NEWS
October 1 2024
 

With a palpable passion for mental health and life coaching, Jada

Victoria’s energy immediately showcased a deep, personal investment in the work she does. As she shared her story, it became clear that her motivation wasn’t shaped by textbooks or abstract theories but rooted in her own life’s challenges. “My own struggles were the turning point,” she revealed with an unmistakable spark in her eyes. “I experienced firsthand the power of support, and I knew I wanted to be that guide for others.” This personal journey now fuels her professional

commitment, helping others navigate their paths toward mental clarity and fulfillment. Jada’s approach to holistic wellness, bridging both mental health and physical fitness, sets her apart in creating a comprehensive and impactful healing journey for her clients.

 

Balancing the dual realms of mental health and fitness, Jada not only keeps pace but excels in both. “Balance and structure are key,” she explained, highlighting how she continues to educate herself in these fields while maintaining boundaries to prevent burnout. “It’s essential to practice self-care. I try to lead by example.” This delicate equilibrium in her life allows her to offer clients holistic guidance, making a meaningful difference in their well-being. However, Jada’s journey as a Black woman in the mental health field has come with its own set of obstacles. “There’s so much underrepresentation,” she acknowledged, referencing the cultural misunderstandings and implicit biases that influence care. Despite these challenges, she continues to dismantle these barriers, advocating for diversity and inclusion to ensure her clients receive care that acknowledges their unique cultural contexts. "It’s about understanding the specific challenges Black individuals face, and those issues don’t disappear when they come in for therapy," she emphasized. Through this lens, Jada views her work not just as a coach but as an advocate for systemic change.

One of the most significant hurdles she encounters is the stigma surrounding mental health within Black communities. “So many of us still view mental health as taboo,” she noted. Jada works relentlessly to start conversations about mental health, aiming to break down those walls of stigma that prevent individuals from seeking help. Through education and empathy, she actively works to normalize the need for mental health care, particularly within Black communities, where misconceptions often reign. When asked how she builds trust with clients who may be hesitant or skeptical, her response was filled with empathy and understanding. “It’s all about listening, truly listening, and validating their experiences,” she said. Creating a safe, judgment-free space allows her clients to feel seen and understood, especially those from marginalized communities who often lack representation in mental health care.

 

Jada’s work has produced incredible success stories. One of her most memorable clients was a young woman who struggled with severe driving anxiety, which kept her from pursuing her dream of becoming a flight attendant. Through gradual exposure therapy and personalized goal-setting, Jada guided her client from fear to empowerment, ultimately opening the door to new career opportunities. “Helping someone move from a place of fear to one of power—that’s why I do this work,” she said with pride. Jada’s personal healing journey also informs her professional approach. Growing up as a preacher’s kid, she faced self-esteem struggles, giving her a deep understanding of personal growth’s complexities. This personal history allows her to connect authentically with her clients, offering them not only guidance but genuine empathy. “I understand what it feels like to be trapped by expectations,” she reflected. It’s this ability to draw from her own struggles that fosters an authentic connection with those she serves. In a profession that can be emotionally demanding, Jada prioritizes her own mental health through consistent self-care, mindfulness, and the setting of boundaries, allowing her to show up fully for her clients. She offers similar advice to other Black women aspiring to follow in her footsteps: “Build a support system, seek mentorship, and most importantly, take care of yourself. This field can be draining, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.”