Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chaconna Downs. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Chaconna, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What did your parents do right and how has that impacted you in your life and career?
My parents did so many things right! They taught me to love and reverence God. They modeled amazing work ethic and ambition. They taught me what friendship and co-parenting should look like. My parents believed in me and told me I could do and be whatever I put my mind to. They invested in me and made countless sacrifices so I had opportunities to follow my dreams. And boy were they big! No matter how many times I changed my mind or wanted to go after something new, they were right there supporting me and cheering me on. They affirmed me and gave the best of themselves. I couldn’t ask for anything better. When I decided to leave the University of Kentucky and give up my scholarship because I was unhappy with the program and the length of time it would take me to graduate they trusted my decision and supported me through two transfers and an out-of-state move. When I decided to go to graduate school, which meant I needed to be unemployed for two years, they were right there. They helped with my first apartment, tuition, books, and anything I needed. They continuously invested in my dreams They showed up or every celebration, accomplishment, award, recognition, and major milestone in my life. I wouldn’t be the woman or therapist I am without them.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I got into my current field by answering a call from God. I had sworn off ever going back to college and was content working my job. One day my pastor called me into the office for a meeting about what I felt God was leading me to do. I wasn’t ready to divulge everything but I did share that He was asking me to go back to school and get a Master of Social Work. He laughed and nodded his head and I told him I didn’t know what it was going to look like, but I knew I was being called to serve families and communities. I was fortunate to attend a program that was faith-based and focused on integrating faith and practice. It was important to me because I knew social work would be my “outside the walls” ministry. I have always been passionate about people and helping. When I was younger I used to joke with my mom about becoming a psychiatrist and she would laugh and say “Good, maybe you can help your family”. So fast forward and here we are… I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I’m helping families. I provide individual and couples therapy, educational workshops, lunch and learns, pre-marital counseling, and a series of books and products for self-care. I host a weekly live event to help others learn the importance of self-care and how it relates to overall wellness and improved mental health. I think what sets me apart is that this isn’t just a job for me. It’s my passion and truly a calling. I know that this is the work I was created to do, so I pour all of myself, my gift, talents, and creativity into it. I try to tailor treatment to my client’s needs, beliefs, and interests. I use evidence-based practice but I present it in a practical and relatable way so it sticks. I love the moments when I get an email or text from a former client updating me on their progress after therapy. The ones who come back to say thank you make it all worth it!
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
To become an LCSW I had to pass the national ASWB exam, have several thousand hours of face-to-face service and about a hundred hours of clinical supervision. I had been out of school since 2012 and felt very rusty in a lot of areas. I completed all of my hours and studied for months. I had a podcast, books, study guides, and classes to help me prepare for this exam. Test day came and I failed… I missed it by 3 points. I was so defeated and frustrated. I sat in the parking lot and cried, ate a huge slice of pizza from Whole Foods and a cookie, wiped my tears and made a plan. I had the option to appeal and retake the test within a couple of weeks but I chose to take the full 90 days and study again. I borrowed a different exam prep book from a co-worker and got busy. I studied every night and took the test again. I walked in with confidence and knew I was going to pass this time. I passed by 11 points more than I needed!
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
The greatest asset in my field is healthy boundaries. I have to leave work at work and not take my clients’ issues home with me. As much as I love what I do, it requires a great deal of mental fortitude. I have to set boundaries to maintain a professional working relationship and remain neutral. It’s hard sometimes because the little ones are so cute and always want to be best friends. I always leave the option for them to contact me or send me updates once therapy is done but outside of session, I limit contact and set working hours for returning phone calls and texts.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cjaqis.com
- Instagram: @cjaqis
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/cjaqis
- Other: https://linktr.ee/cjaqis