Our Story

Founding Story

Balanced Educators was founded by Carrie Von Strohe, whose career trajectory from teacher to school counselor to licensed therapist provided unique insight into the mental health crisis facing educators. Through direct experience in the classroom and counseling office, Carrie witnessed firsthand the relentless demands placed on teachers and the toll of being constantly “on” for students while neglecting their own wellbeing.

As Carrie deepened her understanding of polyvagal theory and nervous system regulation, a critical pattern emerged: educators frequently operate in a state of hyperarousal — their nervous systems in constant fight-or-flight mode — without access to the tools or support needed to regulate themselves and return to a window of tolerance. This persistent dysregulation prevents educators from showing up fully for themselves, their families, and the students they serve.

The realization that talented, dedicated professionals were leaving the field not due to lack of passion but due to untreated stress and burnout became the catalyst for Balanced Educators. If educators had the same access to mental health support that they readily provide to students, they could develop self-awareness, learn self-regulation skills, build meaningful connections, and sustain high-quality lives both inside and outside the classroom.

Balanced Educators exists to bridge this gap — removing the financial and logistical barriers that prevent educators from accessing the professional mental health care they need and deserve.