Meet Sherita Shelton-Settles | Therapist/Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sherita Shelton-Settles and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sherita, every day, we about how much execution matters, but we think ideas matter as well. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
I’ve always wanted to be a therapist. Where many people struggle with knowing what they wanted to do in life I have always known. With that knowledge it was important for me to provide therapy MY way. I knew I eventually wanted to start a private practice and specialize in sex therapy. Not just for couples, but individuals as well. There is so much stigma around sexuality and sensuality when it comes to woman and especially women of color. I wanted to ensure I created a safe space for individuals to come and be free.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
There are many private practices out there. What sets me apart is ME! I bring therapy to my clients in a very relatable way. I use poetry as part of my platform to also assist my clients in articulating what they may not know how to say. Therapy was not always accepted in our community, and I want to be able to assist in changing that narrative. When you are authentic it shows. I have had 17+ years in the mental health field before starting my private practice. I have utilized the skills that I have acquired as an employee for someone else to structure the type of boss and manager I want for myself. Starting a business is most definitely a journey. There have been challenges, and still are, but being persistent and knowing what my overall goal is have been important. Your WHY has to make sense for you to keep doing what you’re doing. Even when the math is not mathing and the coins are not turning into dollars. My brand is for the people. I will always speak for you because I am you.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I love being outside if possible. I enjoy working out and being active. We would climb stone mountain and take in the view from the top. Get us some pizza from Slim and Husky’s. I believe in some good self care so we would definitely need to go to jeju or spa land, and dinner with a private chef Collette Caters is one of the best around. We can hit up Harolds in duluth for some karokee and chicken on Wednesday. Nouveau is a must for a R and B Thursday. Friday we would have a game night at my house including Aux God because I love music! Drinks, food, and fun will be plentiful. We have to have at least one night of fine dining with rooftop views of the city. You can not come to Atlanta and brunch. Sunday we’re having bottomless buffet at Garden Parc.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would love to shoutout my husband who has always been supportive, and pushed me to follow my dreams no matter where they led me. Lacrecia Dangerield, and Shakenya Burch are a huge part of assisting me in getting this practice off the ground. And my family who has always allowed me the freedom to be me!

Website: Blissfulbeginningscounseling.com

Instagram: @RelatableRita

Linkedin: Sherita Settles

Facebook: @RelatableRita

Other: TicToc-@RelatbleRita Google- Blissful Beginnings Counseling