Growing up, our families lived on the same block near Greenlake. The two of us spent our early years toddling by the water, braving the first day of preschool together, and forming the kind of deep trust and affection needed to build the foundation of a friendship that would last the years.Decades later, we stood as bridesmaids in each other’s weddings, encouraged one another’s careers, held hands during the birth of our children, and proudly took on the role of godmothers for each other’s kids.

Then, in 2017, on a long road trip we found ourselves talking about—and celebrating—the profound difference therapy had made in both our lives. Early on, both of us had experienced significant pain that had deeply affected us and left us restricted in our lives. Ultimately, though, each of us found healing and learned to feel safe and secure within ourselves through psychotherapy. In therapy, we learned to feel open, curious, and compassionate toward ourselves.

It was clear this model of self-care had dramatically improved every aspect of our lives: our work and careers, romantic relationships, how we experienced our bodies, and all of our friendships.These insights didn’t just lead to conversation. They led to a plan of action.