Meet Cherise Small

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Cherise Small. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Cherise below.

Hi Cherise, we’re so appreciative of you taking the time to share your nuggets of wisdom with our community. One of the topics we think is most important for folks looking to level up their lives is building up their self-confidence and self-esteem. Can you share how you developed your confidence?
I have to be honest, my journey towards building a strong sense of self-esteem and confidence wasn’t always smooth. There was a time when self-doubt and comparison clouded my view of myself. I often felt like I wasn’t good enough, especially when I would compare myself to others. This was a challenge I faced both personally and professionally, and it took a considerable amount of introspection and courage to overcome it.

The turning point for me was when I started to take more risks and ask myself some core questions about who I really am. Moving to Los Angeles and starting The Healing Point Therapy & Wellness were some of these significant steps. They were not just career decisions but also acts of self-discovery. Each risk I took was a step towards understanding my strengths and potential. It taught me that stepping out of my comfort zone is not just about facing fears, but also about embracing who I am.

My mother played a pivotal role in this journey. She always said, ‘Believe in yourself, you are amazing, and when you enter a room, your confidence will radiate in the space.’ These words became a mantra for me. They taught me the power of positive affirmations and self-talk. I learned that the way I think about myself fundamentally shapes my confidence. It’s not just about feeling good but about believing in my abilities and worth.

This understanding of self-worth and confidence didn’t come overnight. It was a gradual process, reinforced by my experiences and my professional expertise in mental health. I realized that our mental health and self-perception are deeply interconnected. By focusing on how I talked to myself and what I believed about myself, I was able to transform my mindset.

Now, as I continue to grow and help others, I see my journey as a testament to the power of self-belief and resilience. My experiences motivate me to support and empower my clients, especially within the black community. It’s a reminder that our journey of self-improvement never truly ends, and there’s always room to grow and help others along the way.

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?
I am not just a therapist and business owner, but also a mother to a wonderful 7-year-old who has been instrumental in shaping the person I am today. My journey in the mental health field spans over 9 years, culminating in the establishment of The Healing Point Therapy & Wellness 3 years ago, here in Los Angeles. This venture is not just a business to me; it’s a manifestation of my passion and commitment to mental health and wellness.

What excites me the most about my work is the tangible impact I’ve been able to make in the lives of my clients. Each story of transformation and breakthrough fuels my dedication. It’s a privilege to witness and contribute to the mental and emotional growth of the individuals who walk through my doors. The connection and trust we build are what make my practice special. It’s not just about therapy; it’s about creating a safe, nurturing space where people can truly heal and grow.

Another aspect that I’m incredibly excited about is my upcoming book, ‘Feel and Be Free: Unleashing the Path to Mental Freedom.’ This book is a distillation of my professional experience and personal insights into mental wellness. I’ve just started working on it, and while it’s still in the early stages, I’m targeting a release in the fall of 2025. I’ll be sure to keep everyone updated on the progress and any specific dates as they become clearer. The book is designed to empower readers with the tools and understanding they need to embark on their own journey towards mental freedom. It reflects my philosophy that everyone has the potential to overcome their challenges and lead a fulfilling life.

Looking to the future, my goal is to expand beyond one-to-one therapy. I envision building a comprehensive online platform that can reach and assist a broader audience. This platform will offer resources, support, and community for those seeking guidance and connection on their wellness journey. It’s about creating an accessible, inclusive space for mental health and wellness.

In essence, my brand and my work are centered around empowerment, healing, and growth. Whether it’s through individual therapy sessions, my book, or future online resources, my aim is to support people in discovering their own path to mental and emotional freedom. I believe that everyone deserves access to the tools and support they need to thrive, and I’m committed to making that a reality through The Healing Point Therapy & Wellness.

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?
Reflecting on my journey, I recognize that certain qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge have been pivotal in shaping my path. Firstly, faith has been a cornerstone – believing even when the path ahead seemed uncertain. This unwavering faith in my abilities and in the power of my dreams has been crucial. It’s about trusting the process and having confidence that even the most challenging moments are leading you to where you need to be.

Grit is another vital quality. It’s the resilience and persistence to keep going, no matter the obstacles. In my years of working in mental health and establishing The Healing Point Therapy & Wellness, grit has been the force that kept me moving forward, even during times of doubt or difficulty. It’s about embracing challenges as opportunities for growth and learning.

Determination and focus, intertwined, have guided my journey. Setting clear goals and staying focused on them, even amidst distractions or setbacks, has been essential. It’s the ability to keep your eyes on the prize, understanding that every step, no matter how small, is a progression towards your larger goals.

The people you surround yourself with also play a critical role. Keeping like-minded individuals around you – people who understand your vision, support your dreams, and remind you of your worth – is invaluable. Your environment and the company you keep can uplift you, inspire you, and keep you grounded.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate these qualities and skills consciously. Build your faith through positive affirmations and by celebrating even the smallest victories. Develop grit by stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges head-on. Sharpen your focus by setting clear, achievable goals and regularly reviewing your progress. And most importantly, be mindful of your surroundings. Choose to be around people who encourage your growth and align with your values.

Remember, these qualities aren’t inborn; they’re developed through consistent practice and reflection. Embrace every step of your journey, as each phase teaches you something valuable. And above all, believe in yourself and your ability to make a difference.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?
As a therapist and entrepreneur, the synergy of collaboration has always been a driving force in amplifying the impact of my work. I am indeed looking for individuals and organizations to partner with, particularly those who share a passion for mental health advocacy, wellness, and empowerment. The ideal collaboration would be with those who bring a fresh perspective to wellness, are committed to community outreach, and understand the unique challenges faced by the diverse populations we serve.

Whether it’s through joint workshops, wellness programs, or digital content creation, there’s a wealth of opportunities to make a significant difference together. If you’re reading this and feel a connection to this vision, I welcome you to reach out. Let’s discuss how we can combine our strengths to further the cause of mental well-being. You can connect with me through my social media channels or directly via email at Cherise@release2heal.com. Let’s create waves of positive change and bring healing to as many lives as possible.

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