We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Ebony Black . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Ebony below.
Ebony , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Was there a defining moment in your professional career? A moment that changed the trajectory of your career?
There was a defining moment for me when the height of the pandemic happened. I was working at an agency as a school based therapist and we were forced to go virtual for everyone’s safety. I had never done virtual mental health and it was a huge adjustment. Before covid happened I was pursuing and reflecting, really wanting to understand my place in the mental health field on a larger scale, I always felt that I wanted to do more outside of the therapy room but I just hadn’t figured out how just yet. And as that desired was reignited I felt led to study sound healing during the lock down and I got certified. This couldn’t have come at a better time, one because I was working from home but two because I wasn’t as busy and being pulled in so many different ways. It’s what a lot of us experienced during that time, a chance to be present with your life on a deeper level. Being more present in my life was a gift for me, because through that reflection I was able to make the decision for my own mental health and leave the agency job. From there I was able to find a better fitting job in the mental health field with Headspace; and now I’m able to have healthy balance in my life. And with that renewed balance I am starting to grow as a wellness practitioner, sound healer and artist.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am the creator of The Feelings Garden; my mission is to assist humans in radical healing and change through the use of alternative healing modalities which include sound healing, visualization meditation and holistic mental health coaching. I use sound bowls and the power of intention to create new patterns in relationships and daily life with clients on their journey. I like to make note that everyone’s need is different and I like to show up where clients are and be a mirror for them. I have a background in mental health with a masters degree in marriage and family therapy; I have worked with individuals, families and children as a therapist. After working in the nonprofit sector, I realized that I wanted to go beyond the therapy room which led me to get a certification in sound healing. As a sound healing practitioner I have worked with early childhood centers, private practices, wellness centered events and corporate companies just to name a few. I am a true example of living what you love, and wellness is very important to me personally and it something I practice as well!
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
I would say consistency with your own personal growth and wellness goals. Its something that I learned as a therapist while in grad school, even a therapist has a therapist. And with that being said, be sure that you have your form of therapy whatever that looks like. Because being in the healing space, you pour out a lot and burn out can be a high risk if a person isn’t mindful of their own stress levels or health status.
What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?
My most effective strategy has been practicing authenticity when engaging virtually or in person with clients or potential clients. Being clear about your goals and intention, so that it doesn’t seem like a sales pitch when talking about what your services to others. Another thing that has been an effective strategy is showing up daily on social media and developing a social media posting strategy so that you are organized; that way you can reach more people on socials and build a tighter community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://msha.ke/feelingsgarden/
- Instagram: @Thefeelingsgarden
- Twitter: @afeelingsgarden
Image Credits
@luoptic Instagram Credited for all photos taken