Advertise on podcast: Safe Place For Brown Girls

Every day you’re pushing through, holding everything together for work, family, and everyone around you. And sometimes, you just want to step back and breathe. At work, you have no problem requesting PTO. But as a mom, you feel guilty for even wanting a break. The truth is, never taking that break is what leads to burnout. That’s why my guest today, faith-based wellness coach and busy mom Precious Williams, is here to help you feel confident about needing a mom break and to actually enjoy it. Hidden Burnout and Breaking Free (00:00:03 – 00:09:57) ·  You’re hiding behind the smiles, routines, and expectations. But deep down, you’re burned out and feeling stuck in motherhood.  ·  Precious shares the moment she realized she was running on empty, feeling stuck and constantly pulling energy from tomorrow just to get through today.  ·  Her message is simple: admitting you’re burnt out isn’t weakness, it’s the first step toward healing. Even taking a few quiet moments for yourself can be a real form of self-care. The Myth of Balance vs. Choosing Harmony (00:08:04 – 00:09:57) ·  You’ve probably heard you should “find balance,” but Precious explains why that idea sets moms up for disappointment. Instead, she invites you to aim for harmony.  ·  Harmony means your life shifts with your seasons, your needs, and your energy. You don’t have to do it all at once or be amazing at everything every day. It’s okay! Breaking Generational Patterns and Finding Support (00:13:22 – 00:18:47) ·  For generations, we’ve been watching our mothers and grandmothers grind without rest and believing it’s normal.  ·  Precious talks about how those beliefs around strength and sacrifice can quietly lead to burnout, especially in communities of color.  ·  She encourages you to honor where you come from while also giving yourself permission to write a new story. One where asking for help and setting boundaries is an act of love, not rebellion. Practical Ways to Restore Your Wellness (00:09:57 – 00:23:25) ·  To keep from letting everything get to you, watch out for burnout signs like constant fatigue, snapping easily, and feeling disconnected.  ·  Precious shares how building your own “village” of support and getting clear about the kind of help you really need.  ·  Her reminder to every mom listening: you can love your family and still love yourself. You’re allowed to want both motherhood and joy. “Burnout often creeps in when you feel trapped, even if you love your kids and chose this life. It can take a coach, experience, or just a moment of reflection to realize you have the power to start changing how you feel.” - Precious Williams.  Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources Find Precious Williams on all social platforms at @PreciousKWilliams and visit preciouskwilliams.com to learn about her Harmony Retreats and coaching programs tailored for moms. Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry

Life is full of moments that force us to pivot. Getting married, having a baby, starting a new job, or even losing one can completely change the direction of your life. These experiences can help you grow or hold you back, depending on how you respond to them.  When you face them with fear or negativity, it can keep you from moving forward. In this episode, I sit down with Dshawn Russell, CEO of Southern Elegance Candle Company.  She opens up about the challenges she has faced and how she chose courage, awareness, and faith in the middle of uncertainty. Her story is a reminder that it is never too late to shift, grow, and redefine who you are. Dshawn’s Journey of Pivots (02:06 - 04:26) ·  She began her career in education and loved working with young people. But after turning 40, she felt a pull to do something different and decided to take a leap into entrepreneurship.  ·  Not long after, she became a mother. A few years later, she went through a divorce. Then, at 50, she made another major shift by returning to traditional employment after years of running her own business. ·  With so many life changes in a relatively short time, you might think it would be impossible to keep it all together. But she never saw these pivots as failures or setbacks. ·  To her, they were simply turns in the road. Each one required a small adjustment to stay aligned with the life she wanted to build. Why Pivoting Is Hard & How to Overcome Fear (04:26 – 08:02) ·  Dshawn discusses the deep fear of the unknown that holds many back from making big changes.  ·  Her advice: “Do it scared.” Don’t be afraid to push past societal expectations so you can play small. Instead, honor your inner voice.  Practical Steps to Start a Pivot (08:02 – 13:09) ·  When considering a pivot, Dshawn suggests assessing your options, understanding your unique circumstances, and making the best choice for your current situation.  ·  She stresses the importance of making a decision, committing to it, and adapting as new opportunities arise. Faith, Confidence, and Trusting Yourself Faith (13:09 – 18:40) ·  Trust every version of yourself, including your past, present, and future, when making and adjusting decisions. Dshawn also emphasizes the importance of stopping comparisons with others and instead owning your accomplishments. Redefining Failure and Final Words (18:40 – 21:14) ·  Do not view failure as defeat. Instead, see it as a lesson that helps guide you in a new direction. Every step you take, even the hard ones, is part of your growth and is still moving you toward where you want to be in life.  “Sometimes you just have to make a choice based on the current situation that you are in and then make that decision, the right decision for you in that moment. Later on, you can make a different decision.” - Dshawn Russell.  Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources Connect with Dashawn Russell through Southern Elegance Candle Company for all your home fragrance needs, and be sure to tune in to her upcoming podcast, Grit and Good Sense, where she'll dive deeper into topics of resilience, growth,...

