Jada Bates, M.Ed. (she/her)

Therapist

Licensed In: TN

Populations that I work with:

Beginning therapy can be intimidating. Whether you are new to the process or transitioning to a new therapist, vulnerability and building a therapeutic relationship may feel like tasks that would be easier to avoid or put off until later. However, we were made for more than survival mode, and life often makes it difficult to “push through”. We were made for wholeness and healthy connection, and as the saying goes, “We are broken in relationships, and we are healed in relationships.” I aim to make the process of therapy easier by offering a calming yet honest presence and creating a space where clients feel understood and supported in their pursuit of healing and wholeness – in and outside of the counseling room.

I work with clients of various backgrounds, ages 18-80, but I am especially passionate about walking alongside black women and people of color experiencing life transitions, grief and loss, relationship challenges, and religious/Christian concerns. As a former elementary school teacher, I also have a keen understanding of the demands of the educational world and enjoy working with current or transitioning educators facing compassion fatigue/burnout.

My therapeutic approach is primarily person-centered and rooted in attachment theory and trauma-informed care, and I draw mostly from modalities such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Emotionally-Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT). I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in African-American Studies from the University of Mississippi, along with a Master’s in Urban Education and a Master’s in Counseling. Overall, I consider myself a lifelong learner and am constantly seeking to deepen and refine my clinical practice.

Though originally from Mississippi, I love the city of Memphis and have been grateful to call it home since 2019. Outside of the therapy room, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, relaxing outdoors or in coffee shops, exercising, listening to music or audiobooks, and creating visual/digital projects.

I am available on weeknights and Saturday mornings, and would love to walk with you on your journey towards healing and wholeness