We had the good fortune of connecting with Jewelle Daquin and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jewelle, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
I have worked in the mental health field for over a decade. During this time I have worked in the community agency settings while working part time in private practice, started and grown my family, and launched my own business full time. As a wife, mother, mental health professional and entrepreneur my perspective of work life balance has changed drastically through the years. When I first began my career, I did not put a lot of value in this concept because I saw it as a season “to grind and get things done” in an effort to meet the timeline I had for my personal life. After experiencing burn out, I quickly learned the value of balance, harmony, and self care. Being in a field that has a heavy focus on serving others, it became imperative for me to learn what habits served me in my work and personal life. My goal is to be in a space where my work and home life flow with ease. This requires me to take the best care of myself both physically and mentally. As the saying goes, “we can’t pour from an empty cup”. Balance to me feels like harmony; the ability to show up whole in all aspects of my life. It is being in a space that promotes true happiness and peace in each area of my life. Today balance is being able to have the freedom and time to fill my cup, be present with my family and friends, provide quality care to my clients, and live life well.

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the proud owner and founder of Beyond the Couch, LLC which is a mental health practice that offers individual and family therapy, clinical supervision, and mental health consulting services. I have always known that I wanted to be a counselor. I’ve always had a genuine interest and love of people, their stories, and exploring “the why” behind behaviors. I am most proud of the fact that I am doing what I love. I feel so blessed and honored to be walking in my purpose, to have the opportunity to connect with others and walk along side them on their life’s journey. It took a lot of hard work, sacrifice, and tons of support from my village to get to where I am today. Owning my own practice and supervising future counselors has always been a dream of mine. But, like most people I’ve struggled with fear, procrastination, and imposter syndrome. I finally had to get to a space where I convinced myself to “do it scared”! This is a mantra I have to repeat often; reminding myself that I can do hard things! My motivation increased when I was reminded that my purpose is bigger than me. My story, my experiences, and my gifts can’t be used or be helpful if I keep them to myself.
What I would want the world to know about me and my company is that I am passionate about mental wellness and my mission with Beyond the Couch is to extend far beyond the traditional bounds of counseling. I strive to break the stigmas associated with mental health, therapy, and self-care by having honest conversations, and offering tools + strategies to assist you in developing the skills necessary to live your best life on your own terms!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend were visiting the area, I would definitely take them to all the best restaurants and wineries in the area! Having brunch in the city (Washington, DC) is a must. We would tour the historical sites, museums, and monuments. Perhaps go to the zoo. I would definitely take them on a hike to great falls in Mclean, VA. We would probably do coffee on the deck one morning. And of course the trip would not be complete without taking them to the best and prettiest college in the country, George Mason University!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First, I would have to give honor to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Jesus is legit my homie/ bestie and I owe my success to the grace of God. Second would be my amazingly supportive husband/bestfriend! He truly loves and supports me at my best and my worst. My son Josiah and my daughter Journee who motivate me to never give up and to always be my best self! My mother who loves me unconditionally and always reminds me how proud she is of me. Of course, my twin sister/wombmate who is my biggest cheerleader! To my C&P family– I am, because you are! Thank you for the love and support throughout my life.  Lots of love to my “favs/besties”- Theresa and Shamika, Nicole, Triple D, Dez, Dr. Talleyrand (my mentor), and my beloved Sorors of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated!

Aside from the bible, the book that has had the greatest impact on my life would be “The Circle Maker” by Mark Batterson– life changing!

Website: www.beyondthecouchllc.com

Instagram: beyondthecouchllc

Linkedin: Jewelle Daquin

Facebook: beyondthecouchllc

Other: www.beyondthecouchllc.com/blog

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.