Have you been feeling tired, irritable, depressed, or on edge lately? What you’re putting into your body might be playing a bigger role than you realize. Today, my guest, gutpreneur and nurse practitioner Paula Richardson, shares the connection between gut health and brain health. She explains how the gut impacts your mental state and what you can do to begin reversing the effects. Meet Paula Richardson (00:02:12 - 00:02:36) ·  Paula Richardson calls herself “The Gutpreneur” and is passionate about helping women of color understand the importance of balancing gut health and mental health. ·  With her background as a board-certified nurse practitioner and functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner, she uses her expertise to transform women’s health from the inside out. ·  Her holistic health coaching focuses on reducing inflammation, supporting the gut microbiome, and helping women create a foundation for long-term emotional and physical wellbeing. Realizing the Gut-Brain Connection (00:03:11 – 00:04:07) ·  Paula shares her own story of discovering this connection at age 43, even while thriving professionally as a nurse. ·  Despite her career success, she was managing multiple medications, struggling with her weight, and was always tired.  ·  She eventually realized that her health was declining because she was not caring for herself. Paula’s Turning Point: Healing the Gut and Restoring Well-Being (00:06:29 - 00:08:03) ·  After trying many options without relief, Paula began researching GLP-1 injections and their role in gut health. This research helped her uncover the real issue.  ·  She learned that a leaky gut was the cause of most of her symptoms. Once she started restoring healthy bacteria, her physical and mental health began to change. ·  Two years later, Paula is no longer dependent on medication, has fewer cravings, more energy, and better sleep, bringing her true emotional healing. Now, she no longer battles with depression or feels constantly overwhelmed with life.  The SHIFT Framework for Healing (00:09:51 - 00:18:57) ·  Through her personal gut healing journey and clinical expertise, Paula developed the SHIFT framework: o  S: Stress, Sleep, Spiritual Balance – Put your phone down and take a moment to rest and unplug. Calm your nervous system through prayer, meditation, sound therapy, or spending time in nature. Be sure to get enough sleep each night. o  H: Healthy Balanced Eating – Avoid strict diets or extreme fasting. Focus on balanced nutrition tailored to your body’s needs. Remove sugar, processed foods, and additives to create a healthy, balanced diet. o  I: Intestinal Healing and Inflammation – If possible, do a gut analysis with your doctor. This can help identify issues like leaky gut, parasites, or missing beneficial bacteria. o  F: Fitness and Mindful Movement – Instead of pushing your body to the limits at the gym, try gentler forms of exercise like yoga or walking. These activities support lymphatic flow and help reduce cortisol, the stress hormone. Aggressive, high-impact workouts can be counterproductive, especially as we age. o  T: Toxicity and Trusting the Process – Remove anything toxic from your life, including foods, chemicals, bioengineered products, environments, and even people. Also, be consistent with your boundaries.  “Trust the process and accept that it takes time. Taking small steps every day adds up to greater longevity, vitality, energy, and clarity when you honor your personal SHIFT.” - Paula...

