Community Highlights: Meet Janelle Gillis of Truth Counseling and Wellness, PLLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Janelle Gillis.

Hi Janelle, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
I grew up in the small town of Enfield, NC, raised by a single mom. As early as 7 years old, I saw firsthand how deeply unaddressed mental health challenges could affect people’s lives. While attending Winston-Salem State University (Class of 2018), I went to therapy for the first time as an adult. The counselor I had there not only brought me out of a confusing chapter and what felt like an unsupported place, but changed my life in the best way when she encouraged me to go back to school for my masters. I moved to Charlotte, NC, earned my Masters in Social Work and left there knowing I was meant to be somebody’s therapist. After earning my Clinical License, I shared with my supervisor at the time, Ashley Shaw-Cureton, my dream of working for myself and creating mental health spaces that truly felt authentic and welcoming for everyone, especially for those who look like me. Ashley encouraged me to trust my skills, both as a therapist and an entrepreneur, and take that leap of faith. With her guidance and support, I followed through on that vision and opened my own private practice, Truth Counseling and Wellness, PLLC in 2023.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Of course it has not been a smooth road, but it has definitely not been a road I’ve regretted in the slightest. I believe that most things worth having takes effort, patience and hard work. One of the biggest challenges since opening my practice was adjusting from being ‘just a therapist’ to now also being the CEO, administrator, finance department, social media manager etc. Obviously my education background is not in ‘all things business’ so that was something I had to learn. My advise for this is to ask as many questions as you can and use your resources, and peers that are willing to help. Secondly, the decision fatigue that comes from all decisions concerning your business being your responsibility can be a struggle, but a good struggle to have.

As you know, we’re big fans of Truth Counseling and Wellness, PLLC. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Truth Counseling and Wellness, PLLC is my virtual therapy and consulting practice, serving all across North Carolina and Texas as well. We provide mental health therapy to adults 18 and older, including professionals and students. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, and burnout. Whether its stress from life transitions, relationship hiccups, or simply needing someone to help untangle your thoughts, we are happy to be an unbiased supporter and teammate. Sometimes you need someone outside of your circle to help make sense of it all, that’s where I come in. I’m most proud of the genuine connections I am able to create with my clients because of that team approach. I genuinely enjoy supporting my clients in reaching their goals and obtaining the things that they say they want. I currently have a few openings left for new therapy clients. If you prefer honest feedback, a down-to-earth vibe, and a goal-driven, solution focused approach, we may be a good fit! I also offer consultation for other therapists, especially around starting a private practice, growing as a social work entrepreneur, or navigating medical social work. I’m excited for the future of Truth Counseling as we have plans to expand broader to help more of the community affected by mental illness.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Having support makes all the difference! I am a believer, so I always credit God first. The support I’ve had along the way includes my college counselor for encouraging me to go back for my master’s degree, my now colleague Ashley Shaw-Cureton for encouraging me to become an entrepreneur, my family especially my partner and my best friend for always cheering me on and listening to me vent. Lastly all of my clients, past and present for their continuous support, positive feedback, and reminding me why this is what I love to do.

Pricing:

• Insurances accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, Optum, United Healthcare and Carelon
• Self pay
• Sliding scale available by availability and qualification

Contact Info:

• Website: https://truthcounseling.clientsecure.me
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truthcounselingpllc?igsh=MXhpZGNhYWtjazRheQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/17FzTVaCtr/?mibextid=wwXIfr