Meet Jacqueline Blue | Licensed Psychologist

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

Hi Jacqueline, how do you think about risk?
I do believe in the saying, “no risk, no reward” in many matters of life. In my practice this is no different. I never dreamed of opening a practice- I had visions of working as a university college counseling director. However, life took me in a different direction and I had no choice but to take a risk and start my practice. I did it quite safely initially as it was on the side while I worked full time as a counselor in a private school. After eight years though, I came face to face with the fact that I needed to make a choice between my growing practice and continuing to work full time as a school counselor. I was beyond scared of what it would look like to go into my private practice full time and yet, I took the leap. I knew it would be best for my family to be my own boss and create my own hours. This risk has paid off handsomely and I feel balanced and fulfilled as a business owner and mother.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am a psychologist and I work with adolescents, adults and couples. I consider myself a generalist as I work with mood disorders, anxiety, relationship issues and concerns, divorce and many other life circumstances. I think my prior work in universities and schools helps with teens and young adults as they navigate the next stage in their lives. I think my sense of humor and down to earth nature tend to put my clients at ease and help set the stage for what our relationship will become as we work together. I am proud of the fact that my practice started out as an idea I had after the birth of my first daughter and grew into a thriving business over the years through word of mouth. It has all felt so natural as it unfolded that sometimes I forget I am business owner.

I never imagined myself as a solo practitioner in private practice, yet I have found myself loving the experience so much. My practice has allowed me to be both a better psychologist and member of my family, as my time is more balanced between work and family now.

The most important lesson I think I have learned about my journey is patience. The nature of my work is that clients come and go as they work towards their goals. Sometimes I find myself having a lighter week than normal and in the past I would start to become anxious and worry that the business is faltering. I now have a better sense of confidence in what I have created and know this is to be expected and my following weeks will prove to be more full. The patience I have cultivated for myself and for my practice throughout this process, help me know there are ebbs and flows in a business and a knee jerk reaction isn’t what is needed.

If I had to choose a second lesson, it is the importance of having a community to turn to when I need to consult about a case. We do not exist in a bubble and it is important to allow ourselves to ask for help and guidance when we need it. My mentors, supervisors and colleagues have helped me tremendously throughout my career.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
My idea of fun today is far different than it was 20 years ago! Today I would likely take my best friend to the Pinecrest Farmer’s Market on Sunday and show them all the great local vendors we have to choose from. I would make sure to take them to one of my favorite breakfast spots, Le Crepe Bistro in South Miami. Hopefully the visit would coincide with the Beaux Arts Festival in January at the University of Miami and we would stroll through campus while looking at all the beautiful art on display. I would be sure to take them to see Fairchild Gardens to take in the stunning natural landscape. Finally, I would spend a day into evening in Coconut Grove strolling, shopping and stopping in one of the many amazing restaurants to choose from.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My shoutout is dedicated to my husband Brandon. He began supporting me as I started my doctorate and never stopped. After getting married, he immediately left his career and came with me to Charlotte for my internship. Upon returning to Florida, he championed me and continues to do so in all of my career choices. While I was working full time and had my practice on the side, he was super Dad to our girls. He continues to be an incredible father and partner and fully supports me and cheers on all of my decisions. I would not be where I am without him.

Website: https://www.psychologyblue.com

Instagram: @psychologyblue