Meet Jill Lees | Women’s Mental Health Therapist & Reiki Practitioner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jill Lees and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jill, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As a mental health therapist who identifies as a female entrepreneur, my journey to starting my own business was deeply personal and driven by a desire for flexibility, autonomy, and alignment with my values.

I was searching for a career that allowed me the flexibility to design my own schedule. In traditional settings, I often felt constrained by rigid hours and policies that didn’t accommodate the diverse needs of my clients or my own lifestyle. I wanted to create a space where I could offer support in a way that felt authentic to me.

Choosing to work specifically with women was also a significant factor. I believe in the power of tailored therapeutic approaches, and I wanted to focus on a population that resonates with my experiences and values. Working with women allows me to connect on a deeper level and address issues that are often overlooked in conventional settings.

I also wanted the freedom to incorporate therapeutic techniques that are meaningful to me, such as energy psychology. These methods may not always be embraced in traditional environments, but they resonate with my holistic approach to mental health. I find that they can be incredibly transformative for my clients, and having the autonomy to use these techniques has been a game-changer in my practice.

Financial independence was another important consideration. I wanted to ensure that my work was not only fulfilling but also compensated appropriately. By running my own business, I have the opportunity to set my rates and ensure that I am compensated for the value I provide.

Creating an environment where I can fully express my personality—whether through humor, warmth, or my unique therapeutic style—has been essential. I believe that authenticity fosters deeper connections with clients and enhances the therapeutic experience. I wanted a career that felt aligned with who I am as a person and allowed me to make a meaningful impact on the world.

In essence, my thought process behind starting my own business was about creating a therapeutic practice that reflected my values, allowed me to work with the specific population I’m passionate about, and provided the flexibility and autonomy I was seeking. It’s been a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and fulfilling my mission to support women in their healing journeys while being true to myself

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As a mental health therapist, my passion lies in empowering adult women navigating anxiety, depression, life transitions, and the complexities of grief and loss. I firmly believe that there’s no “one size fits all” approach to therapy. My practice is characterized by a commitment to pulling techniques from a variety of therapeutic modalities, creating a personalized experience for each client. One of the unique elements I incorporate is distant Reiki, which I find beautifully complements traditional talk therapy. It allows us to delve deeper into the healing process, honoring the profound stories our bodies tell when we listen closely.

What truly sets me apart is my relational approach. I pride myself on being warm, open, and authentic—wearing my emotions on my sleeve. In our sessions, I create a safe space where clients feel comfortable enough to explore their vulnerabilities. I’ll laugh with you through the hard times and may tear up during moments of recognition or pride as we acknowledge the progress made together. My goal is to foster a therapeutic relationship built on trust and connection.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about the possibilities that await, including plans to host women’s retreats and embark on other exciting projects. It genuinely feels like the world is my oyster! However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. The paperwork, administrative tasks, and the often-unpaid work that comes with entrepreneurship can be daunting. Yet, I’ve learned that persistence pays off; it all works out in the end, so I have no complaints.

Through this journey, I’ve come to recognize the importance of self-care and setting boundaries. Transitioning from working for someone else—where breaks are built into your schedule—to being your own boss means I must be intentional with my time. I’m constantly checking in with myself to ensure I’m maintaining balance. After all, I believe in practicing what I preach. Every coping skill I suggest to my clients is one I’ve tried myself. This philosophy helps me remain genuine and relatable in our sessions.

I am immensely proud to be a female entrepreneur. It’s a powerful and achievable endeavor that I want to celebrate. My journey has taught me that while challenges are inevitable, they also present opportunities for growth. I want the world to know that I am deeply committed to my work, my clients, and the impact I can make as a therapist.

In sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embrace their journeys, recognizing that every step—whether challenging or rewarding—contributes to the beautiful tapestry of our lives. Together, we can navigate the complexities of our experiences and emerge stronger, more resilient, and ready to face whatever lies ahead.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Day 1: Denver Delights
Morning: We’d kick off our week at a cozy brunch spot, Bread Winner’s Cafe, where we’d indulge in biscuits and gravy or huevos rancheros.

Afternoon: After brunch, we’d stroll through Denver’s Union Station, exploring the shops and grabbing coffee at Pigtrain Coffee. We’d also visit Flight Club to play interactive darts.

Evening: Dinner would be at Ultreia, to have some Spanish tapas. Post-dinner, we’d enjoy some local craft beer at Our Mutual Friend Brewery or Cocktails at Block Distilling Co.

