Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Jada Elliott. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Jada, appreciate you joining us 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 biggest risk that paid off was stepping out on faith and starting The Bridge Counseling and Consultation, LLC. I was terminated from my position as a hospice social worker and it was either to get another job or launch my private practice. I am so thankful I was more inclined to listen to my inside voice rather than all the outside voices. It was the greatest act of courage and has resulted in the freedom and a life that I love.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I started consoling people when I worked at a Level One Trauma Center in my hometown of Macon, Georgia. I was a Patient Advocate and the physicians would give me the respos I encourage people to live up to being the greatest version of themselves through counseling. I help my clients to see their worth and value as human beings. I use my skills as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to empower individuals to claim their rights and the identity they choose for themselves.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

I had to unlearn the narrative that women, especially women of color cannot operate a profitable business. I was raised by working-class parents. My father retired from the railroad and my mother worked as a nurse in a nursing home. I never saw entrepreneurship in my home. I remember telling my mother I was starting a business and she asked in sheer amazement why not just get a job? So, I have rather had to find women in leadership positions like Oprah Winfrey and Pinky Cole as role models and living proof that women can manage both a business and their lives successfully.

Can you talk to us about how your funded your firm or practice?

As I stated earlier I had a dream and a belief that the dream was possible. I worked for UnitedHealth for 10 years before starting my own business and luckily I had amassed a decent amount in my 401K. I used a great portion of my retirement saving for the opening of my business The Bridge Counseling and Consultation, LLC. I have no regrets.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: thebridgecounsel
• Linkedin: Jada Elliott

Image Credits
Photographer: Ms. Tykeshia James Location: The Bridge Counseling Center