Counselor Spotlight: Jovan

Jovan Coleman, LPC talks faith and rapport building.

Tell us a bit about yourself. 

I love Jesus, giraffes, and being an aunt. I’m also the awkward, sarcastic middle child in my family, which has shaped both my humor and my perspective on life. My parents have been pastoring for 11 years, so faith and service have always been central to who I am. I have an older sister and a younger brother, and family continues to be one of my greatest sources of joy and grounding.

What do you do for fun?

I love true crime documentaries and can get caught up in them for hours. I’m also a plant mom, and tending to my plants has become surprisingly therapeutic. Puzzles are another favorite pastime when I want to slow down and focus. And sitting in the sun is my happy place.

Favorite book, movie, or artist? 

Without a doubt, my favorite movie is “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”—the Jim Carrey version. I’ve watched it so many times I could probably quote it start to finish. Even though it’s a Christmas movie, I can watch it any time of year.

What does your ideal day look like? 

My ideal day starts slowly, without rushing. I love having time in the morning to ease into the day. Rest without guilt is something I value, and of course, ice cream would be part of the day too.

Do you have any pets? 

I don’t have pets of my own, but my family has a dog named Jaxson. I call him my “brother,” and he absolutely acts like part of the family.

Cake or pie? 

Neither. I’m more of a brownie person. But if I had to choose, it would definitely be cake.

What was your journey to becoming a counselor? 

My path wasn’t exactly linear. I first went to college planning to become a math teacher, then shifted into business, and eventually found myself drawn to psychology. It took a lot of prayer and encouragement from my pastor at the time to recognize that counseling was where I truly belonged. Looking back, I can see how every detour prepared me to connect with people in meaningful ways. It wasn’t a straight road, but I believe I ended up exactly where the Lord wanted me to be.

Describe your approach to counseling.

I put a strong emphasis on rapport building. I spend intentional time at the beginning of the counseling relationship getting to know my clients, building trust, and creating a space where they feel safe. Healing happens in the context of relationship, so laying that foundation is essential before diving into deeper work.

What areas of counseling are you most passionate about?

I am especially passionate about walking with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or low self-esteem. These struggles can feel incredibly isolating, and being able to sit with someone in those moments, to remind them they aren’t alone and help them rediscover hope, is one of the greatest honors of this work.

Any advice for someone considering becoming a counselor? 

Give yourself grace. Counseling is a field where you’ll never know it all, and that’s okay. Growth is ongoing, and instead of striving for perfection, it’s important to embrace the process. Showing up authentically matters more than having every answer.