We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jessica Jefferson a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Jessica with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
I’ve always believed that hard work is the cornerstone of success, and I owe much of my work ethic to my mother. Growing up, I watched her tirelessly navigate the challenges of being a single parent while serving in the military to provide for my sister and me. Despite the challenges of military life, she always made sure we had everything we needed
My mother instilled in me the value of hard work and independence from a young age. She worked hard in order to make sure she had time with me and my sister that was fulfilling and meaningful. Witnessing her dedication taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience in pursuing my goals.
As I ventured into my career as a therapist, I carried with me the lessons my mother imparted. In the beginning stages of my practice, I worked hard to build something that felt authentic to me. While it was hard and often time consuming, I knew that the long game would be well worth it.
Now, as a mother myself, my children are my greatest motivation. Every day, I strive to create a better life for them, just as my mother did for me. I am grateful for the opportunities my work affords me, allowing me to spend precious time with my family and create lasting memories.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in guiding individuals through various forms of heartbreak and emotional challenges. Especially since that isn’t something that individuals should go through alone.
In my work, I focus on supporting clients grappling with the weight of anxiety and depression. Together, we explore strategies to manage symptoms, uncover underlying causes, and help them feel more like themselves again. My approach is to help my clients feel comfortable and safe as we navigate these issues so that they feel open to really dive deep.
Additionally, I specialize in helping individuals who are experiencing the intense heartbreak of their relationship ending. Whether it’s untangling complex emotions post-breakup or examining patterns in past relationships, I provide a safe space for reflection and growth. By fostering self-awareness and offering practical tools, I help clients feel empowered to love again.
Furthermore, I offer support to new parents who may be struggling with this new transition. From addressing postpartum anxiety and depression to navigating the challenges of adjusting to a new identity, I offer guidance tailored to everyone’s unique experience. Together, we explore coping strategies, foster self-care practices, and promote a sense of fulfillment in their parenting journey while honoring their authentic selves.
Through empathy, understanding, and personalized care, I strive to empower my clients to navigate life’s heartbreaks with resilience, strength, and a renewed sense of hope.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1. Authenticity – For me it is very important to be authentic to whom I am. That way I feel more passionate about what I am doing. It also helps my clients to feel like they are talking to a person who understands.
2. An open mind – it is important for me that my clients feel heard and have a space where they feel open. Obviously if they feel judged that isn’t going to hep them be vulnerable and will impact their therapeutic journey. Plus they know their lives better than I do.
3. Boundaries – Boundaries are important in order to protect your mental well being. For me it is important to adhere to my own personal and professional boundaries so that I am in a good space to provide for my clients.
It is also important to utilize these qualities in your everyday life. It allows you to be true to who you are, be curious about others and the world around you, and to allow you to give yourself the space to decompress and be you.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client? Well, I’d say it’s someone who’s ready to roll up their sleeves and dive in. Therapy’s like a road trip—you gotta be willing to steer the wheel. So, if you’re all in, ready to put in the work, we’re gonna make some serious progress together.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.cloud09therapy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cloud09therapy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Cloud09Therapy/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cloud09therapy/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/Cloud09Therapy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CloudNineTherapeuticServices
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@cloud09therapy
