By Melanie Froemke, LCSW & Rob Krupicka, MSW
Melanie: Rob- you've had such an accomplished career in local politics, government, and business. Some people are surprised to hear that you're now a therapist. What made you decide to change careers?
Rob: One of the reasons I decided to become a therapist, after a career in politics and business, is because I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of therapy. Both in my own life and in the lives of people close to me, I’ve seen how regular therapy can teach us to reduce stress, manage anxiety, overcome significant mental health obstacles, and, ultimately, live better, more fulfilling lives. Therapy is not just a tool for solving problems; it’s a guide for navigating the complexities of being human.
Melanie: What have you learned in your own experience that shapes you as a therapist?
Rob: My personal journey has shaped the way I approach my work. I grew up as the child of a young mother and divorced parents, which taught me early on about resilience and adaptation. Later in life, I went through a divorce myself. Those experiences could have left me feeling stuck or defeated, but therapy helped me turn them into opportunities for growth.
I learned how to co-parent effectively and build a strong, supportive relationship with my ex-wife. That effort wasn’t just for the sake of my children, who have grown into successful, independent adults, but also for my own sense of peace and well-being.
Therapy has helped me become a better partner, a more compassionate friend, and a more thoughtful human being.
Melanie: Tell us about how your experience has helped guide who you love to work with.
Rob: These experiences drive my passion for working with a wide range of clients. Whether I’m helping children, adolescents, adults, older adults, or entire families, I’m constantly inspired by the diversity of human experiences. Each person’s story is unique, but our struggles often intersect in surprising ways. By working with such a broad spectrum of people, I’ve been able to identify patterns and connections between different issues and therapeutic perspectives. This allows me to create custom, individualized plans for each client. Therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach—it’s about meeting people where they are and helping them move forward in a way that feels authentic and achievable.
I also appreciate the fact that we’re all on different paths in life. For some, therapy is about healing from trauma or navigating mental health challenges. For others, it’s about improving relationships, finding clarity during times of transition, or simply growing as a person. Whatever the goal, I believe therapy is most effective when it’s collaborative. My role as a therapist isn’t to dictate what someone should do but to walk alongside them as they explore their options and discover their own strengths.
Melanie: What do you love about being a therapist?
Rob: One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is seeing the moments of insight and connection that happen in therapy. Whether it’s a child learning how to express their emotions, a family finding new ways to communicate, or an individual realizing they have the power to change their story, these moments remind me why I chose this path. Every client teaches me something new about life, resilience, and the importance of human connection. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey.
Ultimately, my approach to therapy is rooted in the belief that no matter where you are on your path, there is always a way forward. Life’s challenges may feel overwhelming at times, but they also present opportunities for growth and transformation. Therapy is a space where you can find clarity, build resilience, and uncover the tools you need to navigate life’s twists and turns. For me, being a therapist is not just a profession; it’s a way to honor the lessons I’ve learned and share them with others in a meaningful way.
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