Today we’d like to introduce you to Kendrah Parker.
Hi Kendrah, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Let’s start with my purpose! Answer: To Be A Supportive Professional!
While working on my undergrad degree I explored and completed some research on intimate partner violence. That sparked my interest in wanting to learn more. I gained an understanding that intimate partner violence impacted the entire family system. That impact is called trauma. Once I began my graduate program in Mental Health Counseling, I gained a better understanding of trauma and how to support potential clients.
Along the way, I realized that mental health therapy wasn’t accessible or considered by African American/Black community. My goal is to let the community know that there are therapist that look just like you, talk like you, and understand the struggle! Rather if it’s intimate partner violence or other traumatic event experienced, our community must know that help is available!
Today: Diversity and Mental Health truly has my heart. An interest of mine has become learning and understanding eating disorders in diverse populations. Diverse populations are often misdiagnosed or under treated in disordered eating. I will be providing trainings on Eating Disorders: Exploring the Misconception and Impact on Diverse Populations. I hope that providing continuing education on this topic will open doors for diverse populations to receive an abundance of support and healing.
Lastly, my creative passion is event decorating! Graceful DesignHER was developed due to my joy of crafting and creating.
Events of focus:
• Children Birthday Parties
• Baby Shower
• Adult Birthday or Special Events
• Bachelor Party
• Bachelorette Party
• Work Party
• Holiday Parties
• And more!
There are so many opportunities and I’m blessed to be on this journey! Blossoming is a continuous process!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Oh yes, everything was and is perfect!
Just kidding!! Nothing in life is ever perfect but you can choose to be optimistic about the bumps in the road.
After graduating graduate school, I struggled to find a job in my field. I applied to tons of jobs & all nothing. I was stressed about the uncertainty but prayed about what I needed God to help me with. Four months later I found a career in Substance Abuse. Due to that job my mind expanded & developed a foundation to continue growing in multiple areas in the mental health world!
There is no glory without a struggle!
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I’m a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Iowa and I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas. I’m certified as an International Alcohol and Drug Counselor.
I specialize in:
• Trauma Focus
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Marriage and Family
• Culture & Diversity
• Dual Diagnosis
• Meditation
• Dating Violence/Abuse
• Self Image/ Self-Esteem/Self-Compassion
• Addictive Behaviors/ Substance Use/ Gambling Support
• Group Psychoeducation
• Supervision
I can’t say I’m most proud of one particular piece of my career but I feel absolute joy when a client who is seeking services or an employee who is receiving supervision leave my office feeling relieved, hopeful, and supported!
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
I really enjoy collaborating with other professionals. That’s a space to gain and share knowledge. I’d be interested in working with others by facilitating trainings, researching, and attending trainings together.
Another way to collaborate with me is on event decorating! I can create ballon garlands, backdrops, table center pieces, and more rather if we glam a party together as a team or if you know someone who needs Graceful DesignHER to make a party sparkle, I’m there!
The best way to support me is connecting by phone, social media, or in person! We can be a support for each other! 🙂
Contact Info:
- Instagram: Kendrahdenise
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kendrahDparker1218
Image Credits
Kendrah