Sis, listen to me. Please stop saying, “I’m fine,” every time you’re drowning in motherhood. Between the kids, work, and just regular life, there comes a point where you have to open up and let someone know that you’re struggling. I know what it’s like to try to balance it all, and I’m here to share advice on how to pause, reset, and stop pretending that you’re okay. Name the Pattern ·  I’m going to be honest—it’s dangerous to keep pretending you’re fine. In reality, it pushes everyone away and leaves you even more lonely. ·  Women of color, especially moms, are often taught to hold it all in. You’re not seen as strong unless you have it all together. Please, stop doing this to yourself. ·  When you feel overwhelmed, stop saying you’re fine. Doing so trains your mind to ignore your feelings and keeps the cycle going.  ·  Instead, pause and check in with yourself: Are you tired, hungry, angry, or lonely? Simply naming the pattern allows you to interrupt it. Share Honesty with One Person ·  Find at least one person you feel safe with and let them in on how you’re really feeling. It doesn’t have to be everyone—just someone you trust. Build a Daily Release ·  Start or end your day with a personal “me” time—a daily release that helps you let go of stress and recharge. ·  This could be journaling, praying, listening to music, creating art, or even sitting in silence. These moments allow you to process your emotions so that you can show up for others without feeling completely drained. ·  You don’t have to do it all alone, and you don’t have to pretend. Taking small steps to acknowledge your feelings, reach out, and carve out time for yourself can make a world of difference. “Find one person you can be real with. It doesn’t have to be everyone—just someone you feel safe with. It could be your sister, best friend, partner, or therapist. You don’t need a perfect speech—just try saying something simple like, “I know I usually say I’m fine, but today I’m exhausted.” That small moment of honesty can open the door to connection.” - Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC. Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry

You can have it all—money, career, marriage—and then one day, it’s all gone. That loss often leaves us wondering: How can I recover from this?  If you’re in the middle of rebuilding your life, my guest, Dr. Jena L. Bell, a psychiatric nurse practitioner, executive coach, and entrepreneur, is here to provide a blueprint to help you detach from the past, lead with purpose, and build healthy relationships. Dr. Bell’s Story of Courage ·  Dr. Bell shares how, at 54, she hit a really low point in her life. After years of abuse, she finally went through a divorce, but it left her in a deep depression. On top of that, after spending more than 20 years at her corporate job, she was let go. And just as all this was happening, she was stepping into a new chapter: becoming an empty nester. ·  At first, she felt like this season was taking away the identity she had spent so many years building. But when she decided to make a change, it sparked a series of big shifts in her life.  ·  She finally chose herself first, after years of defining herself through others. Dr. Bell’s journey shows the strength and resilience women can find—even after life knocks them down. The Blueprint: Actionable Steps to Healing and Growth ·  Dr. Bell shares her “blueprint,” a step-by-step approach to help women move from feeling stuck and broken to building a fresh foundation for their lives.  ·  Her blueprint guides women through spotting old patterns, uncovering their strengths, shifting limiting beliefs, and creating healthier relationships.  ·  With Dr. Bell’s framework, you can start putting yourself first and create a future that feels brighter than your past.   Building Clarity and Courage—One Step at a Time ·  Together, we discuss how clarity and courage are essential for transformation. Dr. Bell shares how asking difficult questions and facing uncomfortable truths opened doors to new possibilities for her.  ·  She emphasizes that courage isn’t about giant leaps—it's about small, consistent steps and accepting help from others. Her story illustrates that courage grows each time you move forward, even if you feel afraid. The Power of Community and Investing in Yourself ·  Dr. Bell emphasizes how important it is to seek support—whether from sisters, coaches, or therapists. Her own healing really took off when her sister stepped in to remind her of her worth. ·  Investing in yourself through therapy, coaching, and supportive communities is essential, especially for women of color navigating bias, career challenges, or life transitions. "Building that courage is about making decisions. It’s all about decisions—what you want in your life and being able to take those small steps, build on them, and keep going. Before you know it, that courage gets stronger and stronger. But if you never take that step, if you never move forward, you’ll always be stuck in fear." — Dr. Jena L. Bell Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources ·  Are you ready to stop feeling stuck and start building a life that aligns with your true self? Dr. Bell’s Freedom Framework is your first step to real transformation. ·  Follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and a...

Silence around women’s health has been passed down for generations. From menstruation to menopause, women are often told to “just deal with it,” leading to shame, misinformation, and isolation—especially in communities of color.  In this episode, I’m joined by nurse practitioner and women’s health advocate Roshni Graydus, who shares how breaking the silence around hormones, cycles, and menopause can empower women to advocate for their own well-being. Her work focuses on creating safe spaces where women can be heard, understood, and supported without judgment. Meet Roshni Graydus ·  Roshni began her career in pediatrics before becoming a family nurse practitioner and opening her own women’s health practice.  ·  Guided by compassion and advocacy, she helps women navigate every stage of life with education and holistic solutions. The Taboo Around Women’s Health ·  Roshni explains how patriarchal traditions have long silenced women, discouraging conversations about menstruation, mood changes, or menopause.  ·  This silence fosters stigma and prevents women from getting the care they need. ·  We’re taught to keep everything together. But when we’re not honest about our health, we end up feeling isolated and unsupported. Hormones, Stress & Mental Health ·  Hormones play a critical role in sleep, mood, and overall well-being. Yet too often, women are dismissed as “too emotional” instead of being offered real solutions.  ·  Roshni highlights the importance of early testing and self-care practices like nutrition, exercise, and rest.  Advocacy & Moving Beyond Survival Mode ·  Roshni urges women to trust themselves and reject quick fixes that don’t address root causes.  ·  She explains how important it is for you to trust your body as no practitioner will know it better than you.  ·  True healing comes when women educate themselves, advocate for better care, and shift from survival mode to thriving. “Self-advocacy is so important. Too often, symptoms are dismissed with a quick prescription like birth control, but that’s not the answer to everything. Trust your body—no one knows it better than you—and don’t stop searching for real solutions.” - Roshni Graydus. Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources You can find Roshni Graydus on Instagram or call/text 352-717-4929 for a free consultation. Resources and support are just a conversation away. Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry

Returning to your roots can bring unexpected clarity. In this episode, I’m joined by fashion stylist Toddre’ DaLaura Monier, who shares how reconnecting with the East African fashion scene brought her peace, purpose, and a deep sense of connection to her motherland. She opens up about how her lifelong bond with Africa blossomed into a creative entrepreneurial venture and a sense of cultural pride on the continent. Meet Toddre’ DaLaura Monier ·  Toddre’ takes us through her fashion journey from Los Angeles to East Africa. With a background in African Studies and international human rights law, she has lived and worked across the continent before ultimately settling in Nairobi, Kenya.  ·  Her story weaves together experiences in fashion retail, community service, and returning “home” to the motherland. Fashion as Healing & Creative Expression ·  For Toddre’, fashion isn’t just style — it’s empowerment and mental wellness.  ·  She shares how personal style can become both armor and authenticity, blending cultural pride with confidence.  ·  We also explore upcycling, supporting local artisans, and how fashion can serve as a sacred form of self-expression. The Nairobi Experience: Tours, Tailoring & Thriving ·  Toddre’ invites us into Nairobi’s vibrant fashion world, where she curates personalized art and shopping tours.  ·  From Kenyan thrifting (“mtumba”) to markets like Toy and Gikomba, she highlights the unique energy of East African fashion and how it differs from West African style. Advice for Aspiring Stylists & Travelers ·  Toddre’s advice is refreshingly honest: not every passion has to be monetized. Instead, explore fashion as a creative outlet through upcycling and by supporting local designers. ·  For those curious about international moves or long-term travel, she also shares her “Blaxit” consultations, offering guidance to those looking to transition abroad. "Fashion isn’t for everyone. You can teach people the basics, but when it comes to having a stylistic flair, you either have it or you don’t. I don’t fault anyone who doesn’t, and I admire those who try. What matters to me is seeing that effort. At the end of the day, my goal is to give you a Nairobi experience like no other." - Toddre’ DaLaura Monier.  Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources You can find Toddre’ DaLaura Monier on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Instagram. And for more resources, check out her website. Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry

