LaSaundria Walker, M.Ed., LPCA, is a woman of faith. Yet when God told her to leave a job she adored, she didn’t listen. After all, she thought she would become director of the mental health agency where she was employed and retire there.
That was 2018 and her disobedience came with a cost.
“It eventually got to the point where my job, that place that was once one of peace and purpose, became unbearable,” Walker, an Augusta native, said. “I knew that His plan didn’t include going to another agency or practice, but that He still wanted me to do the work of mental health. So, on a word and a lot of prayers, Beyond Play Counseling and Wellness Center, LLC, was formed and opened its doors in late March 2021.”
Beyond Play specializes in play therapy services which is an evidence-based treatment that utilizes the child’s natural language of play. Walker, a licensed therapist, and mother of two, provides individual and group therapy sessions for children and adolescents ages 3-17. Beyond Play also serves as a psychoeducational consultant to educational settings in private and public sectors. Additionally, Walker, who is the sole proprietor, offers corporate training and workshops focused on mental wellness in the workplace.
She recalls trials along the way.
“When I resigned from my full-time position, I had no idea how I would meet my personal expenses, let alone maintain a private practice,” she said. “I literally had my last paycheck and a few dollars from my 401k. Yet, I knew that God gave me a word and I trusted Him as a provider, and I would receive unanticipated financial support from the most unexpected sources.
“Provision has shown up in the form of childcare when I am tired or overwhelmed or as a home-cooked meal or even a brief word of encouragement. During these moments, I know it’s nothing but God.”
She truly believes the work she does with children and their families is for God’s glory. She prays for every aspect of the practice, down to the toys used in the play therapy room.
“I realize that whether I have 10 clients or 100, God will provide exactly what I need,” Walker said. “I am prayerful that I can leave a legacy for my children that emphasizes financial health and generational wealth. But more importantly, I want them to leave a legacy that gives them a passion to serve others with humility as Jesus did.
“For my community, particularly the faith community, I am hopeful that the seeds that are planted in our young people blossom into trees that bear the fruit of mental health. My goal is that the next generation of young people will receive access to mental health care without the burdens of stigma.”
Beyond Play Counseling and Wellness Center is located at 920 Houndslake Drive, Aiken. Contact them at 706-750-9510 or find them on social media.
