Today we’d like to introduce you to Princess Whittington.
Princess, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
One morning, I woke up and began thinking to myself… “I want more out of life!” I was a speech therapist in pediatrics and geriatrics, at the time, and wanted to find my purpose. Helping others had always been a passion for me, but I knew there were other things I wanted. I happened to see a post about a book called the Working Women’s Handbook. It asks detailed questions and upon reading the stories and filling out the worksheets, it finally clicked!
So many of my friends, associates, and even some family members were dealing with mental health issues, whether it was depression, schizophrenia, bi-polar, or grief. I had always been a listening ear and advice giver. I noticed the patterns of talking it out, praying over it, then moving on but still being affected by it. I realized then, I wanted to change this cycle. The people I loved and cared about deeply were NOT seeking professional help, and as much as I love providing encouragement and sound advice, more was needed to be done.
This is when I started a series called Breaking the Cycle. This series touches base on all things mental health! Shortly after, I began my organization called Mental Health Speaks. Mental Health Speaks is a platform that creates a safe space for African Americans. Often times, we shy away from therapy, despite the turmoil and trauma and mental issues we suffer from. We’re taught to sweep things under the rug and eventually you won’t even notice how bad it looks underneath.
Mental Health Speaks breaks those stigmas, myths, and generational curses that have followed the black community for decades. I use this platform to speak up about mental health and bring about awareness within the black community by providing an African American panel of therapists, vendors of black-owned businesses within the Dallas-Fort Worth area, as well as resources, to know your options and where to seek assistance. Therapy isn’t just for the “majority” it is for minorities who want to take care of themselves not only physically, but mentally.
Aside from Mental Health Speaks, I am also the co/founder of Black Canvas alongside my dear friend Cameron Tendaji Johnson, our DJ Gabriel Sheffield, and host Kevin Williams. Black Canvas creates a safe space but caters towards artistry. It is an open mic that allows all types of expressions. We believe in protecting black-owned establishments and providing platforms for free spirits. This allows us to be unapologetically black, bold, and proud.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I would be lying if I said it was easy. There are some days I’m full of positivity, encouragement, and happiness and there are other times where I feel overwhelmed and my patience has left me. All in all, I always remember why I did this in the first place. I’m reminded that God gave me a purpose and I will fulfill it no matter what comes my way.
To the lady who is starting her journey, I say. Be intentional. Be Consistent. Be confident. Know what and who you are doing this for. Know your passion ignites the flame that has to keep burning in order to continue on this road. Never give up! What’s for you will always be for you, BUT you must work and continue working until it transpires. Hold your head up high! Know that YOU DO deserve this! Don’t let anyone put you down or make you feel you deserve anything less!
What do you do, what do you specialize in, what are you known for, etc. What are you most proud of? What sets you apart from others?
I am a speech therapist in pediatrics. I absolutely love all my kids especially the fact I can give them right back to their parents after our session is complete. Haha! I specialize in bringing about mental health awareness within the black community as well as overall wellness. I am known for being an advocate for those who sometimes are too shy or too scared to speak up. My community knows me as Lady of Black canvas as well as Breaking the Cycle series.
I believe we are all uniquely made, but I feel my greatest attributions are dedication, preservation, and tenacity. My genuine and passionate soul is what keeps me going. My sole focus is on my people. I will go through great lengths to make sure we have the resources we need to be healthy physically and mentally. No just isn’t an answer for me.
Often it feels as if the media, by and large, is only focused on the obstacles faced by women, but we feel it’s important to also look for the opportunities. In your view, are there opportunities that you see that women are particularly well-positioned for?
Hmm. I think the media has gotten better about covering more positive roles women play and highlighting those better positions. Women are seriously BOSSING UP. And although, we know they are, sometimes others seem to not understand and we still find ourselves in situations where we have to work twice as hard than our counterparts just to not get a position or to not be given what’s deserved. We are well-positioned for anything we set our minds to.
Contact Info:
- Address: Dallas Texas
- Email: pewhittington22@gmail.com
- Instagram: Btcmentalhealthspeaks
- Facebook: Mental Health Speaks
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