In Caribbean communities, it’s almost unheard of for anyone to seek help with their mental health. You might even wonder if people from our background work in this profession at all.  Well, I’m here to surprise you — I’m not the only Haitian mental health professional!  In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Eva Beaulieu, a licensed clinical psychologist, author, and mental health advocate. Together, we’ll talk about how to navigate our culture and why it’s so important to reach out for help when we need it most. Meet Dr. Eva Beaulieu ·  Dr. Eva Beaulieu is a respected physician, entrepreneur, author, and influencer who empowers women to live their best lives by caring for their bodies, inside and out. ·  She believes representation matters. With African Americans still underrepresented in medicine, she advocates for more diversity in medical schools and recognizes the trust and impact that doctors of color bring to their communities. Cultural Roots & Silence ·  If you grew up in the Caribbean, you may have seen how resilient everyone was. Even Dr. Eva noticed how, in Haiti, you never saw the problems people were facing.  ·  You may have seen how every morning your mom or grandmother would get up and go about their day. But what you didn’t see were their hidden fears, sadness, or mental health struggles. “Prayer Solves Everything” — Faith, Stigma & Avoidance ·  What Dr. Eva did see from her culture was the importance of prayer. If you were sick, broke, or tired, you turned to prayer to solve the problem. However, people in these communities tend to turn only to prayer and not do anything else.  ·  Dr. Eva shares how essential it is to seek resources to solve your problems. If you’re struggling with mental health, talk to a mental health professional or another trusted source.  Pretending Everything is Fine — Image & Emotional Suppression ·  To save face, people will often keep problems a secret. This often causes emotional suppression. ·  Dr. Eva says the best way to break this generational trauma response is by opening up. Teach your children that if there’s something on their mind, it’s okay to express it. ·  Also, when you’re just learning how to open up, start slow. You don’t have to tell the whole world what you’re going through — start with a friend, pastor, or family member.  Cultural Assimilation — Bridging the Gap Without Losing Identity ·  After coming to the United States at the age of 15, Dr. Eva noticed the differences between the Haitian community and the American community. ·  To keep herself from losing her identity, she started embracing both. Just because you grew up in one world and moved to another doesn’t mean you have to pick and choose. ·  Embrace your cultural roots while adapting to the new culture to keep from losing who you really are. “We are not to be resilient. Haitian people are known for their resilience, and that's not because we're not suffering on the inside…you're not allowed to show the world that you have problems, that you're depressed, that, you know, you're going through it.” - Dr. Eva Beaulieu Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources You can find Dr. Eva on TikTok, a href="https://www.facebook.com/dr.evab/" rel="noopener

Have you ever found yourself shutting down and giving someone the silent treatment for days after an argument? And then, when you finally do talk, you act like nothing ever happened? This isn't just a habit; it's a common pattern of behavior that can be rooted in generational trauma. Unresolved trauma often shows up in our daily lives without us even realizing it, and it can feel impossible to break free from. In this episode, I'm joined by a licensed clinical social worker to talk about how we can recognize these patterns, process the pain, and finally break the cycle for good. Meet Brittany Dorn · Brittany Dorn, LISW-CP, LCSW, MBA, is a licensed clinical social worker and the founder of The Maternal Healing Haven LLC, where she helps women heal from generational trauma and create emotionally healthy, fulfilling lives.  · She blends her professional expertise with her own journey as a mother, bringing compassion, cultural awareness, and practical tools that meet women where they are. · Brittany’s mission is to demonstrate that when women heal, they not only transform their own lives, but also change the trajectory for future generations. Personal Trauma: Growing up in the South · Growing up in South Carolina, Brittany learned to appreciate the beautiful blend of community and tradition.  · However, it also taught her the dark side of being silent to be seen as strong during tough times.  · Brittany saw how the resilience of suffering through struggles with money, relationships, and stability passed down hidden trauma through generations without anyone realizing it. Defining Generational Trauma · Brittany explains that generational trauma is a collection of unspoken rules, habits, and emotional patterns passed down through families.  · It often dictates how family members handle difficult situations, such as avoiding hard conversations, keeping problems hidden from outsiders, or approaching finances. Healing from Past Trauma · Brittany is a big believer that if you don’t face your trauma, it will repeat itself. She often sees her clients having the same relationship problems, repeating parenting styles, and fighting self-worth battles. When you silence those issues, it not only shows up in yourself but also in your children. · Luckily, there are steps you can take to change these patterns. Brittany shares these steps: o Notice the patterns o Set and practice boundaries o Be consistent How does Generational Trauma Show Up in Daily Life · A common sign of generational trauma that Brittany sees in her practice is clients struggling to voice their opinions. In their adult lives, they struggle with voicing their opinions and concerns.  Recognizing and Healing the Dysfunction Within Yourself · Once you notice the unhelpful patterns or maladaptive behaviors you no longer want to keep, Brittany recommends seeking a safe place to open up, such as through therapy or a supportive community. Your healing journey then becomes a ripple effect that can positively influence the next generation. Finding a Safe Place in Social Media · Your support doesn't have to come from a huge community; you can also use social media to find your safe place.  · Brittany says there are pros and cons to this, so pay attention to your intuition.  · Ask yourself: Does using social media cause you anxiety, or does it expand your horizons? Your Family's Reaction to Your Change · If some family members are putting you down for wanting to better yourself, Brittany shares that you may need to change your...

