We recently connected with Lorena Lefkovitz and have shared our conversation below.
Lorena , thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
I have learned to love my essence and what really make me ME. Many times, I have been in situations where I’m the only woman of color in a room and for me the most important thing is to first check-in with myself, my body and recognize how I’m feeling at that moment. Doing some breathing and grounding exercises are helpful. Once, I do that, I remind myself of how proud I am of myself and for showing up. Visibility carries responsibility and an opportunity to advocate and educate others about the needs of Latinas and other women of color
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I founded my solo private practice SHE IS STRONG AND MINDFUL, 6 years ago as a way to provide a safe and diverse healing space designed to celebrate the uniqueness of women. She is Strong and Mindful, strives to support and encourage the mental and emotional wellness of women who often find themselves overwhelmed by the challenges and transitions they encounter.
I truly believe in the transformative power of a trusting therapeutic relationship. Stigmas surrounding mental health and therapy often prevent women from seeking professional support.
The name of my practice was inspired by all and each of the women I have encountered in my personal and professional life. My work is focused on helping my clients recognize these features of themselves that already exist and inspiring them to believe that these qualities can blossom even further.
Social media has been a great way to connect with other women especially other therapists and potential clients.
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?
The most impactful tool during the journey of opening my own business was to talk to other business owners about their own experiences. I was and remained grateful for all the people that took time out of their busy schedules to meet with me and shared their knowledge, resources and encouraged me to take the step to open my own practice. Staying true to myself and the quality of care I want to offer to my clients have been powerful anchors in my journey as a therapist. I will say building community, feeling grateful for opportunities, and staying true to myself have been those three tools
Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
My parents thought me and my sister the importance of treating everyone with dignity and respect and that we’re all in this world searching for the same, safety, love, feeling heard, connecting.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sheisstrongandmindful.com
- Instagram: she_is_strong_and_mindful
- Linkedin: Lorena R Lefkovitz- MA, LCSW
Image Credits
Robert Martinez and Abel Osorio
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
