We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kelly Mays a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Kelly, appreciate you joining us today. We’d love to hear the story behind how you got your first job in field that you currently practice in.
I was 14 when I attempted suicide. My mother found me, took me to the hospital, saved my life. My follow-up care consisted of talk-therapy with an amazing therapist. Her name was Lynn and she reminded me of Pat Benatar (one of my favorite artists). She was very intentional, empathetic, and validating. She inspired me to become a therapist. Life happened in the interim, but at 35 I graduated with my MS in counseling and I have been working in this field ever since. I specialize in suicide prevention and special populations. What’s more I have the opportunity to marry my poetry with my work as a therapist to help others.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I started with a counseling program, and studied theories; however it was the hands on work that helped me really appreciate my field. When you see people in crisis and get an opportunity to support them through that crisis changes you, for the better. Just like poetry, it transforms you, your perspective, you grow. I am currently working with a youth program in my city, Westland, MI, teaching poetry and mental wellness. It also falls under my poet laureate duties. Again, the opportunity to marry the things I love the most.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
I applied for a position a few years back, after being let go from an agency. Initially I wasn’t hired for the position, they went with someone else who had a more extensive background in education. A week later they called me back, the other applicant didn’t work out, and offered me the position. I accepted, and a year later I was awarded employee of the quarter and then employee of the year. Since then I have been promoted twice. All the time I was second guessing myself, struggling with imposter syndrome, and self-doubt. It didn’t stop me from getting up every day, doing my best, and watched my world change.
Putting training and knowledge aside, what else do you think really matters in terms of succeeding in your field?
I think the opportunity to be creative, and blend my passions together have been the most hopeful. Also having lived experience helps with authenticity and rapport building.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nativechildbrown/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nativechild.mays/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-mays-82a0036b/