Meet Shenequa Thomas Corbett

We were lucky to catch up with Shenequa Thomas Corbett recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Shenequa, so great to have you on the platform. There’s so much we want to ask you, but let’s start with the topic of self-care. Do you do anything for self-care and if so, do you think it’s had a meaningful impact on your effectiveness?

Self-care is essential for me, both personally and professionally. As a Licensed Mental Health Therapist, I understand the toll that mental and emotional labor can take. To maintain my well-being, I prioritize self-care in various ways.

Recently, I’ve started using my mindfulness coloring book called “Coloring Culture: Around-The-Way Therapist Mindfulness Coloring Book.” This practice not only soothes me but also helps me be more present and attentive in my client sessions.

I also participate in and lead “Pillow Talk + PJ’s” gatherings. These gatherings provide a safe space for women, including myself, to openly discuss self-care needs, share vulnerabilities, and engage in collective healing.

In my daily routine, I first assess my current needs. My self-care activities vary – sometimes it’s saying “no” to an event, tending to my plants while listening to music, nurturing a relationship, coloring, exercising, doing a puzzle, or participating in community service. In essence, self-care is about giving myself what I need in the moment, especially when it’s challenging.

These self-care practices profoundly impact my effectiveness. They help prevent burnout, maintain emotional balance, and keep me grounded. By prioritizing my own well-being, I ensure that I can provide the best possible care for my clients, making my practice a true sanctuary for healing and growth.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

My name is Shenequa Thomas, and I am the founder of Tru Pearl Solution Services PLLC, a private counseling and consulting practice. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina, Texas, and Florida, as well as a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. My work focuses on advocating for mental health, particularly within BIPOC communities.

One of the most exciting aspects of my work is creating unique spaces and resources. I have developed the “Pillow Talk + PJ’s” retreats for women’s collective healing. My latest initiative involves international self-care retreats, which emphasize empowerment, self-love, growth, and community tribe-building.

I am also an author of the “Around The Way Therapist Journey to Self-Care Journal” and two eBooks, namely “Taking Care of You: A Guide to Nourishing Your Soul” and “Introspective Resiliency Toolkit: A Guide to Building Emotional and Self-Reliance.” These resources focus on fostering emotional resilience and self-care.

My “Coloring Culture: Around-The-Way Therapist Mindfulness Coloring Book” blends hip-hop culture with mindfulness practices to promote stress management and creativity. The purpose of creating these resources is to provide accessible tools that support mental wellness and self-care, empowering individuals to navigate life’s challenges with resilience and strength.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey, I have found these three qualities to be most impactful: adaptability, continuous learning, and resilience. Adaptability has been crucial as I navigated various challenges, urging me to embrace change, learn from new experiences, and adjust strategies as needed. Committing to continuous learning has been essential for staying relevant and growing professionally. By staying curious, seeking new knowledge, and honing existing skills, I’ve been able to broaden my understanding and adapt to evolving circumstances. Additionally, building resilience has been key in overcoming setbacks, managing stress, and persisting through difficulties. Cultivating a positive mindset, practicing self-care, and fostering a strong support network have been instrumental in bouncing back stronger from setbacks. For those starting their journey, I recommend prioritizing these areas: actively pursuing learning opportunities, developing effective coping strategies, and remaining adaptable to thrive in diverse environments. These qualities not only establish a strong foundation for success but also empower you to navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.

As we end our chat, is there a book you can leave people with that’s been meaningful to you and your development?

The book “Braving the Wilderness” by Brené Brown has had a profound impact on my personal development. The concept of true belonging, defined as “the courage to stand alone” while still feeling connected to others, has taught me the value of authenticity and self-acceptance. Embracing vulnerability as a source of strength has allowed me to build deeper relationships based on authenticity and empathy. Engaging in difficult conversations with respect and empathy has enabled me to bridge divides and promote greater understanding and connection within my communities. Overall, the book encourages me to embrace my true self, engage auauthentically with others, and cultivate empathy and resilience in all my interactions with the world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.trupearlsolutionservices.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trupearl_solutionservices
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TruPearlSolutionServices
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shenequathomas