We recently connected with Jenaiya A. Coleman, MA, CA and have shared our conversation below.

Jenaiya, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?

The biggest risk I’ve taken is making the decision to change Uncover Your Beauty from sensual dance classes for women to Dance Therapy and Life Coaching. The business had grown tremendously over the years. I was able to take bookings whenever I felt like it and even when I took a long period of time off, whenever I had a class, it was always full. As soon as I made the decision to revamp, I had my first Dance Therapy session and 2 people showed up. Both were friends of mine that came to support me. My mother was also there. I still did the class because as a professional, even if 1 person shows, you still do what needs to be done. I must admit, I was discouraged, but I remembered when I first started, the same exact thing happened. Then it grew. Soon thereafter, Covid hit. I thought it couldn’t get any worse. However, it was one of the best things to happen because I was able to do zoom sessions. I was able to coach some of the most amazing clients that were facing such a challenging time in their life while dealing with covid.

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 back background and context?

After a divorce and becoming a single mom, getting back to myself was somewhat difficult. I was going through a lot mentally and dance growing up was always my outlet. I decided to start a business that catered to women that looked like me and wanted to feel better about themselves; on the outside. Initially, my thought was to cater to moms, wives, girlfriends, etc. It took off. However, in 2017 I began working a job that allowed me to speak with victims of domestic violence. I’ve experienced it myself and I never spoke about it. I realized I had a way with my victims; they opened up to me. Many of them would tell me I was the only person they were able to be as honest and open with. I decided to go back to school to get my Masters in counseling. After buckling down and getting my degree in 11 months (it’s hard to believe I actually did that working full time), I decided to revamp Uncover Your Beauty. I didn’t want to cater to women and just their outer beauty but their inner beauty, growth and healing. That was important to me. As I saw a change in myself, through school and also me going to therapy, I was able to see just how important the inner work is to your healing and growth. I wanted to share my purpose and passion with my clients.

Many of my clients enjoy the services I provide because I’m very relatable. I’ve gone through a lot of what my clients come to me to assist them with. It blows my mind sometimes. It’s always a reminder that God has me doing this for a reason. I provide them with homework after each session and I truly challenge them. I don’t babysit or pacify my clients. I let them know, I’m here to help change your life and help you grow and you’re going to do it. I’m going to walk with you every step of the way, but when it’s time to fly, I’m releasing you. I also won’t allow them to book with me outside of 12 sessions. I advise them to allow additional time to pass because I won’t be their crutch. I encourage them to take what they’ve learned and really utilize the tools. Come back later if you need more sessions. I’ve made my prices affordable to the average person that may not be able to afford these services otherwise.

I’m most proud of and what I want clients and future clients to know, I take out the time to do my own self work when it’s necessary. I want to be as authentic and professional for my clients, I make sure I’m not pouring from an empty cup. I love what I do and I want to ensure I give all of myself to them. I allow myself rest so that I show up as the best version of me.
My clients deserve that.

If you could go back, would you choose the same profession, specialty, etc.?

If I could go back, I would certainly choose the same profession, I just would’ve done it sooner. As a child, I wanted to be a psychiatrist but I did not want to go to school for it. I’ve always had a way with people and providing them a safe space to share with me. I say it’s “God given,” because even as a child, adults would confide in me. The interesting part is, I’ve always had the wisdom to provide wise counsel.

Training and knowledge matter of course, but beyond that what do you think matters most in terms of succeeding in your field?

I believe that old school word of mouth has been most helpful in my field. A great number of clients have been referrals. I am very compassionate; my vulnerability and transparency has also aided in my success.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.uncoveryourbeauty.com
• Instagram: @Uncoveryourbeauty
• Facebook: Uncover Your Beauty
• Linkedin: Jenaiya Coleman

Image Credits
Photographer: Cranium,LLC Reginald Duncan