Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalie Bryan.
Hi Natalie, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, let’s briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
Thank you for considering me for this interview. My journey as a licensed clinical social worker started with my upbringing in a single-parent household with a Jamaican mother. Despite our financial struggles, my mother ( Ms. B, as we call her) instilled in me a strong sense of community and the importance of giving back. Growing up, I witnessed their unwavering generosity and compassion towards others. As I navigated through my own life experiences, I became increasingly interested in understanding the complexities of human behavior and the psychological well-being of individuals. This curiosity led me to pursue a degree in social work, as it was the perfect profession to bridge my passion for helping others with my desire to address societal and systemic issues affecting marginalized communities, particularly African Americans. Throughout my academic journey, I actively sought opportunities to work in multiple settings, ranging from community centers to hospitals, which allowed me to gain diverse experiences and skills. These experiences also solidified my dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of others. One key aspect of my professional journey has been my commitment to continually giving back to the community. Empowering individuals and communities with the necessary tools and resources can lead to lasting change. Through various initiatives such as volunteering, organizing mental health awareness campaigns, and providing pro bono counseling services, I strive to contribute to the well-being of those who may not have access to professional help. I am the proud owner of Restoring Harmony Counseling and Consulting and founder of P.E.A.R.L. Inc. I have created a real estate portfolio through a non-traditional path and own an e-commerce loose-leaf tea company, The Urban Tea Room.
Would it have been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Opening a business and starting a nonprofit foundation has presented its fair share of obstacles and challenges. As the eldest daughter of a single parent of a different culture, added another layer of difficulty. Despite the misconception that Jamaicans speak English and have similar cultures, the reality is far from it. Additionally, being the eldest of four and my mother’s primary support meant that I had to venture out on my own, tackling various experiences – both positive and negative – to find success. I became the trailblazer in my family, becoming the first college graduate and navigating the complexities of finances and relationships. Building a successful business and foundation without a blueprint or roadmap has truly tested my resilience and resourcefulness.
We’ve been impressed with P.E.A.R.L. Inc., but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The acronym P.E.A.R.L. Inc. stands for Providing Education and Advocacy to Rebuild Lives. As a social worker, my journey began with working closely with families affected by abuse and neglect. I felt compelled to establish an organization that could specifically address the needs of families, recognizing their role as the foundation of our communities. One of our prominent initiatives is the annual Mentally Wellthy Summit, held during Minority Mental Health Month. This free event aims to reduce mental health stigma in communities of color by inviting a diverse panel of clinicians to engage with the community. We have successfully hosted over 500 individuals and welcomed over 100 clinicians who generously dedicated their time to this cause. Through this event, participants have access to informative discussions, opportunities for questions, invaluable resources, and, most importantly, a chance to witness the humanity and compassion of mental health professionals. One aspect that sets our organization apart is our commitment to meeting individuals exactly where they are, without preconceived notions. We believe in embracing the reality that it is okay not to be okay and encourage individuals to give themselves the time and space they need to heal. Our organization offers various services to support mental well-being in the community. These include psycho-educational programs, referral services to specialized mental health programs and clinicians, direct mental health services, and supervision. By bridging gaps and connecting individuals to the appropriate resources, we strive to ensure that no one is left without the support they need to rebuild their lives.
What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
The most important lesson on my journey is that no one can succeed alone. It is crucial to build, foster, and maintain numerous relationships and connections throughout life. Additionally, it is vital to safeguard those relationships and connections by earning the belief, trust, and support of the people who stand by me. With them, achieving success becomes easier.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wearepearl.org
- Linkedin: www.urbantearoom.com
- Other: www.restoringharmonycounseling.com
