Dr. Jesse Sanders

So nice to meet you! First off, what’s your name? Tell our readers a bit about yourself: where you’re from originally and where you live now.

My name is Dr. Jesse Sanders, though many people know me as “Dr. Redefined.” I’m a therapist, author, speaker, and the founder of the Redefined Movement and Redefined Behavioral Health & Wellness. I’m originally from Indiana and am now based in the Columbus, Ohio, area. My faith, my family, and my commitment to helping people see new possibilities for their lives shape everything I do.

Tell us one thing you love about where you live now.

I love the people. The Columbus area is full of individuals and organizations willing to come together to support families and create opportunities for young people.

Tell us a little more about what your company does and how it started. How does it help your customers?

Redefined Behavioral Health & Wellness provides therapy, behavioral health support, and wellness services for individuals and families. Our work has grown to include youth programming, community partnerships, and support that connects mental health with everyday challenges. I started Redefined because I wanted people to have a place where they could be heard, supported, and equipped to move forward. We help clients build practical skills while reminding them that their current circumstances do not have to define their future.

If someone wants to start a business, what advice would you give them?

Know why you’re starting, and be willing to do the work that follows. Listen to the people you hope to serve, keep learning, and build relationships with people who will tell you the truth. Your vision may grow, but your integrity should stay consistent.

What is one piece of feedback from a happy customer or client that you won't forget?

The feedback that stays with me is hearing that someone finally felt heard and believed change was possible. In behavioral health, that moment matters. It tells me we’ve helped create the trust a person needs to take their next step.

Where do you see your company in the future?

I see Redefined serving more families and communities through strong clinical care, school and community partnerships, and programs that connect wellness with education and employment. As we grow, I want us to keep the personal connection that made this work meaningful from the beginning.

What is the biggest misconception about your industry?

One misconception is that people only need mental health support when they are in crisis. Support and partnership can also help someone strengthen relationships, navigate a life change, develop coping skills, or understand themselves better. Asking for partnership/help can be a step toward growth.

What has been one of your biggest struggles building your business, and how did you deal with it?

One of the biggest challenges has been building the systems needed to support a growing organization while continuing to care for the people we serve. I’ve dealt with that by listening to my team, improving our processes, and staying focused on our mission when the work gets complicated.

What was your favorite music artist and athlete growing up?

My favorite music artist growing up was Toni Braxton, and my favorite athlete was Mike Tyson.

Any shoutouts you want to make?

I want to thank God for entrusting me with this assignment, my partner, my children, my amazing grandson, and my family for their love and support, and the Redefined team for the work they put in every day. I’m also grateful to the clients, community partners, and mentors who have trusted us and helped our vision grow.

Where can our readers learn more about you and your company?

Readers can learn more about Redefined Behavioral Health & Wellness and request services at redefined.clientsecure.me. They can go to our website at iartoday.org and follow us on all social media platforms @drredefined.