At Global Women Power, we believe in celebrating women who have risen to incredible heights, showcasing their capacity to overcome challenges and reach new milestones. In our “Meet Our Sheroes” series, we spotlight such inspiring women, and today we are honored to feature Dr. Mira, a former professor and current therapist, who has devoted her life to education and counseling. Her transition from academia to private practice showcases her lifelong commitment to helping individuals navigate the complexities of mental health.
During a recent conversation with Dr. Alka, founder of Global Women Power, Dr. Mira graciously shared her incredible journey—from her humble beginnings to where she stands today as a respected figure in the academic community. This blog reflects the key moments of the conversation between Dr. Alka and Dr. Mira, focusing on the latter’s academic journey and her influence in the field. It highlights the core mission of Global Women Power to celebrate the capacity of women to reach new heights in their personal and professional lives.
From Cincinnati to California: The Start of a Brilliant Career
Dr. Mira’s academic journey began after she completed her doctoral degree from the University of Cincinnati. Following her graduation, she was recruited to California State University, Stanislaus (CSU Stanislaus), where she served as a professor for an impressive 22 years. Her impact didn’t stop there—simultaneously, Dr. Mira also taught at Delta College in Stockton, where she resides. Balancing both roles, she contributed greatly to both institutions, nurturing the educational community with her expertise and passion.
A Leader in Counseling Education
During her tenure at CSU Stanislaus, Dr. Mira not only taught but also took on the role of program coordinator. The program she led had two tiers: one focused on training school counselors for placement in the community, and the second focused on providing therapy for those who had obtained their licenses from the Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBC).
Dr. Mira’s efforts went beyond the classroom—she was instrumental in transforming the counseling program. One of her proudest achievements was bringing licensure to the counseling department at CSU Stanislaus. Before her, the department only offered certification for counseling within school systems. Thanks to her vision and determination, the program expanded to offer a full licensure track, empowering countless graduates to practice therapy and make an impact on their communities.
A Legacy in Counseling Education
This dual-track program allowed students to choose between becoming school counselors or pursuing licensure as community counseling psychologists. The latter path required students to complete 3,000 hours of supervised work, a more extensive preparation but one that opened doors for them to provide therapy beyond schools. “I’m very proud of that achievement,” Dr. Mira reflected. “Before me, there was no licensure program, and now students can pursue both avenues.”
A New Chapter in a Challenging Time
Dr. Mira retire during the COVID-19 pandemic, citing the challenges of teaching counseling skills online. “I didn’t think that you could teach psychological skills online or because it requires one-on-one interaction,” she explained. Despite the world adapting to virtual classrooms, Dr. Mira knew that counseling education needed direct engagement to be effective. With the opportunity to retire, she made a bold decision, stepping away from her 22-year career as a professor at CSU Stanislaus.
But Dr. Mira didn’t stay away from helping others for long. With her vast experience in teaching students to become counselors, she realized she had the perfect skills to provide therapy herself. “I thought to myself, why don’t I offer therapy to others? I have the education, the skills, the licenses—why not use them?” She opened her private practice and now provides a wide range of therapeutic services through her listing on Psychology Today, from couples counseling to individual therapy, and even children’s therapy.
From Teacher to Healer
Dr. Mira also shared her reflections on her 22-year journey as a professor at CSU Stanislaus. Throughout her career, she witnessed many changes in higher education, from the attitude of students to shifts in diversity efforts. Her story sheds light on the evolving dynamics within universities and the challenges that continue to shape the academic experience for both students and educators.
The Changing Student-Professor Dynamic
Dr. Mira began her career with a sense of deep respect from her students. “When I first started, students were unbelievably respectful towards a professor,” she recalls. “When a professor walked into the room, there was a hush—students were attentive and treated our words with great reverence.” This traditional student-professor relationship fostered an environment of learning built on respect for the educator’s knowledge and authority.
However, over the years, Dr. Mira noticed a significant shift. “Less and less respect was given towards professors. I was challenged in class by students questioning their grades, saying things like, ‘I’m paying your salary.’” The decline in respect and the rise of boldness and entitlement were stark changes that Dr. Mira found disheartening. The culture in the classroom had shifted from one of deference to one where professors were increasingly questioned and, at times, undermined.
