Today we’d like to introduce you to Nailah French.
Nailah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
Originating from North Carolina, I grew up witnessing the importance of community. Along my journey, I’ve embodied the belief that we can only meet others as deeply as we’ve met ourselves. These experiences created a deep passion for intimacy. Who are we at our core? I embarked on a personal healing journey. As I grew, I recognized the importance of feeling seen, heard, and understood, especially by ourselves. I earned my master’s degree from Pepperdine University, where I studied Clinical Psychology. Before pursuing therapy, I worked closely with children and families. Through those relationships, I learned that everyone has a unique story, and I wanted to hear every detail. Personally and professionally, I prioritize connection. I became a certified professional life coach to help children and individuals overcome hurdles and live a life of alignment.
Additionally, I am an associate therapist at Hallie G. Therapy. I often create journal prompts to support my clients between sessions. This passion blossomed into a guided journal (and book) to help readers nurture and deepen their self-love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I believe in purity, not perfection. My journey to becoming a therapist, life coach, and author has been reflective of this belief. As a black woman, I was taught to work three times as hard as my peers but to expect a fraction of the success and recognition. I was taught to look, speak, and be a specific way in order to gain respect. Yet, what I actually learned was deeper than society’s expectations of me. I learned that who I was, wasn’t good enough. These spoken and unspoken rules created mental blockages that I have worked tirelessly to overcome. When someone dedicates their life to helping others, they can begin to feel pressured to be perfect. When I first began working as a life coach and therapist, I struggled with imposter syndrome. Nevertheless, I quickly realized that there is beauty in imperfection. Imperfection is honest and authentic. This became a crucial part of my approach and has allowed me to connect with others in a unique way.
I believe that the therapeutic relationship is bidirectional. Joining others on their healing journeys has healed me too. Through my career, I am reminded that I am an eternal student. Although I have faced various struggles, I have built a wonderful community that I can lean on and learn from.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a therapist, life coach, and author. The people that I work with often experience challenges related to anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship struggles, and attachment injuries. I approach them with curiosity, appreciation, and humility. I join them on their healing journey, walking beside them and holding their hand along the way. Our relationship is bidirectional; we learn from each other and grow from our work together. I aim to create a space that feels safe and trusting, a space where we can unmask. I am most proud of the connections that I build. I feel lucky. Lucky to work in a field that I’m passionate about. Lucky to be invited into other people’s worlds. And lucky that I can help.
Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
I was a big fan of the Red Table Talk! I love to read and find myself suggesting “The Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes, “Attached” by Adam Levine and Rachel S.F Heller, and “The Game of Desire” by Shannon Boodram. I also enjoy listening to podcasts. I enjoy “Lovers and Friends with Shan Boodram” and “Where Should We Begin? with Esther Perel”. Overall, I’m realizing how deeply the body, mind, and spirit are connected. To support my mind, I need to move my body. I enjoy weight training, taking dance classes, and yoga. I think it’s important to prioritize the things that bring you peace. For me, that also includes self-care!
Pricing:
- Individual Therapy $150
- Couples Therapy $180
- Children’s Therapy $150
- Self – Love Guided Journal $20
- Life Coaching Packages $500+
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nextlevelwithnailah.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextlevelwithnailah/
