Today we’d like to introduce you to Rhonda Smith.
Rhonda, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I been intrigued with the scientific“study of the mind.” and human behavior. I am definitely a “mental” person. Due to this “intense” interest, I have always studied human and social behavior.
A proud graduate of Phillis Wheatley High School. I completed the majority of my undergraduate studies at University of Houston. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Service from Springfield College. I was awarded a full academic scholarship from Prairie View A&M University to obtain my Master’s of Art in Counseling. I am currently a doctoral student at Texas Southern University, majoring in Counseling Education. I hold a Licensure in Chemical Dependency Counseling (LCDC), where I counsel, mentor and educate others on the effects and affects of Substance use and abuse. I am also a certified Grief counselor, Domestic Violence Therapist, Trauma and Triage Liaison, Parenting Counselor and Certified Anger Resolution Therapist. As I work toward my Doctorate, I am also studying to take the (NCE) National Counselors Exam to become a Licensed Professional Counselor. (LPC) All these accomplishments will equip me to ultimately become a college professor and the CEO of my counseling private practice and educational center. I am passionate about helping others. It is equally important to identify the problem and it’s origin. I believe addressing the problematic onset, allows clearer comprehension, which clarifies it’s detriment. The application of knowledge promotes not only power but strength. Obtaining knowledge is never enough, it must be applied. Or it’s just useless information.
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?
Some of the challenges along my journey included: abandonment resulting from parental divorce due to domestic violence and alcoholism. Transitioning from upper middle class to an impoverished environment, this was a huge socio-economic adjustment, culture shock and a very valuable lesson. My mother exemplified the epitome of strength. Then, growing up in the projects where crime was and still is a part of daily life. Witnessing the increased existence of mass incarceration, due to: murder, theft, assault and other heinous crimes, left fewer examples of what a “good man” was. Yet, my father continued to take care of me financially and exemplified growth and development. While constantly and consistently overcoming, accepting and conquering my own genetic and personal hurdles, I find myself constantly fighting for the rights of women, minorities and Americans with Disabilities.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
I am a Counselor. I have more than 20 years of experience in various counseling modalities. Including but not limited to: Vocational Rehabilitation, Mental Health, Financial Consulting and Substance Abuse.
Being the fourth largest city in America, Houston is an ideal place to make a lasting impact in the counseling field. The opportunities are limitless. There is a universal need for effective and empathetic counselors. Depression and anxiety are at an all-time high. Once, this COVID-19 pandemic is contained, the demand for counseling will definitely surge, more so.
Social media offers a plethora of platforms to reach and teach the masses. I currently moderate a Private Facebook Group, promoting Women’s Empowerment, entitled Woman2Woman. Women from all over the United States, share, encourage, uplift and support one another in coping with the challenges of being a woman in this “glass ceiling” society.
Along with traditional group and individual counseling, I am available for: image Consulting, Tutoring, Mentorships, Public Speaking engagements, Tele -counseling, virtual and online counseling and re-branding. Being a fashionista has created the inspiration for my online clothing boutique, which will launch very soon. My first book will also debut January 2021.
What were you like growing up?
The study began at home…amidst a myriad of family, friends, neighbors, teachers and classmates. Substance abuse, domestic violence, mental disorders, toxic relationships and criminology and poverty, among other environmental effects emerged. I chose not to become a product of my environment. Reading was my outlet. Blessed with above-average learning capacity and intelligence, I elected to stay focused and utilize any and all resources available to me, which in turn lead me to become a better person. Education was, is and always will be, my answer to indecisiveness.
Contact Info:
- Email: Rhonda.smith0401@gmail.com
- Instagram: @queendiva7
- Facebook: Rhonda Smith
- Other: Linked in : Rhonda Smith M.A.
Image Credit:
Juwaan Johnson
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