Gender Inequality and Diversity Challenges
In addition to changing attitudes, Dr. Mira saw diversity initiatives at the university evolve, but not always in ways that fostered true inclusivity. CSU Stanislaus worked hard to integrate more diverse student populations, particularly recruiting Hispanic students due to the Central Valley’s demographics. However, Dr. Mira noticed that other ethnic groups, such as Sikhs and Indian students, were often overlooked, despite being a large part of the community. “The Indian students I interacted with were unbelievably bright,” Dr. Mira noted, lamenting that the university’s recruitment efforts did not extend to them as much as they should have.
Diversity challenges extended beyond recruitment. Dr. Mira expressed her concern over the lack of black students within the university’s graduate program. “Throughout my 22 years, I can count on one hand the number of black students who graduated with a master’s degree. That’s incredibly sad.” This lack of representation, despite efforts to create a more inclusive environment, left Dr. Mira questioning how successful these diversity initiatives truly were.
A Unique Perspective in Academia
Born in Ukraine, Dr. Mira moved to Israel as a child, where she was raised. Her Israeli and Jewish identity set her apart when she entered academia in the United States. “I was the only Israeli and the only Jewish faculty member at CSU Stanislaus,” she recalls. “I don’t know if it has changed now, but it was lacking in recruiting diversity, and it’s sad.” Despite her distinguished academic career, she found that the university’s efforts to recruit a more diverse faculty were lacking, something she hopes has evolved since her retirement.
Throughout her years as a professor, Dr. Mira became an integral part of the university, even spearheading the introduction of a licensure program for counseling—a milestone she is proud of. However, the challenges weren’t solely institutional. She witnessed a gradual decline in respect from students, noting that early in her career, students treated professors with reverence. “Over the years, more and more students became bold, questioning their grades and even challenging my authority in the classroom,” she reflects. “They’d say things like, ‘I’m paying your salary,’ which was just unheard of when I first started.”
A Diverse Private Practice
Upon retiring during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Mira transitioned from academia to private practice. Her years of experience teaching psychological skills to students laid the foundation for her to embark on a new chapter, offering therapy to clients from all walks of life. “I said to myself, ‘Well, why don’t I provide therapy myself to others?’ I have the necessary education, the skills, the licenses, the whole nine yards. So, I did, and it’s going well,” she says.
Dr. Mira’s private practice has a special connection to her Israeli roots. Listed on Psychology Today, she includes in her bio that she is fluent in several languages, including Hebrew. “Since it’s in Encino, a lot of Israelis started calling. I have many Israeli and Jewish clients, which is great, but my practice isn’t limited to any one group. I see people from all backgrounds, including those not affiliated with any particular ethnicity.” This linguistic versatility has allowed her to connect with a wide range of clients, including individuals from the Israeli and Jewish communities seeking therapy in their native language.
Shifting Student Behavior and the Role of Women in Society
In a world that is constantly evolving, the behavior of students has mirrored changes in society. According to Dr. Mira, former professor at CSU Stanislaus, the shift in student attitudes over the years can be traced back to broader societal trends. “Education is a microcosm of what’s happening in society. As society changes, so do students,” she reflects.
Dr. Mira points out a growing sense of entitlement among younger generations. “Students today feel like they deserve everything without putting in the hard work. There’s a failure in institutions and society, allowing this to happen,” she notes. The relaxed academic standards, such as admitting students with lower GPAs, have contributed to this shift. The value of earning a degree based on merit has diminished, reflecting a broader cultural decline in valuing effort and discipline.
Another crucial factor Dr. Mira identifies is the lack of strong role models. “We’re seeing politicians and public figures lying boldly, and that sets an example for young people. If they can do it, why can’t we?” she explains. The erosion of ethical leadership has left a gap in moral guidance for younger generations.
The Role of Women in Reversing Societal Decline
As the conversation turned to the role of women in society, Dr. Mira emphasizes the need for women to reclaim their voices. “Even in 2024, women are still being stifled. We’re often dismissed or not taken seriously,” she says. This systemic issue has persisted even in spaces like academia, where women, despite having the same qualifications as men, continue to face wage discrepancies and marginalization.
Historically, women have played pivotal roles in shaping society. Dr. Mira urges women to return to that leadership role by speaking out and advocating for change. “We need to take a stance and be vocal about what matters. In the past, women contributed to the strength of the family unit, provided moral guidance, and actively participated in their communities,” she adds. Now, more than ever, women need to harness their influence to improve society and counter the negative trends seen today.
In her words, it’s clear that the road ahead requires a collective effort, but women have the potential to lead the charge toward positive societal change. “We still have to fight to be heard, but if we band together, we can make a significant impact.”
