Meet Jessica Smith | Mental Health Professional

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jessica Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jessica, is there something you believe many others might not?
One piece of conventional advice I disagree with is, society’s definition of success. The concept of success is subjective and success isn’t one-size-fits-all. As individuals we define what success is for ourselves, therefore I do not believe there is a single path to achieving success in life. It’s not about society’s expectations because our path to success is ours alone to forge. It’s a deeply personal destination, unique to each of us. There’s no single roadmap, only the journey we create.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Psychology has always intrigued me, and I knew at an early age that I wanted to pursue a career in the mental health field. By the age of seven, I was captivated by the mysteries of the human mind and behavior. Unlike most children, I seldom wanted to play outside or watch cartoons. I would stay inside just to read encyclopedia books, watch psychological movies, and write. As a student in 7th grade, I was inspired by my school counselor to pursue my ambition to become a therapist. Reminiscing about my youth, I realized that my passions and gifts have always existed.

In the ever-evolving landscape of mental health care, the role of mental health professionals has become increasingly vital. As someone deeply entrenched in this field, my daily work is not just a career but a profound calling. Through advocacy, supportive counseling, speaking engagements and community education, I strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by mental health disorders.

Advocacy stands at the core of my purpose. In a world where mental health stigma prevails, it is crucial to create spaces where individuals feel safe and empowered to share their experiences. I cultivate those spaces by engaging in public forums, teaching psycho education, and participating in community events, I aim to continue raising awareness about the significance of mental health.

I believe that knowledge is a powerful tool in combating stigma and fostering understanding. One of my goals is to change the language of mental health by dismantling the stigmas. I would like for the world to stop stigmatizing people living with mental health conditions. It is essential to understand that people living with mental health conditions are not defined by their diagnoses. They lead healthy, stable lives, and societal attitudes need to shift from fear and misunderstanding to compassion and support.

What sets me apart from most is my genuine heart, authentic nature and the ability to empathize with others in a meaningful way. I truly care about those who are broken, suffering, abused, outcasted, judged, and mistreated. In a world often characterized by division and judgment, the ability to extend compassion towards those who are broken, suffering, abused, outcasted, judged, and mistreated is not just an act of kindness; it is a moral imperative.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My grandmother was the north star of my life, a guiding light of wisdom and intelligence. Her influence has shaped me into the woman I am today. Her wisdom, gained from a life well-lived, has guided me through life’s challenges. Her incredible intelligence, along with deep spiritual insight has inspired me to never stop learning and whenever she spoke, her words were like nuggets of gold. She is, without a doubt, the wisest and most intelligent person I’ve ever known. Today, I still hold dear the lessons she taught me about life, people, the world, and most importantly, about God.

Website: https://linktr.ee/JessicaSmith7

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mentalhealthedu_?igshid=NGVhN2U2NjQ0Yg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr