Mental Health Education & Training
You Already Have the Strength to Move Forward
Evidence-based training programs for schools, workplaces, faith communities, and beyond – delivered with compassion for all ages.
About Jessica
Hi, I'm Jessica Smiley, LCSW, CCTP (She/Her)
As President & CEO of Inner Strength Consulting, I bring over 20 years of experience in mental health and children’s services. My mission is simple: to help individuals recognize the strength they already carry — and use it to grow.
I believe that while life can be challenging, it doesn’t have to feel impossible. Together, we’ll transform challenges into opportunities.
Call Me today
(217) 702-4974
What I Offer
Training Programs for Every Community
Engaging, interactive, and designed for lasting impact. Programs can be customized for youth or adults, in-person or virtual.
Mental Health First Aid
Engaging, interactive, and designed for lasting impact. Programs can be customized for youth or adults, in-person or virtual.
Trauma-Informed Care
Understand how trauma impacts the brain and behavior, and learn practical strategies to support others.
LGBTQ+ Inclusive Training
Build inclusive language and practices that create safe, affirming environments for everyone.
Suicide Prevention 101
Recognizing risk factors, warning signs, and how to start supportive, empathetic conversations.
Self-Care Workshops
Practical, sustainable strategies to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain balance.
Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA)
een-focused skills training to recognize and respond to mental health crises.
consultation
Areas of Consultation
We partner with organizations, schools, and communities to build stronger, more supportive systems of care.
Trauma-Informed Care
Build awareness and practical strategies to respond to trauma.
Workplace Mental Health
Promote wellbeing and reduce burnout across your organization.
Wraparound Services
Coordinate team-based care centered on youth and family voice.
Cultural Humility
Foster inclusive, respectful, and equitable environments.
School-Based Support
Support student mental health and classroom success.
Faith & Community- Based Support
Integrate mental health into community and faith setting
Grant Writing & Program Development
Secure funding and build sustainable, aligned programs.
My Testimonials
What People Are Saying
Engaging, interactive, and designed for lasting impact. Programs can be customized for youth or adults, in-person or virtual.
Jessica is a strong advocate for mental health. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to work with her on a number of projects and committees and I always feel like I'm a better person for being around her and her knowledge. She truly is a genuine person and works diligently on behalf of those with mental health needs.
I liked how you shared your story and added the coping skills you. used. I really liked how you explained stuff. You are really kind
Jessica's approach fosters an open, kind and understanding environment. She works tirelessly to ensure that mental health education is accessible to everyone.
She is nice and helped me learn a lot of stuff. She did a terrific job explaining, reassuring, and clearly speaking about suicide prevention. I like that she shared real life experience that can be relatable.
Jessica designs trainings that are clear, trauma-informed, and culturally responsive. She meets learners where they are - whether youth, parents educators or frontline staff - and consistently earns high marks for clarity, empathy and practical takeaways. She is a skilled communicator, adept at crafting messages for diverse audiences and sustaining momentum between sessions.
Affiliated With
Trusted Partner Organizations
