Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Sherese Danielle Ezelle, LMHC, LPC, NCC. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Sherese Danielle, appreciate you joining us today. Can you recount a time when the advice you provided to a client was really spot on? (Please note this response is for education/entertainment purposes only and shouldn’t be construed as advice for the reader)
One of the most impactful stories from my practice involves a client who initially approached therapy with a great deal of reluctance. This individual came from a cultural background where seeking therapy was often stigmatized, and they didn’t see its value. When we began our sessions, they were grappling with extreme stress at work and struggling to connect with their family, resulting in feelings of hopelessness. In fact, their anxiety score was the highest I had encountered in my career.
Throughout our time together, I emphasized the idea that they have control over their life and the power to change their perspective. The pivotal advice that resonated with them was the concept of “flipping the magnifying glass.” I encouraged them to recognize that they had the ability to choose their focus; whatever they chose to concentrate on would expand in their experience. This shift in perspective was transformative.
We worked on reframing their thoughts, shifting their perspective, and building effective interpersonal communication skills. The goal was to help them articulate their emotional expressions and redefine how they viewed the world. As they started to implement these strategies, something remarkable happened: their anxiety score decreased to zero. They began to establish healthier boundaries at work and in their family life, feeling seen and heard for the first time.
I am incredibly proud of their journey. They have not only embraced their successes but have also learned to replicate them independently. We continue to celebrate their achievements together, and they frequently check in to share their growth. It is immensely gratifying to witness their transformation and to walk alongside them in their healing process. Their gratitude and ongoing commitment to their personal development remind me of the profound impact that effective communication and self-awareness can have on one’s life.
Sherese Danielle, 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?
As I reflect on my journey as a Black woman in the field of behavioral health and holistic wellness, I am filled with gratitude and a sense of connection to my roots. Growing up in a loving household with my grandmother and single mother, who raised me alongside my two younger siblings, I was surrounded by a profound belief in the power of dreams. I can still picture the countless times I would declare my aspirations—like wanting to be an astronaut. My family would respond with such enthusiasm, transforming our downstairs living room as if I was walking on the moon, complete with spaceship made of boxes, glow in the dark stars on the ceiling and even my very own Black astronaut Barbie. They made me feel like I was truly capable of reaching for the stars, and that belief has shaped every aspect of my life.
This encouragement instilled in me the belief that nothing was unattainable—an ethos that would shape my future. While I initially grappled with how I wanted to make a difference in the world, everything fell into place during my first introductory psychology course in college. I was captivated by the incredible power of the mind and the potential for growth and healing. My passion ignited as I immersed myself in literature on psychology and communication techniques, leading me to pursue a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy. I felt a deep calling to share these transformative resources with those who might not have access to them, especially individuals from backgrounds like mine.
I vividly remember the worry I felt when planning to tell my mother that I was switching my major from biology and pre-medicine to psychology. It took me months, I talked with my friends crafted an amazing speech but still was scared, but when I finally found the courage to share my decision, her response was the calmest and most supportive I could have imagined: “You can be and do anything you want; just let me know how I can help.” In that moment, I was transported back to the little girl dreaming of the stars in our basement, filled with a sense of possibility and purpose.
Today, I am beyond grateful to own and operate a thriving private practice where I conduct training sessions, provide one-on-one therapy, and consult businesses on integrating wellness practices into their core values. My newest initiative, EmpowerED Youth, is particularly close to my heart; it aims to uplift marginalized and underrepresented youth and their families by teaching them essential emotion regulation and communication skills. My mission resonates deeply: to empower individuals to become the best versions of themselves because they are truly limitless.
What sets my practice apart is my passionate commitment to highlighting strengths, challenging limiting beliefs, and guiding clients in discovering how they want to feel as they craft tangible goals to achieve that vision. I am immensely proud of the work I do, but my pride is eclipsed by the gratitude I feel for the strong women who have shaped my path—my mother and grandmother—whose sacrifices and resilience have given me the voice I now use to inspire change.