In 2024, women still face significant challenges in expressing themselves freely and fighting for equality, particularly in professional environments like academia. Dr. Mira highlights that despite women holding the same qualifications and experience as their male counterparts, salary discrepancies remain alarming. She notes, “It’s astounding that in this day and age, women still make 70 cents to a man’s dollar.” This wage gap persists despite the fact that women are now often the heads of households, supporting families and frequently falling below the poverty line.
The traditional rationale that men are the primary breadwinners no longer holds, and Dr. Mira stresses the importance of women standing up for their beliefs, pursuing education, and demanding what they deserve. “Education opens an enormous amount of doors,” she shares, reflecting on her own journey through higher education while raising two children. She encourages women to pursue education without hesitation or excuses, whether it’s a lack of money, time, or perceived ability. “Just like Nike, just do it,” she urges, emphasizing the transformative power of education.
The Changing Fabric of Marriage and Relationships
When discussing marriage counseling, Dr. Mira highlighted that societal changes have also influenced modern relationships. “Marriage is the fabric of society,” she acknowledges, but notes that the challenges faced by couples today are far different from those of the past. Dr. Mira has observed a significant shift in how society views marriage. Today’s marriages, she notes, are far different from those of previous generations. “What I see now are open relationships, polyamorous arrangements, and behaviors that would have been unthinkable decades ago,” she reflects. “Society’s acceptance of these changes is growing, and it’s impacting how we perceive commitment, loyalty, and family.”
“Even marriages themselves nowadays are not what they used to be,” Dr. Mira observes, indicating that the evolving nature of relationships reflects broader societal shifts.
In her therapeutic practice, Dr. Mira’s experience with diverse couples demonstrates how the fabric of marriage is transforming, and how therapy can play a key role in navigating these changes.A dedicated therapist, she has worked with countless individuals—many of them women—who are navigating the complexities of modern marriage and personal growth. For Dr. Mira, these experiences have not only shaped her approach to therapy but have also fueled her passion for women’s empowerment and self-discovery.
Despite these changes, one trend remains clear: the majority of divorces in her practice are initiated by women. According to Dr. Mira, many of these women have emotionally detached from their marriages long before they take legal action. “They often stay for the sake of children, financial security, or simply because it’s what they know,” she says. “But once they finally decide to leave, it’s because they can no longer ignore their own unhappiness.”
This phenomenon reflects a broader shift in society, where women are increasingly recognizing their own needs and desires. Yet, as Dr. Mira points out, leaving a marriage doesn’t always lead to immediate happiness. “Many women believe that life will be better on the other side, but the reality is often more complicated,” she explains. “Some regret their decision when they realize the challenges of singlehood and the difficulties of finding meaningful connections post-divorce.”
Still, Dr. Mira encourages her clients to see divorce as an opportunity for growth. In her sessions, she often guides women through a process of self-exploration, starting from their childhood and delving into the root causes of their unhappiness. Her approach is deeply personal, tailored to the unique needs of each individual. “I have a big tool bag of therapeutic techniques,” she says. “Every person’s journey is different, and the tools I provide depend on their specific challenges.”
A critical aspect of Dr. Mira’s work is helping women understand that true happiness comes from within. “Many people think that a partner will make them happy, but that’s a misconception,” she asserts. “If you’re not happy with yourself, no relationship will ever be enough. That’s why it’s so important for women to focus on their own growth and fulfillment.”
Throughout her career, Dr. Mira has been a staunch advocate for women’s empowerment, encouraging her clients to pursue education and personal development. “Education opens so many doors,” she often tells her clients. “It’s not just about getting a degree—it’s about gaining the knowledge and confidence to shape your own life.”
Her advice to women is simple but powerful: take control of your own story. Whether it’s through seeking higher education, learning new skills, or simply taking time for self-reflection, Dr. Mira believes that every woman has the power to transform her life. “Stop waiting for someone else to make you happy,” she advises. “You have the strength within you to create the life you deserve.”
In her work, Dr. Mira exemplifies the spirit of the Meet Our Sheroes series—a commitment to uplifting and empowering women through personal stories of resilience, growth, and transformation. As she continues to guide her clients toward greater self-awareness and fulfillment, she remains a beacon of hope for those seeking to reclaim their lives, one step at a time.
Dr. Mira often encounters women who, after going through a divorce, feel a deep sense of regret. Many realize, too late, that their former spouses have already moved on—often quickly. In her practice, Dr. Mira has noticed that men, in particular, tend to seek out a new partner relatively soon after a breakup. “Men usually need a support system,” she observes. “Whether it’s another wife, girlfriend, or partner, they often find someone quickly to fill that role, even if it’s not an immediate marriage.”
