Hi, I’m Hope Venetta, a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, and National Certified Counselor. Welcome to my blog – a compassionate and insightful space on the internet crafted with a passion for empowering individuals and families. Here, we delve into the world of mental health, family relationships, Black history and systemic racism’s profound impact, the healing power of Christ, and at times we get into the intriguing connections between mental health, popular culture and current events.
Shut up and pass the Doritos
The totally vegan, gluten free, low sodium, fat free meal. What? Exactly. This is terribly frustrating, especially when food has the capacity to taste so good. Have you ever felt like you are under attack in this area? Ready for some encouragement? ...
Praying in color
Sometimes prayer can be overwhelming. We don't know where to begin, or what words to say. We have groanings in our spirit too deep for words that only the Spirit can understand. Have you ever just not prayed when you felt this way? I have. Feeling...
My nosy neighbor and other well meaning people
Sigh... I thought I'd be able to duck into my house before she saw me. No chance. The lady across the street flagged me down and started marching across the street with a sense of urgency. I plastered a smile on my face and welcomed her to my front porch. I was...
I have elbows
I never wanted to be skinny. The idea never turned me on. In fact, growing up, I associated skinny people with people who were unkind. I never wanted to be unkind. I never wanted to be that. I don't really remember my peers ever being...
A healthy outlook
Ah, where do I begin? I discovered my elbows. I was just diagnosed and began treatment for a chronic illness. I'm navigating a minefield of nosy neighbors and other well meaning people who have something to say about my health. Making the time...
A Light Bulb Moment
"Talent is universal, but opportunity is not." - Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl Wudunn How would you explain electricity to someone who had never had an experience with it? How would you define your life? How would you explain your productivity and comfort...
Financial Fears
Death by suffocation. Sound appealing? When I think about things objectively, the obvious answer is no, but for years, this was my practice. When I came to things financial, my first response to the overwhelm I felt was to put my head in the...
Financial Fitness
This phrase "financial fitness" conjures up anxious feelings for me. Actually any phrase involving the word fitness puts me on the defensive. I Googled the word fitness and this definition sums up my understanding of the word : the quality of being...
Relationship Rape
What happens when your real and present financial need blinds you? What happens when the singular pursuit of goals you set for yourself in order to meet those needs damage your relationships. Laser focus. Is it worth it? Like I mentioned in yesterday's post, I was...