Welcome back to another episode of Moments of Authenticity!

Transitions are a part of life and are rarely easy to navigate. In this episode, I open up about how I’ve handled some of the most significant changes in my personal and professional life. From moments of uncertainty to finding clarity through reflection, this conversation is a reminder that growth often begins in discomfort.

Whether you’re in the middle of a transition or just reflecting on what’s next, this episode offers practical insights and a little encouragement to keep moving forward—even if the path isn’t clear.

In this episode I am breaking down:

• Making the decision to make a HARD decision.

• An exploration into sustainability with limited community and a changing financial landscape

• Mitigating shame and fear

Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction: Navigating transitions in life and work. [02:20] A personal story: What change taught me about trust and patience. [06:45] Practical tools for sitting with discomfort during periods of uncertainty. [10:10] Client stories: Parallels between therapy work and my own journey. [14:00] Closing reflections: Growth and resilience through transition.

Notable Quotes:

• "I’ve literally been moving in silence.”

• “I recognized how lonely I was feeling without community, in its fullness.”

• "I knew that my practice was not sustainable the way that it was, and the lack of community was not sustainable for my mental health, so I made the decision to go home!”

• "Coming home first required that I work through my own self-prescribed shame and fear of failure!”

• "In release comes movement!”

• “I appreciate that folx are making space for me back in Oakland.”

• “I’m so grateful that once I moved out of the way, there was a sense of movement and urgency…I didn’t need to know the how or the when…I just needed to move!”

• “I gave myself permission to change my trajectory about work.”

• “Biggest takeaways: don’t beholden yourself to a decision if the circumstances have changed, you are not a failure for acknowledging what you need…and going home, and STAND ON BUSINESS!”

• “My phrase for 2025 is RELINQUISHING CONTROL.”

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Moments of Authenticity

Email: amber@amberboydtherapy.com |⁠ Instagram ⁠ |⁠ Facebook⁠ |⁠ Website⁠ | ⁠Youtube⁠ | ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠

Welcome back to another episode!

Can you believe it’s been five years? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain and sharing the real story behind how I built Healing Through Authenticity, PLLC, from the ground up. Spoiler alert: it wasn’t easy! From packing up my life in Oakland to diving into the deep end with no job, no safety net – just pure faith in myself – this journey has been a wild ride of risks, rewards, and so many lessons along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to chase your dreams while battling perfectionism, doubt, and everything in between, then you’re in for an eye-opener. This episode is raw, real, and full of the personal insights I’ve gained through it all.

In this episode, I’m breaking down:

• Why I took the biggest leap of my life – moving to a new state with no job, no insurance, just a dream.

• How betting on myself paid off in ways I never expected (but also some ways I wasn’t ready for).

• The behind-the-scenes struggles of starting my practice – clients, boundaries, and the reality of setting up shop.

• Why I’ve stopped striving for perfection (hint: it’s impossible) and started embracing my progress.

• How my clients, past and present, have shaped who I am as a therapist—and why I’m tearing up just thinking about it.

Trust me, you won’t want to miss this one.

Curious about what happens when you push past fear and bank on yourself? Hit play now and join me as I reflect on five unforgettable years of growth, healing, and authenticity!

Timestamps

[00:02] 5-year milestone in therapy practice, including training and certifications.

[04:30] Perfectionism, self-doubt, and personal growth.

[08:50] Personal growth, self-care, and professional development for a therapist.

Notable Quotes

“I believed in this business and I believed in this practice, and since then, it has sustained me. It has kept me.”

“I’m still a work in progress, wanting to continue to shift and think about what kind of therapist I want to be, because I don’t have to necessarily be one thing. I’m not a monolith.”

“The perfectionist side of me, is exhausting, and usually it doesn’t come out perfect anyway.”

“I can do hard things, and I do hard things all the time.”

“It’s okay to pace yourself.”

“I am not perfect. I will never be perfect. I will consistently be a person who wants better for themselves.”

“I recognize that I can’t control how people perceive me. I can only provide the information that I have in the way that I can, and if it’s received, then I’ve done my job.”

“I’m giving myself permission to be exactly where I’m at versus where I’m not.”

“I’m grateful, and it’s okay to, like, pause for a second and just be in it.”

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Moments of AuthenticityEmail: amber@amberboydtherapy.com | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Youtube | Spotify | Apple

Welcome back to another episode! In this episode, we dive into the concept of “Hidden Blessings.”

Have you ever felt frustrated when things don’t go as planned? Do you find yourself struggling with setbacks? Sometimes, these setbacks are actually blessings in disguise. I’ll share personal experiences and insights on how unexpected inconveniences can help realign us with our true paths. Join me as we explore the importance of being present and appreciating the journey. This episode is all about finding gratitude in the unexpected.

