We recently connected with Dr. Donnette Deigh and have shared our conversation below.
Dr. Donnette, so good to have you with us today. We’ve got so much planned, so let’s jump right into it. We live in such a diverse world, and in many ways the world is getting better and more understanding but it’s far from perfect. There are so many times where folks find themselves in rooms or situations where they are the only ones that look like them – that might mean being the only woman of color in the room or the only person who grew up in a certain environment etc. Can you talk to us about how you’ve managed to thrive even in situations where you were the only one in the room?
In the journey of being the only young Black woman in the room, I’ve discovered that the path to effectiveness and success often involves turning challenges into opportunities. Being the only young Black woman in the room is akin to standing under a spotlight on a dim stage where every movement is scrutinized, every word echoes, and silence is not an option. In these spaces, diversity is often the exception, not the rule, and the challenge lies in transforming this isolation into a powerful presence that commands respect and drives change.
One of the most essential skills I have honed is the art of self-confidence and self-advocacy. This journey began with understanding my own value and embracing my unique perspective. By recognizing that my experiences bring invaluable insights to the table, I have learned to project confidence even when faced with skepticism. This self-assurance is not about having all the answers but about cultivating the courage to speak up and the resilience to persevere, especially when my ideas are initially met with doubt. In environments where cultural differences might overshadow commonalities, understanding my own identity, values, and strengths has been crucial. This self-awareness empowers me to enter any room with clarity about who I am and the unique contributions I can offer.
Networking has been another critical strategy. Building a strong circle of mentors and allies has become my fortress. These are individuals who understand the challenges I face and provide guidance, support, and opportunities for growth. By actively seeking mentors who have navigated similar paths, I have gained insights into overcoming barriers and advancing in environments that were not designed with me in mind.
Moreover, I have learned to leverage my unique perspective as a strength. Being the only one in the room often means bringing fresh ideas and alternative solutions that might not be considered otherwise. I seize these opportunities to showcase how diverse viewpoints propel innovative thinking and problem-solving. This mindset shift has been crucial—not seeing my presence as a disadvantage, but rather as a distinctive advantage.
I’ve also realized the importance of continuous learning. Staying informed about industry trends and continuously developing my skills has equipped me to contribute meaningfully. Furthermore, showcasing a commitment to excellence demonstrates that my value extends beyond filling a diversity quota—it’s about the quality of work and the unique insights I deliver.
Self-care has also played a pivotal role in my ability to sustain success amid challenges. Surrounded by environments where I must constantly prove my worth, it is vital to recognize the importance of rest and rejuvenation. By prioritizing mental and emotional well-being, I have maintained the energy required to break through barriers, challenge biases, and inspire others.
Lastly, I have embraced the responsibility of paving the way for those who will follow. By actively participating in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, mentoring younger colleagues, and sharing my story, I work to ensure that I am not the last young Black woman to occupy these spaces.
This journey is one of constant learning and adaptation. The road is not always easy, but with unwavering determination and a commitment to excellence, I continue to thrive—not just for myself, but for the countless others who see their potential reflected in me. By doing so, I aim to pave the way for more diverse voices to be heard and celebrated in every room.
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?
As a licensed clinical professional counselor and clinical supervisor, my journey is deeply intertwined with my work at Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting, my private practice that focuses on providing culturally responsive counseling and training. This agency is not just a business; it is a labor of love rooted in my commitment to fostering mental well-being within a diverse population.
At Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting, we prioritize understanding and respecting the unique cultural backgrounds of each client. Our approach is designed to honor individual experiences while addressing the mental health challenges they face. By incorporating culturally relevant practices and perspectives into our counseling, we ensure that clients feel safe, understood, and empowered throughout their therapeutic journey. I engage with clients on a deeply empathetic level, helping them navigate their personal challenges and guiding them toward healing and growth. These encounters reaffirm my belief in the resilience of the human spirit, and they fuel my passion for fostering change at an individual level. I integrate various therapeutic techniques, tailored to each client’s unique needs, to facilitate self-discovery and empowerment.
In addition to direct counseling services, Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting also serves as a hub for training counselors-in-training and other mental health professionals. Through comprehensive workshops and courses, I share my insights on cultural competency, ethical practice, and innovative therapeutic techniques. Our training programs emphasize the importance of adapting counseling practices to meet the diverse needs of clients, equipping future counselors with the knowledge and skills required to be effective in an increasingly multicultural world.
As a social scientist, I am dedicated to fostering awareness in the community about the importance of culturally responsive mental health services. I believe that transforming mental health care begins with education and advocacy, and I actively engage in conversations that challenge stigma and promote understanding. By sharing research, hosting community events, and facilitating discussions on mental health topics, I work to create a ripple effect that encourages individuals to seek help and embrace holistic well-being.
At Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting, we are committed to changing the narrative around mental health. Through our culturally informed practices, we aim to make healing accessible to all individuals, regardless of their background. This mission is at the core of every service we provide, as we strive to empower clients and nurture a community that values diversity, compassion, and resilience.
