We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Elisha Suttles a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Elisha, thanks so much for taking the time to share your insights and lessons with us today. We’re particularly interested in hearing about how you became such a resilient person. Where do you get your resilience from?
In the tapestry of my life, woven with threads of challenges and triumphs, the vibrant hues of resilience find their origin in the wisdom and fortitude imparted by my my mother, Idell Willis. Through moments of adversity, her steadfast support became the anchor that steadied my ship in turbulent seas.
I recall a chapter where the canvas of my life was daubed with uncertainty and setbacks. In those times, my mother’s unwavering belief in my abilities and her ability to see beyond the storm painted a picture of hope. Her encouragement and practical guidance were the strokes that transformed adversity into an opportunity for growth.
The artistry of my resilience emerges from the stories shared around the kitchen table, where my mother’s own journey through trials became the palette from which I drew strength. Observing her navigate challenges with grace and determination instilled in me the belief that resilience is not only about enduring hardships but about learning, adapting, and emerging stronger.
As I faced hurdles, her teachings became the brushstrokes that painted a picture of perseverance. The resilience cultivated in the crucible of those shared experiences forged an essential quality – an unyielding spirit that refuses to be defeated by life’s tribulations.
From those moments, a habit of embracing challenges with a resilient mindset took root. It became a part of my narrative, an integral thread woven into the fabric of my character. My mother’s influence was not just in words spoken but in the living embodiment of resilience, a legacy that now shapes my responses to adversity.
In the grand mural of my life, the strokes of resilience painted by my mother remain a testament to the enduring strength derived from her guidance. Through her, I’ve not only overcome challenges but cultivated a resilience that colors every chapter of my story with courage and fortitude.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am Elisha Suttles, PLMHP. I not only spearhead Intentional Healing Inc & Intentional Healing of Omaha, LLC but I am also a devoted spouse to Darrin Suttles and a proud mother to two vibrant daughters, Za’Riya and Zion.
Beyond steering my entrepreneurial ventures, I wear numerous hats in our community, serving full-time at Nelson Mandela Elementary as the Scholar and Family Support Liaison. I personify commitment and active involvement in the community!
Balancing the roles of a wife, mother, full-time employee, and community liaison, I intimately comprehend the significance of maintaining equilibrium for mental well-being. My guiding principle is succinct yet impactful: “To pour out, you must first pour within!”
I am passionate about imparting wisdom on:
– Establishing healthy boundaries
– Prioritizing self-care and mindfulness
– Delegating tasks effectively
– Mastering time management
– Fostering open communication
– Building a robust support network
– Nurturing your mental well-being with kindness
My organization:
Intentional Healing Inc. stands as my professional endeavor, a private counseling practice that is dedicated to providing transformative support to Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) and historically underserved youth within our communities. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every individual deserves a space where their unique experiences are acknowledged and embraced.
At the heart of our practice is the commitment to intentional healing, recognizing that the journey towards well-being is deeply personal and deserves a thoughtful, culturally sensitive approach. We specialize in creating a safe and inclusive environment where BIPOC and youth from historically marginalized backgrounds can explore their narratives, navigate challenges, and foster resilience.
What sets Intentional Healing Inc. apart is our tailored approach to counseling, acknowledging the intersectionality of identities and the impact it has on mental health. We strive to go beyond traditional therapeutic methods, incorporating culturally competent strategies to address the diverse needs of our clients.
One of the most exciting aspects of our work is witnessing the transformative power of intentional healing. We celebrate the resilience of our clients as they navigate and overcome adversities, embracing their strengths and rewriting narratives of empowerment. Our commitment extends beyond the counseling room, as we actively engage with the community through workshops, events, and partnerships aimed at promoting mental health awareness and breaking down barriers to access.
In terms of recent developments, we are thrilled to announce upcoming workshops designed to empower BIPOC and historically underserved youth, fostering a sense of community, connection, and self-discovery. Additionally, we are exploring innovative avenues to expand our reach and provide accessible mental health resources to those who need them most.
At Intentional Healing Inc., we believe in the transformative potential of intentional healing, and we are dedicated to creating spaces where individuals can embark on their healing journey with authenticity, support, and empowerment.
In April of this year I will be releasing my first workbook, “ Metamorphosis: Embracing the Journey of Intentional Healing to Lasting Transformation.”
This workbook will serve as a guide to self-discovery, providing tools and exercises to foster intentional healing through reflection and mindfulness practices.
This book is not a quick fix or a one-size-fits-all solution. It is a gentle companion that encourages you to embrace vulnerability, confront your fears, and embrace the process of healing. It invites you to take an active role in your own transformation, providing you with the tools and guidance needed to embark on this life-altering journey.
Whether you are seeking relief from physical ailments, emotional trauma, or simply a desire to live a more fulfilled life, “Metamorphosis: Embracing the Journey of Intentional Healing to Lasting Transformation” offers a roadmap to intentional healing. It bridges the gap between conventional medicine and holistic approaches, acknowledging the importance of both in achieving true well-being.
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?
Reflecting on my journey, three pivotal elements stand out: resilience, adaptability, and continuous learning. These qualities have been instrumental in navigating challenges, embracing change, and staying informed.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate resilience by viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Embrace adaptability, as the ability to pivot opens new doors. Lastly, commit to continuous learning, staying curious and seeking knowledge in your chosen field.
Remember, the key to unlocking your potential is to release old mindsets or limitations, allowing space to receive new insights and opportunities. Embrace change as a catalyst for growth, and remain open to the endless possibilities that unfold when you release to receive.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Currently, I am open to collaborative opportunities, particularly with individuals or organizations passionate about community therapy (more than just talk therapy but focus on building and healing through relationships) and mental health resources. I’m seeking partners who share a commitment to fostering well-being within underserved communities, particularly those focusing on BIPOC and youth.
If you resonate with this mission and are interested in collaboration, feel free to reach out through [[email protected], Intentional Healing Inc (Facebook) and Intentionalhealing_r3 (Instagram). Let’s join forces to create impactful initiatives that make a positive difference in community mental health.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.intentionalhealinginc.org
- Instagram: Intentionalhealing_r3
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/intentionalhealinginc?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Phenomenal Woman Academy The Sanctuary Collective Marquisha & Co. Youth Retreat 2023 The Keys Foundation
