Today we’d like to introduce you to Tierra Starks.
Hi Tierra , so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born in Germany and raised as a military child, which meant my family moved almost every 18 months. Constantly adjusting to new environments, schools, and people shaped me in ways I didn’t fully understand until adulthood. Being the “new girl” so often came with its own challenges academically, socially, and emotionally. I experienced bullying for my height and the gap in my teeth I received my growth spurt very early lol and I often felt out of place. There were moments where I struggled to make friends or feel a sense of belonging, and I even attended my senior prom alone.
Despite these experiences, I was blessed with a loving and supportive family. My father served in the military for the majority of my life, including during 9/11, and my mother held our family together through all the transitions. Their strength and love grounded me. My faith in God carried me even when I didn’t have the words to express what I was going through.
As I entered adulthood, I faced heartbreak, personal losses, and situations that could have hardened me, yet they didn’t. Instead, they softened me, deepened my empathy, and taught me the importance of boundaries, healing, and grace. Every experience, even the painful ones, pushed me toward understanding people on a deeper level.
That is what led me to pursue my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I realized that everything I lived through wasn’t random; it was preparation. Today, I’m committed to helping others heal, especially those who feel unseen, misunderstood, or spiritually disconnected. I integrate faith and mental health because, for me, God has always been at the center of my resilience.
My journey hasn’t been perfect, but it has been purposeful. And I believe that the very things that once made me feel different are the same things that now allow me to connect, support, and inspire others.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Growing up as a military child meant constantly moving and having to start over socially and academically. I faced bullying at a young age, struggled to fit in, and often felt like the “new girl” everywhere I went. As I got older, I navigated heartbreak, personal trauma, and moments where I questioned my worth and direction.
But through all of it, my faith kept me grounded. Every challenge taught me resilience, empathy, and compassion qualities that guide me now as I work toward becoming a mental health counselor. The road wasn’t easy, but it shaped my purpose.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m currently earning my master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and I’m passionate about helping people heal emotionally and spiritually. I also volunteer in my community, which allows me to support others in meaningful and personal ways.
What I’m most proud of is turning my own challenges into purpose. What sets me apart is the compassion and faith I bring into everything I do, I lead with empathy, authenticity, and a genuine desire to make people feel seen, supported, and understood.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
A few resources really help me stay grounded and do my best. I love reading books that strengthen my faith and emotional growth, anything that combines spiritual wisdom with personal development. I also enjoy listening to mental health and relationship podcasts that encourage self-awareness and healing.
For daily routines, I use apps like the Bible app for devotionals and guided readings, and I follow a few uplifting blogs that focus on wellness, purpose, and faith. These resources keep me centered, inspired, and focused on becoming the best version of myself, both for my future clients and for my own personal journey.
