Who is Kiwanya Tende

     Doctor of Christian Counseling

Dr. Kiwanya Tende is a passionate Christian counselor, life coach, and founder of JerNe Ministries and JerNe Life Coaching and Biblical Counseling, LLC. Her work is dedicated to helping women heal from trauma, rediscover their identity in Christ, and successfully transition into purposeful living.

She is the author of Reentry: A Path to Healing, Restoration, and Purpose, a publication derived from her doctoral dissertation that examines the intersection of Christian counseling and successful reentry. Her body of work reflects both scholarly insight and practical application, equipping women with the tools needed for lasting transformation.

She is also the author of 30 Days of Healing After Incarceration, a devotional for the hopeless at heart, and Project HOPE, JerNe’s inaugural curriculum addressing trauma from past hurts associated with incarceration. In addition, Project RECOVERY: Recovery God’s Way was established in response to the growing number of clients she serves who struggle with non-chemical addictions—challenges that, if left unaddressed, can hinder personal growth and long-term stability.

Kiwanya’s story is a testament to the belief that one’s past does not define one’s future—it reveals one’s purpose. Her journey inspires others to embrace healing, break free from the chains of shame and guilt, and step into the life they were created to live.

Academic Degrees

•Doctor of Christian Counseling (DCC)

•Master of Ministry in Christian Counseling (MMCC)

•Bachelor of Arts in Christian Leadership & Ministry (BA)

•Associate of Arts in Psychology Christian Counseling (AA)

Certifications

•Board Certified Christian Life Coach (NACC)

•Board Certified Biblical Christian Counselor (NACC)

•Board Certified Mental Health Coach (BCMHC)

•Board Certified Reentry Peer Specialist (State of Texas)

•Board Certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist (State of Texas)

Licensure

•Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern (LCDC-I), State of Texas

Recovery Training & Specialization

•Life Recovery – 12-Step Program Facilitator

•Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS)

•Reentry Peer Specialist (RPS)