Meet Sherri S Wick | CEO, Visionary + Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sherri S Wick and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sherri S, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As a child raised by a working Black, single mother, I learned at an early age how brutal corporate America could be to people who look like me. My mother and I have always had an open relationship. However, she was not willing to expose me to the harsh realities of work. I witnessed firsthand the toll that corporate work was taking on my mother. I recall at fourteen seeing her break down in tears due to the distress caused by work. She instilled in me that I would have the rest of my life to work and suffer through work. Therefore, it’s better to focus on what makes me happy. Additionally, my mother and extended family all had a small business that they engaged in on the side of their full-time corporate careers. I am now able to look back and see that I come from a long line of entrepreneurs. That knowledge, along with the powerful lessons learned through my mother’s trials, made me realize that I will never allow myself to experience what my mother experienced, and I will open my own business and never treat my employees the way my mother was treated.

My passion for creating a safe space for people to develop techniques to navigate life’s challenges and the belief that everyone has the right to access quality mental health is what motivated me to start Holistically Divine Counseling. My love for working with all women and a special place in my heart for women of color inspired me to establish a space that centered on the 8 dimensions of wellness while incorporating art therapy, making counseling more accessible to those who would not otherwise participate.

I began my business while working two jobs and having no formal education in starting a business. I learned from asking questions, networking, and seeking guidance from my mentors. I focused on my goals and believed in my ability to succeed, quitting my full-time and part-time job and submitting my S-Corporation status paperwork to begin this unknown journey of entrepreneurship. Despite the challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, I quickly pivoted to telehealth, continuing to provide quality services to my clients.

My services and style of therapy attracted many clients and referrals, leading me to establish an internship development program. This program offers rising clinicians training on how to support their clients and integrate the 8 dimensions of wellness into their own lives. The internship development program has been successful, with the first graduate becoming my first full-time employee. The business has grown to include 10 staff members, including fully – licensed clinicians, provisionally licensed clinicians, interns, a support manager and a contractor, providing services for clients dealing with various challenges such as depression, anxiety, self-identity, and childhood trauma.

