Today we’d like to introduce you to Jerriah Lowe
Hi Jerriah, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My name is Jerriah Lowe, and I’m a Clinical Mental Health Therapist, associate licensed in Georgia, and Nationally Certified Globally as a counselor. Growing up as an only child raised by a single mother, life was simple, but I kept a lot of my feelings bottled up. By high school, not having a positive outlet started to catch up with me. I lost focus on my academics, skipped classes, and wasn’t taking school seriously. I just wanted someone to talk to, but I didn’t feel like I could open up to anyone.
In my junior year, I transferred to Banneker High School. To catch up, I had to juggle sophomore and junior classes and attend summer school. By the grace of God, I graduated on time and was accepted into four colleges. After graduating in 2013, I decided to study Psychology, vowing to become the therapist I wished I had growing up. I graduated with honors from Clayton State University in 2017. After a short break, I pursued a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Mercer University, graduating with a 3.9 GPA in 2022.
My career has focused on working within the community, particularly with adolescents, families, and adults, to break the stigma around mental health. I’m incredibly passionate about my work and love seeing people make progress and break generational curses. It’s important to me because now I can be the person I needed during my high school years. It’s deeply rewarding to give back and help people who look like me.
I became a therapist because I know firsthand how tough it is not to have someone to talk to during difficult times. When I was younger, I often felt isolated and overwhelmed by emotions I couldn’t express, which affected my schoolwork and overall well-being. Overcoming these challenges made me want to ensure others don’t have to face similar struggles alone. As I found my way, I realized the profound difference a compassionate and understanding person could make. I wanted to create a safe space where people could explore their feelings without judgment. This desire has driven me to offer the support and guidance I once longed for.
In my work, I strive to empower individuals to embrace their true selves and face life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. Seeing my clients grow and transform reaffirms my belief in the importance of mental health support. My journey from a struggling student to a dedicated therapist reflects my commitment to helping others find their strength and voice. My mission is to be the beacon of hope and understanding that I once needed, making sure no one has to face their struggles alone.
I am happy to say that I am one of the 4.4% of Black therapists. It is a badge of honor I wear proudly because we all need someone to help us navigate this world. My goal is to one day serve as a professor at an HBCU, teaching classes in a master’s program in the counseling department. I also aspire to write books and continue providing services within the community in any way I can. I hope to change and touch as many lives as possible, ensuring that no one has to face their struggles alone.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Honestly, it’s never been a smooth road. Undergraduate school was pretty straightforward, but everything after that was a challenge. In 2018, I had the idea to pursue an MBA for the financial benefits, so I enrolled at GA State in the fall. But after just two weeks, I realized it wasn’t for me. I remember taking a test and guessing on every question because I was so lost. The classes were boring, and I didn’t have the foundational knowledge to succeed. I prayed for a sign, and sure enough, I got a 23% on that test. That was my sign to quit, so I withdrew from the program that night.
After that, I struggled with depression, unsure of what to do next. I felt lost, having given up on my dream of becoming a therapist because I couldn’t find a job after undergrad. One day, a friend asked me what I was passionate about, and I said, “Helping people.” They simply replied, “There you go!” That pushed me to start researching counseling and social work master’s programs.
At the time, I was working as a paralegal at a law firm. The job paid well, but it felt meaningless and repetitive. Then in April 2019, I got an email from Mercer University’s admissions office saying I had started an application but never finished it. I almost didn’t complete it because I doubted I’d get in, but a representative encouraged me to give it a shot. I finished it just before the deadline, thinking it was probably a waste of time. To my surprise, a week or two later, they invited me for an interview.
I was overwhelmed with self-doubt, thinking, “Why me?” and “This can’t be real.” But I prayed and decided to go for it. After the interview, they asked for three new letters of recommendation because some were missing letterheads. I felt defeated since it was hard enough to get the original letters. I considered withdrawing my application altogether.
The next day at work, my supervisor asked about my school applications. I took it as a sign and asked her and some colleagues for the letters. They were all happy to help. By early May, I got accepted into Mercer’s master’s program, and I was thrilled.
This experience taught me to always bet on myself. God never gives us more than we can handle, and sometimes the toughest challenges lead to the most rewarding outcomes.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Clinical Mental Health Therapist within the private practice sector and I specialize in working with adults, adolescents, and families. I specialize in mood disorders (anxiety, depression, etc), grief, trauma, and life transitions.
I am most proud of my transparency and always being open to sharing my story with others. I often feel like we can get caught up in being afraid to live in our truth. As Charlemagne the God stated, ‘When you live in your truth, nobody can ever use it against you’. That is what I live by day to day in my personal and professional life. Anything I have been through I am willing to share because it is always someone who needs to hear it to help them through their struggle. I am just proud of never giving up despite my circumstances and being willing to see the light in the tunnel because it is hard sometimes. You have to be your biggest cheerleader in your darkest moments and just trust in the process and God.
My personality and vibe set me apart from others. I truly believe that my being so open and willing to share lets people know that I am human too. I am not afraid of judgment and I am just authentically myself. I’m willing to put myself out there to let people know they are not alone and I am willing to answer questions and speak on it as in-depth as I need to. I’m also very selfless and will do anything to help someone.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My journey wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support system I have. First and foremost, my wife has been my rock. She has pushed me to be the best version of myself, even when the road has been tough. Her unwavering belief in me and constant encouragement have been invaluable. She has been there through every high and low, always reminding me of my potential and helping me stay focused on my goals.
My best friend, Jasmine Bell, has also played a crucial role in my life. She has been my listening ear, always ready to hear me out and offer thoughtful advice. She often plays devil’s advocate, challenging my perspectives and helping me see situations from different angles. Her insights have opened my mind and helped me grow both personally and professionally.
Another best friend, Jasmine Brown, has been instrumental in my professional development. She has been my biggest advocate, constantly pushing me to strive for excellence and ensuring I set myself up for success. Her support has been a driving force behind many of my achievements, and she has always encouraged me to take bold steps in my career.
I must also give immense credit to my supervisor, Candace Starks, the founder, and the visionary behind Your Way Out LLC. Candace took a chance on me by bringing me into her private practice, a decision that has profoundly impacted my career. She has consistently been a source of wisdom, offering valuable insights while always keeping it real. Candace exemplifies the best of the best in our field, blending expertise with genuine care and mentorship.
Her guidance has been instrumental in shaping my approach and my understanding of our profession. Candace’s ability to provide resourceful solutions and support has not only enhanced my professional skills but also my confidence in making meaningful contributions to the lives of others. I am deeply grateful for her mentorship and the opportunity she has given me to grow within such a supportive and visionary environment.
Together, these amazing individuals have provided me with the encouragement, wisdom, and support needed to navigate my path. Their belief in me has been a source of strength, and I am incredibly grateful for their roles in my life.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.yourwayoutllc.com/
- Other: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/jerriah-m-lowe-snellville-ga/1290243
