By: Feature Writer

In today’s demanding work environments, Black professionals often navigate not only the pressures of performance but also the pervasive challenges of racial bias and psychological trauma. These compounded stressors contribute to a mental health crisis that is frequently under-recognized in corporate wellness initiatives.

According to the American Psychological Association, over 70% of Black employees report experiencing race-related stress at work, yet many institutions may not be fully equipped to offer culturally competent support.

Christi Venable, an award-winning mental wellness strategist and founder of SMILE Therapy Services, is working to address that gap.

“Black professionals are often told to ‘be resilient,’ but no one’s asking why we have to be so resilient in the first place,” says Venable. “We need systems of support—not just slogans.”

From Burnout to Breakthrough

Photo Courtesy: Christi Venable

Venable’s methodology goes beyond traditional wellness programs that sometimes offer superficial solutions. With a background in behavioral health and a deep understanding of organizational dynamics, she implements evidence-based, human-centered strategies that aim to foster lasting cultural change rooted in empathy, equity, and accountability.

Her work acknowledges the layered stress Black employees face—not just from deadlines and deliverables, but from daily microaggressions, cultural invisibility, and the ongoing emotional toll of being “the only one” in the room. The psychological burden of constantly having to prove worth, manage perceptions, and suppress identity is exhausting—and often goes unnoticed by leadership.

Christi addresses these issues directly. She guides executive teams through the often uncomfortable but necessary work of exploring how race, power, and wellness intersect. Through her training, Black professionals are empowered to reclaim agency over their well-being, and leadership teams are encouraged to listen, respond, and build environments that foster psychological safety.

At the heart of her approach is a simple but powerful belief: healing is a critical foundation for sustainable performance. And for Black professionals, healing may require workplaces that see, support, and stand with them.

Introducing The Refreshing Smile Workplace Wellness Course & App

Photo Courtesy: Christi Venable

Recognizing the need for accessible and impactful resources, Venable is launching The Refreshing Smile Workplace Wellness Course & App—a system designed to help HR leaders and executives build mentally resilient, high-functioning teams while prioritizing cultural awareness and emotional safety.

This program is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is built from lived experience and professional insight—designed specifically for organizations seeking meaningful, measurable change.

What Sets This Program Apart?

• Self-Paced Learning for Busy Professionals – Learn actionable strategies on your own schedule, designed for practical application.
• Live Webinars with Culturally Competent Experts – Engage with professionals who understand the unique stressors facing Black employees.
• Scalable, Step-by-Step Solutions – A practical roadmap to help leadership improve mental health support across the organization.
• Evidence-Based, Field-Tested Results – Methods have been applied in workplace settings, demonstrating positive outcomes.

For a limited time, organizations can join the waitlist for early access and exclusive pre-sale pricing before the official launch.

Leading While Black Shouldn’t Be a Burden

The journey of Black professionals is often marked by the dual pressures of excellence and endurance. There is an expectation to outperform, outlast, and overlook—often without acknowledgment of the emotional labor that role demands. Yet many workplace wellness efforts continue to bypass these realities, offering generic solutions that may miss the mark.

Christi Venable is encouraging companies to move beyond checkbox culture and build environments that are not only focused on performance but also human-centered—where Black professionals can lead with authenticity, feel psychologically safe, and experience restoration, not just resilience.

This represents a vision for the future of work—one where mental wellness is prioritized, cultural realities are respected, and success does not require personal sacrifice.

“Being excellent at your job shouldn’t mean losing yourself in the process.”
—Christi Venable, Founder of SMILE Therapy Services

To book Christi Venable for a leadership event, team training, or to gain early access to The Refreshing Smile Workplace Wellness Course & App, visit SMILE Therapy Services to schedule a discovery call.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article and related wellness programs is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical or psychological advice. Results may vary based on individual circumstances. This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any mental health condition. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new wellness or mental health program.

Published by Joseph T.