Holistically Divine Counseling has also provided services in the community, including libraries, high schools, and corporate spaces. We have secured two non-profit partnerships where clients receive high-quality counseling services at no cost to them; through this partnership, Holistically Divine Counseling receives payment through the partnered organization, which allows clients who would not be able to afford counseling accessibility to high-quality services. My passion for creating a transformative space that prioritizes the well-being of all employees and clients is evident in my business’s success. My mother’s experience has inspired me to create a better work culture for myself, my employees, and clients, and I will continue to be a beacon of light to others.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Please tell us more about your business. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about.
Holistically Divine Counseling (HDC) is more than just a mental health practice; it’s a community where staff, board members, and clients work together towards a common goal of improving the quality of life for everyone involved. Our holistic approach to wellness sets us apart, which incorporates the mind, body, and soul. We believe in providing a safe and transformative space where individuals can become the healthiest versions of themselves. Our mission is not just to offer counseling but to empower our clients to achieve holistic wellness. This approach extends beyond the traditional boundaries of mental health care, integrating the eight dimensions of wellness—Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Social, Spiritual, Vocational, Financial, and Environmental—into everything we do.
I am particularly proud of our commitment to removing the stigma surrounding mental health. We envision a world where mental health is openly discussed and embraced, creating generational change. Our innovative practices reflect this vision, such as incorporating art therapy and offering counseling services in accessible community spaces like libraries, high schools, and corporate settings. Additionally, our partnership with non-profit organizations allows us to provide high-quality counseling services at no cost to clients affected by intimate partner violence, re-entry, and homelessness.
Our organization is built on a Servant Leadership structure, which ensures a work environment that is not only productive and efficient but also deeply fulfilling for our staff. This structure fosters a culture of excellence, integrity, compassion, accountability, and a teachable spirit, allowing our clients and team to grow continuously.
How did you get to where you are today business-wise? Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges?
My journey to where I am today with HDC was far from easy, but it has been incredibly rewarding. The business started with a clear mission and a deep passion for creating a safe space for people to navigate life’s challenges. As someone who witnessed the stress and challenges faced by my mother—a Black, female, IT professional in corporate America—I became deeply committed to ensuring that clients had a judgment-free space to regain their empowerment and overcome their struggles.
Starting my business while working two jobs and without formal education in entrepreneurship was challenging. However, I was determined to succeed. I sought guidance from mentors, asked questions, and networked extensively. My faith was a constant source of strength, and I leaned into the lessons I learned from my family, particularly my mother and my grandfather, who instilled in me the values of discipline, empathy, and the importance of listening.
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I quickly pivoted to telehealth services to ensure our clients continued receiving the care they needed. This adaptability and commitment to our client’s well-being allowed HDC to not only survive but thrive during a time of uncertainty.
What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way?
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of resilience and the power of faith. Challenges are inevitable, but how you respond to them determines your success. I’ve also learned the importance of creating a work environment that prioritizes the well-being of employees. Witnessing my mother’s struggles in corporate America reinforced my commitment to building a company culture that supports, nurtures, and empowers its staff.
Another key lesson is the significance of staying true to your values. At HDC, our core values—excellence, integrity, compassion, accountability, and a teachable spirit—are not just words on a page; they guide every decision we make. This dedication to our principles has allowed us to create a space where both clients and staff feel valued and supported.
What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
I want the world to know that Holistically Divine Counseling is more than just a business—it’s a mission to bring light into a dark world. We are dedicated to breaking down the barriers of mental health stigma and creating a space where individuals can heal and thrive. Our approach to counseling is rooted in a trauma-informed lens, utilizing therapeutic modalities that cultivate healing, compassion, faith, and a holistic understanding of wellness.
My story, and the story of HDC, is one of perseverance, faith, and a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. I started this journey with a vision of creating a transformative space that not only helps clients but also supports and empowers clinicians. This passion for holistic wellness and compassionate leadership drives everything we do at HDC.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Welcome and Relaxation
Arrival and Spa-Like Retreat Setup: I would welcome my best friend to our home, ensuring her room is set up like a spa retreat. I’d include their favorite-scented candle, cozy footies, a soft robe, and a sleepy-time tea setup to help them unwind after their journey.
Breakfast/Brunch at First Watch: We’d kick off the week with a delicious brunch at First Watch, my favorite spot. We’d enjoy breakfast tacos paired with a refreshing mimosa to start the day on a high note.
Target Outing: After brunch, we’d head to Target for a leisurely stroll because, let’s be honest, Target is always a fun experience!
Miniature Golf with Goldman Sachs Friends: In the afternoon, we’d connect with a few of my close friends from the Goldman Sachs 10K Small Businesses Cohort 35 for a fun round of miniature golf. This day would be filled with lots of laughter!
Dinner and White Wine: We’d wrap up the day with a relaxed dinner, accompanied by a glass (or two) of white wine, catching up on life and savoring the evening.
Day 2: A Day of Fitness and Reflection
Breakfast at Home: My husband, a former chef, would prepare us a delicious homemade breakfast of waffles, eggs, and sausages—a perfect start to the day.
Peloton Workout and Outdoor Walk: We’d get our bodies moving with a Peloton workout and a refreshing walk outside. We both enjoy walking, and it’s a great way to breathe in the fresh air, talk, laugh, and share what we’re grateful for.
Chill Dinner and R&B: In the evening, we’d keep it low-key with a simple dinner at home while listening to some old-school R&B, and reminiscing.
Day 3: Exploration and New Discoveries
Exploring New Restaurants and Neighborhoods: We’d start the day by finding a new restaurant we haven’t tried before and exploring a new neighborhood.
Outdoor Mall Visit: Afterward, we’d head to an outdoor mall, enjoying the weather, people-watching, and window shopping.
Early Dinner and Rest: We’d have an early dinner in the explored area, then head back home to relax.
Day 4: Relaxation and Fun at Home
Home Day with Games and Music: We’d spend the day at home, playing games, listening to R&B & Hip Hop 90’s & 2000’s music, and simply enjoying each other’s company. A day dedicated to relaxation and laughter, recharging our spirits.
Day 5: A Beach Day in Galveston
Day Trip to Galveston: We’d take a day trip to Galveston, enjoy the beach, visit Galveston Island Pleasure Pier, and explore Moody Gardens. It’s a full day of sun, fun, and adventure.
Tacos: While in Galveston, we’d check out some great taco spots, savoring the local flavors and enjoying the relaxed vibe of the beach town.
Day 6: Business Talk and Relaxation
Business Brainstorming and Support: We’d dedicate this day to discussing our businesses. I’d support my friend with ideas, social media strategies, and business operating systems, offering insights and encouragement.
Relaxation and Preparation for Departure: In the evening, we’d wind down, preparing for her departure the next day, ensuring she felt supported and ready to return home.
Day 7: Farewell
Homemade Cinnamon Rolls and Goodbyes: My husband would prepare his infamous cinnamon rolls, and we’d spend the morning together. I’d likely shed a few tears as I dropped her off at the airport, knowing we had a great week filled with laughter, peace, and joy.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
1. My Mother:
My mother has been the bedrock of my life. From an early age, she instilled in me the values of faith, discipline, and resilience. She taught me that with faith as my foundation, I could face any challenge that came my way. Her wisdom, particularly the notion that I might have to work twice as hard as others but to do so with a heart aligned with God, has been a guiding principle throughout my life. My mother created a home that was a true sanctuary—a place of safety, love, and encouragement. Her unwavering support and the life lessons she imparted have been instrumental in shaping the woman I am today. She taught me the importance of applying myself fully, staying disciplined, and always striving to be my best self. For these reasons, she deserves endless recognition for her role in my life.
2. My Husband:
My husband has been my steadfast partner in life, and I cannot overstate the importance of his support in my journey. In times of stress or overwhelm, he’s the one I turn to for grounding and connection. Our conversations help me gain clarity, and his presence strengthens me to keep pushing forward. He understands me and encourages me to pursue my passions and dreams, no matter how ambitious they may be. Our relationship is a source of deep comfort and motivation; I am incredibly grateful for him.

Website: https://www.holisticallydivine.org/; https://sherriswick.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holisticallydivineorg/; https://www.instagram.com/sswk22/

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/sherriwicklcpc

Other: I created a journal!
Mindful Journal: A Faith-Filled Journal Incorporating Mental Wellness, Faith & Meditation
https://a.co/d/ewXYG4U

Image Credits
Photoshoot done by: Dominique Thorpe
https://artisticelegancephotography.com/contact