In today's "Talk to me Thursday" episode, I spoke with LaShandra Shepard, a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist in the states of Kansas and Missouri. We spoke about navigating Motherhood when parenting adolescents and teens, validating our emotions and debunking the "strong black woman" myth. After completing her Masters in Family Therapy from Friends University in 2008, LaShandra spent several years working within area schools in order to help families deal with mental health struggles and connect them with social services in their communities. In 2015, she opened her private counseling practice, Journey of Faith Counseling, LLC. where she works extensively with adults and adolescents to help individuals manage the problems that confront them, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, self-esteem, adjustment to school and/or life transitions, and support for enhancing communication/interpersonal skills. Her ultimate goal as a therapist is to assist you in developing and strengthening any relationship in your life, whether it be with yourself, your partner, or your family. LaShandra has additional training in perinatal mood and anxiety disorders by the Postpartum Support International. Special focus on perinatal mental health, as a place for support for moms and/or dad, hopeful parents, potential parents and reluctant parents. You may connect with Lashandra at: Website: https://journeyoffaithcoun.wixsite.com/home Instagram: instagram.com/journeyoffaithcounseling  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's *bonus* episode, guest therapist Nashay Lorick speaks about how close friendships affect our overall mental wellness. Being a woman that has cultivated a fulfilling tribe of friends, she shares about the importance of making sure that those whom you allow in your circle---are actually good to you and for you. As a black woman, mom, therapist, author, and healer with over 17 years of experience in counseling, coaching, mentoring, teaching, public speaking, consulting, and creating various forms of content, Shay Lorick embodies what it truly means to be a Very Dangerous Woman.  Her years of experience as a mental health provider and spiritual guide has endorsed her to walk boldly in perfecting her crafts.  She has had the privilege of working both domestically and internationally in private and government sectors as well as providing private psychotherapy, coaching and consulting to entertainers, medical and non-medical practitioners, business, religious and government leaders, sports affiliates, and corporate entities.  She has founded and co-founded various spiritual and community based organizations to date.  As a clinician, she provides an eclectic and holistic approach to treating mental health and substance use disorders.  She brings a mix of practical wisdom, vibrancy, and authority to enhance the lives of prominent individuals that desire to engage in self-development while healing from trauma.  She joins with them in awakening radical self-love, authenticity, and god-consciousness.  Despite her love for spreading love and light internationally and universally, Shay’s greatest accomplishment, privilege, and source of enlightenment has been the process of birthing, nurturing, and exploring the world of the 4 divine, intelligent and gorgeous souls that she is delighted to call her legacy. Connect with Nashay on social media @averydangerouswoman on Instagram or visit her websites at linktr.ee/Shaylorick --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's "Talk to me Thursday" episode, I sat with Licensed professional counselor and college professor, April Dixon. As she gave a very candid sista-girl approach to owning your mental health and specifically what that looks like as a Black Christian navigating through mental health challenges in this day and age. April, is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of MO and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in KS whom received her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2002 and completed her Master’s of Science in Counseling Psychology in 2008. She is an adjunct professor of psychology at the undergraduate and graduate level at several colleges and universities in the Greater Kansas City area. April has worked in the field of mental health for 20 years and has extensive experience working with youth and adults experiencing behavioral and emotional difficulties including depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.  She has received specialized training in treating clinical trauma and working with issues related to grief and loss. April is an advocate for mental health being accessible to all communities. As a woman of color, she is aware of and focused on examining how the trauma of systemic racism impacts the individual and collective mental health of those in the African American community. Her passion has caused her to be a leading educator in the field with a focus on increasing mental health awareness and reducing the stigma connected to therapy and other mental health services. You may find her here: Facebook: A Place to Thrive Counseling and Consulting, LLC Instagram: @aPlaceToThrive website: https://april-dixon.clientsecure.me/ Psychology today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/april-dixon-raytown-mo/156011?sid=61ef3978ab177&name=april+dixon&ref=1 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, I spoke with Maria Bush, known as the Self-Esteem Therapist on social media about walking your mental health into the New Year of 2022. Maria, a well experienced licensed therapist, has helped individuals reconnect and strengthen the relationship with themselves to develop and strengthen relationships with others for over 16 years. She is the former Assistant Director for the Office of Crisis Services and Suicide Prevention for