We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Isaac-ike Zadikoff. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Isaac-Ike below.
Hi Isaac-Ike, appreciate you sitting with us today to share your wisdom with our readers. So, let’s start with resilience – where do you get your resilience from?
Resilience can be difficult to define. For many, it is a skill developed through lived experiences. In my case, it has been shaped by my unique life journey. This is why I avoid defining what may work for others. As someone living with Cerebral Palsy and Retinopathy of Prematurity, I can confidently say I developed resilience through personal challenges. However, without a strong foundation and support from others, I might not have developed the mindset conducive to resilience and growth.
This foundation reminds me that I am more than my disabilities. My family has provided both tangible and intangible resources that helped me cultivate a mindset focused on overcoming challenges. For example, navigating mainstream classes with two disabilities in elementary, middle, and high school involved focusing on my strengths while managing the challenges of multiple surgeries. Equally crucial was the advocacy from my parents, ensuring that my abilities were fully utilized. Despite these resources, I still faced numerous obstacles during my upbringing.
Managing the physical limitations posed by my disabilities created unique experiences, but the mental and emotional challenges were often just as significant. The transition to living independently in college, for instance, was especially difficult. However, thanks to my foundation and experiences, I was able to seek resources and adjust to these challenges. Learning the importance of self-advocacy helped me reach out for support in managing the impact of these new experiences on my mental health.
The resilient mindset I developed allowed me to benefit from mental health services during college. These resources helped me transform perceived setbacks into opportunities to help others. This mindset also inspired me to pursue a dual-track Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling and Mental Health Counseling. Earning this degree, along with becoming a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and Licensed Mental Health Counselor, was a tangible result of my resilience. Later, this mindset gave me the courage to start my private practice. However, mindset alone isn’t enough. My adaptability and ability to leverage available resources played a key role in moving forward.
Starting Revised Perspective would not have been possible without my wife’s unwavering support. She has been an invaluable resource, particularly in managing the challenging aspects of business paperwork. My resilient mindset allows me to recognize areas that are not my strengths, so I can focus on what I do well and seek help where needed. As my business grows, I aim to continue using this mindset to empower others to help themselves.
Self-advocacy, resourcefulness, and a solid foundation enable me to look to the future with hope and optimism. As Revised Perspective evolves, along with my skills as a Mental Health Counselor and consultant, my resilient mindset will guide me in overcoming the challenges of expanding my practice.
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?
Revised Perspective is a private Mental Health Counseling and Consulting practice that is dedicated to helping the community. My own experiences have shaped the mission of this practice, which is to provide clients with a safe space and collaborate with them to achieve mental health goals. We strive to empower others through various approaches tailored to each individual’s needs. Our consulting services promote mental health in the workplace and advocate for equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Every aspect of this practice gives me the chance to share my passion for helping others.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
I have been fortunate to showcase important skills while growing my practice. My mindset has helped me develop three essential skills as a counselor: active listening, self-awareness, and empathy. These tools are critical for engaging with others and maintaining authenticity. Being authentic empowers others to achieve their goals. I don’t claim to have all the answers; I understand that each person’s journey is unique. In my case, I focus on my abilities, passions, and purpose. Maintaining this mindset isn’t always easy, but it keeps me moving forward toward new challenges.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
I am always open to collaborating with others who seek to make a positive impact in their communities. I believe in the power of collaboration to create meaningful change and reach a broader audience. I am ready for new opportunities that can help more people and make a difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.revisedperspective.com
- Instagram: Revised Perspective
- Psychology Today Profile: Isaac-Ike Zadikoff LMHC, CRC
Image Credits
Jennifer Christian
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
