Jenkins-Richardson & Associates LLC

08/07/2025

🌅 Back to School, Back to Big Feelings 🎒💔
Today, social media is full of bright smiles, fresh haircuts, and “first day” signs — and for many, it is a day of celebration.

But for others, this day carries a quiet kind of grief.

Maybe you're a parent sending your child to school for the first time — watching them walk away with a backpack that looks too big for their little shoulders. Maybe you're seeing your baby start middle or high school and wondering how time moved so quickly. Maybe today is your last “first day” as your senior heads off for their final year at home. Maybe you’re helping your child gearing up to settle into their college dorm — and now facing a quiet home and a full heart.

And maybe, for some, this is a day you've dreaded — because you’re missing a child who won’t be starting school this year. Or maybe you’ve longed to be a parent sending a child off to school, but that moment hasn't come.

Wherever you are today — proud, anxious, grieving, numb, or just unsure — we see you.

Here are a few gentle reminders to help you move through today:

💛 Your feelings are valid. There is no “right” way to feel on the first day of school.

🌀 Anxiety and excitement can exist at the same time. Milestones bring mixed emotions.

🕊️ Make space for grief. It doesn’t always show up with tears — sometimes it's silence, irritability, or that ache you can’t quite explain.

📷 Step away from social media if needed. You don't have to smile through someone else’s highlight reel.

🤝 Reach out. Whether it's a friend, support group, or therapist — you don’t have to carry this alone.

At Jenkins-Richardson & Associates, we understand that life transitions — even joyful ones — can stir up deep emotional responses. If you’re struggling to process this season, we’re here to help.

You're not alone. ❤️

05/11/2025

Mother’s Day can stir up joy, sorrow, gratitude, and grief—all at once.Whether you’re celebrating, grieving, remembering, or simply getting through the day—we see you.
This day doesn’t look the same for everyone, and however it looks for you, your experience is valid.
If today is difficult, know you’re not alone. We’re here and we care.

04/20/2025

Happy Easter from Jenkins-Richardson & Associates!

04/09/2025

Exciting news!
Our very own Dr. Kim was featured in The Knot, where she shared her insight on how couples can build connection and offer reassurance to one another. We’re proud to see her voice represented in such a meaningful way.

At Jenkins-Richardson & Associates, we support individuals and couples who are ready to grow, heal, and strengthen their relationships. Whether you’re working on personal growth or navigating challenges in your partnership—we’re here for you.

We are currently accepting new clients.
Ready to start your counseling journey? Reach out to our office to learn more about next steps. (205-722-7294)

Let’s grow together. https://www.theknot.com/content/reassurance-in-relationships

03/25/2025

Start your day with clarity.
We have morning appointments available with licensed therapists — both in-person and telehealth options to fit your schedule.

Whether you're a busy professional, college student, or stay-at-home parent, a peaceful morning session might be exactly what you need.

Call us at 205-722-7294 or visit www.jracc.org to schedule your appointment today.

The therapists at JRACC have a wide variety of specializations to help you meet your wellness goals!

01/01/2025

Happy New Year from the Jenkins-Richardson & Associates Team!

12/25/2024

🎄✨ Merry Christmas from Jenkins-Richardson & Associates! ✨🎄

As we celebrate this season of joy, reflection, and togetherness, we want to extend our warmest wishes to our clients, staff, and community. May your holiday be filled with love, peace, and cherished moments with those closest to you.

We are grateful for the trust you place in us and remain committed to supporting your mental health and well-being. Here's to a season of hope and new beginnings!

From all of us at Jenkins-Richardson & Associates – Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

12/16/2024

Grief can feel isolating, but shared stories remind us we’re not alone. When we share our experiences, we create connections and find strength in the support of others.
Here’s how sharing your story or listening to someone else’s can help:
💛 Sharing your grief can lighten the weight of your emotions.
🌟 Listening to others can offer comfort and understanding.
📝 Writing your story, even if just for yourself, can bring clarity and healing.
Your story matters. If you feel ready, we invite you to share a memory or reflection about your loved one in the comments below. Let’s create a community of healing and hope. 💛

12/14/2024

Grieving during the holidays is difficult, but knowing how to support someone who is grieving can feel just as challenging. Your presence and care can make a big difference, even in small ways.
Here are some meaningful ways to support someone experiencing loss:
💛 Listen without trying to fix—sometimes just being there is enough.
🌟 Acknowledge their grief instead of avoiding the topic.
🎄 Invite them to join you in a low-pressure holiday activity, like watching a movie or decorating.
📝 Send a thoughtful note or message to let them know you’re thinking of them.
Small gestures of kindness can mean the world to someone grieving. What’s one way you’ve supported someone who was grieving, or how has someone supported you? Share your thoughts below to help inspire others. 💛

12/13/2024

Gratitude and grief can coexist. While grief acknowledges the pain of what’s missing, gratitude honors the joy of what you’ve experienced and the memories you still carry.
Here are some ways to practice gratitude during your grief journey:
🌟 Write down three things you’re thankful for each day, no matter how small.
🖋️ Keep a gratitude journal that includes cherished memories with your loved one.
💌 Share a note of thanks with someone who has supported you during this time.
🎄 Reflect on a special holiday tradition or moment that brought you joy.
Gratitude doesn’t erase grief, but it can bring light into the darkness. What’s one thing you’re grateful for today? Share below—it might inspire someone else. 💛

12/13/2024

Grief and joy can coexist. It’s okay to feel moments of happiness while honoring your loss—it doesn’t diminish your love for the person you’re missing.
Here are a few ways to embrace small joys this holiday season:
🌟 Spend time doing something you enjoy, even if it feels small—like watching a favorite holiday movie or taking a walk.
🎁 Create something meaningful, like a memory ornament or a scrapbook.
🌿 Allow yourself to laugh or smile when joyful moments arise—it’s part of healing.
Grieving doesn’t mean you can’t feel joy. Give yourself permission to hold space for both. 💛
What’s one joyful moment you’ve experienced this season that felt meaningful? Share in the comments to inspire others.

12/11/2024

The holidays often come with big expectations—decorations, gatherings, and celebrations. But when you’re grieving, those expectations can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to honor your grief by setting boundaries and choosing what feels right for you.
Here are a few ways to manage holiday expectations:
✨ Be honest about what you can handle and say no to activities that feel too overwhelming.
🎄 Create new traditions that honor your loved one or give yourself space to grieve.
🕯️ Focus on smaller, meaningful moments rather than big events.
📞 Let friends and family know how they can support you during this time.
Remember, it’s your holiday experience—you have permission to make it yours. 💛
How have you adjusted your holiday traditions while grieving? Share below to help others navigate their journey.