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

Zeely, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you get your first job in the field that you practice in today?

Embarking on my professional journey at Warren E. Smith marked a significant transition from academia to practical application within the realm of mental health. With a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and a burgeoning passion for understanding human behavior, I eagerly pursued a Master’s program in Professional Psychology, fostering a deep-seated fascination with the intricacies of human cognition and emotion.

Securing an interview at the Smith Building on Broad Street in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was a pivotal moment, laden with both excitement and trepidation. Despite my apprehensions regarding my academic preparedness with only a Bachelor’s degree, I approached the interview with fervor, eager to explore how my academic background could synergize with the demands of professional counseling.

Subsequently, I found myself immersed in a dynamic environment within the adult-focused department of the agency, presiding over a day program designed to facilitate communal engagement and reintegration for participants. Through group activities and community outings, clients were afforded opportunities to reconnect with their social spheres, a process instrumental in bolstering their mental well-being.

Reflecting on my initial foray into professional counseling, I acknowledge the steep learning curve encountered. Despite uncertainties regarding my efficacy in administrative tasks, I found solace in my ability to forge genuine connections with clients, empathetically delving into the root causes of their behaviors.

The fusion of my academic pursuits in Criminal Justice and Professional Psychology proved instrumental in navigating the multifaceted challenges presented within the therapeutic milieu. Armed with a nuanced understanding of human behavior, I endeavored to tailor interventions and treatment modalities to suit the unique needs of each client, fostering a sense of empowerment and resilience.

Over the course of three years, my tenure at Warren E. Smith provided invaluable insights into the intricacies of clinical practice. While beset by challenges inherent to interpersonal dynamics within the workplace, I remained steadfast in my commitment to client-centered care, cultivating enduring relationships with both clients and colleagues alike.

The experiential learning garnered through facilitating group therapy sessions and organizing enriching outings underscored the transformative potential of therapeutic engagement. Witnessing the profound impact of these interventions instilled within me a profound sense of purpose, propelling me towards the pursuit of excellence in my burgeoning career as a mental health practitioner.

In retrospect, my tenure at Warren E. Smith served as a cornerstone in my professional trajectory, laying the groundwork for future endeavors within the realm of mental health. As I embark on the next phase of my journey, I am imbued with a renewed sense of determination and purpose, driven by the conviction that every interaction holds the potential to effectuate positive change in the lives of others.

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 journey into the field of therapy began with a deep-seated passion for understanding human behavior and a desire to make a positive impact in people’s lives. After completing my education and obtaining the necessary certifications and licenses, I ventured into the world of counseling and therapy.

Opening my private practice was both a daunting and exhilarating experience. Like many aspiring therapists, I was met with a mix of fears and challenges. The prospect of building a client base from scratch, navigating the complexities of managing a business, and dealing with the inevitable uncertainties of entrepreneurship were all significant hurdles to overcome. However, I was driven by a strong sense of purpose and a belief in the transformative power of therapy.

One of the most significant challenges I faced was establishing credibility and trust within the community. Building a reputation as a competent and compassionate therapist required time, dedication, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Additionally, I had to confront my own insecurities and fears of failure, learning to navigate the inevitable setbacks with resilience and grace.

Despite the challenges, the rewards of running a private practice have been immeasurable. Witnessing the growth and healing of my clients, forging deep connections built on trust and empathy, and playing a role in helping individuals overcome life’s obstacles have been profoundly fulfilling experiences.

Moreover, the autonomy and flexibility that comes with owning a private practice have allowed me to tailor my services to meet the unique needs of my clients. From offering specialized therapy modalities to implementing innovative approaches, I am able to provide personalized care that prioritizes the well-being of those I serve.

In terms of my approach, I strive to create a clinical environment that is both lighthearted and professional. I believe that therapy should be a safe and welcoming space where clients feel comfortable expressing themselves without judgment. By infusing warmth and humor into my practice, I aim to foster a sense of ease and openness that facilitates the therapeutic process.