Why is it so difficult for Black and Brown women to ask for help when struggling with their mental health? How do you begin healing when you fear judgment? I’m tackling these tough questions with psychologist Dr. Angela Clack in this episode. She'll unpack the cultural barriers to seeking help and provide a roadmap for embracing vulnerability, building support, and finding your community. Meet Dr. Angela Clack · Dr. Clack has dedicated her practice to supporting predominantly Black and Brown women as they navigate mental health challenges.  · She discusses the increase in anxiety and depression, particularly in the wake of the pandemic and amidst changing DEI landscapes in corporate America.  · Her approach is culturally and trauma-informed, emphasizing the importance of appropriate self-disclosure and empathy. The Power of Vulnerability & Asking for Help · Dr. Clack shares her personal experience of taking medical leave for a hysterectomy. However, she didn’t realize how many women of color had this procedure until she started asking others about their experiences.  · It also showed her how many Black and Brown women struggle with asking for help, no matter the situation.  · She unpacks the deep-rooted cultural narratives around strength and the taboo of seeking support in Black and Brown communities. Dr. Clack challenges these narratives, advocating for open conversations about health, vulnerability, and wellness. Breaking the Cycle: Community and Trust · Dr. Clark examines the importance of trust when a woman of color seeks help and attempts to create a supportive environment.  · She advises starting with someone trustworthy and building up the courage to share, even starting small.  · For those without natural support systems, she recommends leveraging social media and digital spaces to find or create communities—whether for mental health, shared interests, or simply connection. Finding Safe Spaces Online · While she recommends using social media to find a community, she also discusses how important it is to do your research.  · Check their credentials and look at their websites to make sure they’re not just selling a story and actually have experience as a mental health professional.  “You weren't built to carry the world on your shoulders. If you are not well, it's okay to ask for help. It doesn't mean you're weak. It doesn't mean you're crazy. It is about being vulnerable. Asking for help is an act of vulnerability, but prioritizing your health and wellness is an act of strength.” - Dr. Angela Clack. Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources To learn more, visit clackassociates.com or follow Dr. Clack on Instagram and LinkedIn for ongoing resources and support. Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Explore our comprehensive services at Fortis Mentris Psychiatry, providing personalized online mental health solutions for all ages.

We all want to be a safe place for others—a go-to person, a source of strength. But how can we do that if we're running on empty? The truth is, self-care isn't a luxury; it's the foundation for everything.  Yet, it can be a challenge for many Black and brown women to find self-care practices that genuinely rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul.  That's why I invited Rikki McCoy, a therapist and yoga practitioner, to share her journey and practical wisdom on how to build a life where you're not just getting by, but truly thriving. Meet Rikki McCoy Rikki McCoy is a dedicated therapist, yoga practitioner, and founder whose holistic approach to well-being blends traditional faith-based therapies with somatic healing, energy work, and honest, culturally affirming conversations. With over a decade of experience in self-care, Rikki helps women navigate the complexities of work, caregiving, and life transitions. Her work is rooted in trauma-informed care, teaching clients to self-soothe, break cultural patterns, and prioritize rest without guilt. Redefining Self-Care Rikki stresses that self-care isn't optional—it's essential to being able to show up fully in all areas of life. Self-care plans should be highly personalized, taking into account individual needs and cultural backgrounds. She walks us through:Physical Self-Care: Hydration, sleep routines, and managing stress symptoms in the body.Emotional Self-Care: Processing emotions through journaling, therapy, and healthy self-expression.Psychological Self-Care: Time management, setting realistic expectations, and making space for rest.Spiritual Self-Care: Practices range from prayer and meditation to yoga, crystal therapy, and connection with nature.Professional Self-Care: Taking PTO, delegating, and releasing the guilt of not constantly “doing.” Cultural Considerations for Women of Color Rikki highlights how generational patterns shape our perceptions of strength and rest, especially within communities of color. She shares strategies for breaking cultural norms, such as always being “on,” not asking for help, and not prioritizing our own needs. Integrating Ancestral Practices There’s a powerful return to traditional healing modalities that our ancestors used: yoga, music therapy, storytelling circles, and herbal remedies. Rikki encourages embracing these sacred practices as part of reclaiming wellness. Navigating Life Transitions & Building Confidence Big changes often trigger fears of starting over, shame, and guilt—especially for women of color expected to maintain traditions. Rikki offers guidance on moving through transitions with self-compassion, learning to trust intuition, and building the confidence to live authentically, not just for others but for yourself. Setting Boundaries & Dealing with Pushback Rikki shares personal stories about setting boundaries with family, especially around food and lifestyle choices. She emphasizes “standing on business” when it comes to self-care, even when it means facing misunderstanding or disapproval. Healing Your Inner Child Rikki encourages listeners to rediscover joy by revisiting what they loved as children, romanticizing their lives, and focusing on self-love as the foundation for everything else. “Taking care of yourself and prioritizing rest is a necessity. Because if we're not taking care of ourselves, how can we show up in the world and all the...

