Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Duff.
Kimberly, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I was diagnosed with a “terminal” brain tumor at age 12. After 5 brain surgeries, 2 rounds of radiation and 1 round of chemo, I became totally blind at the age of 16 as the result of the cancer and treatments. I went to school to become a counselor working with persons with disabilities and chronic illness. I desire to help others overcome their challenges through my counseling practice. I work with both children and adults to teach resilience and coping strategies to tackle life’s challenges. I feel like my presence in the counseling room promotes a sense of resilience and a “no excuses” dynamic that promotes growth and a sense of empowerment in each client I counsel.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t been smooth. I think the world has many prejudices and stereotypes when it comes to people with disabilities. I found that many employers who try to accommodate are much more concerned with saving money rather than giving the employee what they need to succeed. Since beginning to work for myself, I am liberated by the prospect of owning my own business. I am excited because my practice is growing and I have been able to learn and grow myself during this process. I am learning to accept my own physical limits and to put my body’s needs first. I am learning to protect myself from stress and unhealthy situations that may have taken a physical toll in the past. Although I struggle with my own desire to help others regardless of my personal limits, I am learning the importance of boundaries in the helping profession.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Overcomers Counseling – what should we know?
I am a professional counselor and a certified rehabilitation counselor. I specialize in disability and chronic illness and help persons with anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and family issues learn to overcome their problems. I am most proud that clients see my presence in the counseling room as an example of strength and resilience and they feel motivated to face their own problems afterwards.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
I think my success is due to my resilience and the fact that I am a tireless optimist who never gives up on myself or others.
Pricing:
- Hourly appointments starting at $80 per hour
Contact Info:
- Address: Cedarcrest Pointe Counseling
2487 Cedarcrest Road.,
Suite 912
Acworth, GA 30101 - Website: www.counselingbykimberly.com
- Phone: 678-643-4446
- Email: overcomerscounselingllc@gmail.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Overcomers-Counseling-LLC-582684121879245/?hc_ref
- Twitter: @kim_counselor
Image Credit:
Photos by David Johnson and Alan Cecil
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
Patsy Joe
September 20, 2017 at 9:34 am
You are amazing, Kimberly; I met you at Monica and James’ wedding; It is so great to see you again and also all that you hve accomplished for yourself and others. God bless you.