We’re looking forward to introducing you to Shontell Williams. Check out our conversation below.
Shontell, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
The first 90 minutes of each day I dedicate to myself. My schedule is very hectic, and sometimes chaotic. Therefore, I have to start my morning considering me and my own mental health. My morning routine includes gospel music to first get me in a good headspace, a warm relaxing shower, and a quick review of my schedule to determine everything I have to do for that day. Writing down my daily task has been a gem because it helps me stay organized and it allows me to manage my time more effectively. Another thing I like to do in the morning is open up my windows to allow sun light and fresh air in. To be honest, I work from home and there maybe days where I spend 22 of my 24 hours in doors. It’s imperative that I allow the sun to touch my skin because it grounds me. Each day the sunshine, I am made aware that I am here with purpose and this allow me to go about my day minimal stress, no worries and optimism.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Shontell. Some people call me Shon, some people call me Telly, but regardless of what name you know me by, I am easily identified by my character, my determination and my heart. I describe myself as a mother, a counselor and an entrepreneur. Driven by passion and love, I want to see everyone winning and successful.
In choosing a profession, it was important to me that my work aligned with who I am as a person and even more, that it aligns with my purpose. I consider my a healer and a helper, thus it only makes sense that I occupy a position that allows me to do both. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in the state of Florida and also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. I teach independence as well as provide tools needed to overcome and illicit change.
My brand TellyCares is an extension of my heart to the world. Currently, I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and groups. My personal clinical focus includes anxiety, depression, adjustment to life transitions, career counseling and chronic illness/ disabilities. I am also versed in working with couples, men, and those of the LGBTQ community. I strive to provide a safe space for my clients as we work through their concerns.
I am the owner and sole operator of TellyCares but my intentions are to grow my company in numbers and in services. While presently I only offer therapy services, eventually I want to provide mentoring services, vocational services, case management and disability services. With God’s will, I also want to staff other Mental Health Counselors and Rehabilitation counselors. I want TellyCares to be a resource to the community.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My relationship with my kids has had the biggest impact on how I see myself. Being a mother is one of the hardest jobs I’ve ever had to fulfilled because not only have I had to learn to navigate my own feelings, needs and wants, but I’ve had to do so while also supporting and guiding those of my children. Motherhood has definitely helped me recognize my strength and my ability to love wholeheartedly. It is because of my relationship with my children that I have learned resilience, patience, and perseverance.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes. There were moments I felt completely drained— juggling school, work, and motherhood with no safety net. Times when the bills piled up, the exhaustion was crushing, and I questioned if I could keep going. But every time I came close to giving up, I looked at my children and remembered why I started. Quitting was never truly an option—just a passing thought in a tired mind.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that above all else, what matters most to me are my children and protecting my peace. My kids are my reason—every decision I make and every step I take is with them in mind. They are the center of my world, and their well-being drives me to keep pushing forward. At the same time, I’ve learned that my happiness and peace are just as important, because they give me the strength, clarity, and energy to be the best mother I can be. For me, protecting my peace isn’t selfish—it’s essential, because it allows me to show up fully for them and for myself.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
I believe that my clients will miss my support and encouragement. As a therapist, I pride myself in being able to support my clients through their hardships. I am empathetic, and non-judgmental. I listen to my clients, and I hear all of the pain, frustration and confusion. I encourage my client to heal, to release to restore and to progress. The majority of my clients sought my services because they were in need of these things. Therefore, I know that if they miss anything about me, it’ll definitely be my support and encouragement.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mytellycares.com
- Instagram: @tellycares
- Facebook: @ TellyCares, LLC
Image Credits
Kenneth Lamor Headshots & Branding
