Today, we’d like to introduce you to Kamilah Thomas.
Hi Kamilah, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It’s a journey that began with my struggle as a successful, high-achieving Black woman who seemingly “had it all together.” Despite the accolades and accomplishments, I was burning the candle at both ends – juggling multiple roles and responsibilities, neglecting my own needs, and suffering from anxiety, burnout, and a persistent feeling that I had to do “more.”
As a seasoned licensed psychotherapist with over 15 years in the mental health field, I’ve witnessed this all-too-common pattern play out time and again with the Black women I’ve counseled- leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, professionals, mothers, wives. We are the backbones, the nurturers, the strong ones everyone leans on. But at what cost to our well-being? Society’s expectations and our internalized beliefs compel us to wear the “Strong Black Woman” mask, stifling our true selves as we strive for perfectionism and struggle to let our guard down or ask for help.
My awakening came when I realized that what was once a source of pride had become a source of pressure, and I couldn’t pour from an empty cup any longer. I had to confront the toxic myths I had subconsciously internalized and intentionally cultivated self-preservation skills. As I undertook my journey of healing and unlearning these harmful coping mechanisms, a passion ignited within me. I felt compelled to share these life-altering tools with other Black women so they, too, could break free from the perpetual cycle of depression, anxiety, self-criticism, and burnout.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Has it been a smooth road? Ha! Not even close!
As a therapist and coach who specializes in this work, I’ll be honest – there’s a little added pressure to really walk the talk because my clients look to me as a role model. As a “Recovering Superwoman”, I have to continuously implement the very skills and mindset shifts that I’m teaching my clients. But that constant personal investment also equips me with the authenticity to credibly guide others. Because I do the work within myself, I know firsthand that these tools are transformative when applied with commitment.
Interestingly enough, I initially attempted to offer coaching offerings for Black women about two years ago… but then I let doubt and fears creep in and abandoned the idea. It’s funny how when something is your purpose and not just a fleeting passion, the universe will course-correct you! Sure enough, God brought me right back to this calling. I’m so grateful I didn’t stay stuck in that limiting mindset. Every struggle has been worth it to create this sacred space of healing and transformation!
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about Soul Care Coaching?
I’ve learned that real growth can’t happen through empty affirmations or surface-level work. Sustainable transformation requires digging deep, getting brutally honest with yourself, and purposefully cultivating new mindsets and behaviors.
What sets me apart is my unique ability to authentically blend humor, real talk, vulnerability, and deep expertise. I draw from my extensive clinical background to provide immediately actionable strategies in a safe space while using my relatable life experiences to connect on a real human level.
Whether through speaking engagements, group courses, or personalized one-on-one coaching, my insights and strategies guide professional women to overcome the glorification of “busyness” that keeps them stuck in cycles of anxiety, burnout and never feeling “enough” and instead harmonize their personal and professional priorities without compromising their well-being.
My mission is to provide Black women with the tools and strategies to shift from merely surviving to truly thriving. I teach skills like boundary-setting, emotional liberation, self-compassion, and letting go of perfectionism and the need for control.
Upcoming offerings:
• FREE masterclass on Wednesday June 12th at 7pm CST. https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0pceutrz4iG9cU9X6sYriwEhKhafzkALgp
• 6-weekly group coaching program July 10th-August 14th.
• 90-day one-on-one private coaching program; 6 biweekly or 12 weekly sessions.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, as the oldest of three girls in a two-parent household, I was instilled in me the importance of education and well-rounded development from an early age. I was a busy, driven kid who excelled academically and athletically, being involved in multiple extracurricular activities like ballet, tap dance, gymnastics, basketball, track, and Girl Scouts. I even worked summer jobs as a teenager.
As a “Thomas girl,” there were higher expectations placed on me to assertively communicate, think critically, and carry myself with a certain pride, decorum, and spirit of excellence in everything I did. In many ways, I was raised to be the quintessential “Strong Black Woman” – outwardly confident, high-achieving, socially poised. My father was especially intentional about raising me to be fiercely independent and self-sufficient, as he wanted me to have autonomy and options after watching his own mother’s limited opportunities due to her circumstances.
The foundations of who I am today were cultivated during those formative years. My natural tendencies toward nurturing, leadership, and personal excellence set the stage for my calling as a therapist, mentor, and guide for other women’s journeys. While the road had some difficult lessons that shaped my perspectives, my core values remain rooted in that same upbringing of integrity, diligence, and compassionate realness.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.kamilahthomas.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_kamilahthomas
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kamilahthomas/
Image Credits
Camille Branding