Today we’d like to introduce you to Valerie Kendrick.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Growing up, I had no idea what I wanted to be. I never felt confident in myself or my abilities, and constantly doubted my intelligence. I did not believe I had what it took to get through college, but with the push and guidance of my parents, I attended. I originally wanted to be a probation officer, which led me to sign up for some social work courses. While attending these courses, I immediately realized that I wanted to help others. Many of my professors spoke about having their own private practices, and I told myself that was going to be my end goal. Fast forward a few years, I worked really hard to obtain my masters degree and obtain my LCSW license while working full time. I was very motivated to prove to myself that I was smart and capable of doing hard things. I also wanted to make my parents proud, who immigrated here from Peru with the hopes of providing myself and my two brothers a greater life. My parents worked tirelessly to give us a wonderful life and proud home. My father commuted to New York every day from Pennsylvania for 30+ years, waking up very early to get to work on time as an educator, while my mother took care of us and our home. Currently, I continue to dedicate my life towards the betterment of others, supporting clients through the ups and downs of life, through pain, through happiness, and growth, I am the only person in my family who is a small business owner, and I feel very proud of my work. My aim is to help others see their true value, potential, and capabilities and never doubt themselves.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
My journey towards opening, and recently expanding my private practice was not always easy. There has been many times where I have lost money due to not getting reimbursed by insurance companies, not getting paid by clients, or had to deal with the headache of insurance companies and their stringent rules and billing guidelines. Who would have known a therapist also needed a Phd in insurance. I don’t always have all of the answers when it comes to business strategies etc. but I do my best. Working in the helping profession is not always easy as you have to manage multiple personalities, and it can be a thankless job. However, I am not in this line of work for the recognition, but simple to help others thrive and live a healthier life.
As you know, we’re big fans of Kendrick Counseling. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Kendrick Counseling is a very diverse practice built on integrity. Our mission is to empower others and provide a supportive environment by utilizing a person centered approach with each client. We have various clinicians of color, including myself and my husband. The BIPOC population is less likely to attend therapy due to a shortage in providers of color. My hope as the owner, is that more people of color will have access to mental health services. Kendrick Counseling offers sliding scale fees, making therapy more attainable to those who may not be able to afford the full fee. or who do not have health insurance coverage. Kendrick Counseling has wonderful clinicians with various specializations including but not limited to substance abuse, mood disorders, life stressors, marital and relationship issues, child/play therapy, depression, and anxiety. What sets Kendrick Counseling apart from others is the commitment to truly individualized, compassionate care that meets clients where they are at, rather than applying a “one size fits all” approach.
How do you define success?
As the owner of the practice, I define success not as the monetary value I gain from my business, but by the success of my clients. I feel very happy and proud of each of my clients when they attain goals, such as starting new jobs, ending a toxic relationship, setting boundaries with those who may take advantage of them, or simply developing positive coping skills to help manage their anxious or depressive thoughts. Ultimately, I want others to see their true potential and feel empowered. Once I started believing in myself and seeing myself in a more positive light, my outlook on life changed. I strive to help my clients change their outlook on life also.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.kendrick-counseling.com
