Today we’d like to introduce you to Jaye Lynn Peabody Smith.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Many people are surprised to hear I grew up with very low self esteem. Into my adulthood, I believed I was stupid and ugly. I am convinced I have three Master Degrees trying to prove to myself I was not stupid. (Which I look back on now and say “that was stupid.” There was no evidence to prove I was stupid or ugly. Actually, it was the contrary. I was in gifted programs during school. I was homecoming queen. Inside, however, I did not love myself. As a result, I made a lot of bad choices. There were some people who insisted I would be dead or locked up by the time I reached 30. I have never seen the inside of a jail cell and I am way past 30!
It was not until many years later, after many painful experiences, did I experience the healing through counseling. I learned to not allow the experiences or people of my past identify me. I learned to embrace my authentic self. When I changed inwardly, life changed outwardly. I learned in my twenties that God loved me and now, I was learning to love myself. It was life-changing. I wanted to help others experience this same kind of transformation.
I was very fortunate to serve as Executive Director of a nonprofit faith-based counseling center. This position allowed me to bring together three areas I love; ministry, counseling and the non-profit world. As an ordained minister who loves high heels and cute jeans, I knew I did not want to Pastor a church. This center was a good fit yet after some years, it was time to move into my own practice. Doing so, allowed me to focus more on my clients and my family. It also allowed me to create my schedule in such a way I could pursue other loves at the same time. In addition to providing counseling, I have the opportunity to teach at a university, provide workshops and inspire others through public speaking and preaching.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
The biggest challenge in my career has been me. I have worked my entire life in the non-profit sector so starting my own business was a huge change. I still want people to receive mental health services even if they could not afford to pay. At the same time, this was now my primary source of income. Not charging would mean not being able to pay a light bill! I had to find a balance. I do see some clients on a sliding scale but I the solution I have decided on would be to start my own non-profit organization dedicated to providing access to mental health services despite the ability to pay. This will happen in 2019! Stay tuned!
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
As a therapist trained in both pastoral counseling and mental health counseling, I offer a non-judgmental space to discuss and explore your life experiences. I abide with you as we reflect on the past, rewrite your present and create an amazing future. I provide counseling to individuals, couples, family, and groups. I also provide pre-marital counseling.
I enjoy presenting workshops on an array of subjects including, relationships, forgiveness, self-esteem, depression and much more. One popular workshop is a workshop about relationships that is provided in the comfort of your home with other couples looking to enhance their relationships.
As an ordained minister, I have a passion for motivation and inspirational teaching and preaching. I am a great example of how God turned pain into purpose.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is living and working in your purpose. I define purpose as something you love to do but also blesses other people. Too often, we do what we are “supposed” to do or what someone said we “should” do instead of doing that thing that allows us to be our authentic self and genuinely makes us happy.
Pricing:
- Session $100
- Workshops Neg.
- Speaking Engagements Neg.
Contact Info:
- Address: 2151 Fountain Drive
Suite 301
Snellville, Georgia 30078 - Website: www.thepeabodypractice.com
- Phone: 470-774-1529
- Email: jaye@thepeabodypractice.com
- Instagram: @thepeabodypractice
- Facebook: @thepeabodypractice
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