NaKaisha Tolbert-Banks
NaKaisha Tolbert-Banks, LCSW, LCAC, MAC

I knew at the age of 15 that I wanted to help people. People are energy and I loved the vibe I would get when I volunteered in different capacities as a teenager. There is a need for a social worker in just about any capacity in which you can imagine.

I’m currently the Founder and Owner of D.U.O. EmpowerMEnt Services, a mental health and wellness private practice and life coaching company. I currently serve teenagers and adults and specialize in mental health focusing on minority communities and maternal mental health. I never have the same day twice. Each day presents new and sometimes challenging scenarios. I do what I love every single day.

I’ve met some phenomenal people along my 22-year journey of being a social worker. It’s been nothing short of amazing! I’ve had many accomplishments along the journey. From reunifying families, to aiding in finding forever homes for children, to supporting and advocating for patients in mental health and inpatient settings receiving the quality care and support they need and deserve, to advocating for the mental health and wellness of minority and underserved communities, it has been an honor to serve various communities. I have also enjoyed serving as adjunct faculty and staff at two universities, connecting underserved communities to mental health services, and engaging with media to become more aware of and highlight mental health and wellness as a necessity in our communities.

I’ve served on several local and national boards and councils always advocating for lives of those in our communities. Becoming a two-time published Author of a motivational book and a children’s book was probably one (two) of my biggest personal challenges, yet one of my greatest achievements, as it stretched me to learn way outside of my comfort zone. The work is tough and you may not always be well compensated for the work that you do. But money is NOT everything nor have I ever been hindered from doing what I love in this field because of it.

You may find that you advocate so passionately for a specific cause and it falls short of being supported or programs shut down, or services diminished. This can be frustrating because you see a need that should be met. There are usually not enough hands to meet the demands of the work that needs to be done, so your friends and family become honorary social workers – including children!

My advice is to…do it! Go for it! Never quit! Even though the road may look difficult to travel, do it anyway. If it is tough, put your nose to the grind and keep pushing. Four hands are better than none. So link up with your fellow social work crony and make the best of it. Use what resources you have until you have more, which you may never receive, BUT those you are serving will always benefit from your true, authentic dedication to the cause. Remember to always smile and laugh along the way! Your soul will thank you. Always practice self-care. Enjoy nights out and quiet evenings in. Use your PTO – that’s what it’s there for. Don’t bank on it, because you may never get to utilize it if you don’t take care of yourself. HAVE FUN!!!

Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”  This scripture represents living in the moment and being present in today. Each day in the field will present its own set of challenges and beautiful happenings. Relish in those moments.