Today we’d like to introduce you to Donald Lewis.
Hi Donald, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised in Polk County, Fl right about 45 minutes to an hour away from Tampa. I grew up in a single-parent household with my mother and three sisters until the age of 16 when my mother remarried. I was always considered “wise beyond my years,” so therapy was something that came naturally to me. I also have a desire to help those who are in need of mental and spiritual wellness. I completed my undergraduate work at the University of South Florida (Go Bulls!) with a Bachelors of Science in Behavioral Healthcare and my graduate work at Walden University with a Masters of Social Work in Advance Clinical Practice. I am currently a Registered Clinical Social Worker with the state of Florida and work as a primary therapist for an alcohol and drug abuse treatment in which I have been for the past 5 years. I also work in private practice as well and am looking to start my own in the near future.
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?
Certainly not! I’ve faced various struggles along my journey including not finishing my bachelors degree until around age 27 or 28, and not officially becoming a therapist until around age 35. Trying to balance life all while pursuing your dreams is definitely not for the weak.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As a profession I am a Registered Clinical Social Worker practicing as a therapist.
I specialize in a variety of things including substance abuse, relationships, self-improvement, and men/women’s mental health to name a few.
I am most proud of the transition I have made from a life of poverty as a youth to developing into the man I’ve always wanted to be.
What sets me apart is being an African-American male working in a female dominant industry. I think having a “male perspective,” particularly a “black male,” perspective on mental health is important and much needed.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
Online services for sure as in most industry
Pricing:
- $100- for individual sessions
- $150- couples session
- We do accept insurance
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.1choicecounseling.com/
- Instagram: @donald_lewis863
