Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Shantae (Shae) Jones-Alexander Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Dr. Jones–Alexander, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
It is truly my life calling to work with students and young adults. I began my career as a high school English teacher, then I became a social worker and I found my niche in counseling. I have been working with students (my kids) for over 14 years. I believe that every student becomes my child, as I learn as much from my students as they learn from me.
I entered this profession wanting to help, especially students get ready to embark on adulthood and life after high school. My students (my kids) have taught me far more than I have taught them and God knows I am forever better and truly inspired by the lives I’ve had the honor and privilege to be a part of in my career. Being able to advocate for students and help students reach their potential is a blessing. Having the love and support of my family has truly propelled me to continue to strive for greatness and excellence in all that I do. Special shoutout to my husband Cedric who is my biggest supporter and has created an environment for me to flourish and walk in my passion.
I truly love my job and I am blessed to have a job I love.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Last year a major health diagnosis changed the trajectory of my entire life. Daily activities seemed impossible and were extremely taxing on my body and my spirit. . However; the energy and love of my students and clients propelled me to push forward and dig deep when I often felt depleted. One thing I admire and draw on from students is their strength and their ability to overcome obstacles with resiliency and tenacity that oftentimes we are lacking as adults. This setback and obstacle propelled me into my best career year thus far. The students I worked with were able to secure over $15 million dollars in scholarship dollars which was the largest scholarship amount from a traditional high school in my district that academic year, which made all of the hard work and challenges worth it. Although my health challenges still remain (as I am walking in healing and expectancy), being able to do a job that you love decreases the pain and challenges that struggle brings. Knowing that these struggles have strengthened me propels me to make each day count and to not take an opportunity to impact a life lightly.
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of as a company? What sets you apart from others?
As an LPC and LCSW I have multiple certifications such as marriage and family counseling, addictions counseling and grief certifications. I also have a background in higher education working with athletic compliance on the D1 level and working as an educational consultant. I specialize in relationship building as counselor. Relationships are key. Remembering that we are all human and we must treat others with dignity and respect regardless of their beliefs. Knowing that every day is a new day, a new opportunity to start, mend or enrich a relationship is something that propels me to always strive for excellence and greatness.
I am most proud of my students and clients that I have worked with over the years. I am proud of the growth I have been able to achieve both professionally and personally. I am grateful that I understand how important mental health is and that I have been able to advocate for my friends and family is truly a pleasure. What sets me apart is my passion and my heart for ensuring that everyone reaches their highest potential.
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
I would tell myself to trust God’s perfect will and his timing in all things because worrying accomplishes NOTHING. Accept the good with the bad. Enjoy the on the floor laughter and the gut-wrenching tears. Having fun. Be silly. LIVE. LAUGH AND LOVE. Understand that putting everything on the line and working hard is the best feeling everyday. I would ensure that I laugh daily and never take the ability to impact lives lightly.
Contact Info:
- Email: drshaejonesalexander@
gmail.com - Instagram: shawnee1913
- Facebook: Shantae Nichole
- Twitter: Shawnee1913
Image Credit:
1..Doctorate Graduation Picture
2. My SW and I
3. Touring the Allen Entrepreneurial Institute with my scholars
4. Scholars accepted on site at Savannah State
5 Scholars with SSU Former President and Vice President
6. My dance team (LHSDancingDiamonds) and myself
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