Cecelia Bailey shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Cecelia, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is a normal day like for you right now?
As I rise each morning, the day begins with a blend of excitement, responsibility, and love. As the owner of a group mental health practice, a mother to a spirited five-year-old who just started kindergarten, and a partner to my significant other, my life is a beautiful whirlwind of activity.
Mornings often consist of meetings with my clinical team, discussing client care, and strategizing on ways to improve our services. I value collaboration, enabling my team to share ideas and feel empowered in their roles. Managing a group practice requires a delicate balance of leadership, compassion, and administrative skill. My mid mornings and afternoons are normally spent providing client care seeing my caseload of clients.
As I take a moment for self-reflection, I appreciate the beautiful chaos of my life—the balance of owning a practice, nurturing my child, and sustaining a loving relationship with my partner. Each role brings its unique challenges and rewards, and while the days can be hectic, the fulfillment I get from my family and my work keeps me grounded.
Through the ebb and flow of my daily life as a group practice owner, mother, and partner, I embrace the challenges and joys that come with each role. The lessons I learn from balancing these responsibilities are invaluable, shaping me into the person I am today and inspiring me to foster a supportive environment for my family and clients alike. As I close my day, I feel grateful for the opportunities to grow in all aspects of my life, looking forward to what tomorrow holds.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Cecelia Bailey, and I am the founder and CEO of Bailey’s Counseling Service PC, a dedicated mental health practice committed to providing compassionate care and support to individuals and families in our community. With 16 years of experience in the mental health field, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of therapy—helping clients navigate challenges, foster resilience, and improve their overall well-being.
At Bailey’s Counseling Service PC, we believe that everyone deserves access to high-quality mental health support tailored to their unique needs. Our team of skilled clinicians specializes in a variety of therapeutic approaches, ensuring we can effectively address a diverse range of concerns, from anxiety and depression to relationship issues and trauma.
We strive to create a welcoming and safe environment where clients feel heard, understood, and empowered on their healing journey. Our holistic approach encompasses not only the mental aspects of health but also considers emotional, social, and spiritual well-being.
As a mother, partner, and mental health advocate, I understand the importance of balancing life’s demands while prioritizing mental wellness. I am passionate about fostering a community where individuals feel comfortable seeking help and know they are not alone on their path to recovery.
With every session at Bailey’s Counseling Service PC, whether it’s in-person or virtual, we seek to make a positive impact, guiding our clients toward healthier, more fulfilling lives. Together, we can work through challenges, embrace personal growth, and cultivate a brighter future.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child, I struggled significantly with self-confidence. I was often shy and hesitant to share my ideas, feeling that my voice didn’t matter. Whether it was participating in class discussions or expressing my opinions during group projects, I frequently battled with feelings of inadequacy.
Growing up, I internalized the belief that I wasn’t good enough—whether it was fear of being judged by peers or the pressure to excel in the eyes of my family. This mindset created a barrier that hindered me from fully engaging in activities I was passionate about. While I had a curious nature and a desire to explore my talents, my lack of confidence often held me back.
Recognizing the need for change, I embarked on a journey of self-improvement. The first step was identifying the roots of my poor self-confidence. I began journaling to articulate my feelings and reflect on the moments when I felt most insecure. This practice allowed me to see patterns in my thinking and realize that many of my fears were unfounded.
With encouragement from family and teachers, I decided to step out of my comfort zone. I took on small challenges, such as volunteering for class presentations and joining clubs that aligned with my interests. Each time I faced a fear, I learned to appreciate my strengths, regardless of the outcome. Celebrating small victories became crucial in reshaping my mindset.
Mentorship played a pivotal role in my development. I sought guidance from teachers and mentors who believed in my potential. They offered constructive feedback, encouraged participation, and challenged me to push beyond my perceived limitations. Their support illuminated a path toward self-acceptance, helping me see the value in my contributions.
As I grew older, I began to understand that failure is not a reflection of my worth but rather an opportunity to learn and grow. With this newfound perspective, I embraced challenges with open arms. I started taking courses that honed my skills in business and leadership—areas that I was genuinely passionate about.
Eventually, I took the plunge into entrepreneurship. The initial fears of inadequacy resurfaced, but with a foundation of resilience and self-belief, I was determined to succeed. I launched my business with a clear vision and the courage to lead boldly. The lessons I had learned about facing challenges and valuing my voice guided me in every decision I made.
In building my enterprise, I encountered obstacles that tested my resolve. Yet, my early experiences with self-doubt equipped me with the tools to navigate adversity. I learned to embrace vulnerability, seek feedback, and pivot when necessary, which ultimately enhanced my entrepreneurial journey.
Today, I stand proudly as a successful entrepreneur, a testament to the power of persevering through self-doubt. I am passionate about empowering others to overcome their own struggles with confidence. The journey has taught me that while the seed of self-doubt can be planted in childhood, it doesn’t have to dictate the course of our futures. With determination, support, and a willingness to grow, anyone can transform their life and achieve their dreams.
When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
Learning to be vulnerable has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. For many years, I placed immense pressure on myself to appear strong and unshakeable, fearing that sharing my struggles would paint me as weak. However, it wasn’t until I began to share my challenges with others that I truly learned the strength that comes from vulnerability.
