Cadija Barnett is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has worked in the social service field for 15 years. Ms. Barnett provides counseling, life coaching, and consulting services to individuals, families, groups, and organizations. Ms. Barnett is the CEO of Holistic Mental Health Services, founded in 2013, to provide mental health services in a holistic environment. Holistic Mental Health Services focuses on working with the entire person and their environment. Recognizing the significance of spiritual connection in healing, in 2019, Ms. Barnett embarked on a study to deepen her understanding of spiritual practices. She studied under renowned teachers nationally and internationally, driven by her observation of the pervasive need for spiritual connection among her clients and society. Understanding the interplay between the mind, body, and spirit, Ms. Barnett integrates spiritual principles into her services, offering holistic guidance and support to navigate life's challenges.
Walk us through the moment when you knew your current field was your calling? Where were you? What happened?
Becoming a mental health therapist has been a lifelong calling for me. From my high school years, I felt a deep purpose in assisting individuals with their social and emotional journeys. I have always naturally possessed the qualities of a compassionate listener and readily provided practical guidance to those seeking my advice. Additionally, I had the privilege of being mentored by a college professor who guided me in distinguishing between psychology and clinical social work. Within clinical social work, I discovered the ideal path to applying my expertise in aiding clients through resourcefulness, referrals, and active involvement in community initiatives while still supporting their emotional and mental needs. In 2016, I recognized the continuous theme amongst my clients who desired a spiritual connection to heal. In 2019, I began a study with ancestral spiritual practices to bring a holistic healing modality to my clients. As a spiritual coach, my purpose is to support other souls in their quest for self-discovery and inner growth, guiding them on a transformative journey toward ascension. I understand that in today's fast-paced and demanding world, many people yearn for a deeper connection with themselves and a sense of purpose. Therefore, I create healing spaces, both individually and within communities, where individuals can embark on their spiritual exploration.
What is it about your field that brings you joy?
Being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker is joyful because it enables me to seamlessly blend the realms of social work and psychology, meeting my clients and the communities I serve right where they are in their journeys. What brings me the greatest satisfaction is the versatility my education and knowledge have offered me, allowing me to venture into various industries and provide my expertise. My academic journey and life experiences have thoroughly equipped me to be a well-rounded Licensed Psychotherapist and Holistic Spiritual Coach to make a meaningful impact.
As a Spiritual Coach, I aim to empower individuals to create a more fulfilling and harmonious life. By nurturing a deep connection with oneself, others, and the universe, individuals can experience profound transformation and growth. I am committed to assisting others in their quest for spiritual awakening, and I find immense joy in witnessing individuals blossom into their truest selves.
Who do you serve? Who is your ideal client?
My ideal clients are individuals who are seeking guidance and support during their social and emotional transitions, whether these transitions are prompted by prior mental health experiences or spiritual awakenings. I have a particular expertise in working with individuals, groups, and organizations dealing with trauma related to racism and religion, and I also offer Psychedelic Integration Therapy.
As a Licensed Psychotherapist and Holistic Spiritual Coach, I specialize in providing holistic counseling and coaching services that integrate spirituality. In my role as the founder of Holistic Mental Health Services, I have created a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals can access holistic support in a confidential and safe setting.
My unique approach incorporates spirituality into the therapeutic process, fostering a space where clients can become more holistically aware of their being and purpose. I am dedicated to assisting clients in navigating their social and emotional needs in a way that aligns with their spiritual journey and overall well-being.
Why did you choose to serve the people you serve? What makes you so passionate about serving your clients?
I'm responding to a call for a need that has often been overlooked. It's crucial to convey that we are not fragmented beings but complete individuals who may require support on our life journeys, support that can be provided by a Licensed Psychotherapist and/or a Holistic Spiritual Coach, each offering distinct approaches.
As a Licensed Psychotherapist, my objective is to meet you where you are and provide treatment modalities that offer a more structured and clinically oriented approach to support. In my role as a Holistic Spiritual Coach, my modality may differ. "My aim is to ignite inner awakening, empower individuals to embrace their potential, and foster a deeper connection with the spiritual realm."
