Seleni Spotlight: Nneka Symister, LCSW

April 2020 - Nneka Symister, LCSW, is an experienced therapist specializing in helping women and couples who suffer with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. In her work, Ms. Symister uses multiple techniques to best serve her clients, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, interpersonal therapy and mindfulness.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I  specialize in helping women and couples who suffer with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, miscarriage and loss. In my work, I use multiple techniques to best serve my clients, including cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, interpersonal therapy and mindfulness.

What motivates you to work in this field?

After years of working with people with all types of diagnoses, I decided to specifically work with perinatal diagnoses when realizing the huge deficit in mental health awareness and services for women and men  who suffer from these disorders.  Also as a POC, I understand the necessity in having someone that understands the culture and the awful effects of the black maternal health crisis. 

What excites you most about being part of the Seleni family?

Not only do we all have the same passion for serving this population, each clinician offers a level of expertise that we can all utilize and learn from.  

Working in mental health can be emotionally tiring.  How do you practice self care?

It is important for me to set boundaries by having a strict end time to my day. I make room for all parts of my life and  engage in qigong daily.

What is your favorite thing to do to wind down the day? 

Quiet time. My favorite thing to do is to disconnect. I will use that time to be still, journal, or read a book. 

What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?

Be still and be patient. When life is chaotic or I feel overwhelmed, I remember to be still and be patient.  I remind myself that life is not constant and is forever changing, so be patient. 

What’s a quote that you care with you to uplift yourself?

The quote I use to uplift myself is " a woman with a voice by definition is a strong woman".  It is a reminder that I have a voice and agency over my life. 

—

For more information about Nneka Symister, LMSW, learn more here.