A Journey of Entrepreneurial Passion and Mental Health Advocacy supported by the Illinois SBDC for the Metro East at SIUE
In the busy world of entrepreneurship, where dreams are transformed into reality, the story of Alliance Counseling Services, PLLC (ACS) is a true inspiration. The owners, a dynamic power couple, not only embarked on a successful entrepreneurial journey but they also recognized the crucial need for mental health support, tackling behavioral challenges, and addressing clinical disorders. This realization led John and Jill Frisbie to establish the practice in 2019, a venture driven by their shared passion for making a positive impact on their community.
With a team of seven dedicated individuals, Alliance exemplifies the power of collaboration, firmly believing their motto: "Together is better." Their commitment to advancing the teamwork approach to private practice counseling is evident in every aspect of their work.
When expanding their business in 2021 the Friesbies recognized the challenges of entrepreneurship and sought guidance from the Illinois Small Business Development Center (SBDC) for Metro East at SIUE. With the help and support of the SBDC and director Jo Ann Di Maggio May, Alliance formulated business plans for securing funding to expand the practice. They succeeded in securing a generous business loan from local lenders and further received essential human resource assistance. Navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, including administrative hurdles and adherence to government policies, Alliance has successfully expanded a supportive space for individuals facing various mental health concerns.
“If you really need help with your business, you can't have a better support system than SBDC.” John Frisbie expressed.
“I appreciate all the hard work and effort the Frisbies put into their business and community. They are very dedicated to their staff and clients, and I look forward to watching Alliances Counseling Services grow,” said Di Maggio May.
Running a counseling service involves the responsibility of listening to others' problems, and the counselors of ACS understand the significance of providing the right guidance. Their journey showcases the transformative power of compassionate counseling and the positive impact it can have on individuals seeking support.
Looking ahead, Alliance has ambitious plans for the future. They are currently providing ADHD testing services for children and adults, which is a therapeutic assessment of growing need. Their vision includes regular ADHD testing, making them the few practices who provide assistance in this field in and around St. Clair County. To support this testing, they plan to add a child specialist and a social worker to their team, further enhancing their ability to make a more positive impact for students and workers.
Beyond business expansion, ACS aspires to diversify their demographic reach, extending their services to communities with different socioeconomic statuses. They partner with Illinois University as Participating Providers in the Illinois Extension Mental Health Voucher Program supporting agricultural producers and their families with vouchers for services. Additionally, the owners envision establishing a nonprofit counseling center, where they can contribute their time, engage in fundraising efforts, and assist with the training for aspiring counselors.
Alliance Counseling’s story is not just about entrepreneurial success; it's a narrative of compassion, innovation, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Their growth serves as an inspiration for those navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship while staying true to their mission of promoting mental health and well-being.
The Illinois SBDC for the Metro East assists entrepreneurs like Alliance Counseling Service PLLC as well as existing business owners operating in the nine-county Metro East region of Calhoun, Jersey, Madison, Bond, Clinton, St. Clair, Washington, Monroe and Randolph. SBDC enhances the region’s economic interests by providing one-stop assistance to individuals by means of counseling, training, research and advocacy for new ventures and existing small businesses.
SBDC offices in Illinois are funded, in part, through a cooperative agreement among the U.S. Small Business Administration, Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville as a service to the community. To learn how these no-cost services may help your business venture, contact the Metro East SBDC at (618) 650-2929 or sbdcedw@gmail.com.
Alliance Counseling Service PLLC is Located at 8 Eagle Center #2, O'Fallon, IL 62269 and can be contacted at (618) 792-8256 or via email at jfrisbie@myalliancecounseling.org.
PHOTO: John Frisbie, owner, Alliance Counseling Services, PLLC (ACS)