Meet Dr. Selena Smith, PhD

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Dr. Selena Smith, PhD. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Dr. Selena, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?

My journey in corporate America has been marked by resilience and determination. Often finding myself as the only person of color and sometimes the youngest in the room, I faced the challenge of having my goals and aspirations questioned simply because of my identity. Despite these obstacles, I remained steadfast in my purpose, a promise I recognized at the young age of nine.

Navigating these spaces required me to embrace my authenticity and confidently affirm my worth. I understood that my unique perspective was not a limitation but a strength. By staying true to myself and my values, I not only overcame the barriers placed before me but also excelled in my field.

My inspiration to fulfill my purpose through counseling stemmed from a deeply personal place. My great aunt, who was near and dear to my heart, suffered from mental illness. Witnessing her struggles ignited a passion within me to understand mental health and provide compassionate support to those in need. This personal connection to mental health issues became the foundation of my career and fueled her dedication to making a difference.

Today, I like to believe that I am more than just a successful specialist in addiction, sex therapy, and trauma; she is a mentor and advocate for the next generation of therapists. I make myself available to guide and support emerging professionals, ensuring they too can navigate and thrive in environments where they may feel outnumbered or underestimated. Through my journey, I hope that my life exemplifies the power of faith, authenticity, and perseverance, while honoring the legacy of my great aunt by helping others find healing and hope.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I believe the goal is more than just to be a successful specialist in addiction, sex therapy, and trauma; but a conduit of change. I lend myself to be a mentor and advocate for the next generation of therapists. I make myself available to guide and support emerging professionals, ensuring they too can navigate and thrive in environments where they may feel outnumbered or underestimated. Through my journey, I strive daily to exemplify the power of faith, authenticity, and perseverance, while honoring the legacy of my great aunt by helping others find healing and hope.

Living Legacy Inc. is a beacon of hope and a force of inspiration for those seeking to overcome life’s obstacles. With an unwavering passion for helping others, we are dedicated to guiding individuals through the complexities of addiction, sex therapy, and trauma. Our commitment to empowering clients is deeply rooted in my own journey, having faced and triumphed over significant challenges in my path.

I desire to make a difference is not just a professional endeavor but a personal mission. Inspired by the struggles of my beloved great aunt who suffered from mental illness,
I knew from a young age that my purpose was to bring light and healing to those grappling with their own mental health battles. This deep-seated compassion and empathy shine through in my practice, where I employ a unique blend of gender-specific treatment and neuroscience to foster true, lasting recovery.

Beyond this profound work, I am an adventurer at heart. I thrive on the thrill of skydiving, the freedom of hang gliding, the exhilaration of skiing, and the challenge of wall climbing. These high-adrenaline activities not only reflect my fearless spirit but also symbolize my approach to life and therapy: facing fears head-on, pushing boundaries, and reaching new heights.

My adventurous pursuits mirror my professional ethos. Just as I conquer mountains and soar through the skies, it allows me to help my clients navigate and overcome their personal challenges, encouraging them to break free from limitations and discover their true potential. The dynamic and engaging approach makes it a captivating presence both in the therapy room and beyond.

In every aspect of my life, I student to embody the power of resilience and the beauty of transformation. I try to live a testament to the idea that, with the right support and determination, we can all soar to new heights and overcome any obstacle in our way.

At Living Legacy Inc., we believe in a holistic approach to healing and recovery, offering a variety of innovative services designed to address the complex needs of our clients. Our additional services, including Acudetox, Neurofeedback, Hypnotherapy, and Ketamine Assisted Therapy, provide powerful tools for those seeking to overcome addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges. Here’s a closer look at each of these transformative treatments:

Acudetox

What it is: Acudetox, or acupuncture detoxification, involves the gentle insertion of fine needles into specific points on the ear. This ancient practice is based on traditional Chinese medicine and is used to support detoxification and recovery from substance abuse.

Incredible Results: Acudetox has been shown to reduce withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and stress. Clients often experience a sense of calm and well-being, making it easier to focus on their recovery journey.

Neurofeedback

What it is: Neurofeedback is a type of biofeedback that uses real-time monitoring of brain activity to teach self-regulation of brain function. By using EEG technology, clients learn to modulate their brainwaves, which can lead to improved mental health and cognitive performance.

Incredible Results: Neurofeedback has been effective in treating a variety of conditions, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and ADHD. Clients report enhanced mood, better focus, and a greater sense of control over their emotions and thoughts.

Hypnotherapy

What it is: Hypnotherapy uses guided relaxation, intense concentration, and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness, known as a trance. In this state, clients are more open to suggestions, which can help them change negative behaviors and thought patterns.

Incredible Results: Hypnotherapy has been successful in addressing issues such as addiction, phobias, and chronic pain. Clients often find that it helps them access and resolve deep-seated emotional issues, leading to profound and lasting change.

Ketamine Assisted Therapy

What it is: Ketamine Assisted Therapy involves the use of low-dose ketamine, administered under medical supervision, to enhance the psychotherapeutic process. Ketamine is known for its rapid antidepressant effects and can help break the cycle of depression and other mood disorders.

Incredible Results: Clients undergoing Ketamine Assisted Therapy often experience rapid relief from depressive symptoms, increased emotional resilience, and a deeper understanding of their inner world. This therapy has been particularly effective for those who have not responded to traditional treatments.

