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

Kim, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

My parents Scott and Jody Muka have paved the way for a belief in myself that I can excel in life.

Every morning as a child before school, my dad would wake me up and encourage me to start the day. Before he left each morning for work, he would lovingly say “Bye Kimberly, I love you. Excel today.” I carry that message with me each day as I face challenges and continue to take steps forward towards enjoying life and embracing my purpose.

My mom has been my number one cheerleader throughout my life, modeling for me an unwavering woman of faith and loyal prayer warrior. Her firm, calm, and nurturing spirit provide me with the support I need to persevere through setbacks and barriers. She confidently reminds me that my identity is rooted in who God created me to be and to continue pursuing the calling and mission God has designed me for.

My parents have modeled for me hard work, caring, and integrity. They taught me the importance of honoring the first greatest commandments taught in Scripture: “love the lord your God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength; and love others as you love yourself.”

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My family moved from Illinois to Michigan when I was in high school. I attended Cornerstone University and Grand Rapids Theological Seminary in Grand Rapids, Michigan where I earned my degrees in Psychology and Christian Counseling.

I have earned my certification as a Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor, acupuncture detoxification specialist, and Mentoring Institute Trained Supervisor, in which I supervise limited licensed professional counselors who are working towards full licensure in the state of Michigan. I have been licensed as a Professional Counselor for over ten years.

In 2022, I was honored to be featured in Voyage Magazine’s Hidden Gem series “Local Businesses and Creatives you should know.”

I knew as a junior in high school that I wanted to study psychology. The previous year I was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, type 1, severe, with psychotic features.

I was determined to learn about my illness and help others with a similar experience to not be defined or limited by their mental illness, but rather to discover purpose and pursue their God-given calling in education, career, relationship, and ministry goals.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When I was tempted to drop out of college multiple semesters while dealing with severe and profound mental illness, my parents trusted me to make the best decision for myself at the time, but also casted a vision and held hope for me that I was capable to do hard things and manage the symptoms of my illness.

Although I contemplated giving up, my parents supported me and provided what I needed while I was incapable of taking care of myself on my own. They connected me with local resources and treatment to provide the best care that equipped me to push past my setbacks and continue forward in my educational goals.

I have now learned to recognize the warning signs in my illness, manage the symptoms of my illness, and take appropriate steps to maintain my health and wellbeing.

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 kept my mental illness hidden for most of my adult life. It was not until a few years ago that I gave myself permission to share my story publicly. I had to re-learn who I was. I had to re-define myself and not carry the shame and stigma often associated with mental illness. I had to find new safe places to connect with in Christian communities. I have invited therapists, psychiatrists, coaches, and mentors into my life to help guide me and instill in me a lost sense of confidence in who I was. I have learned to accept my illness, and that I am not defined by it. It is something God has allowed into my life. He has equipped me to discover my passion to come alongside others who are hurting and offer hope and empowerment. If I can do it, so can you.

Contact Info:

• Website: Www.HeartSoulMindStrengthLLC.com
• Instagram: Heart_Soul_Mind_Strength_LLC
• Facebook: Kim Powers at Heart Soul Mind Strength LLC
• Twitter: KMukaPowers
• Other: www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/kim-powers-kalamazoo-mi/199405

Image Credits
Ashley Huffman at Two Clicks Photography