Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Angela T. Jackson, LPC, NCC. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Angela T., appreciate you joining us today. Let’s go back in time to when you were an intern or apprentice – what’s an interesting story you can share from that stage of your career?
There really are so many differences in internship experiences. Looking back, I learned that you can’t judge your entire field based on isolated experiences at one site. An internship is just one chapter, not the whole story.
During my internship, I learned a tremendous amount both clinically and professionally. I also experienced challenges working alongside peers who were already licensed. At times, there was an expectation that I function more as an assistant rather than as an emerging professional developing my own clinical voice.
That experience stretched me. It pushed me to advocate for myself quickly and clearly. I learned how to communicate my role, set boundaries, and show up with confidence even when I was still growing.
Overall, those lessons shaped my leadership style. I’m intentional about creating spaces where clients and new professionals feel respected, seen, and supported, not minimized because they’re still learning. There’s always a process in learning.
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 background and context?
Sure! I’m Angela T. Jackson, the face of The Jackson Impact Mental Health Solutions, LLC, and a Licensed Clinical Therapist in the state of Tennessee. I bring over 18 years of experience in the helping field, and my passion is creating access to quality mental health care, especially in underserved communities. Through my work, I provide counseling, education, and resources that help individuals and families prioritize healing and overall wellness.
My work extends beyond therapy—I’ve had the opportunity to serve as a mentor, educator, ambassador , clinical supervisor, and speaker. I truly believe in meeting people where they are and creating safe, supportive spaces that encourage growth and lasting change.
Outside of my professional life, I’m a proud wife and mother of three, and I value staying grounded in both family and community. A fun personal fact about me is that I wear something green every day to raise awareness and spark conversations around mental health.
What sets me apart is my genuine, heartfelt commitment to meeting people in spaces where healing has often been delayed by stigma, fear, or lack of access. I have a deep passion for working with BIPOC communities who are beginning therapy for the first time. I don’t take that step lightly—it’s an honor to help plant seeds of trust, awareness, and safety in places where shame or stigma may have existed for generations.
I also have a strong interest in supporting individuals living with autoimmune disorders and other chronic illnesses. This passion is deeply personal, as I am motivated by my own lived experiences. I understand that these conditions don’t just affect the body—they impact mental and emotional well-being as well. My approach creates space to process those layered experiences, helping clients navigate the psychological toll while building resilience and self-compassion.
At the core of my work is a balance of cultural awareness, empathy, and practical support—ensuring that each person feels seen, heard, and empowered in their journey. My goal? To “Interrupt the Stigma” on mental health.
Speaking of “Interrupting the Stigma”, I have used this catchphrase since starting my business and I’ve decided to sustain my vision by turning it into a conference, potentially annual.
“Interrupting the Stigma 2026 is more than just a conference—it’s a direct reflection of The Jackson Impact. This event was created to challenge the silence and stigma that still surrounds mental health, especially in the communities that I serve. This event will bring together real voices, real stories, and real solutions in a safe, virtual space designed for healing, education, and connection. As a therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how stigma delays people from seeking help. So every opportunity I get, I seek to change that narrative normalizing mental health care and not just mental health “conversations”.
Yes, attendees can expect meaningful conversations and expert insights but more importantly, practical tools they can apply in their everyday lives. It’s also an opportunity to build community—because healing doesn’t happen in isolation.
You asked the question, “Who is this conference for?”. It’s for anyone who has ever felt overlooked, unheard, or hesitant to seek support. We’re not just talking about mental health—we’re actively shifting the culture around it. I encourage readers, therapists, faith leaders, family, friends … EVERYONE to follow my social media handles for updates about registration details opening soon! The idea is to intentionally keep this event intimate with a limited number of virtual seats. BE IN THAT NUMBER!
The conference will take place on May 16, 2026, and early registration is strongly encouraged to secure your spot. If you’ve been waiting for a sign to prioritize your mental health, this is it! Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of a powerful experience that’s interrupting the stigma around mental health and breaking barriers.
So here’s the real truth! This conference holds special significance as it takes place during Mental Health Awareness Month—a time dedicated to elevating conversations, increasing understanding, and … you guessed it… interrupting stigma around mental health. This alignment makes the conference even more intentional, as it amplifies a national movement while creating a focused space for awareness and empowerment every year.
This year is also especially meaningful as it marks the 6-year anniversary of The Jackson Impact Mental Health Solutions, LLC, originally established on May 23, 2020. Hosting this conference during such a milestone is both a celebration and a call to action—honoring the work that has been done while continuing the mission to interrupt stigma, expand access, and create lasting change in how mental health is understood and supported. It marks a very personal aspect as well. There was a time in the past year where I considered throwing in the towel and maybe even changing professional paths but nevertheless, we are here with 6 years of impact.
Do you think you’d choose a different profession or specialty if you were starting now?
Interestingly enough, I have asked myself this question more and more here lately. The answer is “yes”. I would choose the same profession and specialty again but sooner in life. I have transitioned through several professional and personal experiences that led me here. Working in mental health often feels like calling on one hand and a result of lived experiences on the other. It allows me to support people in meaningful ways. Being able to create safe spaces, witness growth, and be apart of someone’s journey is something I don’t take for granted.
Over the years, my experiences have deepened my connection to the field, strengthened my purpose, and confirmed that this is exactly where I’m meant to be. Even with the challenges that come with the work, the impact and fulfillment outweigh the challenges.
Other than training/knowledge, what do you think is most helpful for succeeding in your field?
I believe the most helpful qualities for succeeding in this field are the spirit of discernment, authenticity, compassion, and consistency. In mental health work, the ability to discern what a client truly needs in the moment—beyond what is spoken—guides how I show up and respond. It allows me to meet people with sensitivity and zero judgment.
Being authentic is equally important. People can sense when you are genuine or not and showing up as your true self helps build trust and connection. Compassion and the ability to listen without judgment are also essential, especially for individuals who are navigating vulnerability, often for the very first time. Creating a safe, non-judgmental space is key to fostering trust and growth. Resilience and strong boundaries support sustainability in this work reminding me why I remain committed to showing up fully for the people I serve. God is my source. There’s no way I could do this without him.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thejacksonimpact.com
- Instagram: source:%20Instagram
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17ydKPrzLP/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Twitter: https://x.com/jacksonimpact?s=21
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@droppingemeraldgems?si=oD-saRt_wbT6h_wl
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/show/0O82zxRStPRBBSBF3SgxlC
