We recently connected with LaKendria Ellis and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, LaKendria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Do you think your parents have had a meaningful impact on you and your journey?

Definitely. Although my parents separated when I was young, I am fortunate in that I have a great relationship with them both. I was also blessed to have a stepfather. Each parent added value to my life despite having different parenting styles. I learned the value of collaboration in watching them work together to raise me. My biological parents were not together, but they were partners in parenting. I wouldn’t realize this until I was much older but watching them collaborate and consult in making decisions instilled the idea of partnership being essential. I learned the value of relationships and how they can change and pivot with purpose.

My mother taught me several lessons; the biggest lesson was to trust in God. Aside from setting a great foundation, my mother taught me the importance of excellence and presentation. When I was younger, she would tear up my homework and force me to start over if there were too many mistakes and the presentation was not up to par. At the time it felt like torture, but it has helped me in my business as I am invested in making sure whatever I put my name on is of a certain standard. My mother also did a great job of encouraging me and pushing me beyond my comfort zone. She encouraged me to not limit myself.  She invited me to dream. This is one of the greatest gifts you can give. The visions I have been allowed to create allow me to keep going and make me feel powerful.

My father taught me the importance of authenticity. He is an open book and allows me to share this candidness with him as well. Him teaching me to be authentic has allowed me to build a brand where I have the freedom to be myself. Authenticity is priceless.

Collectively, my parents modeled resiliency through their own journey.  Separately, I watched them each navigate difficult times and never give up. Watching them continue to push forward despite setbacks, serves as constant motivation. Although challenges may come, I have a model of how to push forward with courage and grace.

LaKendria, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

My name is LaKendria Ellis. I am a licensed professional counselor, life coach, women empowerment specialist, speaker, and television commentator. I provide therapy and coaching to individuals who are ready to make changes and simply do not know where to start. I am an encourager, advocate, cheerleader, and accountability partner for my clients to ensure they reach their goals.

I became a therapist because I saw a need. There were areas in the lives of my family, friends and even myself that needed healing and I wanted to be a part of the solution. Therapy was the answer. I utilized my expertise as a therapist to navigate other facets of my career. Being a therapist helps me to be a better life coach, specialist, and commentator.

This is truly my passion, and I am proud of what I do. I am proud that my clients make measurable progress. I am proud to see clients report they have seen changes within themselves. I am proud to get to do what I love and get paid for it. I am proud that what I do feels rewarding.

Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?

To succeed at being a therapist you must have collaboration and relaxation. The field of counseling is constantly changing, collaboration allows you to remain fresh and clear minded. Relaxation allows the opportunity to reset and see things clearly. Balance is key.

What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?

As a therapist I had to unlearn the idea of it being my job to fix people or always have a solution. I put so much pressure on myself in the beginning of my career trying to solve problems. At times, I was working harder than the clients. I was on my way to burnout. Through experience and time, I learned the client was the expert in their journey. I was the expert in the therapeutic approach. My job was not to “fix” them or solve every problem; my job was to assist them in healing through their own expertise.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.kenkounsels.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kenkounsels/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kenkounsels
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-H_izY2UwMdelIXJlfy3Lw