Meet Kela Woods

We were lucky to catch up with Kela Woods recently and have shared our conversation below.

Kela, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?

I developed my confidence and self-esteem through a journey that began in my childhood and was nurtured by the unwavering support of my family. Growing up as a dark-complected, chunky child in a community where those traits were often seen as unfavorable, I quickly learned that my value extended far beyond what the mirror could show. My parents and extended family were my first teachers in self-worth—they never centered compliments around my appearance. Instead, they celebrated my education, talents, and the joy I brought into every situation. My mom, in particular, gave me the freedom to explore my personal style, fostering an early sense of autonomy and self-expression that I now cherish.

Despite the pervasive colorism in my community and the teasing that sometimes came with it, I was fortunate to learn early on that being unique and misunderstood often invites criticism—but that criticism can be transformed into strength. As I navigated my teenage years, I faced moments of insecurity, especially as my body developed in ways that, for girls, can lead to being oversexualized. Those experiences did shake my confidence for a time, but as I matured, I came to understand that those feelings were just one part of a much larger picture.

Entering adulthood, I began to weave together all these lived experiences. I learned to value qualities that transcended looks—my love for learning, exploring, and experiencing life became a cornerstone of my identity. Whenever insecurity crept in, I turned to knowledge and understanding, empowering myself with the insight that growth often comes from embracing every part of who we are. I reached a point where I accepted the aspects of myself that I couldn’t change and took active steps to enhance those I could. I became the author of my own story, conscious of the fact that every word and action I shared contributed to the person I wanted to be.

Even though I’ve struggled with weight fluctuations throughout my life, I’ve learned that true confidence lies in prioritizing my health over arbitrary numbers. I remain consistent with my medical, dental, and mental healthcare because I understand that taking care of myself—inside and out—is fundamental. This commitment to self-care reinforces my confidence every day, reminding me that my well-being is the most important measure of my worth.

In essence, my confidence and self-esteem are built on a foundation of resilience, self-acceptance, and a continual commitment to growth and health. Every challenge and every triumph has taught me that I am much more than appearances—that I am defined by my curiosity, my strength, and the love and support I carry within me.

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

I’m Kela Woods, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri with over 15 years of experience in behavioral health and social services. My work is driven by a passion for helping individuals overcome life’s challenges and achieve emotional well-being, and I’m especially committed to empowering professional women. In my practice, I provide a safe, trauma-informed space where every client is heard and valued, whether they’re navigating anxiety, depression, PTSD, or the unique pressures that come with leadership roles.

What I find most exciting about my work is the opportunity to support women in leadership—and those aspiring to such roles—as they balance the demands of a fast-paced professional environment with personal growth. I specialize in addressing challenges like work-life balance, imposter syndrome, and career transitions, helping professional women transform obstacles into opportunities for strength and resilience. There’s something truly captivating about witnessing a client step into her power, shed self-doubt, and embrace her potential both at work and in her personal life.

Beyond individual counseling, I also work with couples, guiding them to navigate conflicts, deepen their connections, and cultivate healthier, more intimate relationships. I believe that fostering strong relationships, whether personal or professional, is essential to overall well-being. This holistic approach—combining a focus on personal strengths, goal attainment, and the nurturing of supportive relationships—is at the heart of my practice.

I’m also thrilled to share that I’m expanding my services to include new workshops and online support groups tailored specifically for professional women. These programs are designed to equip leaders with practical tools and strategies to overcome the unique challenges they face in today’s workplace, ultimately enabling them to thrive in every facet of life. Whether you’re seeking individual counseling or looking to connect with a community of like-minded women, my mission remains the same: to help you become the confident author of your own story.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

Looking back on my journey, I can pinpoint three key qualities that have been transformative: authenticity, resilience through overcoming imposter syndrome, and an unwavering commitment to continuous learning.

1. Authenticity:
Early on, I leaned heavily on theory and structure, and while that provided a solid foundation, it often made my sessions feel clinical and disconnected. I realized that true connection comes from showing up as a whole, imperfect human being. When I started blending my academic knowledge with my personal experiences, I created a therapeutic space that felt safe, genuine, and relatable. My advice for those just beginning their journey is to embrace your humanity. Don’t be afraid to share your real-life experiences—they’re what make your practice, or any creative or professional endeavor, truly unique and impactful.

2. Resilience in the Face of Imposter Syndrome:
For a long time, I battled with imposter syndrome, a struggle fueled by guilt and shame from my own past mistakes. I almost lost the very practice that I had worked so hard to build because I couldn’t see the value in the lessons those mistakes provided. Overcoming these internal battles taught me that the errors we regret are often the very catalysts for growth and progress. To anyone feeling weighed down by self-doubt: understand that every misstep carries the seed of resilience. Use those experiences as a foundation to push forward and refine your practice. Remember, it’s not about being perfect—it’s about learning, healing, and becoming stronger through adversity.

3. Continuous Learning and Curiosity:
Perhaps the most empowering realization was that the more I learned, the more confident I became. Continuous learning has been my antidote to anxiety about the future. Curiosity not only fuels personal and professional growth but also transforms challenges into opportunities for change. For those early in their journey, I recommend adopting a mindset of lifelong learning. Embrace new ideas, seek feedback, and let your curiosity guide you. Every bit of knowledge you gain builds a more secure, less anxious foundation for your future.

Together, these three qualities—authenticity, resilience, and continuous learning—have been the pillars of my journey. They remind me that our human imperfections, when met with openness and a willingness to learn, are what make us uniquely equipped to support and inspire others. Whether you’re embarking on a new career, developing a creative project, or building your personal brand, let these principles guide you toward a more authentic, confident, and fulfilling path.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I start to feel overwhelmed, I’ve learned that a few key strategies really make a difference. First and foremost, becoming more organized and setting clear boundaries around my schedule and commitments has been a game changer. I now make it a priority to be honest with myself—and with others—about what I can realistically take on. If I’m uncertain or know I won’t be able to give something my all, I simply say so, because I’ve realized that if I can’t show up with 100%, it’s better not to show up at all.

Another important shift for me was embracing delegation. I used to struggle with a scarcity mindset, thinking I couldn’t afford to outsource or invest in services. Over time, I began to value the freedom and peace that comes from delegating tasks—whether that’s hiring an assistant, upgrading my EHR system with better features, or even paying for an answering service. This mindset shift from scarcity to abundance has not only freed up my time but has also brought more income and peace into my life.

In essence, my advice is to organize your priorities, set and respect your boundaries, communicate your limits honestly, and recognize the value in delegating tasks. These strategies have helped me manage overwhelm more effectively and have brought a sense of abundance and balance into my daily life.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://kelawoods.com/