Ijeoma Nweze popularly known as Amazin Ijeoma is a psychotherapist, counselor, mentor, author and founder, Dance4HealthWellness focused on helping people boost their confidence. In this interview with GERALDINE AKUTU, she shares her foray into counselling therapy and how women can succeed in various businesses and careers.

What brought you into counselling therapy?

My journey into counselling psychotherapy is deeply rooted in personal brokenness and transformation. While I’ve always had a passion for helping others, my initial approach often left me burned out and emotionally depleted. Realising that my methods lacked the proper foundation, I sought knowledge and training to help others more effectively. Through my life challenges and the support of a compassionate therapist, I experienced the power of a safe space to process emotions and rediscover myself.

This transformative experience inspired me to create similar spaces for others, particularly within my community, where stigma and judgment often deter people from seeking help. Just as physical health requires regular check-ups, mental health needs the same attention to ensure overall well-being. My journey in therapy taught me the value of self-reflection, healing, and growth. It also ignited a passion for helping others navigate their emotional landscapes, rebuild self-esteem, and face life’s challenges.

Six years after starting my journey, I became a qualified therapist, ready to offer the kind of support I had once received, providing a safe, confidential, and compassionate environment where clients could share their experiences without fear of judgment. As a therapist, I see my role not as giving advice but as being present, actively listening, offering silence, and validating feelings. Like a compassionate midwife to a woman in labour, a trained, empathetic counsellor provides the support necessary for emotional healing and transformation. Counselling feels like a calling, a way to serve, empower, and guide others toward healing and wholeness. By merging creative expression, spirituality, and emotional support, I take a holistic approach to therapy, helping clients find strength, resilience, and well-being in mind, body, and spirit.

What do you enjoy most about the work you do?

What I enjoy most about the work I do is the privilege of witnessing personal transformation. A unique joy comes from seeing people find happiness, regain their confidence, and navigate their challenges to discover their true selves. Being part of their journey, whether through therapy, mentoring, or coaching, allows me to guide them as they heal, grow, and unlock their potential.
I am deeply fulfilled when I see individuals regain a sense of self-worth, especially after they’ve experienced pain, loss, or uncertainty. Helping them rediscover their identity or reconnect with their passions and purpose is incredibly rewarding. It’s inspiring to watch someone evolve, break free from self-doubt, and embrace their unique strengths.

As a psychotherapist and counsellor, mentor and coach, what should women do to be successful in their careers or businesses?

Women should embrace authenticity, set healthy boundaries, and remain resilient. Success requires a willingness to learn, adapt, and believe in one’s capabilities. Here’s my submission: In a world filled with inauthenticity, fraud, and lies, the first step is to find out who you are and be unapologetically yourself. Speak only when necessary and share your information on a “need-to-know” basis. Focus on your growth, develop your skills, and harness what you already have in your hands.

When inspiration strikes, journal your thoughts. Write down your vision and make it plain. It will become easier to understand your goals and take action toward achieving them. If you don’t work on your vision, someone else, who may not be as capable will hire you to work on theirs, often paying you less than you deserve, or worse, nothing at all. Choose your friends and associates wisely. Surround yourself with people who inspire and push you to be your best. Be around those who will lift you up and remind you that failure is not an option; those who help you emerge victoriously fulfilled.

Forgive; your path is a freeway, even before you begin but can be cluttered with unclear thoughts and unforgiveness. Be accountable and responsible, avoid distractions, and reject anything or anyone that questions your values and sense of self.

How do you combine work and the homefront?

Only by God’s grace and strength, I am able to do these things. I wear many hats, and they all fit well: wife, mother, music minister, dance coach, counsellor, therapist, author, student, content creator, influencer, friend, sister, and daughter. It’s a balance I continually work at. Setting clear priorities, establishing boundaries, and knowing when to recharge have been essential. My family has been a constant source of support and inspiration, so maintaining that connection is key to both my personal and professional well-being. Finding harmony in my roles allows me to give my best in every area of my life while staying grounded and focused.

Are you working on anything new?

Yes, I am! A lot has changed in and for me. As I progress and sail through this new beginning, I’m excited to be working on various projects, including music, video presentations, my counselling practice, further training, and new book titles centred around the theme of rediscovery and supporting others. One of my latest releases, a special birthday gift, was a single I featured my daughter in, titled “Jehovah El-Shalom” by Amazin Ijeoma &Glorie Zina (Mum&Bae). Additionally, I have a new single coming out on December 1st, 2024, titled “My Praise Offering” by Amazin Ijeoma. Each of these projects allows me to explore new creative expressions while staying true to themes of transformation, resilience, and healing.