This multifaceted role—counselor, educator, trainer, and advocate—allows me to work toward systemic change while providing individualized support. At the heart of all my endeavors is a passion for promoting mental wellness and cultural awareness, ensuring that every person has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive within their unique context. Through Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting and my other work, I am proud to play a part in reshaping the mental health landscape and creating lasting impacts in the lives of those we serve.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Throughout my journey as a licensed clinical professional counselor, clinical supervisor, counselor educator, and social scientist, three qualities stood out as particularly impactful: Self-Awareness, Emotional Intelligence & Advocacy and Social Justice Awareness
1. Self-Awareness
Impact: Self-awareness is crucial for anyone in the counseling profession. Understanding one’s values, biases, triggers, and emotional responses enables counselors to manage their own feelings and reactions, ensuring they remain present and effective for their clients. It fosters authenticity and builds trust in therapeutic relationships.
Advice: To cultivate self-awareness, regularly engage in reflective practice. Journaling about your experiences, feelings, and interactions after sessions can provide insights into your personal triggers and biases. Consider seeking feedback from supervisors or peers about your counseling style to gain an outside perspective. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or breathwork, can also help you stay grounded and aware of your emotional state during sessions.
2. Emotional Intelligence
Impact: Emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage your own emotions while also empathizing with others—is vital in counseling. It enables you to respond appropriately to clients’ emotional states and helps establish a safe and supportive environment.
Advice: Enhance your emotional intelligence by practicing empathy in daily interactions. Pay attention to non-verbal cues in conversations and allow yourself to explore your emotions in various situations. Participating in group discussions or role-playing exercises can also improve your ability to identify and respond to emotions in real time. Books and resources on emotional intelligence can provide frameworks and strategies to deepen this skill.
3. Advocacy and Social Justice Awareness
Impact:In today’s world, understanding the social, political, and economic factors that impact mental health is essential. Advocating for social justice and equitable access to mental health resources can lead to systemic changes that benefit marginalized communities.
Advice: Start by educating yourself on social justice issues related to mental health. Explore literature, attend workshops, and engage with organizations that focus on advocacy. Consider volunteering for initiatives that promote mental health awareness in underserved populations. Networking with professionals who share a commitment to advocacy can provide valuable insights and collaborative opportunities to effect change.
Embarking on a career in counseling is a rewarding yet challenging journey. By focusing on self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and advocacy, you can develop a strong foundation for effective practice. Embrace opportunities for growth, seek mentorship, and remain open to learning from both your successes and challenges. As you cultivate these qualities and skills, remember that your journey is unique, and your contributions to the field will resonate in the lives you touch. Be patient with yourself and celebrate the progress you make along the way.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am looking to collaborate with individuals and organizations that share a commitment to mental health, cultural competence, and social justice. The ideal collaborators include:
1. Mental Health Professionals
Counselors, psychologists, social workers, and other mental health practitioners who are dedicated to culturally responsive practices and are interested in expanding their knowledge or methodologies. By working together, we can create enriched training programs, workshops, and resources that serve diverse communities.
2. Educators and Trainers
Professionals involved in counselor education or training programs who are passionate about developing future mental health practitioners. Collaboration could involve co-developing curriculum materials focused on cultural competence, ethical practice, or innovative therapeutic techniques.
3. Community Organizations
Nonprofits and community groups that aim to improve mental health awareness and accessibility in underserved populations. Partnering with these organizations can lead to impactful outreach programs, public workshops, and advocacy initiatives that promote mental well-being and raise awareness about mental health issues.
4. Researchers and Academics
Individuals engaged in research related to mental health, social justice, and cultural studies. Collaborative efforts may include joint research projects, writing articles, or hosting seminars that explore the intersection of mental health and cultural dynamics.
5. Advocates and Activists
Anyone passionate about mental health awareness, social equity, and systemic change. These collaborators can help in spreading crucial information, mobilizing communities, or launching campaigns focused on mental health advocacy.
How to Connect
If you resonate with this vision and are interested in collaboration, I encourage you to reach out. Here’s how to get in touch:
1. Email: You can connect with me directly at info@naturholisticcounseling.com. Whether you have specific collaboration ideas or wish to discuss potential partnerships, I am open to exploring opportunities.
2. Social Media: Follow and connect with me on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn. Please feel free to send a message or a connection request, mentioning your interest in collaboration.
3. Workshops and Events: I often host and attend workshops, webinars, and speaking events. Attending these events is a great way to engage, network, and discuss potential collaboration in person.
4. Website: Visit my practice, Naturholistic Counseling & Consulting’s website natirholisticcounseling.com, where you can learn more about ongoing initiatives, resources, and opportunities for partnership.
I look forward to connecting with like-minded individuals and organizations who are eager to make a positive impact in the mental health landscape!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://naturholisticcounseling.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_naturholistictherapist
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/61561121344976
- Twitter: https://x.com/rholistic_cnslr
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