Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Davis.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I grew up in the South Park and Third Ward area. These are the areas that are considered the “hood”. Contrary to what people think, this was our village, and we looked out for each other when I was a kid. As an adult, I wanted to continue the value of strengthening families, so I reciprocated the love and support that was given to me when I was growing up. I specifically wanted to focus on the views of therapy and mental health because it is an issue that is avoided or dismissed until something tragic happens.
I was an English and Journalism teacher for 10 years, and many of my students, like many youths and young adults were suffering in silence, so I went back to get my Masters’ in Counseling and LPC license to become a therapist and bridge the gap between schools, families, and communities.
Currently, teen suicide ranks among the 3rd leading cause of death. Bringing awareness to mental health issues that youth and young adults face daily will change the stigma associated with mental health, promote good works, and encourage others to keep positive vibes trending.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Smooth road? No. I struggled with finding my place as a new business owner, and therapist. It was a whole new world, specifically being a young,Black, single mom. I left a consistent career as a teacher, turned school counselor to open my practice, Heartwork Trending. One big struggle was financially adjusting to going from a salary job to being your own boss. You have to really promote yourself hard, get the referrals, and align yourself with people who can push your vision to success. In a post, I equated the first year of being an entrepreneur to tubing down the river. Imagine your float flips over, and you can’t get back on, so you just hold on until you the waters take you to a place that you can secure yourself again. My advice is to hold on, enjoy the experience of the ride. Prepare for tears, losing people, the “nos”, but never lose yourself or your purpose. Pray. Mediate, or whatever focuses you. Be flexible with changes, and be patient with yourself. Prioritize what you give your time, energy, and money in. You can’t afford to waste any of them.
We’d love to hear more about Heartwork Trending Counseling and Consulting.
I am an author, mental health speaker, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), & owner of Heartwork Trending Counseling and Consulting Services, PLLC. I specialize in providing therapy and coping strategies for youth and young adults ages 10-21. I teach clients, families and those in the community effective techniques to overcome depression, anxiety, insecurities, low self-esteem, and other mental health concerns. My goal is to see them to confidently face life’s issues, and be a voice for others that struggle.
I am most known for my partnerships in schools, and the community. It is important to be visible. I have been blessed to speak at schools and facilitate discussions about mental health in a non-conventional way that makes getting comfortable with the uncomfortable possible. I wrote a book called Unmasked:The Journeys and its Lessons to remind people that imperfections are what makes each person’s story perfect.
I took off my mask, so that I could save lives and help others heal.
One of the things that I was most proud of was getting the opportunity to team up with my childhood friend, and local artist to create The Unmask the Gift project, which gave us the opportunity visit campuses to work with students to show them how to use their gifts and talents as coping techniques to achieve success. I am proud of how I am bringing the village together.
What sets me apart is my transparency, and my authenticity. My mission means more to me than a position. I don’t mind being vulnerable, and reaching out to people. I don’t just sit in the office, and wait for referrals. To be honest, the people that really need services may never come. So, I go to them. I work in a space of preventative care. I like to reach youths before they have to come to the office by educating them on preventative care, and
coping strategies.
So much of the media coverage is focused on the challenges facing women today, but what about the opportunities? Do you feel there are any opportunities that women are particularly well positioned for?
Social media has provided so many networking, speaking, and opportunities to collaborate. Many of the partnerships that I have formed have been by someone seeing my site, and reaching out or vice versa.
Women are well positioned for opportunities if you are clear of your purpose, and reason for establishing connections. Remember, to be authentic and intentional when being connections.
Pricing:
- Individual Counseling Sessions: $120/hour (some sliding scales)
- Book me to speak at your event: Prices Vary (Email heartworktrending@gmail.com)
- Want the book, Unmasked: The Journeys and Its Lessons- Check out https://www.heartworktrending.net/unmasked/
Contact Info:
- Website: www.heartworktrending.net
- Email: heartworktrending@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heartworktrending/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heartworktrending/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/imsdavis
- Other: https://www.facebook.com/HeartworkTrendingTheCounselingPage
Image Credit:
Ashley Johnson, Cedric Johnson (Black Ice Studio), R.A.G.S
Getting in touch: VoyageHouston is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
