We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chavara Hamilton. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chavara below.
Chavara, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
The initial risk that comes to mind is Sup-HER Circle, PLLC. Sup-HER Circle is my virtual counseling practice. I provide individual and group counseling services to women ages 18+. While serving women throughout my career, I recognized the importance of prospective clients being able to share their experiences with someone they can feel a sense of connection and understanding. One of the obvious factors that enhances the connection is race. I enjoy working with women in general, but I can relate to the woman of color in the room who feels unheard, labeled aggressive, prejudged, etc. For this reason, it was important for me to create a safe space where women can operate in authenticity without having to over-explain. After facilitating support groups, I would come home and reflect on having my own groups. I had a journal where I would write my ideas down. I would also use my phone to prevent forgetting an idea. I would brainstorm names, services, policies, etc. Believe it or not, LOTS of prayer. I discussed it with an old supervisor and friend. She provided motivation coupled with other supportive friends and family members. Then, I was introduced to the SCORE Mentorship Program (thanks Tesha). The mentor I worked with provided a great amount of support. We developed our relationship during the COVID era, imagine that! I miss talking to Jay! I loved that he met me on my level. We worked diligently to accomplish some of the foundational aspects of the business with the time allotted. May of 2020 the PLLC was established! Yay!
Chavara, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
I was born in Houston, Texas. I was raised in a small town by the name of Cleveland, Texas. I like to think of myself as a country, but city girl. I currently reside in the Dallas-Fort Worth area (no, I ‘am not a Cowboys fan). I attended Paul Quinn College and later finished my bachelor’s degree at Jarvis Christian College (HBCU Love), where I earned a degree in Business Administration. I earned a Master of Arts in Counseling from Dallas Baptist University. I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor, Blogger, Speaker and Mental Health First Aid Instructor.
I’m most proud to have broken generational curses. And transparently, no matter what happens with my business, my family is proud and that makes me happy. My cousin, Jalyn told me “You are a MUST for this generation.” It was definitely a proud moment.
I want prospective clients to know that I take pride in the work that I do. Integrity is a core value. I understand that it is a privilege to be a recipient of their stories. Also, I want prospective clients to know that I may not be able to fully understand or resolve all issues, but I can guarantee all efforts will be demonstrated to assist in transforming those internal hurts to external strengths. We are protecting crowns and not letting anything slow us down, Sup-HERos!
If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?
Absolutely! I believe I’m doing the work that I was purposed to do. I want continued favor on my life, therefore I’m obedient. Although I believe I’m operating in my purpose, I do recognize glows and grows. This work allows me to help others, and by the same token it encourages me to complete an inventory of my own life. Trust me when I say that your own dysfunction, shortcomings, etc. will be on display in the counseling space, okay!
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I think my being here to share is the story of resilience. I’m a first-generation graduate. I was primarily raised by a single mother. My mother often worked two jobs to provide. I still recall times I would accompany her to the second job. I was working for free at an early age. I also witnessed intimate partner abuse for a number of years. Despite these challenges, I was blessed to have some great supports to assist along the journey. Oftentimes, I joke with my uncle, Ed Jones about my need for a blessing (a.k.a gas money) when I would travel home from college. I became a woman that I can be proud of and that is resilience!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.suphercircle.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suphercirclepllc/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suphercirclepllc
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iu-F7uf3FF8&t=37s
Image Credits
DLM Visuals-Houston, TX