To potential clients, followers, and supporters, I want you to know that my practice is a sanctuary where your growth is celebrated, and your potential is illuminated. Together, we will navigate life’s complexities, uncover your strengths, and cultivate a sense of empowerment that radiates from within you. Remember, you are never alone on this journey, and I am here to walk alongside you as you embrace your limitless potential. Thank you for allowing me to share this journey with you; it is a privilege I cherish deeply.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
In my experience, the most crucial elements for succeeding in the field of behavioral health extend beyond just training and knowledge. While expertise is essential, what truly makes a difference is the ability to cultivate self-love and show up as your authentic self. When we connect with others, especially in a therapeutic setting, we must come from a place of wholeness—when our cup is full. This authenticity fosters trust and creates a safe space for clients to explore their vulnerabilities.
Self-love is foundational; it allows us to embrace our imperfections and acknowledge our strengths. When we approach our work with compassion for ourselves, we can extend that same compassion to those we serve. This relational dynamic encourages clients to open up and engage in the healing process, knowing they are met by someone who understands the journey of growth and transformation.
Moreover, being mindful of our own growth and committing to lifelong learning is vital. The field of behavioral health is ever-evolving, and staying open to new ideas, techniques, and perspectives not only enriches our practice but also models the importance of growth for our clients. When we continuously learn and apply those lessons in our own lives, we reinforce the message that personal development is a lifelong journey.
Adopting a resilience-focused, strengths-based mindset is also key. This approach not only helps us navigate the challenges we face in our profession but also empowers our clients to recognize and leverage their own strengths. By shifting the focus from limitations to possibilities, we encourage clients to see themselves as capable and resourceful. This shift can be transformative, igniting their inner strength and motivating them to pursue their goals.
Ultimately, success in this field is about building authentic connections, nurturing self-love, embracing continuous growth, and fostering resilience. When we embody these principles, we not only enhance our practice but also inspire those we work with to become the best and most authentic versions of themselves. It’s a beautiful cycle of growth, empowerment, and connection that enriches both our lives and the lives of our clients.
Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?
One of the most significant lessons I had to unlearn on my journey as a business owner was the belief that success meant doing everything on my own. Initially, I thought that asking for help or delegating tasks was a sign of weakness, and I felt the weight of responsibility to manage every aspect of my practice single-handedly. This mindset led to burnout and a sense of isolation, which ultimately clouded the joy I once felt in my work.
As I navigated the challenges of entrepreneurship, I began to realize that resilience doesn’t come from carrying the burden alone; it emerges from building a support system and fostering collaboration. I recognized the importance of asking questions, seeking guidance, and surrounding myself with mentors who had walked the path I aspired to take. Connecting with someone who had been there and was now where I wanted to be was transformative. Their insights and experiences illuminated the way forward and gave me permission to embrace vulnerability in my journey.
Throughout this process, I learned that humility is not a negative trait in business; rather, it is a powerful tool for growth. Acknowledging that I didn’t have all the answers allowed me to cultivate a mindset that embraces learning and adaptability. I began to delegate tasks and trust others with responsibilities, which freed me to focus on the aspects of my practice that truly ignited my passion.
In rekindling my joy for the work I do, I also had to reflect on my origin story—the roots of my passion for helping others. Remembering why I started this journey fueled my determination to remain an independent powerhouse while also recognizing the value of community and collaboration. By embracing this new perspective, I could thrive not just as a business owner but as a practitioner dedicated to making a meaningful impact.
Ultimately, unlearning the notion that I had to do it all alone has reshaped my approach to business and life. I now understand that true success lies in the balance of independence and interdependence. By cultivating connections, seeking support, and remaining humble, I can continue to grow while empowering others to do the same. This journey has reminded me that we are stronger together, and that collaboration is a cornerstone of resilience and success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://therapywithsheresedanielle.com
- Instagram: @iamsheresedanielle
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherese-ezelle-lmhc-lpc-ncc-22315b56/
Image Credits
Auston James