Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal McDougle.
Hi Crystal, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
My journey began with a deep passion for both the arts and social work, rooted in my experiences as a Division 1 track and field athlete and my academic pursuits in psychology and social work. Initially, I didn’t recognize the connection between these fields, but over time, I discovered the powerful intersection of creative expression and social impact.
After earning my B.A. in Psychology in 2018 and a Master’s in Social Work in 2022 from Florida Atlantic University, I realized the potential to integrate coaching, counseling, and community engagement within the arts and sports. This vision led to the creation of ARTLETIK LLC, a business dedicated to bridging the gap between creativity and social impact through a liberation-focused lens.
I founded ARTLETIK to merge my passions, emphasizing a decolonized approach that challenges traditional barriers and promotes inclusivity in the arts. Through ARTLETIK, I offer creativity coaching and community programs designed to uplift artists and community members while fostering personal and systemic change. My community engagement initiatives include circles, Photovoice projects, and workshops for artists, all aimed at amplifying diverse voices and perspectives.
Complementing this work, ARTLETIK Wellness LLC provides a space where I offer counseling for athletes and coaches, along with workshops specifically designed for teams. My practice, rooted in expressive arts, holds transformative and multidimensional healing power. I integrate a liberation-focused approach, addressing systemic barriers and creating a space for individuals to explore their identities, narratives, and personal power. This combination aims to encourage athletes and coaches to achieve personal and professional growth and to challenge limitations imposed by societal structures.
My decision to focus on artists and athletes stems from their unique platforms and potential to drive social change. Both groups have significant influence and reach, making them ideal leaders in advocating for creativity and well-being while addressing social issues. Their ability to inspire and mobilize communities aligns perfectly with ARTLETIK’s mission.
As ARTLETIK continues to grow, my goal is to innovate within the creative fields as a social worker and inspire community expansion by integrating all my creative endeavors, much like an artist curating their canvas. ARTLETIK is more than a business; it’s a platform, movement, and hub dedicated to encouraging individuals and communities through the transformative power of creativity and social impact. Currently, I am collaborating with local entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations in Brevard County to engage and mobilize the community through the arts. An upcoming Photovoice project will focus on visual storytelling to amplify local voices and highlight their lived experiences and perspectives.
I’m also excited to announce the launch of my podcast, “Create with Joy.” This platform will dive into meaningful conversations with artists, creators, and athletes, exploring their stories, motivations, and impacts in their communities—candidly and without any fluff.
My commitment extends beyond borders, inviting anyone who resonates with this effort to participate and engage.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Creating two businesses had its smooth moments, particularly when I saw my passions align with a clear vision. The process of defining ARTLETIK felt natural because it was rooted in my genuine love for the arts, sports, and social work. I found that my ideas resonated with others, making it easier to build connections and collaborations. The creative freedom I had in designing the programs and initiatives allowed me to shape the businesses into something that truly reflects my values and aspirations. The positive feedback and support from the community also played a significant role in encouraging me to continue expanding the mission.
However, starting ARTLETIK LLC and ARTLETIK Wellness LLC involved stepping into uncharted territory, especially in integrating creativity with social impact. Figuring out how to blend these fields while maintaining a clear mission required a lot of experimentation and adaptation.
Introducing a new approach that combines the arts with social work is sometimes met with skepticism. Creating the space for others to have the opportunity to see the value and potential impact of this innovative model involves educating and engaging through real-life examples and vulnerability.
I’ve reconnected with my home county after being away in South Florida for 8 years. I can tell you a lot has changed as well as not changed since I was 18 years old. Establishing a support network and engaging with local entrepreneurs, businesses, and organizations in Brevard County took diligence and effort. Creating meaningful collaborations and gaining traction for community projects requires persistent outreach and genuine relationship-building. The way Brevard is growing almost feels as if I am new to the area all over again!
As a social worker I’ve juggled a lot of responsibilities: business owner of 2 businesses, school social worker, cheer coach, art director and community leadership while also honoring personal commitments. It has been beyond challenging. Finding the right balance to ensure each area receives the attention it needs has required careful planning, flexibility but the ultimate release of control. Managing my health while pursuing my professional goals also involves intense self-care that is more about reciprocal healthy relationships that surround me, honoring my identity and spending time connecting on my spiritual journey.
Like many startups, ARTLETIK faces challenges with limited resources, whether it is funding, time, or personnel. Finding ways to make the most of available resources while striving to achieve long-term goals requires creative brainstorming and resilience.
These struggles have shaped the journey, but they’ve also led to growth, learning, and a deeper understanding of my community and the concept of community overall. Each challenge has contributed to refining the vision and strengthening the commitment to making a local and global level impact.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m Crystal McDougle, often known as Crystal Jené. I specialize in the intersection of creativity, wellness, and social impact. My work is multifaceted, blending creativity coaching, expressive arts therapy, and social work principles to support artists, athletes, and entrepreneurs in their personal and professional growth.
I’m the founder of ARTLETIK LLC, a business that empowers individuals to harness their creativity, prioritize well-being, and drive positive change in their communities. Through ARTLETIK, I offer creativity coaching, helping artists and creatives refine their skills and share their vision confidently with the world. My work also includes ARTLETIK Wellness LLC, where I provide expressive arts therapy, particularly for athletes, using art as a means to enhance mental health and performance.
I’m known for my innovative approach, which emphasizes liberation-focused, decolonizing methods in creativity and therapy. My dedication to community engagement is reflected in programs like Photovoice and liberation-focused workshops, where I collaborate with participants to address social issues through creative expression.
One of the aspects I’m most proud of is my dedication to integrating social work into the arts and sports industries. This work has enabled me to address systemic issues, promote healing, and build community among historically marginalized groups. It has also created space for critical dialogues that challenge conventional norms, especially in communities that may not typically engage with liberative practices or diverse forms of expression. My international experiences combined with my background as a former Division 1 athlete and coaching, gives me a unique perspective that deeply informs my approach to both therapy and coaching.
What sets me apart is my holistic view of creativity as a tool for personal agency, healing, and social change. I don’t just focus on individual success; I aim to create ripple effects that benefit entire communities. My work is driven by a passion for helping others embrace their full potential while challenging societal norms that often limit creative expression.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
ARTLETIK (noun)
A platform that supports and inspires artists and athletes, promoting personal growth and community impact through creative and liberating practices.
#BeARTLETIK is all about embracing the ARTLETIK vibe—bringing creativity, personal growth, and making a positive impact into everything you do. It’s about supporting and joining a movement that promotes freedom through the arts. By using this hashtag, you’re connecting with a community that’s all about breaking down barriers and making a difference, while showing how you’re growing and contributing to your community through your creative and athletic passions.
Pricing:
- 15 min free consultation
- Clarity Session: $75 (1- 1 hr 1:1coaching session)
- Spark Creativity: $300 (4- 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions)
- Creative Growth: $600 (8- 1hr 1:1 coaching sessions)
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.beartletik.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/be.artletik/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeArtletik
- Other: https://www.artletikwellness.com
