Today we’d like to introduce you to Suntia Smith.
Hi Suntia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I received my bachelor’s degree in Psychology from The University of South Carolina after which I started working at the Urban League of the Upstate. When I started working, my initial goal was to gain experience working with children so I could go back to graduate school and become a school psychologist.
However, once I started working with at-risk youth and their families, I realized that there was a great need for counselors who could provide quality care and resources. I fell in love with the children and families in the community, and that’s when I made the decision to become a social worker.
I received my MSW from the University of South Carolina and started the journey to becoming a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
My journey has not been without challenges. On my journey, I lost my mother and started to raise my younger brother. So I was in graduate school, working full-time and caring for my brother who needed and wanted my undivided attention.
There were definitely some nights where I would cry and want to give up but then I would remember the life that I wanted, the service that I wanted to provide. I always had this little inclining that my work was meant to help heal others like it was bigger than me. So, I would allow myself to cry, vent, throw a tantrum AND then, I would get back up and start again.
In having my private practice, it took me time to build my clients, but I am so grateful for the time because it taught me what it is to be a business owner. That if you have patience, provide consistent and quality service, and love what you do… success will come.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I specialize in helping people heal from their traumas so they can show up happy and whole in the relationship with themselves and others. I love helping others take the journey to release the baggage, hurt from their past… where they can see how the past is affecting their behaviors and mindsets.
I am most proud when a client sees their truth and then is able to be in a healthy relationship. When a person can smile again after a heartbreak and loss. What sets me apart is that I have real-life experiences with trauma and healing.
I know firsthand how in order to love another you must first love yourself. So, I bring a dose of real-life experiences plus my skills and knowledge.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
My authenticity, when I provide a service, my clients get a Suntia. This gives them permission to be themselves without fear of judgment.
Contact Info:
- Email: coachsuntiasmith@gmail.com
- Website: www.suntiasmith.com
- Instagram: @suntiasmith