Timestamps

[00:41] Unexpected Inconvenience and Personal Story

[03:41] Importance of Timing and Patience

[05:41] Rethinking Grind Culture

[08:06] Balancing Helping Others with Self-Care

[09:01] Advocating for Personal Health Decisions

[10:51] Gratitude and Reframing Experiences

Notable Quotes

• “Sometimes we get inundated with an idea that something not working out is for our worst good. And I think that sometimes things don’t work out for our best good, right?”

• “Sometimes the unexpected inconvenience can jumpstart or reinvigorate the path that you’re meant to be on.”

• “Sometimes you don’t get where you’re going fast because you need to be where you are right this moment.”

• “Grind culture will have you thinking that you’re doing and you’re, you’re not doing enough, and yet, you could be doing entirely too much.”

• “When you are constantly trying to be alive for others, you have to realize when it’s time to shine a light back into your life and your space.”

• “Being very cognizant of rushing into a burning building, and that person is already standing outside.”

• “I feel like although it is happening at a time, that is much different than when I advocated for myself the first time, it is now taking place. And it’s now, I think, a ‘better circumstances situation’ outside of insurance.”

• “I’m grateful that some things did not work out, like who I thought I was going to be with at this point in time.”

• “It’s okay to take a pause for the cause and really reevaluate and take inventory of where you’re at this very moment.”

• “Sometimes, I think maybe things aren’t supposed to happen fast. Because you need to be in this present moment.”

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Moments of AuthenticityEmail: amber@amberboydtherapy.com | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Youtube | Spotify | Apple

Ever found yourself torn between following your intuition and rationalizing your decisions? Have you ever wondered about the power of gut feelings in guiding your life’s path? This "Moments of Authenticity" episode explores the transformative journey of trusting our inner voice. Join me as we navigate one of the most vulnerable episodes I’ve done to date, exploring twists and turns of intuition and heart-led choices, and uncovering the profound impact they can have on our lives.

What’s Covered:

• Going on a soulful trip to the Rhythm of Life Conference in New Jersey, guided by my inner voice.

• Discovering inspiration and connection with friends like Dr. Erica Dawkins and colleague Chanel McCord, LPC at the conference.

• Extending my travels to California to reunite with family before a significant surgery.

• Reflecting on the sudden loss of a dear Sorority Sister, Ophelia Mattox, and the lessons learned about cherishing every moment.

• Embracing gratitude and the transformative power of listening to our instincts in life’s twists and turns.

Join me for a deep dive into the journey of trusting your gut and stepping into your destiny. Don’t miss out on the heartfelt reflections and powerful insights shared in this episode of "Moments of Authenticity."

Timestamps

[00:00] An overview of my recent extensive travels, highlighting the significant experiences and insights I gained along the way.

[02:05] Reconnecting with Dr. Erica Dawkins, a valued Sorority Sister and accountability partner, fostering meaningful discussions and camaraderie.

[04:52] Participating in a panel discussion at Chanel McCord, LPC’s conference, offering a platform to exchange ideas and insights with fellow professionals.

[08:49] Booking a flight to California to visit family and the significance of this decision.

[10:51] Following intuition and saying goodbye to a dear friend.

Notable Quotes

“I felt like I needed to be there, I could not really pinpoint why I needed to be there. But it felt like a necessity. And so I followed my intuition. I followed my gut.”

“To see each individual person, the ones who were there, discuss what their chapter was about, it felt like it also gave me strength, to continue to stand in my truth. And that my whatever I have to share is important. And I am in so much gratitude for each lady who I got a chance to sit next to who I got to hear their story, even in that small amount of time.”

“So whenever I question why something, like, something in my gut is telling me I need to show up. I’m trying to be there. And I hope that you’ll take away from this episode, that same feeling. So, when you feel a shift in your spirit, in your heart, or your gut, make it.”

“Because no matter how long I’ve been in mental health, that doesn’t mean that I haven’t impacted people negatively. I recognize that, like there is power and accountability.”

“If you know or think you’re supposed to be somewhere, and it’s going to be to your best benefit, do it. Don’t ignore it. It’s important. And I don’t think that we do that enough, because we’re so concerned about the ifs, buts, and whatever the case may be – the should’ve, would’ve, could’ve.”

“I hope that you listen to your instinct. I hope you listen to your gut and your discernment. It’s telling you something.”

“Sometimes you got to make that move even when it doesn’t seem or sound convenient. Sometimes you have to make decisions and sacrifices that you don’t know are going to be for your best good, but it’s moving you in that direction.”

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Moments of Authenticity

Email: amber@amberboydtherapy.com | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Youtube | Spotify | Apple

Welcome back to another episode!

So, I recently had the pleasure of joining April and Jason from the BariNation Podcast for a meaningful conversation. We explored the transformative journey that follows bariatric surgery, discussing the personal changes and the impact on relationships. I shared my own experiences, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system and embracing your new identity.

Whether you’re considering surgery or navigating life post-op, this episode offers relatable stories, valuable insights, and a celebration of growth. If you want to know what it’s like to go through this transformation and how to come out stronger on the other side, give it a listen!

Timestamps

[00:02] Changing relationships after bariatric surgery.

[04:14] Weight loss surgery and personal growth.

