For Dr. Elisha Reed, writing is more than just an art—it is a form of liberation, a means of healing, and a legacy of empowerment. As an author, speaker, therapist, and entrepreneur, Dr. Reed has dedicated her life to helping individuals break free from limitations, whether through mental health advocacy, entrepreneurship, or ministry. Her journey as a writer is deeply intertwined with her personal and professional experiences, allowing her to craft narratives that inspire, educate, and uplift.
Her work extends across multiple fields, from mental health services to ministry and community outreach, but writing remains one of her most powerful tools. With an unwavering commitment to service, Dr. Reed has used her words to bring hope and transformation to those navigating life’s most difficult challenges.
A Journey of Purpose: From Clinician to Author
Dr. Reed’s path to writing was shaped by her diverse career in mental health, education, and mentorship. Having spent 20 years working for the State of Georgia as a Clinician, Education Director, and Training Administrator, she witnessed firsthand the challenges faced by vulnerable communities, particularly at-risk youth. Her work with the Positive Girls to Positive Women mentoring program and the Boys to Men initiative fueled her desire to create literature that could serve as a source of guidance and support.
The tragic loss of two close friends in a single year solidified her commitment to storytelling. She co-authored Girlfriend Therapy, an anthology on sisterhood and friendships, as a way to honor those bonds and to encourage women to find strength in one another. Her chapter, More Than One Wing, symbolized her own perseverance through grief and adversity, while also challenging readers to embrace their inner strength.
Through this experience, Dr. Reed discovered that writing was not just a creative outlet—it was a ministry of its own.
Milestones in Writing: Impacting Lives Through Words
One of Dr. Reed’s most significant accomplishments as a writer has been the ability to use her work as a tool for healing. Her workshops and training, particularly Breaking Free from Limitations, have reached diverse audiences, addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and abuse.
Beyond personal development, Dr. Reed has also used her entrepreneurial expertise to create practical resources for aspiring business owners. As one of the first Black female entrepreneurs to open a beauty supply store in Lithonia, she recognized the importance of documenting her journey to help others navigate similar paths. Her business acumen later led to Jazzy’s Essentials, an online beauty supply venture she launched with her daughter.
Her writing is not just about storytelling—it is about providing tangible strategies for growth, resilience, and success.
Overcoming Challenges: Finding the Strength to Write Through Life’s Storms
Like many authors, Dr. Reed has faced challenges in her writing journey. Balancing her work in mental health, community service, and ministry with her literary ambitions has been demanding. “The biggest challenge has been finding time,” she admits. “But I’ve learned that writing, like anything else, requires intentionality.”
Another challenge has been reliving difficult moments as she puts her experiences into words. Writing about being a caregiver, trauma, and loss requires emotional endurance, but Dr. Reed embraces the process as part of her healing journey. “Writing allows me to process my emotions, and in doing so, I can help others process theirs,” she explains.
The Power of Mentorship and Representation in Literature
Throughout her career, Dr. Reed has been a strong advocate for mentorship. Her work with the Morehouse School of Medicine’s Inner Strength Parenting Program and her mentorship programs for young women have shaped her approach to storytelling. “I believe in the power of representation,” she says. “Women, especially women of color, need to see themselves in books, in business, and in leadership.”
Her writing reflects this mission, addressing the unique struggles of marginalized communities while offering hope and actionable solutions. Whether she is writing about mental health, entrepreneurship, or faith, her goal remains the same—to empower readers to step into their greatness.
Advice for Aspiring Writers: Writing with Purpose
For those looking to make their mark in the literary world, Dr. Reed offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Write with intention. Your words should not just tell a story; they should inspire action.”
She encourages writers to embrace their personal experiences and use them to craft narratives that matter. “Your story is valid. It doesn’t have to be perfect; it just has to be real,” she says. “There is power in authenticity, and when you write from a place of truth, your words will resonate.”
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Reach of Her Writing
While Dr. Reed has already accomplished so much, she has no plans to slow down. Her future projects include expanding her written works into full mentorship curriculums, creating books that serve as guides for entrepreneurship, self-sufficiency, and mental health awareness.
She also hopes to continue using her platform to address mental health in underserved communities, a passion that has driven much of her work. With her extensive background in psychiatric training and community outreach, she sees writing as a critical tool for educating and destigmatizing mental health struggles.
A Final Message to Readers
To the readers of Today’s Author Magazine, Dr. Reed leaves these words of encouragement:
“Do not be afraid to tell your story. Whether you are writing about your struggles, your victories, or your passions, your words have the power to impact someone’s life. Writing is more than just a craft—it is a legacy. Leave something behind that inspires the next generation.”
About Dr. Elisha Reed
Dr. Elisha Reed is an author, therapist, speaker, and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering individuals through education, mentorship, and mental health advocacy. As the founder of EREEDME Creations, she has created a platform that combines literary work, business consulting, and personal development training to help individuals break free from limitations.
With 20 years of experience working for the State of Georgia, Dr. Reed has held roles as a Clinician, Education Director, and Training Administrator, where she developed programs for at-risk youth and provided mental health training for police recruits. She has also mentored young women through her Positive Girls to Positive Women program and has played an instrumental role in various community-based initiatives.
A pioneering entrepreneur, Dr. Reed opened one of the first Black-owned beauty supply stores in Lithonia and later launched Jazzy’s Essentials, an online beauty brand. She is a dedicated member of the Order of Eastern Star and the 100 Coalition of Black Women, where she continues to advocate for social justice and empowerment.
Through her books, mentorship programs, and speaking engagements, Dr. Reed remains committed to helping individuals overcome obstacles, embrace their potential, and build lasting legacies.
