August Clinician Spotlight: Jacklyn Byrd (they/she)
In the spirit of compassion and reclaiming, we have launched a new blog series to highlight our clinicians! We give ourselves and each other continuous compassion – and see each other's humanity. We also value a visionary mindset – a go-getter, who dreams big and gets creative. An individual who values disrupting the systems we exist within, and believes the world has to look different.
With that said, August’s Clinician Spotlight is Jacklyn Byrd, LPC, NCC (they/she)!
Tell us a little bit about yourself!
My name is Jacklyn, and I am the Assistant Clinical Director, and a therapist at Grounded Wellbeing (GWB). I am a white queer transfeminine professional counselor licensed in the state of Georgia with experience working with adolescents and adults. I enjoy working with individuals who are queer, trans, neurodiverse, polyamorous, and/or chronically ill who are curious about addressing the ways that trauma may be showing up in their lives and relationships. I am motivated to serve my community by merging my clinical expertise and lived experience. This looks like a focus on work with trans people. I believe strongly that trans clients deserve trans clinicians.
When did you first know that you wanted to pursue this career path/how have your interests and passions developed over time?
I took AP Psychology in high school and was first exposed to the idea of becoming a therapist. At the time, my passions laid within the arts and I chose to focus on honing my skills as a dancer. After a lot of soul-searching and encouragement from mentors and community, I finally took the leap about 7 years ago! It is truly lovely to integrate the parts of me that love to dance with the parts that are honored to be of service to others, as a therapist specialized in somatics.
Do you have any creative outlets or interests? Tell us about them!
Dance has been a part of my life for almost as long as I have been living. While I don't get to move often, being a dancer is a mindset and not just a label. I hope the rest of the year and beyond gives me time to move, create, and dream when I am not working with clients or supporting the team here at Grounded Wellbeing.
Which of GWB’s values do you feel connected to? Why?
Compassion! I love working in an environment where we see each other as humans first. Compassion is one of my personal values that inspired me to work at GWB. I believe in the power of compassion as the first step of change!
What is your go-to coffee or tea order?
I love a dirty chai (chai latte + espresso shot(s)) with all my heart and soul!
Is there anything else you want to share with us?
Feel free to check out my bio to learn more about me, or schedule a time to connect!