At Living Legacy Inc., we are committed to offering cutting-edge therapies that provide our clients with the best possible outcomes. These additional services are just a part of our comprehensive approach to healing, empowering individuals to achieve lasting recovery and a brighter, healthier future.

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, three qualities and skills stand out as most impactful: resilience, empathy, and continuous learning. These elements have not only shaped my professional path but also my personal growth and ability to support others effectively.

Resilience

Impact: Resilience has been crucial in navigating the challenges and setbacks inherent in my career. It allowed me to persist through difficult times, adapt to change, and remain focused on my goals despite obstacles.

Advice: To develop resilience, embrace a growth mindset. View challenges as opportunities to learn and grow rather than as insurmountable barriers. Practice self-care and build a support network of mentors and peers who can provide guidance and encouragement during tough times.

Empathy

Impact: Empathy has been the cornerstone of my work in addiction, sex therapy, and trauma. Understanding and connecting with the experiences and emotions of others has enabled me to provide compassionate and effective support to my clients.

Advice: Cultivate empathy by actively listening to others without judgment. Engage in diverse experiences and educate yourself about different perspectives and cultures. Reflect on your own experiences and how they shape your understanding of others. Practicing mindfulness and being present in your interactions can also enhance your empathetic abilities.

Continuous Learning

Impact: The commitment to continuous learning has kept me at the forefront of my field, allowing me to incorporate the latest research and techniques into my practice. It has fueled my passion and curiosity, driving me to constantly seek out new knowledge and skills.

Advice: Make learning a lifelong habit. Stay curious and open-minded, seeking out new information, perspectives, and skills. Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences, and pursue further education and certifications in your area of interest. Engage with professional communities and networks to exchange knowledge and stay updated on industry trends.

General Advice for Early Journeys

1. Set Clear Goals: Know what you want to achieve and create a roadmap to get there. Break down your goals into manageable steps and celebrate your progress along the way.
2. Seek Mentorship: Find mentors who can offer guidance, support, and wisdom from their own experiences. Learn from their successes and challenges.
3. Embrace Failure: Understand that failure is a natural part of the journey. Learn from your mistakes, and use them as stepping stones to growth and success.

By focusing on resilience, empathy, and continuous learning, and by seeking mentorship, setting clear goals, and embracing failure, you can build a strong foundation for a fulfilling and impactful journey. Stay committed to your growth, remain authentic, and remember that every step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to your aspirations.

What would you advise – going all in on your strengths or investing on areas where you aren’t as strong to be more well-rounded?

I believe that while it’s important to recognize and leverage our strengths, striving for a balance between honing our strengths and improving our weaker areas can lead to a more fulfilling and effective journey. Focusing solely on strengths can indeed bring quick successes and a sense of mastery, but addressing our weaknesses can unlock greater potential and resilience.

Embracing Strengths

Rationale: When we go all in on our strengths, we operate from a place of confidence and passion. This often leads to higher performance and satisfaction because we’re doing what we naturally excel at. Leveraging our strengths allows us to make a significant impact quickly and can propel us into leadership roles where these strengths are needed.

Story: Early in my career, I focused heavily on my strengths in empathy and communication. This approach allowed me to build strong client relationships and gain a reputation for compassionate care in my practice. My ability to connect deeply with clients was a clear strength, and by focusing on it, I could make an immediate and profound difference in their lives.

Addressing Weaknesses

Rationale: While strengths are our natural assets, ignoring our weaknesses can create blind spots and limit our growth. By investing effort in improving areas where we’re not as strong, we become more well-rounded individuals, capable of navigating a wider range of challenges. This balanced approach fosters personal growth and equips us with the tools to handle diverse situations.

Story: At one point, I realized that my expertise in communication and empathy wasn’t enough to address the administrative and strategic aspects of running my practice. I wasn’t naturally inclined towards business management, and it became a bottleneck in my professional growth. To overcome this, I enrolled in a business management course and sought mentorship from experienced administrators. Although it was challenging, improving this weak area allowed me to streamline operations, expand my practice, and ultimately serve my clients better.

Why Balance Matters

Balancing the development of strengths and weaknesses ensures we’re not just specialists in one area but versatile and adaptable individuals. This versatility is crucial in today’s dynamic world, where challenges and opportunities often require a multifaceted approach.

Holistic Growth: By focusing solely on strengths, we might miss out on valuable skills and experiences that come from tackling our weaknesses. For instance, improving my business acumen not only enhanced my practice but also boosted my confidence in handling various professional scenarios.

Resilience: Addressing weaknesses prepares us for unexpected challenges. When we only rely on our strengths, we can be caught off guard by situations that demand skills we haven’t developed. A well-rounded skill set makes us more resilient and capable of adapting to change.

Empathy and Understanding: Working on our weaknesses fosters humility and empathy. It reminds us that growth is a continuous process and that everyone has areas where they struggle. This perspective enriches our interactions with others and enhances our leadership capabilities.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, I advocate for a balanced approach where we go all in on our strengths while also dedicating time and effort to improving our weaknesses. This strategy not only amplifies our immediate impact but also prepares us for long-term success and resilience. Embrace your strengths with confidence, but don’t shy away from the areas where you’re less comfortable. Growth often lies just beyond our comfort zones, and it’s in this space that we truly become our best selves.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.livinglegacyinc.com
• Instagram: Thesuitedtherapist
• Facebook: DrSelenaSmith
• Yelp: Livinglegacyinc

Image Credits

Selena Smith