Today we’d like to introduce you to Katrina Bell
Hi Katrina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey to where I am today involved climbing the ranks in various settings to gain essential experience. I initially started in Private Practice part-time before transitioning to full-time contracting. After several years, I eventually established my own private practice.
With over 15 years in the mental health field, primarily working in schools serving underserved populations, I have been a Licensed Professional Counselor for over a decade. I take pride in being a product of the community I serve, having been born, raised, and educated in the same area. I understand the importance of safe spaces for improving the mental well-being of African Americans, which is why my private practice focuses mainly on serving this community.
I decided to start my own practice a few years before actually taking the plunge. While working as a contract therapist at a group private practice, I learned a great deal about the industry’s business side. Two years before leaving that practice, I decided to launch my own private practice. I started by naming my practice, registering it with the state, obtaining an LLC, and securing an EIN number. I didn’t act on these steps immediately but began to prepare as I felt ready to leave the group practice.
Throughout this journey, I took meticulous notes on standard operating procedures and necessary systems for success. Despite facing doubts, this process taught me resilience and persistence. I conducted extensive research through YouTube videos and master classes focused on starting a private practice, which proved invaluable. While I faced some trial and error, and the absence of a direct mentor, my colleagues provided essential support and answered many questions.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The early days were challenging, but I quickly learned the importance of being thorough, detailed, and persistent. Balancing different aspects of the business became crucial, and I established firm boundaries for myself and others to ensure success.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
In my private counseling practice, I serve clients aged 16-60, with most being African Americans. My practice is primarily telehealth, allowing clients to attend appointments from their own comfortable spaces, whether at work, school, or home. This convenience helps clients avoid taking time off work or school and eliminates the need for travel to appointments. Given the scarcity of African American Licensed Professional Counselors in my community, my presence is significant as I understand the unique issues our population faces. However, encouraging people to attend therapy remains challenging due to persistent stigmas within our community. By starting this practice, I aim to reduce these stigmas through education about the benefits of counseling, leveraging my deep connection with the community where I was raised.
My areas of specialty include:
ADHD
Anxiety Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
Couples Therapy
Depression
LGBTQIA+
Low Self-Esteem
Trauma
Life Issues
High Stress
Grief
School/Career Related Issues
Women’s Health Concerns
I offer the following services:
Individual Therapy
Couples/Family Therapy
Coaching Sessions
Clinical Supervision for Licensure
Mental Health Products
Additionally, I am available for speaking engagements and training sessions on mental health.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
To young professionals aspiring to start their own practice, I advise starting early and conducting thorough research to have everything in place for success. Investing in your future through classes, online resources, and networking with experienced professionals is crucial.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lifewithkb.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l.i.f.ewithKB
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LIFEwithKB
Image Credits
Journey Grace Photography
