HBB Star – Cassie Shropshire

We got to connect with another rising star in our Huntsville community. Cassie Shropshire a counselor/therapist on the rise. Check out our conversation below:

Please tell us a little about you. Where you are from, what’s your upbringing?

I’m Cassie, originally from Summerville, a small town in NW Georgia. I earned my bachelor’s degree in psychology and my master’s in Counseling Psychology from Alabama A&M University. As a licensed therapist, I proudly provide services in Alabama, Florida, and Georgia. My heart is dedicated to creating community for Black women and inspiring us to dream big and go after it. I’m also the co-founder of The Black Girl Burnout Society, a nonprofit focused on helping Black women navigate burnout and embrace the power of rest. When I’m not working, you’ll find me traveling, soaking up the outdoors, being an auntie, and trying to simply enjoy life’s little joys.

What inspired you to start your own business?

Save It for Therapy was born out of my own personal struggles with mental health and the desire to create a safe space for others who are facing similar challenges. Because of the stigma around mental health, especially in Black and Brown communities, I realized how many people were silently suffering without access to the help they needed. The loss of my father in 2022 was a turning point that pushed me to pursue my passion for mental wellness. I wanted to create a place where people could feel seen, heard, and supported without fear of judgment while navigating their mental health journey. It is a space where healing is a priority and every person is welcome.

What is unique about your business? Tell us a bit more.

Save It for Therapy is not just another counseling practice; it’s a holistic wellness hub. Alongside traditional therapy, we offer workshops, community events, and resources that support emotional, mental, and physical healing. What sets us apart is our focus on addressing the tough conversations that many of us have been taught to avoid—those hard topics that impact our mental well-being but are often swept under the rug. Through our community conversations, we’re fostering dialogue, breaking down stigma, and promoting healing. We believe in the power of partnership and collaboration, working with other businesses to give people what they truly need. By joining forces with like-minded organizations, we can expand the services and support we offer, creating a network of care that truly helps people heal and thrive.

What have been your biggest challenges, and how have you overcome them?

One of my biggest challenges has been navigating the balance between building a business and maintaining my own mental health. As a therapist and entrepreneur, it can be easy to get caught up in the demands of others while neglecting my own well-being. To overcome this, I’ve had to learn the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and building a support system. I’ve also had to embrace the fact that I can’t do everything myself, and seeking help when needed has been a game changer. Another challenge has been the stigma around mental health, particularly in Black communities. However, by creating Save It for Therapy and the Black Girl Burnout Society, I’ve been able to help shift the conversation and provide spaces where people can heal without judgment. It hasn’t been easy, but leaning into vulnerability and authenticity has helped me build resilience.

If you could speak to your younger self, just starting out, what advice would you give him/her?

The advice I’d give my younger self is to not let fear hold you back, trust the gifts God has given you, and understand that it takes a team to build a dream. When I first started my business, I thought I could do everything on my own, but I quickly realized that I can only do so much. I need the right people around me to help bring my vision to life.

What’s your dream/the end game?

My dream for Save It for Therapy is to become a household name with locations nationwide. I want us to be a go-to, accessible, and safe space for people who typically don’t have easy access to mental health services. Every time someone hears the name or sees the purple couch, I want them to immediately think of mental health, healing, and a safe/supportive space. I also envision expanding the business to offer a range of wellness services alongside therapy that will promote holistic healing and overall well-being.

What advice do you have for other entrepreneurs?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance. Running a business is hard work and it’s even harder when you lack support or clear business knowledge. Do your research, gather as much help as you can upfront, and set yourself up for success. This way, you’ll spend less time trying to undo mistakes and playing catch-up.

And that’s a wrap on another amazing interview with another of the amazing small business owners here in Huntsville, AL. Thank you for taking the time to chat with us!

Recommend someone: We love showcasing the amazing businesses in our community and we would love for you to share them with us. Submit your recommendation here.