Kate Jennings, M.Ed., L.P.C.-S. | Women of Impact 2025

KATE JENNINGS, M.ED., L.P.C.-S.

Owner and Lead Therapist

The Bug and Bee

Executive Director

Creel Family Philanthropies

In 2020, I was a child therapist with 11 years of experience who felt overwhelmed navigating full-time work with a newborn and toddler during the pandemic. I started The Bug and Bee as an Instagram account to help parents feel capable and supported, and it evolved into my private practice. This May, The Bug and Bee celebrates four years, and I am so very proud of our growth and impact on our community.
I also serve as the Executive Director of Creel Family Philanthropies, a nonprofit my best friend and her husband launched. We have now raised over $1.5 million for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and supported 30 additional local charities.

PRESSING QUESTIONS

How I knew this was my passion

I can’t imagine doing anything else. I have the privilege of walking alongside families during their toughest days, and I consider it a distinct honor that I don’t take lightly.

Biggest challenges in my career

My goal for my clients is to help them be successful in their lives. When they are successful, they don’t need me anymore, and that is always bittersweet.

My first job and what it taught me

I was a nanny. I learned I have an innate ability to build rapport with children and what an honor it is to be a trusted adult in children’s lives.

A nonprofit I wish more people knew about

Creel Family Philanthropies. We support local organizations with missions in education and life-altering illnesses. We also involve our children in learning to give their time, treasure, and talent. Our primary fundraiser is Cowtown’s Summer Soirée benefiting the LLS.

What keeps me coming back to my job every day

Every day I get a chance to hang out with the coolest kids and help them realize they are capable of being successful. I come back every day for them.

Best career moment so far

A 9-year-old client dressed up as me for school career day! She was open with peers and teachers about therapy and why it is important and helpful for her.

A skill I never expected to need in this field

How to run a business. You don’t learn QuickBooks and budgeting in counseling graduate school! Luckily my best friend is very business-savvy and has helped so much along the way.

One practice I use to maintain my mental health

I’ll give you my top three! Spending time with other mommas and girlfriends, getting outside on our back porch with our kids, and vacations when we can get away.

Best advice I ever received

“Let them.” People will have their opinions about you. Stop wasting your time and energy trying to control something you can’t and let them. Focus on what’s in your control.

The one thing I wish people knew about my field

The #1 protective factor for children is a trusted adult. If you can’t be that person for your kid, it’s okay! But find someone — a therapist, aunt, etc. — who can.

The first thing I do to course-correct when I hit a wall

Admit defeat. “I’m stuck here,” or “I messed up,” go a long way. I consult with other therapists, learn from their expertise, and look at things from a new angle.

IN THE DETAILS