What has been the greatest obstacle you’ve had to overcome as an entrepreneur? AND What advice can you give to help entrepreneurs on the rise overcome or even avoid this obstacle?
As an entrepreneur, my greatest obstacle has been finding comfort and confidence in my chosen niche. There's often resistance and skepticism when forging a new path that diverges from the conventional norm. Overcoming this challenge has required me to develop resilience, unwavering commitment to my vision, and a deep belief in the purposeful and meaningful support I offer to those I work with.
What has been the greatest personal challenge you’ve had to overcome in your entrepreneurial journey? How did you overcome it?
My most significant personal journey has been the unwavering determination to press forward, even during financially challenging times. This journey has entailed juggling multiple jobs and mastering the balance between the corporate world and the everyday life of an ordinary person. What has kept me resolute and faithful in my endeavors is my profound belief that I am carrying out a divine mission, doing the work that aligns with a higher purpose. This conviction has provided me with the strength to persevere and stay committed to my path.
Who are you when the workday is over and the clients are gone?
On this journey, I've discovered the art of authenticity, remaining true to myself in every situation and environment I encounter. When the workday concludes, I remain fundamentally unchanged because I don't perceive what I do as work; rather, it's a service to our broader community, the entire human race. The principles and treatment modalities I encourage my clients to embrace are ones I also incorporate into my own life. Whether it's tending to my garden, practicing meditation, singing, or staying active through exercise, these practices continue to be integral to my daily existence. Additionally, during my off-hours from client work, I devote time to authoring articles and books, further expanding my creative horizons.
Entrepreneurship is no easy feat. What are your go-to techniques and tools to stay focused and keep your momentum?
During this journey, entrepreneurship has its moments of challenge. To maintain focus and sustain momentum, discipline is key. I recall an interview with Venus Williams where she emphasized the invaluable rewards that discipline can bring. In addition to discipline, building a supportive community is crucial. Having a tribe I can turn to for interaction and motivation keeps me on my path and fired up (that's the Aries in me!). Equally important is self-care and the ability to recognize when it's time to rest. In this entrepreneurial journey, there are moments when contraction is necessary to facilitate future expansion. Sometimes, this means working less and dedicating more time to self-reflection and self-care.
What has been THE BEST business decision you’ve made for yourself?
One of the most impactful business decisions I've made is diversifying my income streams by establishing multiple businesses. Sometimes, to fully realize the potential of each unique vision, it's necessary to house them within separate entities. Equally important has been my ability to discern when it's time to relinquish control of a business endeavor and allow someone else to take the reins. Delegation as an approach to managing my ventures has been instrumental in achieving success.
What impact do you hope to leave behind? How do you want to be remembered?
As a fire sign, my mission is to harness the power of fire to ignite creativity, awareness, purpose, love, compassion, etc. in others. Rather than dictating what others should do, my approach centers on being a shining example and a clear channel, aiding those on this path in navigating their own unique journeys. Much of my work revolves around providing support and guidance within the realms of social, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Ultimately, I aspire to be remembered as a grateful servant who dedicated their life to graciously assisting others on their paths to self-discovery and growth.
Within your professional area of expertise, what is a MUST KNOW tip or piece of advice you want to give our readers?
In my field of expertise, the essential tip I want to impart to readers is that this journey is not one-size-fits-all. It's crucial to seek a mental health professional and/or spiritual coach who matches your unique needs and goals. Finding the right fit may require multiple attempts, or it could happen on your first try. The key is not to get discouraged by the process and never give up. If you're on a quest to access a deeper, fuller version of yourself, persevere in your search, and you will ultimately discover the support and guidance you require.
Think about your circle of influence. If you could gift more visibility to just one entrepreneur from this network, who would it be and why?
If I were to elevate the visibility of one entrepreneur within this network, it would undoubtedly be Keachia M. Bowers of Movements for Change, LLC. Her profound impact as an "Inner Child Healing Guide" is truly remarkable. Keachia is dedicated to assisting adults in their healing journey by addressing the deeply rooted barriers that often originate from unresolved childhood experiences. As children, our innocent minds grapple with the challenge of navigating, processing, and integrating experiences for which our brains are not yet prepared. Keachia deserves her flowers.
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