I've noticed a clear pattern in my practice: many of my patients—especially overstimulated working moms—are dealing with the same three mental health issues. Today, I'm going to pull back the curtain on these common struggles and explain why they're so widespread. What Are the Three Common Mental Health Issues? These are the three common mental health issues I find:Anxiety DisorderDepression/ Major Depressive DisorderTrauma-related Disorders, including PTSDYou may be experiencing these mental health disorders and not realize it. I know when I was first going to school, I didn’t realize I was suffering from depression. This is why I’m so passionate about helping others who may be facing the same hidden problem.  Anxiety Disorder Studies show that 1 in 2 black women experience anxiety but never receive help. So many women are dealing with consistent worrying and intrusive thoughts that keep them from living a stress-free life. Why it happens: Being a part of the sandwich generation (those focusing on kids and aging parents) often deals with chronic stress, past trauma, or long-term effects of always being the dependable one. Major Depressive Disorder Depression affects how you think, sleep, and function. It’s way more common than you think it is, especially among women of color. 60% of black women report symptoms of depression, but only 12% receive consistent support.On a day-to-day basis, it often shows up as feeling drained after a full night of rest, loss of interest in once enjoyable activities, and irritability.  Trauma-Related Disorders and PTSD This disorder often develops from deeply stressful life experiences such as childhood trauma, sexual assault, and abusive relationships.It often shows up as random, intense flashbacks, emotional numbness, always on the edge, and avoidance of places or people who bring up the painful memory.PTSD may even make it difficult to trust your current partner and build a healthier relationship with them. “Depression thrives in silence. Too many of us don’t talk about it because we've been told to be strong. But silence doesn’t protect you; speaking up does.” - Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC.  Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Resources Don’t forget to connect with me on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.  Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Explore our comprehensive services at Fortis Mentris Psychiatry, providing personalized online mental health solutions for all ages.

Going back to school over forty can feel like a nightmare. Your negative thoughts creep in, and due to life obligations, you're too tired to even think about studying. But I'm here to tell you that it is possible, and I want to share advice on how to conquer this goal. The Seasons of Sacrifice If you go back to the very first episode, you'll hear my story of when I had to send my children to Haiti to live with family. This was during the time when I decided to start school again. It was a very dark moment for me, but I knew it was a sacrifice worth making. Three Things to Help You When Going Back to School From my journey, I found three tips that helped me during my transition into college in the later stages of my life:Start with why: What are the reasons you want to go back to school?Have a support system: Look to see who's around you who can help you so you can finish your degree.Build tech confidence: If you can scroll social media, you can figure out the school's technical systems. You Can Do It If I can do it, so can you. Today, I have my own thriving practice, and my children are pursuing their own higher education. This is all because I took the time to go after my own, even when I felt like giving up.If you need more help or just a safe place to talk, click the link below to schedule a consultation with me. “Purpose is what carries you when motivation fails.” — Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC. Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling yourself - let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help to schedule an appointment.  Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling like yourself — let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help or use the link below. Resources Don’t forget to connect with me on these platforms: Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.  Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Explore our comprehensive services at Fortis Mentris Psychiatry, providing personalized online mental health solutions for all ages.

