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

Hi Vaya, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation Services started in honor of my grandma, Imogene Fraley, who was the matriarch of my family. I.M. represents her initials. I continue the legacy of community-centered compassion established by her through my work as an advocate for mental health services for minorities, specifically providing counseling to African American women with visible disabilities or who struggle with emotional trauma, depression, or anxiety.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I.M. Legacy Counseling & Consultation is a sister-founded tele-mental health practice that supports minoritized communities with an intentional dedication to Black girls and women. I.M. Legacy Counseling’s sole mission is to help you ignite your legacy via evidence-based therapy and community conversations to decrease psychological distress and promote mental and emotional well-being.

I got where I am today business-wise by risk taking. Risk taking is doing something for the first time or trying something you didn’t do so well at the first time. That is not always easy. Last year, I got my first opportunity to do a TEDx Talks, titled Change The Narrative: Through a Lens of Strength. I told my story of being part of marginalized identities, a Black Woman with a Disability.

In the great words of Maya Angelou “You have nothing to prove.” Therefore, I’m learning everyday that balance is intentionally setting time aside to do things that make my life worth living. I stay balanced by visiting my family and reading an inspiring book.

I want to be a legacy of hope. Before moving to Atlanta, I was pressed for time and left at my apartment, this decal of Jeremiah 29:11. I hope that gave someone that read it reassurance that you can overcome circumstance, and thrive beyond adversity.

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.
For a good time in The A with my best friend, I would start with a brunch at Cultivate Food & Coffee. From there I’m spending the afternoon checking out my alma mater, Georgia State University to stock up on some new gear. I’m going to add some humor and catch the therapeutic workshop, LOL Therapy by Dvine Systems Ga. I can’t forget to grab a Big Dawg at Slutty Vegan. End the night with some good drinks & music at Bugalou’s Lounge.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Truly the most important success factor of my success is my family. I grew up being raised by a single father and he would always say to me “a mind is terrible thing to waste.” That gave me vision and the freedom to create the mindset to be who I want to be.

Website: https://www.imlegacyllc.com

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/vayafraley

Other: Email: info@imlegacyllc.com Self Help Journal: A Vessel of Hope https://www.amazon.com/Vessel-Hope-Journal-Healing/dp/B09TMYXDHQ/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EF6IXGOKG923&keywords=vaya+fraley&qid=1648852494&s=books&sprefix=vaya+fraley%2Cstripbooks%2C171&sr=1-1

Image Credits
Second Photo-Jomel Melissa Photography

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