This tendency leaves some women facing an unexpected reality: once they’ve left a marriage, the dating pool can seem less appealing than they imagined. “Many women come to me feeling remorseful,” Dr. Mira explains. “They thought they would be happier or that life would be easier post-divorce, but they often find the dating world to be more challenging than anticipated.” She’s quick to point out, however, that her perspective is shaped by the women who come to her for therapy—she doesn’t claim to speak for everyone.
In therapy, Dr. Mira emphasizes growth and transformation, rather than dwelling on past regrets. “It’s about helping them advance from this experience,” she says. “I work with them to recognize what makes a good partner, and what doesn’t. But the most important lesson is this: you cannot hang your happiness on another person.”
Dr. Mira firmly believes that true happiness comes from within. “No individual—no matter how perfect they may seem—can make you happy if you aren’t happy with yourself first,” she asserts. This is why her therapy often involves diving deep into the past, exploring childhood experiences, and addressing unresolved issues that have led women to where they are today.
“People have been marrying for financial or security reasons for ages,” she says. “Historically, women often married men—whether they loved them or not—because they were not educated and couldn’t support themselves. They needed financial security, or they did it for religious reasons, to avoid gossip and societal judgment.”
The evolving reasons behind marriages and divorces, as well as the emotional aftermath, are central themes in Dr. Mira’s therapy practice. Through her insightful approach, she continues to guide women in understanding their inner strength and realizing that their happiness and fulfillment must come from within, not from a relationship alone. Dr. Mira emphasizes the importance of therapy, stating, “In this day and age, everyone could benefit from having a psychologist walking alongside them.”
She believes that mental health support is essential, not just for those facing severe issues, but for everyone navigating the complexities of modern life. “We’re seeing unprecedented levels of anxiety and depression,” she notes, highlighting how many individuals are experiencing panic attacks so severe that they mistake them for heart attacks, requiring emergency medical attention.
Dr. Mira connects this surge in mental health challenges to the broader societal shifts that have occurred since COVID-19. “It’s a wake-up call for all of us,” she explains. The isolation and uncertainty that many experienced during the pandemic have left lasting scars, exacerbating feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and anxiety.
“Divorce rates have surged,” she adds, pointing out that relationship stress is higher than ever. “People are grappling with emotional fallout from lockdowns and the upheaval of their daily routines. As a result, we see increases in alcoholism and other coping mechanisms that are not healthy.”
Dr. Mira advocates for proactive mental health care. “Therapy isn’t just for when things go wrong; it’s a way to cultivate self-awareness, resilience, and emotional intelligence,” she insists. By fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and learning coping strategies, individuals can navigate life’s challenges more effectively.
The conversation circles back to the importance of self-sufficiency that Dr. Mira has championed throughout her career. She underscores the value of education and personal growth, encouraging women to expand their horizons and develop their skills. “When you’re busy learning and growing, you naturally shift your focus away from feeling inadequate,” she says. This shift in perspective can lead to healthier relationships and a more fulfilling life overall. Ultimately, the messages shared in this conversation are clear: prioritize your mental health, invest in your education, and seek support when needed. By doing so, you can create a foundation for a happier, more fulfilled life—regardless of the challenges that come your way.
Dr. Mira emphasizes that therapy should be accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford exorbitant fees. “It’s about making a difference, not just making a living,” she asserts. In her practice, she prioritizes sliding scale options to accommodate individuals from various financial backgrounds, reinforcing her belief that mental health care should not be a privilege but a right.
Dr. Mira’s commitment to ethical practice extends beyond affordability and qualifications; she also emphasizes the importance of genuine connections in therapy. “Therapy is about building a trusting relationship,” she explains. “Clients need to feel safe and understood to explore their deepest concerns.” This relationship is foundational for effective therapy, allowing clients to confront issues they may have long avoided. Moreover, Dr. Mira highlights the diverse challenges individuals face in today’s society. “People often come in to vent, to seek advice, or to learn new coping strategies,” she explains. She addresses a wide range of issues, from interpersonal relationships to school-related difficulties, ensuring that each individual receives the tailored support they need.
“Therapy should be a safe space for everyone, where they can explore their feelings and find the tools to navigate their challenges,” she asserts. Dr. Mira is passionate about equipping her clients with skills that foster resilience, ultimately empowering them to take charge of their mental well-being.
