Shifting Perceptions: A Conversation with Cory, The CannaCounselor

At Weed Queens, we are dedicated to shining a light on the trailblazers in the cannabis industry, especially those who are pushing boundaries and changing the narrative. In this interview, we had the pleasure of speaking with Cory, known as The CannaCounselor, who is on a mission to demystify cannabis and promote mental wellness through education and advocacy.

Who is The CannaCounselor?

Cory describes herself as an educator and passionate advocate for mental health and cannabis. With a unique blend of expertise in Clinical Psychology and Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics, she strives to shift the perception of cannabis from a stigmatized substance to a recognized tool for wellness. The CannaCounselor offers education, training, and consultation aimed at empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health.

The CannaCounselor’s Mission

Cory’s work is centered around educating people in a way that is both accessible and unbiased. She aims to dismantle the stigma surrounding cannabis, especially in the context of mental health, where the focus is often on the negative aspects. By sharing her knowledge on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, she hopes to reach a wider audience and provide the education that is so often lacking in discussions about cannabis.

The Unique Role of The CannaCounselor

Cory’s dual Master’s degrees and experience as a mental health counselor give her a distinctive edge in the industry. Her role is not just about providing information; it’s about transforming the way people think about cannabis and mental health. She highlights the importance of understanding how cannabis can be beneficial for mental wellness, a perspective that is often overlooked.

Favorite Aspects and Challenges

Cory’s favorite part of her job is seeing the lightbulb moments when people begin to understand how cannabis can improve their lives. However, she also faces significant challenges, particularly the persistent stigma and misinformation surrounding cannabis, especially during election cycles. Despite these obstacles, Cory remains committed to her mission and is finding creative ways to continue her work.

A Journey Rooted in Mental Health

Cory’s journey into the cannabis industry began during her time as a mental health counselor, where she encountered clients who used cannabis but felt uncomfortable discussing it openly. This experience motivated her to pursue further education in cannabis science and therapeutics, eventually leading her to become a budtender in Washington, D.C. Her work in this role has allowed her to make a tangible impact on her community.

Building The CannaCounselor Brand

Cory admits that starting her own business has been a learning experience. She is still in the planning stages but is supported by a strong network of mentors and a dedicated business coach. She emphasizes the importance of having a support system, especially in the early stages of entrepreneurship.

Overcoming Obstacles and Driving Change

One of the biggest obstacles Cory faces is censorship on social media platforms. Shadowbanning and content restrictions make it difficult to share her message openly. Despite this, Cory is determined to find new platforms where she can speak freely about cannabis and mental health. She is also a fierce advocate for diversity in the cannabis industry and hopes to see more Black and Brown individuals in leadership positions.

Looking to the Future

Cory is excited about the growing accessibility of cannabis and the opportunities it presents for education and career development. However, she is also concerned about the ongoing federal illegality of cannabis and the misinformation that often accompanies legalization efforts. She hopes to continue her work in a way that positively impacts her community and helps normalize cannabis use.

Key Takeaways from Cory

• Education is Key: Understanding the benefits of cannabis for mental health is crucial, and Cory is dedicated to providing unbiased, accessible education.
• Support Systems Matter: Whether in business or personal life, having a strong support network is essential for success.
• Diversity is Needed: Cory advocates for more representation of Black, Brown, and non-binary individuals in the cannabis industry.
• Persistence Pays Off: Despite challenges like censorship and stigma, Cory remains committed to her mission of shifting perceptions and promoting wellness.

Shoutouts to Inspiring Women in Cannabis

Cory has a deep appreciation for the women who are making waves in the cannabis industry. Here are four of her favorites:

1. Alex Arnett (@Calyx.alex) – A dedicated Cannabis Researcher.
2. Nicole Butler (@canna_cape_cod_dc) – Owner of DC’s first Bud & Breakfast, Canna Cape Cod.
3. Jabria Craft (@craftedcancoach) – A passionate Cannabis Coach & Advocate.
4. Olga Hall (@thecannabisnurse) – A cannabis-friendly nurse & Medical Cannabis Certification Practitioner.

These women, along with many others, are paving the way for a more inclusive and informed cannabis industry.

Connect with The CannaCounselor

You can follow Cory’s journey and gain valuable insights on Instagram @the_cannacounselor. Keep an eye out for her upcoming website, YouTube content, and possibly a podcast that will continue to spread knowledge and shift perceptions about cannabis and mental health.