Our Mission
Pivot for Life Counseling & Wellness, LLC offers exceptional therapeutic services to individuals and couples encountering difficult life experiences and transitions. We are committed to providing a variety of services and resources that speak to the holistic needs of individual clients as they pursue healing, wellness (emotional, spiritual, and mental), and wholeness.
Have you ever been on your way somewhere only to encounter a work zone or accident that forces you to take a detour?
Ugh! These detours are often more than just inconveniences. Life events, much like detours, barriers, and distractions, can redirect us unexpectedly. When this happens, we must pivot—changing, adjusting, or modifying our approach to reach our destination.
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Eric Ries, entrepreneur and author of The Lean Startup, describes a pivot as a change in strategy without a change in vision. The pandemic has compelled us to adjust our daily lives while keeping our main goals in focus. These necessary adaptations, although intended to improve our lives, can be overwhelming and require us to develop new coping mechanisms and support systems.
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I understand these challenges and am here to help you navigate through them. By working together, we can develop the strategies and support systems you need to successfully pivot and continue toward your goals, even when life throws unexpected obstacles your way. Everyone needs help now and then, especially when faced with significant pivots. Let me guide you through these changes, ensuring you stay on track and thrive.
Practice Areas
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Depression
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Anxiety and Phobias
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Relationship Difficulties
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Marital/Pre-marital
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Life Transitions
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Difficulties with Self-Esteem
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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
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Grief, Loss, or Bereavement
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Professional/Career Issues
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College/Graduate School Issues
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Medical and Health Concerns
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Stress Management
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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
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Sexual Abuse
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Spirituality
Currently offering mental health services through telehealth only.
Meet Your Counselor
I am Yalonda Smith, a daughter, sister, aunt, friend, caregiver, widow, minister, and counselor. Raised in Fayetteville, NC, I've always had a heart for helping others, making my journey to becoming a counselor a natural progression. My past and current life experiences have taught me to pivot when life throws curveballs, allowing me to regroup and stay on track to pursue my dreams.
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I am a former government auditor who transitioned from full-time government employment to serving as the Youth & Young Adult Pastor at my church. This experience ignited a passion in me to professionally prepare to become a licensed professional counselor (LPC). I truly believe it is never too late to pursue your dreams or start over, a belief shaped by growing up in a military family and learning to embrace change and transition.
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I am deeply passionate about helping individuals navigate the rough, uncomfortable, and even traumatic experiences in their lives. I understand that every person comes to therapy with unique needs, and my role is to facilitate their individual healing journey. I adapt my interventions based on a comprehensive assessment of who each individual is and what they specifically need.
Education
I earned my Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. I also hold a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia University of Lynchburg; Master of Divinity from Virginia Union University; Certificate in Youth and Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary; and a Bachelors of Arts Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from North Carolina Central University.
Accreditations and Affiliations
National Certified Counselor
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Certified Professional Telemental Health Provider
Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapist
Membership in American Counseling Association (ACA)
Membership in EMDR International Association
Prepare-Enrich Facilitator
Certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor
