“My goal as a Black therapist is to break the stigma about therapy.”
Trauma and depression therapy is at the heart of what we do here at Reconciliation Services. It is our pleasure to introduce you Shaleese Rockett, LMSW, our newest therapist! Shaleese actually helped start our therapy program back in 2011. She moved to Texas for awhile, and is back to help our neighbors find healing and reach their goals.
Tell us a little about yourself and how you got into social work.
I was born and grew up in Des Moines, Iowa, and moved to Kansas City for college where I met my husband. I have lived in the greater KC area for about 12 years total. I recently moved back to Kansas City 3 months ago after relocating to Dallas/Fort Worth, TX for 6 years.
I have worked in the field of social work for nearly 15 years. Half of my career in this field has been on Troost working between a few non profit organizations. God brought me into the social work field. I felt like I was purposely called to serve those in need.
Why do you think therapy is important for people who live in our community at 31st & Troost?
I think therapy is important in any and all communities, but unfortunately the ability to access quality services is not always available. Troost is still very divided and much of the RS community are members of the Black community. Black America has faced tragedy, and struggle, alongside success and progress for years.
The thing about facing all of this adversity is the exposure to traumatic experiences. The truth is this trauma has impacted our mental health in a major way. In the Black community, we are not always taught or encouraged to seek services for our mental health. My goal as a Black therapist is to break the stigma about therapy.
Therapy can be looked at as a tool that helps us process the challenges in life. Therapy is not a “magic wand or pill.” A therapist can be looked at as a strong support through life’s twists and turns.
Who needs therapy? And if someone has never seen a therapist before, what can they expect from meeting with you?
I think everyone needs therapy! Those that feel stuck, lost, hurting, and see no way out can benefit from therapy at its best. Then there are those that need a fresh perspective, a listening ear, and a non-biased healthy, supportive environment to help them continue on life's journey.
I am very sarcastic, laid back, and down to earth. I have been through challenges and difficulties in life, yet I am aware each person’s journey is different. I work my best at showing respect, providing support, and keeping things real. Therapy is work, you have to be willing to put in the work to see the change.
Will seeing a therapist help me reach my personal and professional goals?
I think it will. We can have all the money in the world, or a great job, family, and physical health. Yet, if we are not mentally present enough to enjoy or live in the moment, I feel we have nothing. A therapist can assist with the ability to live and experience life, not just exist.
Shaleese facilitates Group Therapy and provides individual therapy focussing on helping clients find healing from depression and trauma. If you are interested in learning more about therapy services, you can reach Shaleese at 816-931-4751 x102 or Srockett@RS3101.org
>>> And, check out how our friends like KENDRA and NORA have been impacted by the REVEAL Women’s Group.