Meet Dr. Selena Smith, PhD | Mental Health and Addiction Specialist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Selena Smith, PhD and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Selena, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The most important factor behind my success as a Founder, CEO, and specialist in Trauma and Addiction is undoubtedly my unwavering faith and dedication to my craft and my deep-seated passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of others.

My relentless pursuit of excellence, coupled with my empathetic approach to understanding and addressing the needs of those I serve, sets me apart as a leader in my field. My commitment to continuous learning and growth, both personally and professionally, allows me to adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of trauma intervention and leadership.

Furthermore, my ability to cultivate strong relationships, both within my team and with my clients, fosters a sense of trust and collaboration that is essential for success in any endeavor. My innate ability to connect with people on a deeper level, coupled with my exceptional communication skills, allows me to effectively convey my vision and inspire others to join me in my mission.

Having resilience in the face of systemic barriers and adversity. As a leader navigating through a sea of challenges that the community faces, however finding ways to persevere and thrive despite the challenges posed by lack of funding or resources, systemic racism, prejudice, and inequality is a testament to our strength and determination.

My success is also rooted in a deep understanding of the unique needs and experiences of the communities I serve. As a member of a marginalized group, you bring a level of empathy, cultural competence, and insight that is invaluable in addressing the complex issues surrounding addiction and mental health within minority communities.

Furthermore, my ability to create inclusive and culturally sensitive treatment programs and interventions speaks to my commitment to providing equitable access to quality care for all individuals, regardless of race or socioeconomic status. By centering the voices and experiences of marginalized communities in my work, I can offer solutions that are truly responsive to their needs.

Additionally, my leadership style, characterized by authenticity, compassion, and a genuine desire to uplift and empower others, serves as a source of inspiration and motivation for my team and those we serve. My ability to lead by example and create a supportive and inclusive work environment fosters a sense of belonging and trust among the staff and clients alike.

Ultimately, it is my unwavering faith in God and commitment to advocating for equity, justice, and access to quality care for all individuals, combined with my resilience, cultural competence, and compassionate leadership, that drives my success as a minority, Black-owned leader in the field of addiction and mental health. Through my dedication and determination, I am not only making a difference in the lives of those I serve but also challenging the status quo and paving the way for a more equitable and inclusive future in the field.

What should our readers know about your business?
Living Legacy Inc. is more than just a mental health company—it’s a Movement, a Force for good, and a Beacon of hope in a world that often feels dark and uncertain. By sharing its story of triumph, embracing diversity and inclusion, empowering communities, embracing innovation, advocating for change, and working towards a brighter future, Living Legacy Inc. invites the world to join in its mission of healing, hope, and resilience.

A Story of Triumph Over Adversity: Living Legacy Inc. was born out of the founder’s journey of overcoming mental health and addiction challenges that her family members one’s endured. By sharing their story of resilience and redemption, Living Legacy Inc. inspires others to believe in the possibility of healing and transformation.

A Commitment to Inclusivity and Diversity: Living Legacy Inc. celebrates diversity in all its forms and is committed to providing inclusive and equitable care to individuals from every background. By embracing cultural competence and honoring the unique experiences of each client, Living Legacy Inc. creates a safe and welcoming space for all.

Empowerment Through Community Engagement: Living Legacy Inc. believes in the power of community to effect positive change. Through partnerships with local organizations, grassroots initiatives, and community leaders, Living Legacy Inc. works to address mental health disparities and promote holistic wellness on a broader scale.

Innovation and Adaptability: Living Legacy Inc. is not afraid to embrace innovation and explore new approaches to mental health care. From virtual therapy sessions to mindfulness-based interventions, Living Legacy Inc. leverages cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practices to meet the evolving needs of its clients.

Education and Advocacy: Living Legacy Inc. is dedicated to raising awareness and destigmatizing mental health issues through education and advocacy. By offering workshops, seminars, and educational resources, Living Legacy Inc. empowers individuals to take control of their mental wellness and become advocates for change in their own communities.

A Vision for a Better Tomorrow: At its core, Living Legacy Inc. is driven by a vision of a world where mental health is prioritized, stigma is eliminated, and all individuals have access to the care and support they need to thrive. By working towards this vision each day, Living Legacy Inc. is making a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals and communities around the world.

Living Legacy Inc. stands out from other mental health companies due to its cornerstone being a faith-based and holistic approach to mental wellness, commitment to community empowerment, and innovative service offerings tailored to diverse populations. Here’s what sets Living Legacy Inc. apart:

Holistic Approach: Living Legacy Inc. recognizes that mental health is interconnected with various aspects of an individual’s life, including physical health, social relationships, and environmental factors. As such, the company takes a holistic approach to mental wellness, offering integrated services that address the multifaceted needs of clients.

