Today we’d like to introduce you to Eliyah Hightower.
Hi Eliyah, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’ve always had a desire to go into a helping profession. When I was a kid I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian, doctor, or teacher because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. As I got older I was introduced to the field of counseling, and it felt like the perfect fit. It offered the opportunity to support people through some of the most challenging and meaningful moments in their lives. Getting to this point has definitely been a long journey, but I truly love the work that I do. It’s an honor and a privilege to have people trust me with their stories.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Along this journey, I’ve worked through a lot of self-doubt, learned to trust my voice as a therapist, and believe in my ability to help others even in moments when I questioned myself. Getting to where I am today has required me to step outside of my comfort zone and challenge myself in ways I didn’t expect, but those experiences ultimately shaped my confidence, compassion, and the way I show up for others. I’m very grateful for the support, encouragement, and the people who have believed in me along the way. I’ve been lucky to have some really great mentors.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m currently one of the Assistant Clinical Directors of DFW and Lead Therapist at Arise Recovery Centers, an adult outpatient addiction treatment facility for substance use, where I provide both individual and group therapy. We just recently opened our 12th location, located in Rockwall. We have several locations in the DFW, Austin, and Houston areas. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Addiction comes in many forms and does not discriminate. There is help available and counselors such as myself who can provide support, listen non-judgmentally, and help you during this time.
In my work, I utilize Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. I have a strong passion for supporting clients navigating substance use concerns and this is a primary area I’m specializing in. Prior to my current role, I have also treated clients at a university counseling center and served as a survivor advocate for student survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Life is full of ups and downs, and navigating those moments can feel incredibly overwhelming and lonely, especially for people experiencing mental health challenges. My own experiences with mental health played a big role in why I chose this field. They created a deep desire to provide a space where my clients feel safe, understood, not judged, and reminded that they’re not alone. I want my clients to know they are more than a label or diagnosis, and that the strength they’re searching for is already within them.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I like best about the city is the culture and diversity. There are so many people to meet from different walks of life, each with their own unique experiences. I also like the wide variety of activities, restaurants, and cuisines to choose from. Over the last few years, exploring the area and trying new things has become one of my favorite hobbies. It’s also been really fun having access to so many concerts and comedy shows. Before moving here things like that definitely required more planning and now they’re basically in my backyard!
What I like the least about the city is definitely the traffic. I’m from a small town where traffic was almost non-existent and you could get almost anywhere in 15 minutes or less, so adjusting to driving in the DFW area has definitely been an experience. Let’s just say my GPS and I have become very close.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ariserecoverycenters.com/
- Other: 888-339-2747
Image Credits
988 image credits: https://www.grapevinetexas.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=961&ARC=2076
