Feel Empowered and Supported

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in mental wellness but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Elaine Smith, Owner of Adult and Child Trauma Services, located in Calumet City, IL, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

CJL Counseling Services, also known as Adult And Child Trauma Services, is a private practice that provides individual, family, and group therapy. We also provide mental health-related workshops and conferences for women to help build support toward self-healing.

Tell us about yourself

Trauma work has been the bases of my career. As a mother with a child with special needs, I am often reminded of how hopeless I felt when no one took my concerns seriously. To this point, I had to go to several different professionals. Finally, just as I was about to give up, someone stopped me and decided to help me because they could see my concerns. At that moment, I was seen and heard. I strive daily to help my clients and colleagues feel seen and heard. Trauma is something we face daily. However, we do not always have the support available to help us process these emotions and see the ability for a bright future. I am often motivated to ensure clients and their families are receiving support every time they meet with my team or me.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My business accomplishment is my book, Strengthening Your Inner Queen. The workbook was developed to help women become more aware of the impact their past trauma has on their identity. Awareness is critical to beginning the healing process by unlearning unhealthy behavioral patterns.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Not giving up. Some days are easy, and other days are difficult. Sometimes, I feel like I am playing Jenga. If I make the wrong move, would it all fall? However, I have learned to trust myself and my instincts.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

Create a business from your passion.
Do not be afraid of failure. That is the most significant part of success. You will always learn from your failures.
If you truly believe in it. Do Not Give Up.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://actscare.org/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElainesmithLCPC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elainesmithlcpc/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-smith-lcpc-789b4323/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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