Tonya Klein-Jackson, MA LPC

Vision

Creating a community of positivity and encouragement where safety and respect is paramount is a primary goal at Your Life in Balance as well as how I work at viewing my world every day. Yes, I said ‘work at’. I believe we are all a work in progress, trying to become the best versions of ourselves. 

For far too long women have been their own worst enemies. We have beaten ourselves up with negative self-talk and have let the nasty four-letter word “CAN’T” play on repeat in our heads. I too have been guilty of allowing that word to pop up like a mean girl shouting at me from inside, fueling my own insecurities. 

It is not an easy thing to simply tell the outside and the inside voices to be quiet. These words and phrases didn’t start yesterday and many have sadly become apart of us. My hope is that we can work together to help you become stronger than those voices and reclaim your self-confidence and build a self-esteem that you have ownership of; created by your more positive outlook of your world.

I began my career as a Social Worker and later became a Therapist. Although I have enjoyed all of my coursework and time in school, I never learned in a textbook or lecture what I learned from those I met and continue to meet with, through face-to face interactions. Although I continue to further my continuing education in various areas, nothing will replace human engagement and listening to others. I love my time with family, friends and those I work with however I enjoy my alone time as well. Life is too short to not enjoy the moments we are given with others as well as the time we have, to reflect and enjoy time with ourselves. It is about creating balance and finding where your comfort level is, in your life. Everyone is different in what makes them happy and fulfilled in their interactions with others. Focus on what makes you feel happy and motivated and not on feelings of obligation and guilt. At Your Life in Balance, we can work on those uncomfortable feelings of guilt, shame and obligation in close relationships including difficulties communicating and asserting thoughts and feelings. 

Looking for fulfillment in life is tough and can be a lifelong endeavor for some. It can be scary to think about for many, to a point where it is never ventured even in a whisper. Too many are concerned about the thoughts of others, the effect their dreams and ambitions may have on those in their lives, therefore they do not move forward. All too often, people do not seek out what makes them happy or brings them joy. Think about that for a minute. What makes you happy and brings you joy? So many do not give themselves a minute. 60 Seconds. To think about that question and allow their mind to just simply wonder because of concern for various things, people and everything other than ‘how would this make me feel and where could I be if I allowed myself to do this?’ If you allow yourself to be happy and pursue what brings you joy, could the things that bring you concern for pursuing your dream fall into place in a positive way, no longer bringing you cause for concern? This is just one of the areas you may be looking to focus on, however it is just the beginning of a deeper process. It is challenging to reverse your thinking, even for a minute and to think about making a change and giving yourself permission to prioritize yourself and your happiness. I understand. 

I took a huge leap in starting Your Life in Balance. It was scary. I was going to elaborate in that last sentence but there was no need. In fact, I should have put it in Vegas flashing neon sign text. It is still scary. My hope is that this is the best decision and that I can navigate Social Media and online platforms like a (semi) pro lol. I am candid, use humor and honesty, am unfiltered and kind. I am comfortable admitting my flaws and learning ways to work through them. Now, finding the right plan of action for me, just like you, is one of the tough parts. That’s where we get to work together to find the right steps, with the program that works for you to feel your best self. We all need someone in our corner rooting us on and helping us stay on track. That someone who walks along with you on this journey, to help hold you accountable with provided support and guidance while offering understanding and instruction. I have been an Independently Licensed Therapist and Coach for several years working in outpatient and inpatient environments. I love learning and have specializations in various areas. My goal is to continue to pursue more continuing education as my interests grow and the needs arise for those I work with. My goal is that Your Life in Balance can reach those looking for a community of support, motivation and wellness for both individuals and couples where judgment and negativity are left at the door.