Culturally Competent Care: Living Legacy Inc. prioritizes cultural competence in its service delivery, recognizing the importance of respecting and honoring the diverse backgrounds and experiences of clients. Staff members undergo extensive training to ensure they are equipped to provide culturally sensitive care to individuals from all walks of life.

Community Engagement: Living Legacy Inc. is deeply rooted in the communities it serves, actively engaging with local organizations, grassroots initiatives, and community leaders to address mental health disparities and promote positive change. By building strong relationships within the community, Living Legacy Inc. can offer tailored services that meet the unique needs of its clients.

Innovative Programs: Living Legacy Inc. is at the forefront of innovation in mental health care, constantly exploring new approaches and techniques to improve outcomes for clients. From virtual therapy sessions to mindfulness-based interventions, biofeedback, and acupuncture the company leverages cutting-edge technology and evidence-based practices to deliver high-quality care.

Emphasis on Prevention and Education: Living Legacy Inc. places a strong emphasis on prevention and education, offering workshops, seminars, and educational resources to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward maintaining their mental wellness. By promoting awareness and destigmatizing mental health issues, Living Legacy Inc. strives to create a culture of openness and acceptance.

Client-Centered Care: At Living Legacy Inc., clients are at the heart of everything they do. The company takes a client-centered approach to care, tailoring services to meet the unique needs and preferences of each individual. By fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, Living Legacy Inc. empowers clients to actively participate in their healing journey.

In summary, Living Legacy Inc. sets itself apart from other mental health companies through its holistic approach, cultural competence, community engagement, innovative programs, emphasis on prevention and education, and commitment to client-centered care. By prioritizing the well-being of clients and addressing the root causes of mental health issues, Living Legacy Inc. is making a lasting impact on individuals and communities alike.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

Week-Long Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Memphis

Morning: Welcome your friend to Memphis with a hearty Southern breakfast at the Arcade Restaurant, the oldest cafe in the city.
Mid-Morning: Explore the iconic Beale Street, known for its vibrant music scene and historic landmarks.
Afternoon: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel to learn about the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at SupperClub on 2nd for a taste of authentic Southern cuisine, followed by live music at a local venue like Blues City Cafe.

Day 2: Adventure Day in Memphis

Morning: Kick off the day with an exhilarating skydiving experience at West TN Skydiving, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Mississippi River.
Afternoon: Head to Shelby Farms Park for outdoor adventure activities like ziplining and rock climbing at the Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course.
Evening: Relax and unwind with a BBQ dinner at Central BBQ, followed by drinks and live music at Railgarten, a unique outdoor venue with food trucks and games.

Day 3: Explore Nashville

Morning: Depart for Nashville, about a 3-hour drive from Memphis. Enjoy breakfast on the go or stop at Loveless Cafe for their famous biscuits.
Afternoon: Dive into the vibrant culture of Nashville with a visit to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, followed by lunch at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken.
Evening: Check out the bustling nightlife on Broadway, with its honky-tonks and live music venues. Grab dinner at Bungalow 10, a multi-country-inspired cuisine.

Day 4: Explore Chattanooga

Morning: Depart for Chattanooga to Hang Glide at Lookout Mountain.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at a local diner or picnic along the picturesque route.
Evening: Return to Nashville and relax with dinner and drinks at The Pharmacy Burger Parlor & Beer Garden, known for its gourmet burgers and extensive beer selection.

Day 5: Farm Experience

Morning: Visit a nearby farm, such as Green Door Gourmet, for a hands-on experience with farm animals and a farm-to-table brunch featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the farm’s fields and gardens, and participate in activities like flower picking or a cooking class.
Evening: Head back to Nashville and treat yourselves to a fine dining experience at Husk, known for its innovative Southern cuisine and seasonal menu.

Day 6: Cultural Exploration

Morning: Explore the art and history of Nashville at the Frist Art Museum, followed by brunch at Biscuit Love in the Gulch neighborhood.
Afternoon: Visit the historic Belle Meade Plantation for a guided tour of the mansion and grounds, and enjoy wine tasting at the on-site winery.
Evening: Indulge in a gourmet dinner at The Catbird Seat, a culinary hotspot offering an intimate chef’s counter experience with a tasting menu.
Day 7: Departure

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local cafe or bakery before bidding farewell to Nashville.
Mid-Morning: Head to the airport for your friend’s departure, reminiscing about the unforgettable adventures shared during their visit to Memphis and Nashville.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Dr. Walter Green, Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church-Klondike

Website: www.livinglegacyinc.com

Instagram: @the_therapycouch

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/living-legacy-inc-42746620

Twitter: @LivingLegacyIn2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheLivingLegacyIncorporated

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/living-legacy-memphis-3

Other: @thesuitedtherapist