Today we’d like to introduce you to Olamide Kolawole.
Hi Olamide, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I left my home country of Nigeria at the age of 19 with dreams of working in the healthcare industry. Moving to the United States provided me with better education and opportunities to achieve this dream.
Upon arriving in the U.S., I faced challenges adjusting to a new culture and environment. However, I persevered and completed my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). This accomplishment opened doors for me, leading me to my first job as a BSN nurse in a mental health facility.
Working in the mental health field exposed me to the complexities of mental health and its profound impact on individuals and their families. I recognized the significant need for more open discussions about mental health within the community and saw an opportunity to make a difference.
This experience inspired me to further my education, so I pursued a master’s degree in psychiatric mental health. I believed that with advanced knowledge and training, I could become an even stronger resource for the mental health community and advocate for mental health needs more effectively.
Throughout my journey, my faith sustained me during challenging times. God orchestrated my path, guiding me towards opportunities that allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Now, with my master’s degree, I am equipped to provide compassionate care and support to those who need it most.
With a deep passion for mental health, I decided to start my own private practice, The OAK Psychiatry, in January 2024. This endeavor allows me to continue being a resource for the community, providing comprehensive and personalized care to individuals seeking mental health support. My journey from Nigeria to the United States and my path in the healthcare industry showcases my determination and faith as I strive to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those I touch.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has not been smooth; I faced several challenges along the way. Balancing work at a mental health facility while pursuing my master’s degree was demanding, especially during the pandemic, which brought unique hurdles such as remote learning and working in a high-stress environment. I took a term off from school to have a baby, and juggling the roles of wife, mother, student, and full-time employee was a challenging balancing act.
Transitioning to a business owner added a new layer of complexity, with the challenges of starting and running a mental health private practice. Navigating the intricacies of being a black-owned mental health practice presented its own set of obstacles, such as breaking barriers and facing potential biases.
Despite these struggles, my perseverance and faith have guided me through each phase of my journey, and I remain committed to providing compassionate care and support to the mental health community.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about The OAK Psychiatry?
The OAK Psychiatry is a mental health private practice dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support for individuals facing mental health disorders. We specialize in the treatment and management of a wide range of mental health conditions and serve patients ages 12 to 60. Our practice is known for its holistic approach, which focuses on the integration of mind and body for overall well-being.
What sets us apart from others is our commitment to personalized care. We understand that every patient’s journey is unique, so we tailor our treatment plans to address each individual’s specific needs and goals. Our team of experienced and compassionate professionals works closely with patients to ensure they receive the support and resources they need to thrive.
At The OAK Psychiatry, we take pride in fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment where patients can feel safe and respected. Our goal is to empower our patients to take control of their mental health and achieve a better quality of life.
We offer a range of services, including therapy and medication management, to address various mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, and more. We also provide education and support to help patients navigate their mental health journey.
One of the aspects we are most proud of brand-wise is our emphasis on community involvement and advocacy. We actively participate in mental health awareness initiatives and work to reduce stigma around mental health. Our goal is to be a resource not only for our patients but also for the broader community.
We want our readers to know that The OAK Psychiatry is here to support them on their path to mental wellness. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or a loved one, our dedicated team is ready to provide compassionate, expert care to help you achieve your mental health goals.
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
Over the next 5-10 years, the mental health industry will experience significant growth and transformation. Telehealth and online therapy will continue to expand, increasing access to care for remote or underserved areas. Advances in technology, such as AI-driven tools and wearable devices, will aid in personalized treatment plans.
There will be a shift towards early intervention and preventative care, including school-based programs and employer wellness initiatives. Public awareness and efforts to reduce stigma will lead to more open conversations about mental health.
A holistic approach that integrates mind and body practices will become more mainstream, while cultural competency and diversity will be key in addressing the unique needs of different communities. Treatment plans will become more personalized, considering genetics, lifestyle, and specific needs. Overall, the focus will shift towards comprehensive and inclusive mental health care.
Contact Info:
- Website: TheOAKPsychiatry.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theoakpsychiatry?igsh=ZGhhc2hlZzd1NWN1&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theoakpsychiatry?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-oak-psychiatry/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@theoakpsychiatry?_t=8jDuleyvcis&_r=1
Image Credits
@aboutfawazphotography
