Meet Montez Thomasson | License Clinical Social Worker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Montez Thomasson and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Montez, how does your business help the community or the world?
Many of the people I work with have stated that they specifically want therapy from a black owned counseling service. I believe that they feel a black therapist could better relate to their cultural experiences. Additionally, the impact my business has within my community is the sheer fact that most of my clientele are the first individuals in their families to seek professional therapy, in an attempt to break generational curses. As mental health treatment has become less stigmatized within our community, This Too Shall Pass Counseling has the potential to have a far greater impact on more than just my immediate surroundings. My dream for my business and the people we serve is to help heal and uplift the black community as a whole.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My counseling style, how I engage with and relate to my clients, is very unique to the person that I am. As with anyone, I believe what sets me apart is the fact that no one else in the world thinks of and executes a plan the way that I would. My ability to be personable and judgement-free creates an environment of acceptance. I think many people just want to be accepted for who they are and feel a sense of belonging. I got to where I am today with my business by taking it one step at a time. My counseling service may be new to some, but this dream has been years in the making. The biggest hurdle to overcome was simply getting started. I experienced self-doubt and would make excuses for why I should not bother with this. Like many of my clients, I almost let fear prevent me from walking in my truth. Even though I am proud to say that I finally took that leap of faith, some more tangible obstacles I have had to overcome included: late nights doing research, learning about how to brand my business, working with contractors who don’t understand my vision, and navigating the financial responsibility of being a business owner. This Too Shall Pass Counseling is more than a catchy name or play on words. What I want the world to know about my brand and our story is that patience and perseverance are key to getting through even the toughest challenges. While it may be hard to see at first, just remember while you’re in the midst of the storm, that this too shall pass.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I hardly know where to begin with questions about things to do and places to see. If I had to narrow down my suggestions I would recommend a few restaurants and of course the sunny beaches. Prohibition Miami is an upscale restaurant that is speakeasy themed as the name suggests, and plays jazz music. The ambiance and cuisine were top notch, and it is centrally located in the heart of Miami. Beaker and Gray (Miami) is an eatery and bar room that has put an interesting spin on using a beaker to mix drinks and a signature gray spoon plating technique. A dear friend introduced me to this place. As a therapist I really appreciate how they prioritize staff morale in a way that is evident in their customer service, they seem happy to be there. Of course as a native Floridian, I have to recommend “the beach”. While some people want to cross the infamous South Beach off of their travel list, I personally prefer the intimacy of visiting Fort Lauderdale Beach and Dania Beach because they have much smaller crowds (unless there is a special event or a holiday weekend). And lastly, for a little wholesome nighttime fun and excitement I would recommend Top Golf in North Miami.

So, is there a person, group, organization, book, etc. that you want to dedicate your shoutout to? Who else deserves a little credit and recognition in your story?
I would like to first and foremost give thanks to my Heavenly Father for all my many blessings. I would also like to shoutout my childhood and current church home— Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, my sorority sisters, my social worker tribe, and of course my family and friends. I always want to stay true to myself. My faith in God has provided me the courage and belief in myself to pursue my calling. My support system gives me advice and the encouragement I need to continue to do the Lord’s work.

Website: https://this2shallpasscounseling.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/this2shallpasscounseling/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/This-Too-Shall-Pass-Counseling-350051819030897

Image Credits
George Duncan- Photography