this transformative journey with another person. Witnessing someone move toward their authentic self enriches not only their life but my own as well. This reciprocal nature of growth is what makes this work so deeply rewarding.

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- What should someone know about working with you?

I believe that if you're seeking therapy, you're ready to transform your life. The therapeutic relationship itself is one of the most powerful catalysts for change, so developing a trustworthy, authentic connection is my highest priority.
However, relationships don't happen by accident—they require mutual commitment and personal growth from both people. As Carl Rogers, one of my most esteemed influences, said: "The degree to which I can create relationships which facilitate the growth of others as separate persons is a measure of the growth I have achieved in myself." I take my own growth seriously, and I'll encourage you to do the same.

What this means practically: Therapy with me isn't passive. I'll invite you to engage actively—not just during our sessions, but in your life beyond our meetings. Growth happens when we bring our whole selves to the work, with honesty, curiosity, and courage. If you're willing to show up authentically, I'll meet you there.

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- What are you most excited about within the evolving mental health landscape?

I'll be honest—I have mixed feelings about the current emphasis on symptom reduction in mental health treatment. While alleviating symptoms can bring relief, a narrow focus on symptoms alone often misses the deeper question: Why are these symptoms here?

I view symptoms—whether emotional, cognitive, physical, or behavioral—as a compass pointing toward what I call "existential discontent." This is the discomfort that arises when we're not living in alignment with our authentic selves or fulfilling our potential. As Abraham Maslow said: "If you plan on being anything less than you are capable of being, you will probably be unhappy all the days of your life."

What excites me most is the growing recognition that humans are complex, whole beings—not just bundles of symptoms to be managed. There's an increasing shift toward integrative, person-centered approaches that honor each individual's unique experience, values, and context.

I'm grateful to draw upon the best ideas from philosophy, humanistic psychology, existentialism, and evidence-based practices to create something holistic. By understanding who you are and what you're striving for, we can move beyond symptom management and empower you to live an authentic, purposeful life. That's the future of mental health I'm working toward.

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