How did you come up with your business concept? What inspired you to start your own business?
I was inspired by a deep desire to provide psychological services for people of the Global Majority. When I began practicing independently in 2015, there was still a considerable amount of mental health stigma within communities of color. Starting the business gave me the autonomy to create a healing and transformation space that is rooted in values specific to Black, Brown, and Indigenous culture.
Kimberly Burdine, Licensed Psychologist, Owner & Founder of Kimberly Burdine Psychological Services & Consulting
What’s your background? Could you tell us how each of these disciplines emerge in your work?
I am a licensed psychologist and earned a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology. Prior to becoming a psychologist I was a school counselor and mathematics teacher. I love providing workshops and training connected to destigmatizing mental health concerns for Black, Brown, and Indigenous folks. I also view therapy as personal learning and development, so the therapeutic relationship feels much like an intimate teaching experience for me.
What led you to take your work from an idea to pursuing it as a business?
I actually never thought that I would own a private practice. I love teaching and learning, and being in academia felt like home. After some soul searching, I realized that my services could reach more people through an independent practice. I also wanted to provide care that was rooted in values of healing and liberation, and I am able to do that unapologetically as a business owner.
What’s your favorite thing about your workspace?
My business is 100% virtual, and I love being able to work from home. My office is definitely a reflection of the work I do and the communities that I serve. It is colorful, soothing, and aesthetic. It’s also warm and inviting, even though I’m the only person who is physically in the space.
Do you have a personal and/or professional motto or mantra that you call upon during tough times? What is it and what does it mean to you?
This is less of a mantra and more of a way of being, but I firmly believe in the power of authenticity and make effort to model that. Whether in an individual session or leading a workshop, I express myself with vulnerability and transparency. I am also very clear about my values and use them as a guide, especially when I’m faced with big decisions.
How do you pick back up on moving your business forward when perhaps feeling uninspired?
I am still learning how to ride the waves as an entrepreneur, so this question is a challenge for me. So far, I have leaned into my community and trust the process. A good majority of my friends are also healers and educators, so I also get lots of free consultation and support from them. Ask me again in five years?!
What have you gained so far from being a part of the AccelerateHER cohort?
One of the main takeaways from AccelerateHER is recognizing how little I know about being an entrepreneur, which has been exciting and scary. Fortunately, I love learning and have appreciated the diversity of topics and resources that the program is providing. It is truly life changing, and I can look forward to the next five years of business ownership knowing that I have a community of women and femme entrepreneurs to depend on.
Name a woman or gender expansive individual, past or present, whom you admire or look up to. Why?
I deeply admire Dr. Enedelia Sauceda, a dear friend and colleague who happens to serve on the executive board for Pridenton. We share identities as queer, femme, healers and educators of color. I appreciate the ways that they have modeled expanding their lens and impact to include community building and advocacy. I hope to have similar involvement at the local level in years to come, and Dr. Sauceda has provided an incredible blueprint.