Guest Contributor: Tyler Turner, M.S., L.P.C, N.C.C
Crisis Counselor, Prodigy Wellness
What does Black Mental Wellness mean to you?
Black mental wellness means creating safe spaces for Black people to process their trauma and hear the skills to live an exceptional life. It means overcoming generational trauma to strengthen the Black community.
How do you promote change and well-being in the Black community?
I promote change by making sure my private practice is catering to the needs of Black clients. Through partnering with nonprofits to make therapy free and offering a sliding scale as needed, I have dedicated my work to the well-being of my people.
What are some ways that you promote mental health and wellness through your area of expertise?
I am a licensed mental health professional offering therapy full-time.
What are some things that we should know about your area of expertise?
My work is for the culture. My focus is on the Black community. However, all are welcomed because I hold space for anyone in need and ready to grow.
How can we encourage more people to seek mental health treatment?
Change doesn't occur unless conversations are had. I think speaking more frequently about our experiences allows for others to see that seeking help is not only important but necessary.
What are your recommendations for ending stigma in the Black community?
Change doesn't occur unless conversations are had. I think speaking more frequently about our experiences allows for others to see that seeking help is not only important, but necessary. We have centuries of stored trauma that has been passed down. The only way to stop it is by acknowledging it and seeking the right support: mental health support.
What can potential clients expect during an initial session? Follow up sessions?
Initial sessions are about understanding what my clients need. I spend time asking them questions and gathering insight on what brought them to therapy. Each session after that is about building rapport and making the necessary breakthroughs to lead healthier lives.
How do you make time for your own wellness and self-care?
First, I see my own therapist. I believe every good therapist sees a therapist. It's a sort of “checks-and-balances”. Also, I prioritize me so that I can have space for my clients.
What resources do you find most helpful to encourage mental health and wellness?
Mental health pages run by licensed therapists
@ProdigyWellness_
@TranscendWellnessbo
@TherapywithDev
@trellethetherapist
@talkingtohelp
Also, Directories that have black therapists’ services listed
TherapyDen.com
Therapyforblackgirls.com
therapyforblackmen.org
cliniciansofcolor.org
Guest Contributor
Tyler, owner and lead therapist at Prodigy Wellness, is a Texas native where she earned her Bachelors degree in Human Development and Family Studies and Minor of Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies at Texas Tech University. Her Masters of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University provided her the knowledge and training to become a Licensed Professional Counseling and Nationally Certified Counselor.
Tyler works tirelessly to de-stigmatize mental health amongst African Americans and POC by facilitating therapeutic sessions with individuals, couples, and families who seek professional guidance. She has devoted her life and personal studies to the constant development and healing of others.
Tyler sees clients who are struggling with addiction, various types of trauma, anxiety, or low self esteem. She also works with individuals looking to explore their sexuality and couples who are looking to add excitement back into their relationship or work through infidelity or dissatisfaction.