Initially, it felt daunting to open up about my fears, failures, and insecurities. I worried about how others would perceive me and whether they would see me as less competent or capable. However, as I began to share my experiences, I quickly discovered that vulnerability does not diminish our worth; it fosters connection and authenticity.
The first step in this journey was recognizing that I was not alone in my struggles. By sharing my challenges—whether they were related to personal setbacks, professional hurdles, or feelings of self-doubt—I found solace in the understanding and empathy of others. People responded not with judgment but with encouragement and solidarity, sharing their own stories of struggle and resilience. This exchange created a supportive community where we could uplift one another and validate our experiences.
Opening up about my failures taught me valuable lessons. Instead of viewing failures as something to be ashamed of, I began to see them as essential stepping stones toward growth. Each setback offered insights and opportunities to learn; my perspective shifted from one of discouragement to one of curiosity. I realized that failures were not definitive endpoints but rather lessons that shaped my journey and contributed to my development.
When I reframed my mindset around failure, I discovered a newfound freedom. I was empowered to take risks and pursue opportunities without the paralyzing fear of making mistakes. This shift allowed me to embrace challenges with an open heart and mind, recognizing that each misstep was part of the learning process.
Through this process, I’ve become passionate about encouraging others to adopt a similar perspective. I often share my experiences with friends, clients, and colleagues, urging them to view their failures not as obstacles but as valuable insights. I emphasize the importance of vulnerability—how it can lead to deeper connections and greater resilience.
I’ve witnessed firsthand how opening up can inspire others to share their struggles, creating a ripple effect of healing and growth. When we create environments where vulnerability is welcomed, we foster a culture of honesty, empathy, and mutual support. This environment nurtures personal development and encourages individuals to step outside their comfort zones, feeling safe in the knowledge that they are not alone.
In sharing my journey toward embracing vulnerability, I aim to empower others to see failure through a different lens. Each stumble is a lesson, each struggle a story that can be transformed into strength. Vulnerability has not only enriched my life but has also fostered a community where authenticity reigns, encouraging everyone to embrace their true selves without fear. It is through this lens of openness that we can truly connect, grow, and thrive together.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Michelle Obama is a figure who embodies strength, grace, and resilience—qualities that have profoundly inspired me and many others around the world. As the first African American First Lady of the United States, she broke barriers with poise and dignity, becoming not only an influential public figure but also a role model for individuals from all walks of life.
One of the character traits I admire most about Michelle Obama is her unwavering commitment to authenticity. Throughout her public life, she has emphasized the importance of being true to oneself, encouraging others to embrace their identities unapologetically. Her memoir, “Becoming,” beautifully illustrates her journey from her roots on the South Side of Chicago to the White House. In sharing her story, she demonstrates that vulnerability can coexist with strength, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their unique narratives.
Michelle’s compassion is another defining trait that captivates my admiration. She has consistently championed issues that affect families, children, and communities—advocating for healthy living, education, and military families. Her initiative, “Let’s Move!,” aimed to combat childhood obesity, reflects her genuine concern for the well-being of future generations. She not only raises awareness but also takes tangible steps to drive change, showing that true leadership is rooted in empathy.
Moreover, Michelle Obama possesses remarkable resilience. Navigating the pressures and scrutiny that come with public life, she has maintained a sense of grace in the face of challenges. Her ability to rise above negativity and criticism, while standing strong for her beliefs, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying grounded in one’s values. She has taught us that confronting adversity with strength can lead to personal growth and empowerment.
In addition to her advocacy work, I admire Michelle’s dedication to education and empowerment. As a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, she emphasizes the transformative power of education. Through her platform, she encourages young people to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence, illustrating that education is a key to unlocking one’s potential.
Finally, Michelle Obama’s ability to connect with people from various backgrounds is truly remarkable. Whether addressing high school students or engaging with world leaders, she communicates with relatability and warmth. Her speeches resonate with authenticity, leaving audiences inspired and motivated to take action.
In conclusion, Michelle Obama is a beacon of strength and grace who exemplifies the values of authenticity, compassion, resilience, and empowerment. Her contributions extend far beyond her role as First Lady, leaving an indelible mark on society. I admire her not only for her incredible accomplishments but for the character traits that embody her spirit, inspiring individuals to embrace their journeys and strive for a better future. Michelle Obama’s legacy will continue to motivate generations to come, reminding us all of the power of leadership rooted in love and service.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
Spending quality time with family and friends is a cherished source of peace for me. The laughter, love, and support we share create a safe space where I can genuinely be myself. Conversations filled with understanding and compassion remind me of the importance of relationships and the joy they bring to my life. Building connections and nurturing these bonds fosters a sense of belonging that contributes to my overall well-being.
Practicing gratitude is a powerful tool in my pursuit of peace. Taking time to reflect on the positive aspects of my life—whether big or small—helps shift my perspective. I’ve made it a habit to jot down things I’m thankful for, which serves as a reminder of the abundance in my life and invites a more positive mindset. This reflection cultivates a sense of contentment and appreciation, allowing me to find peace within the chaos.
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