Today we’d like to introduce you to Omolola Elliott.
Hi Omolola, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in a family of nine, consisting of my parents and six siblings. My dad, originally from Nigeria, came to the United States on a school visa. During my childhood, I witnessed my parents struggling in various aspects, particularly financially. We were living in poverty and relied on government assistance. Despite our difficult circumstances, my parents always made the best of what they had, and we were grateful for what we received.
Over time, our situation began to change. My mom secured a career with the Department of Human Services, and my dad started a successful janitorial business. This shift in our household’s socioeconomic status propelled us from being poor to entering the middle class. It was during this transition that I experienced various life-defining events that have shaped me into who I am today. One of the most important lessons I learned from my parents is resilience. Despite the challenges they faced, they never gave up and always found a way to persevere. This mindset of overcoming obstacles has become an integral part of my character. Additionally, my faith, upbringing, and personal experiences have all contributed to shaping my identity. Through these experiences, I have come to realize that change is possible. Regardless of what I see, feel, or experience, I believe in my ability to overcome and succeed.
Reflecting on my childhood, I have vivid memories of volunteering at my mom’s workplace. This early exposure to service planted a seed within me. Even at a young age, I felt a sense of excitement when advocating for others and providing support to those in need. This experience ignited my passion for helping people gain access to the resources they require.
Overall, my upbringing, the struggles my family faced, and my involvement in volunteer work have all played a significant role in shaping my values and aspirations. I am determined to continue making a positive impact in the lives of others, drawing from the resilience instilled in me by my parents and the belief that change is always possible.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Despite facing numerous challenges, one of the most significant obstacles I encountered was growing up as an African American woman in a predominantly white community. Living in Portland, Oregon, I directly experienced systemic racism on multiple levels, which demanded unwavering faith and resilience. It was crucial for me to rely on God’s promises and understand His purpose for my life, regardless of the negative circumstances surrounding me. I firmly believed that visualization of a better future beyond my current situation was paramount. I was aware of the extra effort required as an African American woman to achieve my goals, I mentally prepared myself, firmly establishing this mindset. Overcoming my licensure exam presented yet another formidable challenge, as it took me six attempts to succeed. There were moments of discouragement, but I held onto the scripture from Habakkuk 2:3, which reminds us that visions come to fruition at the appointed time. My determination never wavered, and eventually, I triumphed by passing the exam.
We’ve been impressed with Gateway to Rejuvenation LLC, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I am the founder of a private practice called Gateway to Rejuvenation LLC. Gateway to Rejuvenation LLC is a psychotherapy service provider operating in three states: Georgia, Oregon, and Washington.
Our organization is dedicated to offering effective therapeutic treatment to individuals, couples, and families, with the goal of inspiring them to discover their inner strengths. By providing counseling and support, we aim to help our clients lead happier and healthier lives. My areas of expertise extend to working with individuals aged 13 and above, as well as couples, families, and groups. Through my passion for this work, I strive to empower my clients and guide them on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and overall well-being.
Throughout my career, I have been blessed to support clients in various ways, enabling them to cultivate effective coping mechanisms, enhance their trauma-processing capabilities, and strengthen their capacity to recognize and regulate harmful emotions.
My contributions to the community have been diverse, encompassing roles as a school and hospital social worker, a behavioral health specialist within mental health organizations, a mental health therapist, and a group facilitator for specific areas of focus such as anger management, domestic violence, at-risk teenagers and women’s concerns, as well as stress management.
I embody cultural humility and demonstrate sensitivity to diversity, equity, and social justice in my professional endeavors by actively engaging with clients, acknowledging and understanding the unique challenges and needs they face. I strive to empathize with individuals who come from diverse backgrounds and possess a wide range of experiences, including those in the LGBTQ+ community or marginalized communities, as well as those residing in underserved areas. By prioritizing the exploration of clients’ challenges and needs, I aim to foster an inclusive and supportive environment that respects and values the diversity of individuals I work with.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Yes, I created an innovative mental health community program, Success In Reach Inc. is a 501 c3; this program aims to address the needs of African Americans and/or low-income minorities by working alongside community organizations. The primary goal of this intervention/prevention program is to provide accessible, high-quality, and affordable (low or no-cost) mental health care to these individuals, ensuring they receive culturally competent support from professionals.
Success in Reach, Inc have several components to achieve its objectives. Firstly, it focuses on mental health education and awareness, aiming to reduce resistance and stigmas associated with mental health services. This is accomplished through seminars, small group sessions, mentorship, and partnerships with community-based organizations, allowing for a wide reach and engagement with the target population. The program offers short-term case management services to clients who are receiving therapy. This support helps ensure that individuals receiving mental health treatment have access to resources and assistance beyond their therapy sessions. Moreover, for families facing crisis situations, crisis vouchers will be available to help them obtain essential resources for daily living.
By taking a holistic approach to mental health care, this program aims to bridge the gap and meet the specific needs of African Americans and/or low-income minorities. Through collaboration with community organizations and the provision of culturally competent services, the program intends to create an inclusive and supportive environment that fosters positive mental health outcomes for individuals and communities.
This program is currently in its initial stages and requires various resources and support to reach its full potential. Specifically, we are seeking funding, staff members, volunteers, clinicians, paraprofessionals, and community partnerships. If you are interested in contributing and assisting with this endeavor, please reach out to me at successinreach4u@gmail.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.gateway2rejuvenation.com
