Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Portia Lockett. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Hi Portia, so excited to have you with us today and we are really interested in hearing your thoughts about how folks can develop their empathy? In our experience, most folks want to be empathic towards others, but in a world where we are often only surrounded by people who are very similar to us, it can sometimes be a challenge to develop empathy for others who might not be as similar to us. Any thoughts or advice?
In speaking with Dr. Portia, for as long as she can remember, she has always connected to the emotions of others regardless of if they were high or low moments. Being that Dr. Lockett has always been an adventurous person, she intentionally leans in deep to experience various feelings that she picks up from others. There have been episodes where she could easily detect if another person is crying out deeply but has chosen to withhold their true emotions so that they wouldn’t be judged. As a chaplain/spiritual advisor, she engages with individuals from the streets to the suites and everyone in between, she has allowed herself to be open to pick up energy that needs to be addressed for the sole reason of helping others move through their traumatic experiences in life. These episodes include but are not limited to personal loss of a loved one, divorce, medical conditions, financial issues, relationship challenges, lifestyle challenges, acceptance issues, or embracing the unexpected rather good or bad,
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
Professional Achievements:
As a Grief Recovery Method Specialist, Dr. Lockett has received extensive training in the art of helping people heal from the pain of loss. Her deep understanding of the grieving process, combined with her exceptional communication skills, has empowered her to guide clients toward emotional recovery and a renewed sense of hope.
In her role as a Chaplain, Dr. Lockett has provided invaluable support to individuals and their families during times of illness, crisis, and loss. Her spiritual guidance and ability to offer comfort have been a source of strength for many, regardless of their religious or cultural backgrounds.
As a Spiritual Advisor, Dr. Lockett draws upon her rich spiritual knowledge to help people connect with their inner selves and find meaning and purpose in their lives. Her gentle guidance and open-hearted approach inspire profound personal growth and transformation.
Dr. Lockett is also a renowned Inspirational Speaker who captivates audiences with her powerful messages of hope, resilience, and healing. Her inspirational talks have touched the hearts of diverse groups, from community gatherings to corporate events, leaving a lasting impact on those who have had the privilege of hearing her speak.
Personal Philosophy:
Dr. Portia Lockett firmly believes that grief is a natural response to loss, and healing is possible through guided, compassionate support. She emphasizes the importance of addressing grief in its various forms, acknowledging its presence, and working through it to find a path toward emotional wellness. Dr. Lockett’s spirituality infuses her work with a profound sense of purpose and a commitment to helping others discover their own inner strength.
With a deep well of empathy, a wealth of knowledge, and an unwavering dedication to her clients, Dr. Portia Lockett continues to be a beacon of hope and healing for those on their journey through grief. Her work not only transforms lives but also serves as a testament to the power of resilience, faith, and the human spirit.
If you are feeling lost or overwhelmed after facing a major life event like the death of a loved one, divorce, job loss or other emotional hardship? If so, know that you’re not alone. So many of us are dealing with heavy feelings after suffering such great loss and going through difficult times. Grief is something we all experience, but it often looks different for everybody. It can manifest itself in many forms and there’s no right or wrong way to move through this process. Chaplain Dr. Portia Lockett, affectionately known as “The Encourager”, helps provide some comfort during your journey as you navigate your grief – whatever form it may take.
By visiting DrPortiaLockett.com, you have a chance to see and experience an authentic original Healing Card deck that guides persons/groups through prompts to assist one on their healing journey.
Stay connected via:
DrporiaLockett.com
The Grieving Journey Podcast on most streaming platforms
AzalBenneLockettFoundation.org
Michigan Chronicle Staff Grief Column
IG: Portia Lockett
FB: Portia Lockett
LinkedIn Dr. Portia Lockett
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
The 3 Skills that are most useful to me are:
Listening with Intent:
When you are paying attention to the voice of the persons speaking and not fossed on your response or your personal point of view on the subject matter. Being the best communicator possible allows one to respond with purpose that displays focused interaction.
The Practice of Compassion:
1., Recognizing the suffering of others
2. Understanding the universal suffering of others
3. feeling for the person suffering and becoming emotionally connected to them
4. tolerating that uncomfortable space that you may experience
Self Care
Following hours/days of pouring into and caring for others, it is vital to practice self-care/self-love, In 2019 , I hosted a I LOVE MYSELF PARTY which shared in detail how one should consider caring for themselves Spiritually, Mentally, Emotionally, Physically, Financially and Relational. It has been said that Self Care is not being Selfish, it’s just that you love yourself #UNO.
What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
The biggest area of growth for me has been the launch of the Azal Benne Lockett Foundation that was established to honor my beloved son Azal after his untimely death.
OUR MISSION:
To provide quality & effective coordination of services, including
Counseling Referrals.
Economic Resources & Training to those who are experiencing loss and trauma.
We exist to help people heal, offer hope, and hold hearts during the grief and healing process,
he ABL Foundation is working to ensure that overcoming the grief associated with a loss is not undertaken without vital support.
Your financial support will help to grow the mission of ABL, providing a safe space where healing can happen. Peer support and education will be possible because of your kindness.
You can help us provide the dynamic tools to assist those impacted by grief and loss. Your support is crucial to our efforts to solve the problem. ‘
Thank you in advance for your contribution, your donation will go toward- grief counseling, emotional support, and educational training.
Donate
Contact Info:
- Website: [email protected]
- Instagram: portia lockett
- Facebook: portia lockett
- Linkedin: [email protected]
- Twitter: [email protected]
- Youtube: portia lockett
- SoundCloud: [email protected]
Image Credits
Image credits: Monica Morgan Justin JMillz Milhouse