Have you ever felt unseen, unheard, and underpaid at your job? These are often three common problems women of color face in the workplace. In this episode, I invite Dr. Deeawn Roundtree, who is a leadership coach and management consultant. She joins me in this much-needed conversation on the improper treatment of Black and Brown women at work. Welcome, Dr. Deeawn Roundtree Dr. Roundtree holds a dual doctorate in Business Administration and Ministry. She owns her own business that helps leaders step into their identity with strategy, clarity, and confidence.Today, she’s joining me to share her insight on why Black and Brown women face so much trouble in the workplace. She also provides empowering tips to help you navigate the workforce as a woman of color. 3 Common Issues for Women of Color in the Workplace There are three main challenges that Black and Brown women often face: 1.  Lack of representation and role models 2. Microaggressions and implicit bias 3. Pay inequity and double standards Negative Effects of Underrepresented Women of Color on Work Culture Starting off, I share some statistics on the matter. Recent studies shows, Black women hold a mere 1.4% of c-suite roles, and Latina women are also significantly underrepresented in leadership.Dr. Roundtree shares how this underrepresentation affects the workplace environment, starting with her own personal experiences. From her view she says that Black and Brown women are often seen at work as:UndervaluedUnderutilizedSubject to negative stereotypesFacing double jeopardy due to both race and genderSeeing how women of color are often judged harshly and held back because of bias, she designed a leadership program to help empower and teach women to handle the unique workforce challenges. Imposter Syndrome Dr. Roundtree describes the all-too-common psychological phenomenon as an internal experience. She provides an example of being promoted to a CEO-level position but not feeling confident enough to perform the role.What causes Imposter Syndrome is based on how you see yourself due to external factors. It’s a superficial feeling you get when you believe you’re pretending to be more than you are. Strategies to Become Visible at the Table To stop being unseen and unheard at the table, Dr. Roundtree advises that you first do whatever it takes to feel good about yourself.There’s a reason she went to college after college to get her dual degrees, on top of getting a certification as well. It helped her build the confidence she needed to go after the jobs she wanted.She shares how essential it is to start with a self-assessment to see what you’re missing. Is it a degree, skills, or something else? Work on filling this gap first to get where you want to be. Organizational Support for Women of Color Dr. Roundtree reflects on her work with organizations that genuinely wanted to support their diverse populations before recent political changes. However, she shares that there are resources available, just like her program, to help the Black and Brown population network within their own communities.Dr. Roundtree discusses why our community needs to network within our circle. The money we help make and spend needs to be seen for the value it brings to the marketplace. Why Do Women of Color Experience Microaggressions? Another statistic I share is that women of color are three times more likely to report experiencing otherness or disrespectful bias, which doubles their risk of burnout.Dr. Roundtree says that we often...

Hey girls! Today, I’m sharing three coping tools for moms who are always on the move. If you’re struggling with balancing career goals, kids' activities, and an active social life, join me in this episode and hear my strategies to become a master of harmony. What Do We Carry? I see it in every woman in my practice and even myself. You have to agree that it can be exhausting to nurture everyone else while neglecting yourself.But guilt creeps in when you’re trying to relax. I’m here to tell you to pause, take a moment for yourself, and just rest.Even if you have to get a hotel to unplug and kick back, you’ll feel the quiet hum of peace. Tool 1: 90-Second Rule Did you know that when your body gets triggered by stress or anger, it enters the fight-or-flight mode?Also, it usually peaks at 90 seconds. Try pausing, breathing, and sitting through it to see what happens. Tool 2: 3-3-3 Technique My favorite tool for when your mind is racing non-stop, and it's so simple to do.Stop and name three things you can see, three things you can hear, and three things you can feel.It helps pull you out of your mind and bring focus back to your body. Tool 3: Make Time for Yourself This may be the hardest for everyone to do, but make time for yourself. Now, I don’t mean doing chores while the kids are gone.I mean to do whatever brings you peace! Rest is a requirement, not a reward. Whatever it looks like for you, claim it! “That one day of me time reminded me how powerful that moment really is. It gave me clarity, peace, and rest for my nervous system.” Dr. Kathleen Estimé DNP, PMHNP-BC. Book a session with me. Whether it’s anxiety, depression, trauma, or just not feeling like yourself — let’s talk. Go to FortisMentisPsychiatry.com/help or use the link below. Resources Reach out and let me know what you thought about these moms’ coping techniques on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok! Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Our Services | Fortis Mentis Psychiatry Explore our comprehensive services at Fortis Mentris Psychiatry, providing personalized online mental health solutions for all ages.