Meet Jenae Ingram | Licensed Clinical Social Worker & Mental health advocate for athletes

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

Hi Jenae, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?

I started LITT because I believe that athletes need more support with their mental health. Living Intentionally to Transform is a mental health agency that has a special niche in working with athletes (but no worries, many clients are non-athletes as well). As a coach, licensed therapist and previous athlete; I can attest that this need is widely underserved in athletic populations. As someone who previously dealt with my own mental health struggles as a high school athlete, I remember so vividly what it was like navigating those seasons on my own.

When it came to starting a business, I can’t say that I always saw myself as a “business owner” but I have definitely been one to always walk my own path. The same is true with going into business for myself. It’s so “me” to eventually leave the rat race of working for others to do my own thing. I first got the idea to blend mental health, social work and sports years ago (around 2013) and waited patiently as God watered it for many years before eventually launching my practice in December 2019.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?

Living Intentionally to Transform is a mental health agency based out of Atlanta, GA but serving therapy clients throughout the state, virtually. LITT’s founding purpose is to create a space for athletes to feel welcomed, open and safe to process their mental health, which is often overlooked by those around them. In addition, LITT also has an array of clientele that are not athletes but connect with the vibe Jenae offers as a therapist.

Truthfully, starting LITT was not and has not been easy. I thought because the need was there that athletes would come swarming in as clients, but that has not been true. No matter how many coaches, trainers, AD’s etc., I’ve reached out to, I often hear the same thing: “this is definitely needed”. Unfortunately, there is often no follow through in investing in their athletes. This may be due to funding or it simply not being a priority at the time. With that, I’ve had to push through and pivot my business model at times to create a space where I can thrive, but also stay true to my purpose- serving others while serving God.

LITT is destined for success because I trust and believe that this business was birthed by an idea Christ imparted in me many years ago. I have done the work to see it through, even when it seemed like every obstacle was stacked against me. I’ve refused to quit. I start my day by praying over each and every client scheduled for that day. I know that God’s faithfulness will see me through. I don’t approach clients with the notion that I alone can help them solve their problems. What I can offer is professionalism, education, quality skill sets, a space to be seen and heard and the support they need. Combine that with their commitment to do the work & God guiding me. I am confident that my clients walk away with what they need to explore the best versions of themselves in this season and beyond.

Services currently offered by LITT include individual therapy for adults, college students, high schools students (ages 14-18), and athletes as well as trainings/workshops and support groups- for HS and college athletes only.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well, my fun has evolved to stuff more chill so my recommendations would be exploring Atlanta’s many trails and parks (the bamboo forest is dope) or going out to eat. I love the peach cobbler french toast at The Breakfast Club for starters lol.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?

Ultimately, all of my success and accomplishments in life go to my father, Christ Jesus. Without a doubt, I would not and could not be where I am today without Him. I credit Christ as the source of my strength and wisdom to do all I have set out to achieve throughout my lifetime. I think it’s safe to say that anyone that knows me well will attest to the fact that I am a go-getter. Whatever I set my mind to, I typically achieve. It has always been that way because I have always served the one above. Even in my seasons of lack and slack… HE has always been there to lead and guide me, connect me to the appropriate resources, and open doors no man can close. I also have to shout out my support system. My family and close friends have always supported me and it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge them.

&& that’s on GOD.

Website: www.itslitttherapy.com

Instagram: @its_littllc

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

Image Credits
Ieyam Photo