Dr. Mira is also committed to sharing resources that can aid her clients in their personal growth journeys. “One book I always recommend is No Mud, No Lotus by Thich Nhat Hanh,” she shares. “It’s particularly helpful for anxiety and includes a variety of breathing techniques.” She emphasizes the importance of these techniques, countering the common skepticism around them. “People often underestimate the power of mindful breathing, but this book shows how transformative it can be.” She elaborates, “It’s a small, accessible book that anyone can finish in about an hour, and it’s filled with practical advice that can serve you for a lifetime.” Dr. Mira keeps a copy of the book in her therapy space, always ready to share it with clients as a resource for coping with anxiety and cultivating mindfulness.
Through her practice, Dr. Mira continues to advocate for both individual and communal approaches to mental health. Her focus on accessible resources and personalized care demonstrates her commitment to helping others navigate their challenges, empowering them to find happiness and fulfillment in their lives.
Dr. Mira approaches the topic of mental health literature with a discerning eye, acknowledging the saturation of pop psychology in today’s media landscape. “I’m a little leery of recommending many books because a lot of them come from the realm of pop psychology, which can be misleading,” she cautions. “People often seek advice from TikTok or similar platforms, which isn’t always based on solid psychological principles.”
However, she believes there are valuable resources out there. “During sessions, I tailor recommendations to the individual’s needs, ensuring that the literature aligns with their personal struggles and growth journey,” she explains. “Breathing techniques, for instance, are universally beneficial. Even if someone isn’t experiencing anxiety, these practices can enhance emotional well-being and resilience against low moods.”
When the conversation turns to treatment modalities, Dr. Mira’s stance becomes clear. “I am very anti-medication for everyday issues,” she asserts. While she acknowledges the necessity of medication for severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, she believes it should be combined with therapy for effective treatment. “Research supports the idea that medication alone isn’t sufficient,” she states. “For conditions like psychosis, the integration of therapy is crucial for a holistic approach.”
For what she refers to as “run-of-the-mill” issues—like sadness, motivational challenges, or transitional phases like divorce—Dr. Mira emphasizes the importance of therapy over medication. “Antidepressants are prescribed to so many people nowadays, but they often only serve as a temporary solution,” she explains. “They might provide a short-term fix, akin to placing a band-aid on a deeper issue. However, that deeper issue will resurface unless it is addressed through meaningful therapeutic work.”
Her approach highlights a belief in the power of self-exploration and personal growth. “For mild depression or anxiety, therapy is the way to go. It fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and equips individuals with the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges.”
In a world where quick fixes are often sought, Dr. Mira advocates for a more profound engagement with mental health. Her commitment to guiding individuals through their struggles, helping them uncover the roots of their challenges, and fostering resilience and happiness is evident in her practice. “Ultimately, the goal is to empower individuals to find their own strength and cultivate lasting happiness from within,” she concludes.
Dr. Mira shares her experience as a former professor and writer, revealing that her dissertation, which was focused on divorce, eventually turned into a book. “Throughout my academic career, I wrote a lot, from my Master’s thesis to my dissertation,” she explains. “My dissertation on divorce helped shape my expertise in that area, which is why many people seek me out for guidance on divorce and custody issues. It’s a subject close to my heart, especially when mothers have lost custody of their children.” Her writing extended beyond divorce, addressing other critical societal issues, such as grandparents raising their grandchildren due to changing family dynamics, and the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease, a subject inspired by her personal experience with her mother’s illness. “I even attempted to make a connection between Alzheimer’s and trauma because my mother was a concentration camp survivor,” she recalls. “
As for balancing her work as a therapist with the emotional toll it can take, she’s clear about her limits. “I try not to see more than three clients a day because it’s emotionally draining. I don’t want therapy to feel like an assembly line where clients don’t get the attention they deserve,” she says. This approach helps her stay mentally and emotionally healthy, ensuring that she can provide quality care without becoming overwhelmed by the emotional weight of her clients’ trauma and stress.
Dr. Mira’s journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, education, and a deep commitment to societal change. Her remarkable contributions to the fields of healthcare and education have not only elevated her career but also positively impacted countless lives. Through her work, she continues to inspire a new generation of women to pursue their dreams, push boundaries, and make a lasting difference in their communities.
Her belief in the importance of empowering others—particularly women—through knowledge, mentorship, and support aligns with the mission of Global Women Power. Dr. Mira stands as a shining example of how resilience and determination can break barriers and create meaningful change.
We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to share her story, and we hope it inspires others to take charge of their own paths toward empowerment and success.