the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. She is also the founder and owner of her private therapy practice Kindness Connects Us Therapy Services, as well as the co-host of "Sweats, Heels and Mental Health Podcast." Maria recently launched “Still a Queen with Self-Esteem” through her Self-Work Academy, an eCourse for women who have started or completed the process of divorce. You may find maria on Facebook: @Kindness Connects Us LLC IG: @MariaOBush --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, we sat down with the theatrical songstress Shon Ruffin as she discussed how she discovered that being her true "extra" self ushered her into acting and performing. She is a Kansas City native that received her Bachelors degree from Kansas State University in Theater Performance with a minor in Spanish. Shon has performed on several KC stages including; The Unicorn, Starlight, The Coterie, Kansas City Repertory, New Theater Restaurant, The Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, Kelly's in Westport, Hamburger Mary's, Kemper Arena and many other venues. When she is not doing theater you can find her singing with the popular corporate, charity, and wedding entertainment bands, Lost Wax and 2Proud2Beg. Aside from performing she enjoys directing and assistant directing at several theaters in the area. She has been invited to be a guest Director at Kansas State University for several collegiate productions. There is nothing that Shon enjoys more than healing through the way of the stage. You may find her on Instagram: @shon8diva Youtube: Nahshon Ruffin --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, I spoke with self-taught/god-given illustrator & visual artist from Kansas City, MO, Flo Marie. Establishing her artistry in 2015, she specializes in both digital art and art prints. She talked candidly about using the power of your imagination fearlessly, especially within your creativity. She also spoke candidly about how embracing your imagination is also a way of trusting and embracing yourself.  You may find Flo on Social Media: @FMarie_Art www.fmarieart.com @LovePeaceAndFlo www.lovepeaceandflo.com  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, I spoke with writer Kristen Little from New Jersey. Having an older brother who’s an accomplished writer, she candidly shared how writing her way through her divorce helped her have self-(re)discovery. She is mother of 3 children, currently books concerts for the local government park system, and I co-owns a special events company with sister/best friend. You may find Kristen's writings: @infj_writes on Instagram --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, we chat with cosplay extraordinaire and seamstress Diana the Great about leaning into the things that you love--and owning your lane. Diana, is an award-winning cosplayer, crafter, makeup enthusiast and super cool nerd from the greater Kansas City area. An avid fan of all things anime, Disney, Marvel & DC, Diana has been actively cosplaying for six years, and crafting for much, much longer. She is self taught on props, sewing, working with thermoplastics, EVA foam, molding with clay and resin, as well as wig making, fabric dyeing and painting. Known for her deep love of Sailor Moon, Diana's efforts and cosplays are geared to empower others, educate, promote diversity, and show that cosplay is for everyone, regardless of age, gender or skill. You may find her at: www.dianathegreat.com Instagram (@diana.the.great)  Facebook (fb.com/dianathegreat1) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode, we talk with licensed clinical social worker & therapist Johnessia Jackson about taking care of your mental health when you are a caretaker. She is a native of Kansas City, MO, born into a big family, raised by a school teacher and a pastor. Johnessia is a mother who works full time in the healthcare setting while managing a private practice part time. Earning her Master’s degree in Social Work from Washington University in St. Louis, she became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in 2012, and has now worked as a medical social worker for 11 years. With the opening of her private practice in January 2021, she has had an overwhelming response of new clients. She has the pleasure to serve anyone in need of therapy, however her speciality includes people with chronic disease and their caregivers. She has organized a Caregiver support group that meets via Zoom every 3rd Thursday; you may reach out to [email protected] if you are interested.  Contact information: Www.convergencecounselingkc.com Facebook.com/convergence counseling Instagram.com/convergence.counseling --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message

In today's episode  Angela Roux speaks about using writing, music and performing to find her niche in creativity, losing her motivation and taking her time to come back to it all. She also speaks about the conditioning that Black women suffer to stifle their accomplishments to "fit in". Born and raised in South Kansas City, MO, Poet, Author, Actress, Radio Host and Podcaster Mz Angela Roux has always been curious and creative. She was named “Best Spoken Word Act” in Pitch Magazine’s “Best of KC 2013” edition.  She is the creator and producer of Estrogen Rush!, an all-female poetry show, which debuted in November 2012 and had it's 2nd show, Estrogen Rush! A Tribute to Maya Angelou ran in July 2014. She has featured at the 2010 and 2013 KC Fringe Festival and performed as some of KC's premiere poetry venues. In November 2015, she released her debuted her first poetry book "The Sinbads Sessions: Poems by Mz Angela Roux" published by Spartan Press. Her most recent ventures include hosting Roux On The Radio on KUAW 98.5 FM and co-hosting “The Roux” podcast. Check out her IG social media @_geriatricmillenial --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theartthathealsus/message