Meet Ana Newman | Mental Health Therapist & Life Coach

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

Hi Ana, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
I define success as living a life guided by my values. My top 5 values are Adventure, Contribution, Freedom, Spirituality and Courage. I started my mental health and wellness business out of a desire to have all of those values be more prioritized in my life. Many people might see business as a risk but I see it as an adventure with ups and downs and exciting turns along the way. It gives me the ability to contribute to society and the world in a way that I believe is meaningful. I have the freedom to try new things creatively and professionally and be there for the people in my life the way I want to. My spiritual relationship with Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior, has been the biggest influence in my life both professionally and personally and having my own business, allows me to explore the intersection between spirituality and wellness way more than I ever could before. Lastly, it pushes me to be more courageous and show up in ways that challenge me and cause me to grow. For me starting a business, helped me align my life with my values but everyone no matter what they do can do the same thing. I think that we often tie success to just material wealth or status or accomplishments but for me I believe that is actually a byproduct of living a life in alignment with who you are and what you believe in. That is my definition of success!

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I have a mental health and wellness business that focuses on helping women not just survive but thrive mind, body and spirit. What sets me apart I believe is my holistic view on wellness which is why I love positive psychology because it is all about what makes us well and not ill. My whole goal is to help others be who they want to be and live a life that is in alignment with their values. As a Christian, I also don’t shy away from incorporating the spiritual element into my practice because I do believe it is an essential part of our overall wellness. I am most proud and humbled by the impact I have been able to make through my business in the lives of others, but as I always say most of the credit goes to the client and I am just the guide! It truly never gets old to see how peoples lives changed, it is so rewarding! I am so excited about continuing to help women not only one on one but in bigger platforms through media, speaking and other avenues!

There were challenges along the way both personally and financially. At first, I had to build up confidence in myself and believe I was good enough to do this because I started my business not too long after I finished graduate school so I definitely struggled with ‘imposter syndrome’. How I overcame this was through the loving encouragement of God and the people in my life and recognizing that I didn’t want fear to guide my life but my dreams and values to guide it. Starting any business takes financial risk, so I had to work a job first, while I built it on the side and saved every penny I made until I was able to build enough of a cushion to go into it full time and even when I did, it took some time before it started doing well financially. What I learned through these challenges is that you must have faith and believe it can work out even if it takes some time and you must take consistent action in making it happen. I remember reaching out and networking with other therapists which ended up being a huge blessing that led to referrals and host of other opportunities. I also sought mentorship and advice and implemented the feedback given to me. I want the world to know that no matter what obstacles you may face, you can overcome them with hard work, faith and the help of others!

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
South Florida is huge so the sights are endless to see which is one of the reasons I love living here. Lets assume all this is post-pandemic! I would probably take them to one of the many awesome beaches on the coast like Ft. Lauderdale Beach, Pompano Beach, or Hollywood Beach. I would also definitely take them to see the art deco district on South Beach and then we could have dinner and a fun night out dancing to Spanish music at the famous restaurant/nightclub ‘Mango’s Tropical Cafe’ owned by Gloria Estefan. This would personally be one of my favorites because I love dancing to salsa and bachata music and I have met many awesome people this way! For outdoor fun, we could go to the Everglades and check out Billy Swamp Safari or go Paddle Boarding in Ft Lauderdale, or go to one of the many parks such as Markham Park that has a lot of running and biking trails. We would also have to check the Hard Rock Hotel which is famous for its guitar like design and see a show or concert there, eat at one of the many restaurants like Kuro and then probably end the night at the rooftop lounge with the amazing view and music! Lets not forget the endless restaurants on the water, one of my personal favorites for brunch, is Shooters Waterfront. No matter what you do, you will probably end up having fun in South Florida!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Initially, I wanted to be a lawyer but God had different plans, so I wouldn’t be here without God who gave me this calling in the first place and encouraged me to walk by faith and not by sight. My mom has always been and continues to be the biggest role model in my life. Being a psychiatrist herself, she mentored me every step of the way and gave me my first job fresh out of graduate school in her mental health center. I will forever be grateful for all that I learned about business and the mental health field during that time together and since starting my own business she has been nothing but supportive always willing to give a listening ear to my questions, concerns or ideas. My amazing husband, Selvin, has been a huge support along my journey always encouraging me to dream big dreams and take big risks! I am incredibly thankful for the constant encouragement he has given me as well as his willingness to make some sacrifices along the way so I could pursue my goals. I also must mention my father who was very supportive from the start and was there for me especially during the initial building stages of my business journey. He never seeks attention or the limelight but I must also give him credit for where I am today! Without God, my mom and dad, and my incredible partner in life, Selvin, I would not be where I am today, it was a definitely a team effort.

Website: www.anainesnewman.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anainesnewman/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anainesnewman/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anainesnewman

Image Credits
Charissa Bacon