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Pastor/Scholar/Coach/Playwright/Mom/Oma
Hello friends! I am Cathy Ames Turner. I am a wife, a mom and an Oma (grandmother), a pastor, a scholar-activist, and a life empowerment coach. Some call me Pastor Cathy, others call me Dr. Cat or Miss Cathy, and my husband, Tony, calIs me Honey. I coach people through life's challenges and transitions, especially -- but not exclusively -- individuals, families and professional teams through issues related to the carceral systems, foster care, or other life-altering and trauma-inducing experiences. I walk with individuals and families through successful reintegration (becoming an active participant in their homes and in society) or simply, on their journey from knowing who they are deep inside to becoming that individual in their daily lives.
As a pastor in Central Virginia and clergy at the local regional jail, I have watched families suffer through the impacts of having a loved one locked up and children put in the foster care system. I have also been personally impacted as well.
From the loss of income and missing family and friends, to the loss of emotional and practical support, and experiencing feelings of anger and shame -- it is heartbreaking. And what about the children? The children really suffer -- growing up without one and sometimes both parents. It starts a cycle of trauma that influences every area of their lives. And the incarcerated loved one? Their lives are changed forever as well.
Witnessing this cycle repeatedly inspired me to go back to school and in the spring of 2023, I earned my doctorate degree from Fielding Graduate University. My dissertation explored the experiences of formerly incarcerated African American men as they reintegrated with their families and communities after serving time in jail and/or prison. I found that relational reintegration -- which requires the combined support from faith communities, families and reentry professionals -- makes all the difference in individuals being successful when they are released.
In my coaching practice, I provide a space for clients to become self-aware, spend time reflecting, and take action towards their goals. I use elements of psychology, human development, spiritual truths, and group dynamics along with artistic expression to help my clients move toward their goals. Whether they have been incarcerated or were impacted by a loved one's incarceration, or simply trying to get through a tough spot, it can be difficult to know where to begin and how to move forward. I have found that coaching makes a difference!
Similarly, in my work with individuals who work together in teams, I provide a space for team members to grow together and develop a rapport with one another that spills over into their service to their clients. Working together as a cohesive team is essential to the success of those they serve. Open and honest communication, trust, and the desire to see their clients succeed are essential elements that help a team grow and move together in their mission toward their goals. I help them to make it happen.
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See you soon!
Cathy
https://www.tableturners.org/
