Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamal Nesbitt.
Hi Jamal, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Growing up in a vibrant Bahamian-Haitian family, life was anything but ordinary. As the sixth oldest of eleven siblings, each of us with our unique quirks and perspectives, played a pivotal role in shaping my identity. Often unknowingly, they guided me toward paths I never imagined I’d embrace.
I was born in Portsmouth, Virginia the outlier among my siblings who hail from vibrant places like the Bahamas, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Ocala, and Georgia. Our family’s frequent moves turned these diverse locales into more than just stops on a map—they became chapters of my story. From sun-soaked Bahamian beaches to the bustling streets of Miami, each environment infused me with new lessons, cultures, and connections.
This rich mosaic of heritage and homes isn’t just a backdrop to my life; it’s the foundation. It taught me adaptability, broadened my worldview, and instilled a deep appreciation for the beauty of diverse experiences. Every place, every move, and every sibling’s influence has crafted a narrative that’s uniquely my own—an ever-evolving journey colored by the vibrant threads of family and culture.
My professional story begins in Daytona Beach, FL, where I pursued a bachelor’s degree in Psychology at Bethune Cookman University. During this pivotal time, I accepted my first official role as a direct support personnel in 2013. I worked closely with individuals aged 15 to their 60s, each facing profound cognitive challenges. Witnessing their families’ unwavering dedication to providing comfort and dignity was transformative. It revealed the undeniable truth: family is the cornerstone of our life’s journey.
Interestingly, my aspirations before 2013 painted a different picture. I had envisioned myself as a lawyer, fervently defending those without the means to protect themselves. But life has a beautiful way of redirecting you when you least expect it. Immersed in the mental health community, I realized the power doesn’t lie solely in legal defense—it also thrives in empowering individuals and families, strengthening bonds that become lifelines in times of need. A mentor’s sage advice echoed in my heart: “Lean into your passion and allow your gift to pave the way for you.”
Inspired, I pursued a Master’s degree in Counseling, again at Bethune Cookman University, completing it in 2017. This academic journey was more than just textbooks and lectures; it was an exploration of human resilience across diverse settings—schools, inpatient facilities, outpatient programs, homeless prevention centers, substance abuse recovery organizations, crisis management initiatives, autism support centers, and even within the juvenile court system.
In 2019, I traded Daytona’s coastal breeze for Nashville’s vibrant rhythm. Here, I refined my skills, earned licensure with the state of Tennessee, and found my true calling: couples counseling. I believe the strength of a family begins with two hearts committed to nurturing their bond. When that foundation thrives, it radiates stability and joy to generations beyond.
But my passion didn’t stop at counseling. Trained by the legendary Les Brown, I embraced public speaking, sharing messages of hope, growth, and resilience. I also offer coaching for professionals navigating careers impacted by infidelity or relationship struggles, employing a multi-layered approach tailored to each individual’s unique needs.
My journey isn’t just a career; it’s a calling—a testament to the transformative power of leaning into one’s passion. Every step, every challenge, every triumph has been a chapter in a story I’m honored to share with the world.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The journey was anything but easy. Even though I graduated with my Master’s in 2017, it wasn’t until 2024 that I finally got my license. Life threw some unexpected curveballs my way—I moved from Florida in 2019, which meant I had to start my clinical hours all over again because of things beyond my control. Just as I was getting comfortable, the pandemic hit, putting strict limits on face-to-face therapy and slowing me down even more. But through every setback, I stayed focused on my goal. My passion for mental health and the belief in the difference I could make kept me going. This journey taught me that perseverance isn’t about dodging obstacles; it’s about facing them with purpose and determination..
We’ve been impressed with Nesbitt Counseling Group, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
I run a solo private practice in East Nashville. I approach therapy with a belief that people are experts on their own lives; they know what their needs are. I specialize in couples counseling and interpersonal relationships. Individuals that are happy with themselves tend to build happy relationships. I will never be able to walk an inch in my client’s shoes neither will I attempt. I instead aim to be a support and help assist them on the way to their ideal destination (sort of like a GPS). I enjoy helping couples to create a specialized toolbox in order to break through barriers and remove the roadblocks in their lives. I specialize in helping couples overcome negative beliefs, increase desirable feelings, and gain control of their actions to change overall outcomes.
I believe that people are social and require environments that make them feel valuable, understood, protected, and free to communicate all of their emotions. I help people to find their happiness, decrease anxious thoughts, navigate relationship issues, improve their parenting toolbox, increase confidence, and take control of the emotional rollercoaster called life.
There isn’t a person who can live your life better than you. Im simply an expert supporting experts; whether that be through coaching services or therapy services.
What are your plans for the future?
My future plans involve expanding my practice and obtaining a license as a supervisor to open doors for others in the field. Additionally, I aim to assist couples in elevating their relationships through a retreat organized with experienced mental health professionals within the next year. Furthermore, I am in the process of creating engaging and easily digestible literature for couples that provides actionable steps for building and maintaining a healthy relationship.
Pricing:
- $130 Individual Counseling
- $150 Couples Counseling
Contact Info:
