Today we’d like to introduce you to Taylora Bookie.
Hi Taylora, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My path to private practice was shaped by significant adversity early in life. Growing up on state assistance after my father, a former minister, left my mother exposed me to instability and hardship at a young age. I also endured trauma within my family, and when I disclosed the abuse, I was not believed. These experiences deeply affected my emotional and physical well-being, including the development of an eating disorder that required hospitalization during my teens. Although my early counseling was brief, it marked an important step in recognizing my need for healing and support. I later experienced intimate partner violence in a previous relationship, which further deepened my understanding of trauma, resilience, and the importance of being heard. Over time, these experiences became part of the foundation for my commitment to helping others. Quies Christian Counseling Services grew out of a desire to create a space where individuals feel seen, believed, supported, and empowered in their healing and growth.
My husband, Ben, and I met while working for the State, and together we decided to pursue licensure as counselors. In 2016, we founded Quies Christian Counseling Services, and this August, we will celebrate 10 years in private practice. The name Quies is Latin for “rest” and “peace,” reflecting the heart of our work. We believe deeply in walking alongside others through their healing process. Each of us brings different strengths to the practice, and those strengths, together with God’s guidance, have helped shape where we are today.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
No, it has not been a smooth road. In the beginning, the practice was not generating enough income, so both of us maintained full-time jobs while building the business. We also faced challenges with billing and navigating insurance requirements. Over time, those difficulties were resolved, and we now have a strong billing system and a trusted biller who helps the practice operate smoothly and efficiently.
Another challenge we faced was burnout. We were working seven days a week and allowing ourselves very little downtime, which left us exhausted and strained our home life. That experience taught us the importance of practicing self-care and maintaining healthy boundaries. We came to understand that, to support others in their healing effectively, we also needed to care for our own well-being.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Ben and I have devoted our lives to serving individuals who are hurting, vulnerable, and in need of support. Over the years, we have worked with juvenile courts, children’s services, survivors of domestic violence, and vulnerable adults. We are also licensed ministers through Evangel Christian Churches, and we use that ministry to help faith communities better understand mental health, trauma, and the importance of compassionate, informed support within the church.
I specialize in trauma work and believe that healing is rarely linear. At times, it may feel like a setback; at others, it may reflect meaningful progress. What sets me apart is my commitment to listening deeply to each person’s story, because being truly heard is often essential to healing. I want people to know there is space for their experiences, their pain, and the road they have traveled, and that healing often begins when someone feels genuinely seen and heard.
In addition to our private practice, I serve as the Executive Director of Four Health Family Resource Center, a nonprofit mental health organization located in Saranac.
Ben and I join our two friends, pastors Ken Shelton and Tom Rea, for a weekly broadcast called The Gathering Place. During the program, we discuss topics related to the church and the broader faith community, with a focus on issues that affect emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health.
I also serve on the communications team for GraceStory Ministries, a ministry that helps faith communities connect with mental health resources through podcasts, conferences, and blog content.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
My advice would be to build a strong support system around you, both emotionally and professionally. Having trusted people in your corner can help you think through challenges, make wise decisions, and grow the business more effectively. You cannot be an expert in everything, so surrounding yourself with people who bring different strengths and areas of expertise can make a tremendous difference.
I would also say: give yourself grace. Allow yourself to make mistakes, but take responsibility for them. Every challenge and misstep can become part of the learning process, and that mindset will help you grow with resilience and confidence.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.quiescounseling.com/
- Facebook: Quies Christian Counseling Services, LLC
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@quiescounseling
- Other: office@quiescounseling.com