Day 2: Boulder Bound
Morning: We’d head to Boulder and start our day at The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse for some tea and brunch.

Afternoon: Afterward, we’d hike the Chautauqua Trail for stunning views of the Flatirons.

Evening: Dinner at Corrida would be a must—this place is a culinary gem. We’d wrap up the day with a walk around Pearl Street Mall.

Day 3: Cider Fest and Lakewood Leisure
Morning: We’d make our way to Cider Fest in Lakewood, tasting different cider varieties and indulging in seasonal treats.

Afternoon: Post-fest, we’d stroll around Sloan’s Lake, soaking in the picturesque views of the city skyline against the lake.

Evening: Dinner at Gusto would be next on our agenda, chef’s kiss!

Day 4: Evergreen Escapades
Morning: A leisurely morning would lead us to Evergreen, where we’d grab brunch at Blackbird Cafe.

Afternoon: We’d spend the afternoon hiking Mt. Evans. The drive up is stunning, and the hike to St. Mary’s Glacier would be exhilarating.

Evening: After working up an appetite, we’d enjoy dinner at Evergreen Brewery, savoring local brews and delicious pub food.

Day 5: Nederland and Beyond
Morning: A day trip to Nederland would start with breakfast at The Train Cars Coffee and Yogurt.

Afternoon: We’d explore the quirky shops and local art before heading on a scenic hike in the area, soaking in the beauty of fall foliage.

Evening: Dinner at El Five would provide us with some Mediterranean cuisine.

Day 6: Relaxation and Reflection
Morning: We’d spend the morning at Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre. After hiking around the area, we’d grab brunch at Red Rocks Beer Garden, where we’d enjoy the views of the iconic rocks.

Afternoon: Afterward, we’d visit City Park, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.

Evening: For our last dinner, I’d treat my friend to Lady Nomada, for some Mexican food.

Day 7: A Sweet Send-Off
Morning: Our final morning would start with breakfast at Odie B’s, a casual bodega spot.

Afternoon: Before saying goodbye, we’d stop by Bluegrass Lounge for a coffee and have a leisurely walk around Olde Town Arvada.

Evening: I’d end the week with a sunset picnic at Washington Park, reflecting on all the adventures we’ve had and making plans for our next visit.

Colorado is full of wonders, and this itinerary showcases just a taste of the food, nature, and unforgettable experiences that await. I can’t wait to share the beauty of this state with my best friend, making memories that will last a lifetime!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
If this is going to be the closest platform I can use to thank my people and resources than the Academy Awards, I’ll take it!

First and foremost, I have to give a shoutout to my dad. He’s been an entrepreneur all his life, and while the thought of stepping into that world myself was initially terrifying, I always held onto a thread of hope that it could be possible. Watching him navigate the challenges and triumphs of owning a business taught me invaluable lessons about resilience and creativity in practice. Although we are drastically different in many ways, he has helped me grow and learn, despite our differences. At the end of the day, we share a passion for forging our own paths.

I can’t speak about my journey without acknowledging my incredible husband, my rock. He never doubts my abilities, even when I do. His unwavering support is a constant reminder that I have what it takes to succeed, and that encouragement has been instrumental in building my confidence as a mental health therapist and entrepreneur.

Then there’s my mom, who has always been a great caretaker and a source of comfort when I’m in doubt. Her nurturing spirit and encouragement provide a solid foundation that I rely on, especially during the tougher days.

In my professional journey, I’ve found a profound connection to Glennon Doyle’s memoir Untamed. Her authenticity and genuineness resonated deeply with me, inspiring me to embrace the “hard things” to reap the rewards. That book has been a guiding light, reminding me that even in the most challenging work situations, there’s always a lesson to be learned. Whether through past internships or previous jobs, I’m grateful for every experience that shaped my journey.

Lastly, I want to recognize the collective community of women I’ve worked with. They inspire me daily to be the best version of myself, and their stories fuel my passion for my work.

So here’s to all of you who have been part of my journey! Thank you for your love, support, and inspiration. You’ve played a crucial role in helping me find my voice and carve out my space in the world of mental health. I’m excited to keep learning and growing alongside each of you!

Website: https://www.meersoulcounseling.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meersoulcounseling

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jill-lees-lcsw-19bb7275/

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558071321692&_rdr