Meet Yasmine Toney. She is a native of Detroit and has been practicing clinical psychotherapy for over 10 years within the Metro Detroit area. In addition to psychotherapy, Yasmine is a published author, adjunct professor, clinical supervisor, and Reiki practitioner. Yasmine’s most acclaimed position, however, is being a mother. Her goal is to normalize both intrapersonal and interpersonal growth within the black community, both clinically and holistically.
Yasmine Toney
How did you get started in your industry?
Life… I never had a clear plan for what I wanted my life to look like. Shortly after completed undergraduate school, I realized I had no clue what was next. I felt lost. I began to try to put the pieces together but nothing fit together. While trying to figure my life out, I suffered a tremendous loss and felt utterly alone. It was in those moments I decided I would hold space for others. I wanted to be someone they could talk to, so they wouldn’t have to experience the loneliness I felt. I enrolled in graduate school shortly after, and my purpose was revealed and continues to expand and grow.
Growing up, did you imagine being an entrepreneur?
Never, not at all. I always said I never wanted that responsibility.
In the beginning stages of developing your brand/business, what was your biggest struggle and how did you overcome it?
Honestly, I feel like I continue to struggle with balancing how much I share myself and “my work” socially. Therapy traditionally is a very private experience, and I don’t always feel comfortable putting myself out there. I work to overcome it by reassuring myself if I have a desire to share that means there is someone out there seeking the information and that everything is in perfect harmony. I knowledge I acquire is to teach others – if it reaches one person, then it was worth it.
Do you feel like you are pursuing purpose? If so, how did you know this was your purpose?
Yes, definitely. My purpose is to teach others how to heal themselves.
What’s the best part of Yasmine Toney, LLC? What keeps you motivated to keep going?
The best part of my work is when my client(s) get it like really gets it. When they are able to make the connections within themselves and began to understand who they are and the power to change lies solely within themselves.
As an entrepreneur myself, I understand sometimes personal life can get in the way of business. Have you encountered any personal hurdles that could have or did result in a business pivot?
Being a mother always takes precedence, so I work around that always. My son being older has allowed me to have more professional flexibility than I had early on. I wouldn’t consider this a hurdle because it was a personal preference, however, I am aware that it can be limited to what opportunities I am able to take on. The pandemic and the growth in virtual services was a pivot I was able to make that allowed me to expand my reach, otherwise, my availability would have been greatly limited. Eventually, my son will be an adult and at that time I can really expand professionally until then he is my first business.
During these times, we’ve all had to adjust. How has the adjustment been for you and your brand?
This adjustment has been great for my brand. There have been some ups and downs personally, as I was home more than I had ever been in my life and I had no idea how that would affect me both mentally and emotionally especially with the work that I do. However, as a result of the current times, therapy has really been normalized. I am grateful for these times in a way because therapy in the black community was oftentimes a hard sale.
What’s the most important piece of advice you could give to a young woman starting her career?
Learn the difference between intuition and fear, as well as the voice of your ego. Your ego will try to protect you, but it will keep you from moving past your comfort zone and your desires/dreams are always outside of your comfort. Also, learn who you are and what you want then accept nothing less, even if that means waiting. You can have all that you want if you know what it looks/feels like and are willing to wait for it.
Lastly, what keeps you struttin?
Love and this melanin.
Connect with Yasmine Toney
Interested in learning more about Yasmine Toney? Follow her on social below and learn about the organization:
- Website: https://YasmineToney.com
- Instagram: @theyasminetoney
- Twitter: @theyasminetoney
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