Meet Alexandra Slebodnik

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alexandra Slebodnik and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alexandra, can you talk to us a bit about the social impact of your business?
My private practice, Breathing Hope, is centered around walking with people through some of the toughest moments in their lives—whether they’re grieving the loss of a loved one or struggling with emotional eating and body shame. I provide personalized counseling that meets people where they are, helping them feel seen, supported, and not so alone. Instead of quick fixes or ignoring emotions that society promotes, I create a space where people can process their emotions and heal at their own pace. I focus on helping people restore a healthy relationship with food, movement, and self-image, while honoring the unique pace of grief. Through this work, I bring more empathy, self-compassion, and lasting healing into the community and the world.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Honestly, it’s hard to say what sets me apart from others, because I know so many incredible therapists who are loving and serving their communities so well—and I’m truly grateful for that. I think today’s culture can often turn business into a competition, pushing us to compare ourselves, but what I’ve learned is that each therapist brings their own heart, story, and perspective to the work. We may all have different approaches, but at the core, we’re all striving for the same thing: to help people feel seen, supported, and capable of navigating the hardest moments life can bring.

If there’s one thing I’d want the world to know about me and my practice, it’s this: as long as you’re breathing, there’s still hope. That’s why I named my practice Breathing Hope. I believe hope is never fully lost—not even in the darkest seasons. Through my work, I aim to help people catch even the smallest glimpse of that hope again. And I can do that because I truly believe in a deeper, eternal hope that exists even beyond death and suffering.

Getting to where I am today hasn’t always been easy. Starting a business while holding space for others’ pain is a delicate balance. There were doubts, fears, and seasons of feeling stretched thin. But I’ve learned to stay rooted in my purpose and to trust the process—even when it’s slow or unclear. The lessons that have stuck with me are the importance of humility, staying true to your calling, and remembering that meaningful impact doesn’t always look flashy. Sometimes it looks like showing up, one person at a time, with compassion and presence.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting for the week, I’d want to give her the perfect mix of creativity, good food, beautiful views, and quality time. One of our mornings would start at Back East Bagels, a little hole-in-the-wall spot that makes fresh bagels daily, seriously some of the best I’ve ever had. After that, we’d head over to PIP Coffee & Clay for a hands-on pottery session. There’s something so grounding and joyful about creating something with your hands while sipping great coffee. At some point in the week, we’d definitely stop by Paris Baguette for a sweet treat, it’s the perfect midday pick-me-up with beautiful pastries and a cozy vibe. For lunch one day, I’d bring her back to my house for a home cooked meal and some intentional time just catching up and being together. For dinner, we’d definitely make room for North Italia, I’m a big Italian food lover and their chicken parmesan is the best I’ve ever had. Their tiramisu is also a must. Another night, we’d head to Taco Guild, which is one of my favorite local spots. It’s set in a renovated church, which gives it a cool, unique atmosphere and the tacos are incredible. To wrap up a perfect day, we’d go on a sunset hike to take in one of Arizona’s breathtaking sunsets. There’s something about that golden sky that feels like the perfect exhale after a good day. Throughout the week, we’d find time for more of the same: simple pleasures, meaningful conversations, good food, and beauty—in both nature and community.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I have to give all the glory and credit to Jesus Christ. As a follower of Christ, He has completely reshaped how I see success, not as a measure of money or how many people I work with, but as a calling to give back and love others just as He has loved me. My journey wouldn’t be possible without His guidance, strength, and grace. Beyond that, I’m deeply grateful for the community around me—my family, friends, mentors, and clients—who continuously encourage and inspire me. Each of them has played a vital role in my story, helping me grow both personally and professionally. Ultimately, my work is about serving others in love, and I’m humbled to be able to walk alongside people through their hardest moments.

Website: https://www.breathinghope.com

Image Credits
momentsbymatea