Meet Yael VanGruber

Yael, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.

One of the biggest risks I took was creating a counseling practice that integrates traditional relationship and marriage counseling with creativity, mindfulness, and holistic approaches to personal growth. While conventional counseling often focuses on communication and behavioral tools, I found that many individuals and couples also needed opportunities for self-expression, reflection, and reconnecting with their authentic selves.

Choosing this path required stepping outside the traditional framework and trusting my belief that healing can occur through multiple channels. There was uncertainty in building a practice that combined established therapeutic methods with creative and wellness-based approaches, but I felt strongly that people needed a more comprehensive way to navigate life’s challenges.

Throughout my work, I have seen how creativity, whether through artistic expression, mindfulness practices, or other forms of self-discovery, can help people access emotions and insights that are often difficult to express through words alone. These experiences reinforced my conviction that meaningful transformation happens when people feel supported not only intellectually, but emotionally and creatively as well.

The risk was worth taking because it allowed me to develop a practice that reflects my values and serves clients in a deeper, more personalized way. I have witnessed individuals gain confidence, couples rebuild trust, and families create healthier patterns of communication and connection. These moments continue to remind me that growth often begins when we are willing to step beyond what is familiar and embrace new possibilities.

Looking back, the experience taught me that some of the most rewarding opportunities come from trusting your vision, even when the outcome is uncertain. By embracing both innovation and compassion, I was able to create a path that supports healing, resilience, and meaningful change in the lives of others.

Yael, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

My name is Yael VanGruber, and I am a relationship and marriage counselor, artist counselor, and jewelry designer. My work is centered around helping people build healthier relationships—with their partners, with others, and most importantly, with themselves.

I was drawn to counseling because I have always been fascinated by human connection and the ways our relationships shape every aspect of our lives. Over the years, I saw how many individuals and couples struggled with communication, self-worth, life transitions, and emotional challenges, often feeling isolated and unsure where to turn. I wanted to create a safe and supportive space where people could feel heard, understood, and empowered to grow.

What makes my approach unique is that I believe healing and personal growth are not limited to traditional talk therapy. While evidence-based counseling techniques are at the foundation of my work, I also appreciate the value of creativity, mindfulness, and self-expression as tools for transformation. My experience as an artist counselor and jewelry designer has taught me that creativity can help people access emotions, insights, and strengths that are sometimes difficult to express through words alone.

Through counseling, coaching, workshops, and creative practices, I help clients navigate relationship challenges, improve communication, build confidence, manage life transitions, and develop healthier patterns in their personal and professional lives. My goal is not simply to solve immediate problems, but to help people create lasting change and deeper fulfillment.

What I am most proud of is the impact I have witnessed in the lives of the people I serve. Whether it is a couple rebuilding trust, an individual rediscovering their confidence, or an artist finding the courage to pursue their vision, those moments of growth and transformation are what inspire me every day.

If there is one thing I want people to know about me and my work, it is that I believe everyone has the capacity to grow, heal, and create a more meaningful life. My role is to provide support, guidance, and encouragement while helping people uncover the strengths that already exist within them. At the heart of everything I do is a commitment to connection, creativity, compassion, and personal transformation.

Any advice for managing a team?

My advice for managing a team and maintaining high morale is to remember that people perform their best when they feel valued, respected, and connected to a larger purpose. Whether in a counseling practice, creative environment, or business setting, strong relationships are the foundation of a healthy and productive team.

One of the most important things a leader can do is create an environment where communication is open and honest. Team members should feel comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and expressing concerns without fear of judgment. When people feel heard, they become more engaged and invested in the organization’s success.

I also believe that recognition matters. Celebrating accomplishments, acknowledging effort, and expressing genuine appreciation can have a powerful impact on morale. People want to know that their contributions are meaningful and that their work makes a difference.

Another key factor is leading with empathy. Every team member brings unique strengths, challenges, and life experiences to the workplace. Effective leaders take the time to understand their people, support their growth, and provide guidance when needed. As a relationship counselor, I have learned that trust and connection are essential ingredients in any successful relationship, including professional ones.

Finally, maintaining high morale requires balance. Encouraging creativity, personal well-being, and healthy boundaries helps prevent burnout and promotes long-term success. When people feel supported both professionally and personally, they are more motivated, resilient, and committed to achieving shared goals.

In my experience, the strongest teams are not necessarily those with the most talent, but those built on trust, communication, appreciation, and a genuine sense of community.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building an audience on social media has been less about chasing numbers and more about building genuine connections. As a relationship and marriage counselor, I quickly realized that people are drawn to authenticity, trust, and meaningful conversations. My goal was never simply to gain followers; it was to create a space where people felt understood, supported, and inspired.

In the beginning, I focused on sharing content that reflected my values and expertise. I spoke about relationships, communication, personal growth, emotional well-being, and the challenges many people face but often hesitate to discuss openly. Rather than trying to appeal to everyone, I concentrated on serving the people who could genuinely benefit from my message.

Over time, I learned that consistency matters more than perfection. Some of the posts that resonated most were not highly polished—they were honest, relatable, and offered practical value. Social media became an extension of the work I do every day: listening, educating, encouraging, and creating connection.

My advice to anyone building a social media presence is to focus on trust before growth. Share content that is authentic to who you are and the impact you want to make. Be patient, engage with your community, and remember that meaningful relationships are built one conversation at a time. An audience is not just a collection of followers; it is a community of people who connect with your message and believe in your work.

The most important lesson I have learned is that authenticity is sustainable. Trends come and go, but when you show up consistently as yourself and provide genuine value, people notice. The strongest communities are built on trust, credibility, and a sincere desire to help others.