Mental Health, Representation, and the Road to Holistic Wellness in the Workplace
Though Mental Health Awareness Month has come to a close, the urgency of the conversation doesn’t fade. In fact, for leaders across Central Indiana—especially those committed to business equity—the need to address mental well-being in the workplace is becoming increasingly important.
That’s where Hazel Owens comes in.
Hazel Owens, founder of Owens Counseling & Consulting and a seasoned speaker and mental health professional, is unapologetically committed to the mental health and holistic well-being of BIPOC communities, especially high-achieving Black women. Her work began in the corporate world, working in the student loan industry for eight years, then in the non-profit sector for three years. She later made a career change that initially focused on traditional therapy. Still, it has since expanded to include consulting, public speaking, and organizational training, helping individuals and companies move toward healthier, more intentional cultures.
“Representation matters,” Owens explains. “After the murder of George Floyd, I had more people who looked like me reach out for mental health support. That kind of visibility and cultural understanding makes a real difference.”
Bridging Corporate and Community Wellness
Owens’ practice may have begun with individual counseling, but over time, she has expanded her expertise to include nonprofits, churches, and businesses. Through workshops, trainings, and consulting, she offers organizations fundamental tools to address cultural sensitivity, anti-racism, burnout, and race-based trauma, especially in the workplace.
“I’ve done trainings with organizations like Horizon House and Coburn Place to help staff better understand how to meet people where they are,” she says. “When employees feel seen, safe, and supported, they show up more fully in their roles.”
One standout tool Hazel uses in her organizational work is the “roadmap exercise”—a strategic reflection process that helps teams articulate where they want to go, what roadblocks they’re facing, and how to build supportive systems to get there. The outcomes often shape internal initiatives around well-being, pay equity, community engagement, and staff support systems.
Why This Matters for Business Leaders
Business Equity for Indy (BEI) was born out of a moment of reckoning in 2020, with a mission to advance Black individuals across Central Indiana. As the organization continues to evolve, wellness remains at the core of inclusive growth.
The majority of BEI’s 140+ member companies are led by CEOs who understand that economic mobility, workforce development, and community prosperity are intertwined. As workplace stress increases across sectors—and especially among underrepresented employees—leaders must reassess what holistic employee support entails.
Hazel believes companies have a responsibility to evaluate their cultures, not just their bottom lines.
“Are your people thriving or simply surviving?” she asks. “Is there space for them to show up as full humans? Are you giving back in a way that reflects their values?”
Her call to action is clear: mental health must be part of a company’s business strategy.
A Culturally Competent Approach
While Hazel’s faith background informs her values, she’s careful and intentional in corporate settings.
“I’m a reverend, yes,” she says, “but I’m not coming in to preach. I know how to separate those worlds and serve organizations respectfully and effectively.”
Her consulting practice adapts to an organization’s unique needs—from helping DEI teams reinvigorate their work, to coaching executives through emotional intelligence and communication strategies, to leading culturally relevant mental health workshops.
The Invitation to Lead Differently
As more organizations reflect on how to retain diverse talent and foster a sense of belonging, Hazel encourages corporate leaders to stop thinking of mental health as an “extra” and start seeing it as foundational.
“I just want to see people win,” she says. “Whether it’s a company trying to build a healthier culture or a woman trying to reclaim her peace—I’m there to support the journey.”
For companies ready to deepen their investment in holistic well-being, Hazel offers both compassion and accountability—a true cheerleader and coach rolled into one.
To learn more about Hazel Owens and how she supports organizations, visit www.hazelowens.com.
