Exploring Life & Business with Keiro Branch, MSW, LCSWA of Mindfully At Peace, PLLC

Today we’d like to introduce you to Keiro Branch, MSW, LCSWA

Hi Keiro, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I initially pursued a career in law, attending school with the goal of becoming a lawyer. However, I struggled to pass the LSAT, which was a significant setback. As a first-generation college student, I felt a strong desire to continue my education after completing my undergraduate degree, knowing that I might not have the opportunity to return to school later.

I decided to earn a Master’s in Social Work and graduated in 2021 from North Carolina Central University, a choice that felt aligned with my passion for helping others. During this time, a friend introduced me to the possibility of becoming a licensed clinical social worker and a psychotherapist. This information opened new doors for me and ignited a deeper interest in the field.

I took a leap of faith and left my position at Duke University Hospital as a Patient Advocate to pursue therapy full-time in 2022. This transition was driven by my desire to support clients in a more impactful way and to align my work with my personal values.

As I gained experience, I envisioned starting my own practice. This ambition stemmed from a desire to create a space where I could truly show up for my clients, offering them the support and understanding they need. Mindfully At Peace, PLLC came to me in a dream where God showed me I was destined to create something “great.” In the dream, I saw two nurses who revealed the name “Jeremiah,” which means “appointed by God.” In less than three months, I successfully brought Mindfully At Peace, PLLC to life which launched November 4th, 2024!

Throughout my own healing and spiritual journey, I realized the importance of integrating mind-body alignment practices into therapeutic experiences. This approach, which I refer to as M.A.P, allows me to provide a more holistic form of therapy that addresses both mental and physical well-being.

My journey from aspiring lawyer to clinical social worker and psychotherapist has been transformative. Each step has reinforced my commitment to helping others and has shaped my approach to therapy, emphasizing the integration of mind-body practices to foster deeper healing.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
No, it has not been a smooth road.. But it’s my journey as I co- create with God! Like many people, I’ve often found myself wanting things to go my way rather than accepting what is meant for me. I’ve struggled to relinquish control which has led to various obstacles along the journey, each of which has contributed to my growth and development.

These challenges have helped me build character, resilience and most importantly authenticity, allowing me to draw on my experiences to assist others as they navigate their own paths. Being a first-generation college student presents unique difficulties, especially when breaking generational cycles. Since no one in my family had walked this path before, I often felt like I was figuring things out on my own and still do but now I understand the importance of spirituality and leaning into God’s purpose for me here on earth.

This journey has also forced me to step out of my comfort zone, network, and take risks—skills that are essential but can be daunting without a roadmap. Each struggle has taught me valuable lessons, reinforcing the idea that growth often comes from overcoming adversity.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Mindfully At Peace, PLLC is a Holistic Psyhotherapy practice dedicated to promoting mental and emotional well-being through mindfulness and holistic approaches. I specialize in empowering teen girls and women with navigating grief, anxiety, and life’s stressors by fostering M.A.P (Mind- Body, Alignment Practices) combined with evidence-based therapies to foster healing on all levels- Mind, Body, and Spirit. My practice offers a safe and nurturing environment for clients to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I understand that traditional talk therapy can seem like not enough and with MAP individuals are able to understand themselves on a deeper level as well as learn skills to practice mindfulness or pure enjoyable existence.

Incorporating mind-body alignment practices could include techniques like mindfulness meditation, breathwork, yoga, and sound healing to enhance emotional regulation and self-awareness. I believe in a client centered approach. Treatment plans are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring that the therapeutic journey aligns with their personal goals and experiences.

We know that healing is not inclusive of isolation but of being in community. Clients are encouraged to connect with community resources and opportunities, such as workshops, support groups or Peer Support Specialist, to further their healing journey which we offer or help naviagte at Mindfully At Peace, PLLC as well.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for significant changes in people’s lives, forcing many to adapt rapidly. For some, this meant seizing the opportunity to start their own businesses, driven by newfound motivations and the need for flexibility or a focus on time management as a entrepreneur.

Conversely, many individuals, particularly children and teens, faced immense challenges. The isolation and disruptions to daily routines contributed to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health crises. For kids and teens, the lack of social interaction hindered essential developmental opportunities, impacting their social skills and emotional well-being.

The contrast between those who thrived and those who struggled during this time underscores the varied effects of the pandemic on different demographics. It’s crucial to acknowledge these experiences as we move forward, focusing on recovery, resilience, and providing support to those who continue to feel the repercussions. Addressing the mental health needs of all individuals and facilitating social development opportunities is vital in helping people heal and thrive in the aftermath as they transition to happy wholesome adults.

Pricing:

• Insurances Accepted: BCBS, Aetna & NC Medicaid
• Self Pay- Individual Session: $120 per session, Family or Couples $120 per session | $150 Clinical Assessment per year (required)
• Sliding scale fee through OpenPath Collective: https://openpathcollective.org/clinicians/keiro-branch/

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mindfullyatpeace.com
• Instagram: mindfullyat_peace
• Facebook: Mindfully At Peace, PLLC
• Other: Tik Tok: mindfullyatpeace

Image Credits
REBelle Images
https://rebelleimages.mypixieset.com