The Heart and Vision Behind Inspired & Free

Every great idea starts with a spark—sometimes ignited by unexpected life events. For Dr. Dalesa, the CEO and founder of Inspired & Free, her journey to creating a thriving virtual therapy practice began with a blend of passion, resilience, and a deep desire to make a difference.

With over 20 years of experience as a licensed marriage and family therapist, Dr. Dalesa had already dedicated her career to healing relationships and guiding therapists toward professional excellence. As a supervisor, graduate school professor, and administrator, her mission was clear: to empower therapists to become exceptional clinicians, creating a ripple effect that touched countless lives.

But in 2020, life shifted dramatically. A cross-country move coupled with the pandemic's challenges pushed Dr. Dalesa to reimagine her path. The rising demand for mental health care, paired with the growing burnout among therapists, revealed a critical gap in the industry. Dr. Dalesa saw an opportunity to bridge that gap—and Inspired & Free was born.

Fast forward four years, and Inspired & Free is now a vibrant community of 18 dedicated clinicians across 10 states, with plans to expand even further. What started as a solo practice has blossomed into a 100% virtual haven where therapists thrive.