Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylor Scott.
Hi Taylor, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I am born and raised in Dayton, OH. I graduated a valedictorian with an associate’s degree from my local high school, but I definitely navigated some adversity through my childhood. I always wished for a savior, someone to see the light in me and help me through the issues I was dealing with. I knew I wanted to help people, and thought about doing that in Nursing. I learned as I navigated my studies however that Nursing wasn’t the way that I wanted to help. I wanted to assist people before crisis and help them walk through healthier ways to navigate their daily issues. I heard about social work, and immediately changed my major.
I was interested in working with children and families, similar to myself. I completed both a Bachelor’s of Science in Social Work and a Bachelor’s of Science in Sociology from Wilberforce University. I became a member of a sorority that focuses on Social Action and a focus on the advancement of the black community, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. I began to work within the Child Protective Services sector and decided to complete my Master’s of Social Work at Case Western Reserve University. I again focused my studies on the youth and family sector of Social Work, with a specific focus on the clinical aspect of my profession. Thankfully my field placement was a Black woman who was a clinical therapist and very endowed in the field. She taught me a lot about how to help anyone in a marginalized group find their voice and navigate their issues.
I have been in the field now going on two years and it is the most fulfilling role I’ve ever been in. I am licensed in both TN and OH. I moved to Memphis, TN with my husband and currently see clients through Appleseeds. I am also an adjunct professor in the Behavioral and Social Science Division at LeMoyne-Owen College. I am always accepting new clients and love helping others work through empowering themselves to change. Although my upbringing was a bit hectic, I am so thankful to be called to this profession.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I think one of the biggest challenges would be navigating diagnosis and grief for marginalized communities. To be honest, the mental health space has gaps in that area. As an African American woman, I have to be very trauma informed with my clients. I understand that their symptoms may actually be trauma induced instead of being an imbalance that needs medication to correct. I have to be comfortable in challenging any prior diagnosis upon my assessment of their lives and symptoms. Many of my clients state their previous therapist ignored symptoms or narratives that they give as they tell their stories, often missing critical information that could lead to a much more appropriate and less restrictive diagnosis. As I advance in my career, I plan to get a JD but also my DSW (Doctorate in Social Work). Both of these degrees, plus my experience, will allow me to advocate for policy that would advance the work in the mental health crisis for our minority population. It will also allow me to advocate for my clients through research, effective and necessary for the field.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am currently a Behavioral Health Consultant for GRO Community in Ohio, I am a therapist with dual licensure in both OH and TN at Appleseeds in Memphis, TN and lastly I am an adjunct professor in the Behavioral and Social Sciences Division at LeMoyne-Owen College.
I’m beyond proud of all the opportunities I have to advance my skills as a Social Worker, but most importantly I’m proud of the impact I’ve had on my clients. There is nothing more fulfilling than making a breakthrough in the life of a client who thought it wasn’t possible. Being able to see them, hear them, and provide space for them is fuel for me. I think what sets me apart is not my education or experience, but my ability to be flexible. I understand that I do not have all of the answers, and I’ll forever be a student in the profession of Social Work. I believe in person-centered therapy, where the client tells me who and what they need to in order to reach their goals, versus providing a restrictive clinical setting. I think flexibility is a super power and I think it is a blessing to possess.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
My Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He gets all of the glory for the ways he has allowed me to grow individually and in my profession.
I have mentors that I have to thank for the way they’ve supported me through out my career, so shout out to Maleka James and Dr. Terra Fox Williams. My best friends Jaizane and Alexis. My past and current supervisors, my sorority sisters, colleagues and family members. Special shout out to my husband, LaMar. We’re an amazing team and I’m so blessed to have his support and protection.
They see me. They hear me. They celebrate me when I can’t and don’t wish to celebrate myself. They help be a sounding board for all my crazy ideas and support me when the tank runs empty. I’m so thankful for them. When I make it, Chanel bags for everybody!
Pricing:
- Pricing differs upon insurance type. Please consult with Appleseeds for Insurance verification.
- Available for speaking engagements and workshops. Price varies.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.appleseedsmemphis.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teetheshrink/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-scott-msw-lsw-21802a1a4/