[05:55] Body image, self-perception, and compliments.

[10:07] How weight loss surgery affects relationships.

[16:52] Weight loss, self-improvement, and relationships.

[21:05] Weight loss surgery and its impact on relationships.

[27:08] Validating intuition and addressing relationship concerns.

[32:14] Manipulation and control in personal relationships.

[38:55] Personal growth and communication.

[46:06] Communication and emotional impact of statements.

[47:41] Self-care and mental health after bariatric surgery.

Notable Quotes

“I’m taking the most opportunity of the second lease on life that I have. Because I know not to take it for granted now.”

“One of the biggest reasons, or one of the major reasons why big relationships change, is because the relationship to yourself changes. And so how you see yourself, how you move in the world, how you respond to things, they do start to change.”

“If my shift in loving myself and keeping myself alive is a problem for you, there’s a much deeper conversation we need to have, because you’re important to me, but I’m also important to me. And if I’m not important enough to you, to keep myself alive, aside from what I can do for you, then we’ve got some serious talking to do.”

“Your relationship to yourself can sometimes be shaken because of all the ways in which you’re engaging all of these spaces.”

“What is absolutely mind blowing to me… when I look at myself, I really don’t think I’ve changed that much. But how I presented myself in the world absolutely has changed. And while it doesn’t feel that way, from my vantage point, it absolutely has to look different from everybody else’s vantage point.”

“I think it’s also recognizing that certain people don’t mean you well. Even the ones that you love. They don’t mean you well because they also don’t want you to be competition.”

“Putting yourself first... it doesn’t mean that you’re putting anybody last; it means that you’re putting you first so you can make space for the ways in which you want to show up.”

“You are worthy of getting the support that you need. If it’s not coming from the people that you love, you can make space for their concerns, but don’t allow it to consume your decision to care for yourself.”

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

BariNation Website: https://barination.com/

IG: instagram.com/bari.nation

Moments of AuthenticityEmail: amber@amberboydtherapy.com | Instagram | Facebook | Website | Youtube | Spotify | Apple

Feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending demands of social media and trying to navigate your identity in today’s complex world? You’re not alone. 

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Erika M. Dawkins from Widener University and Arkeria Robertson, LPC, who dive deep into the world of minority identity development, the effects of microaggressions, and how social media can really mess with our self-image and relationships. They’re here to offer up their best advice on dealing with stress, embracing self-care, and building stronger, healthier relationships. 

What’s Covered: 

• Social media impact on business and personal growth.

• Social media’s role in mental health professionals’ businesses.

• Social media pressure and self-doubt.

• Comparison and contribution in online spaces. 

• Balancing authenticity and pressure to conform in social media.

• The impact of social media on mental health professionals.

• Authenticity in social media and consumerism.

• Societal expectations and personal growth. 

• Prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals. 

• Siloed perspectives and personal experiences.

• Self-care and grace in professional settings. 

• Self-awareness and personal growth.

Tune in to hear all about their invaluable insights and practical tips that could just be the game-changer you need!

About Dr. Erika M. Dawkins 

Dr. Erika M. Dawkins is an Assistant Professor in the Institute for Graduate Clinical Psychology at Widener University and Clinical Director of Chester Community Coalition. Dr. Dawkins’ clinical and research interests include minority identity development, microaggressions, intersectionality, couples therapy, human sexuality, and, more recently, the impact that social media has on self-image and the development and maintenance of interpersonal relationships. In 2019, Dr. Dawkins opened her own counseling, consulting, and coaching firm, Revolutionary Perspectives, LLC.

Social Media: @dr.erikadawkins

About Arkeria Robertson, LPC

Arkeria Robertson is a Licensed Professional Counselor with an M.A. in Mental Health Counseling. She has worked in the mental health field for the past 8 years. She has worked in community mental, housing assistance, and school-based settings. Throughout her work, she has learned the importance of implementing self-care to help clients cope with stress and anxiety. She launched her private practice, Always Amazing Counseling & Consulting in 2018. She is the author of a self-care workbook, “The Simple Self-Care Solution.”

Social Media: @alwaysamazingcc

Timestamps

• [00:04] Social media impact on business and personal growth.

• [04:24] Social media’s role in mental health professionals’ businesses.

• [05:59] Social media pressure and self-doubt.

• [09:54] Comparison and contribution in online spaces. 

• [11:17] Balancing authenticity and pressure to conform in social media.

• [13:23] The impact of social media on mental health professionals.

• [20:30] Authenticity in social media and consumerism.

• [22:42] Societal expectations and personal growth. 

• [28:30] Prioritizing tasks and setting realistic goals. 

• [37:25] Siloed perspectives and personal experiences.

• [39:33] Self-care and grace in professional settings. 

• [44:03] Self-awareness and personal growth.

Music by: Noir Et Blanc Vie

Moments of AuthenticityEmail: amber@amberboydtherapy.com | Instagram  | Facebook | Website | Youtube | Spotify | Apple