What sets me apart from others in the field is my unwavering commitment to empathy, authenticity, and continuous growth. I prioritize building genuine connections with my clients, meeting them where they are, and empowering them to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and confidence.

I am most proud of the positive impact I have been able to make in the lives of my clients and the relationships I have cultivated within the community. Whether it’s helping individuals overcome trauma, navigate relationship issues, or cope with mental health struggles, knowing that I have played a part in their journey towards healing brings me immense joy and fulfillment.

Ultimately, what I want potential clients to know about me and my practice is that they are not alone. Whatever struggles they may be facing, I am here to offer support, guidance, and hope. Together, we can work towards creating meaningful change and building a brighter future.

Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?

One of the most impactful strategies I’ve employed in expanding my clientele is embracing honesty and transparency. During initial consultations, I prioritize creating a safe and validating space for individuals, ensuring they feel heard and understood. I maintain regular check-ins throughout our therapeutic journey, consistently reaffirming their comfort and inviting open dialogue about our fit together. While it can be disheartening at times to recognize when I might not be the ideal therapist for a client, I firmly believe it’s crucial for their overall therapeutic progress.

Central to my approach is the commitment to meeting clients where they are emotionally and mentally. This ethos extends to fostering an environment where clients feel empowered to express any concerns about our partnership, allowing us to navigate their needs collaboratively. By fostering vulnerability and openness, I’ve observed an organic flow of referrals from satisfied clients who appreciate the dedicated attention and personalized care they receive.

Within my practice, every client is assured that during our sessions, they are my top priority. Their journey, challenges, and experiences are treated with utmost importance, creating a sanctuary where nothing else in the world matters but their well-being. This unwavering dedication has not only nurtured trust but has also cultivated a sense of community within my practice, where individuals feel valued and supported on their path to healing.

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

Let me share a deeply personal journey with you, one that I hope resonates and offers solace to anyone feeling alone in their struggles. It was back in 2009 when I found myself sinking into a profound depression. At the time, I was in what I believed to be a promising job, the most financially stable position I had ever held as an adult. I was working as a customer service representative in a bank when a client saw something in me and recommended me for a role in the back office, developing banking systems.

To be honest, I felt utterly out of my depth. I struggled to grasp the work, and instead of support, I faced ridicule. The humiliation became unbearable, and both my confidence and my job were slipping away. Eventually, I made the difficult decision to quit before I could be fired. It felt like confirmation of all my worst fears: that I was a failure, incompetent, and deserving of rejection.

In the aftermath, I spiraled into a deep depression. It wasn’t just about the job; it was compounded by other losses and transitions in my life. For weeks, I barely left my bed, my days consumed by tears and overwhelming hopelessness. It was a dark period, one where I couldn’t see a way out.

Then, someone reached out to me with a lifeline: the suggestion to go back to school. Despite numerous setbacks and being discouraged from pursuing higher education in the past, I decided to take the leap. I enrolled in a bachelor’s program in criminal justice and later pursued a master’s in professional counseling.

I’ll never forget the day I graduated with my bachelor’s, just before Mother’s Day. The very next Monday, I was back in class for my master’s program. It was a whirlwind of emotions, but through it all, I found a newfound sense of purpose and resilience.

It’s not always easy for me to admit that I battled depression, but I know now that it changed the trajectory of my life. While I may not share this part of my journey with all my clients, it has given me a unique perspective. When they open up about their struggles, I can not only sympathize but truly empathize with their pain.

Through my own experience, I’ve come to understand the depths of resilience and strength within me. Even when the weight of the world feels overwhelming, I hold onto these lessons as beacons of hope. They remind me that I’ve faced darkness before and emerged stronger, and they guide me through moments of doubt and negativity.

In my work as a counselor, I’ve learned that strength isn’t just about overcoming obstacles; it’s also about acknowledging vulnerability and seeking support when needed. By embracing my own journey, I hope to inspire others to do the same—to find strength in their struggles and to never underestimate the power of resilience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.zmepcs.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zmecounseling/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070127864590

Image Credits
Judith D Edwards