As a small business owner, artist, and therapist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the toll that algorithms and big corporations have taken on independent creators and practitioners. The shift in consumer behavior—prioritizing price over quality, convenience over authenticity, and mass production over craftsmanship—has made it increasingly difficult to sustain a meaningful livelihood in today’s digital age. Whether it’s art or therapy, those of us who pour our hearts into our work are often overshadowed by the ease of cheap, impersonal alternatives. This struggle led me to a pivotal moment in my life, where I chose to combine my love for art with a new path in therapy, finding healing and balance in both. Yet, even in the therapeutic field, independent practitioners face the same visibility challenges, as platforms like BetterHelp commodify the profession, reducing the deep, personalized care we offer to mere transactions. The truth is, both creators and therapists are fighting to be seen in a world dominated by convenience and profit, and the culture we are feeding with our consumer choices risks eroding authenticity and meaningful connection. Supporting small businesses, local artists, and independent therapists is more than just a transaction—it’s a commitment to value what truly matters: passion, craftsmanship, and care.