Today we’d like to introduce you to Constance West
Hi Constance, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Growing up, I found myself surrounded by family, friends and love, but I often found myself in a place of questioning. I would see others around me that appeared that they were loving and living life to its fullest, meanwhile, I was moving from day to day in a state of existence. I wore a mask of happiness and joy, but it was not always indicative of how I felt on the inside. As I grew older, there was one thing that I noticed was a constant and that was that people felt comfortable talking to me. At one point in time, because of my insecurity, I thought people were just being nice, but I soon realized that people intentionally sought me out to talk. This was the beginning of what I would later learn was my calling, passion and purpose in life. Middle school was one of the most challenging times of my life, therefore, I was determined to be the voice and outlet for others that I so desperately needed in that time. Again, I had a family that loved me and provided me with all that I needed. I was raised in church and had a strong connection to my faith, but I found it challenging to express how I really felt. I made a commitment to be that person for others in need. I graduated with my Bachelors and immediately started a Masters Program for School Counseling.
I graduated with my Masters and was hired for my first school counselor position which happened to be in a middle school. Again, fear began to rear its head, but I remembered my vow and have been a middle school counselor for 11 years. During this time, I realized that there was more that I could be doing to help others. I went back to college this time to obtain my Professional Counseling degree and I did just that. From this point, Mindful Tranquility Counseling, LLC was born. I have operated within my private practice for the last 6 years. Fear and insecurity held me captive for a great majority of my life, but I am determined to not let my own negative and irrational thoughts continue to lead me in a life of self doubt. Within my practice, Self- compassion, self- care and mindfulness are my focus points and it has been my honor and pleasure to serve others through my purpose as a Therapist and School Counselor.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey has had some beautiful highs and some scary lows. Some of the struggles that I have experienced along the way are literally with myself. In the beginning I found myself questioning and comparing myself to others which always led me to a place of inferiority and fear. I also struggled with not having a background in business and marketing which is essential as a business owner, but also as a solo practitioner. Another struggle that I can acknowledge is the lack of a healthy work/ life balance. By the grace of God, I have had some amazing mentors, therapists, family and friends that have and continue to support me as I walk in purpose.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the Sunflower Counselor. Sunflowers are believed to receive energy from the sun and share it with other sunflowers that may be lacking. I believe that this is truly who I am in human form. I am a ball of energy. Many times, you will see me with a smile on my face, a laugh in my heart and dancing through it all. True to us all, life can get the best of us, but as my favorite quote states, “it’s not about waiting for the storm to pass, but learning to dance in the rain.”- Vivian Greene. I have made it my mission to share light and positivity with anyone that I come into contact with. I also am an unashamed therapist who uses therapy herself. In order for me to be the best version of myself for those that I am helping, I have to practice self care. I want to ensure that the mindfulness, self- care and compassion that I speak with others about is not said in vain, but a part of my own journey of truth and healing.
I also design and make my own faith and wellness t-shirts as another means of spreading positivity to others. I recognize that not everyone has access to therapy, therefore, sometimes just reading a message of encouragement on a t-shirt can bring a smile to someone’s face and plant a seed of hope.
What’s next?
I look forward to continuing to build my practice with the goal of working within my practice full time in the future. While this is a scary thought, I am not going to allow fear to deter me from the goal. Also, I have recently begun providing mental health workshops within the community. I am seeking to provide more trainings as a means to bring awareness to the importance of mental health through personal therapy but also through mental health workshops. I would also like to see my t- shirt line grow and to soon become a published author.
Pricing:
- Individual Therapy $70.00-90.00/ session
- Mental Health Workshops $250.00/ hour
- Faith and Wellness Shirts/ Hoodies $18-35
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.constancewestlpc.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/constancewestlpc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/constancewestlpc
