Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal DeBerry. Them and their team share their story with us below:
Innovator of the Incarcerated to Indomitable App., Dr. DeBerry is the founder of Indomitable Families Affected by Incarceration, Inc., and the owner of DeNovo Clinical Strategies, LLC. Dr. DeBerry is a former prison wife and understands firsthand the aftermath of having a loved one incarcerated. Dr. DeBerry has over 7 years of teaching experience for universities such as The University of Memphis, Union University, and Ole Miss.
Dr. DeBerry obtained a Doctoral of Social Work in 2020 from The University of Southern California, a Masters of Science in Social Work in 2009 from The University of Tennessee, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from The University of Memphis in 2006. Dr. DeBerry brings with her an extensive career and wealth of experience in the field of Social Work and she is making life better for so many. Her interests and skills are centered in Mental Health, Promoting Smart Decarceration, Anger Management, Clinical Supervision, Life Transitions, Life Skills Mentoring, Individual, Group, and Family Therapy.
She brings a wealth of knowledge from having conducted trauma groups for clients diagnosed with PTSD or other similar symptoms related to witnessing violence, extremely stressful situations, and/or being a survivor of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. She is a mother of five and enjoys dancing, gardening, studying her genealogy, and traveling.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Definitely not a smooth road! “It’s had tacks in it, and splinters, And boards were torn up, And places with no carpet on the floor— Bare. Langston Hughes/Mother to Son. I immediately thought of this verse from Hughes’s poem. Having to manage my personal life, raise five children, and grow two agencies has been challenging, but when God gives you a vision you turn your life into a bold faith walk!
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
In 2014, I birthed Indomitable Women of Incarcerated Men Indomitable Families Affected by Incarceration is a 501c3 non-profit most notable for hosting free group therapy sessions for individuals and families affected by incarceration. While my husband was imprisoned, I began hosting support socials for women who were in similar situations.
As the organization expanded we began providing services for the entire family. Mental health is just as important as physical health. Offering free group therapy sessions offers the opportunity to build a network of support, discuss re-entry obstacles in a confidential space, and learn of local resources available to assist with the acclimation process. Currently, I am developing a 12-18 month clinical program in which the Incarcerated to Indomitable app will be utilized. The app encompasses a gamification component that will increase mental health engagement for those returning from prison.
As the member completes the program they will earn points redeemable for items such as grooming services, transportation, groceries, housing, and an automobile. Due to my social work background and being a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in June 2019, I started DeNovo Clinical Strategies, LLC a state-licensed outpatient mental health agency.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Professionally, I became comfortable servicing my clients despite not being able to meet with them face to face. Personally, I am learning to be vulnerable and trust God on another level not like before. My scripture since COVID-19 is Isaiah 43:18-19.
Contact Info:
- Email: Indomitablewomen@gmail.com
- Website: www.ifam14.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indomitablewomen/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IWIMINC
- Twitter: @indomitablewom
Image Credits
B.Willmadeit and Patrick C Photography
