Serenitas Mental Health Services is the brainchild of Donika D. Byng, a clinical therapist trained in the United States who is deeply committed to providing compassionate and trauma-informed mental health care in Trinidad and Tobago. With experience in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, Donika understands that healing is not a one-size-fits-all journey. She believes that people inherently want to be well and possess the strength to get there, but sometimes they need the right support to take that first step. At Serenitas, she has built a practice that prioritises understanding, patience, and empowerment, helping clients navigate life’s challenges in a way that fosters personal growth and fulfilment.
The name Serenitas is more than just a word—it’s a philosophy that speaks to Donika’s approach to mental health. Derived from Latin, Serenitas means serenity, but it also translates to “fair weather,” a concept that resonates deeply with her. Over the years, she has heard countless clients describe their struggles using weather metaphors, speaking of drowning in a rough sea or being trapped in an endless storm. She wanted a name that would symbolise hope, a reminder that no matter how turbulent life may feel, there is always the possibility of calm, clarity, and peace. The logo, featuring a wave, further reinforces this idea—acknowledging life’s inevitable ups and downs while striving for balance and tranquillity.
Running Serenitas is just one part of Donika’s life, though it is undeniably her passion. In addition to her private practice, she serves in multiple leadership roles—she is the Public Relations Officer of a local professional organisation, the Mental Health Director and Youth Advocacy Director for two US-based nonprofits, and an active volunteer in various capacities. Beyond her professional commitments, she also navigates the roles of wife and mother, both of which come with their own set of demands. Juggling all of these responsibilities is no easy task, and Donika readily admits that she doesn’t always get it right. But with careful organisation, a solid support system, and tools like virtual assistants and online booking systems, she has found ways to manage the workload. Even with the challenges, she wouldn’t trade it for anything, because each of these roles aligns with her purpose and brings her immense fulfilment.
Serenitas was born out of Donika’s recognition that, despite progress, mental health awareness in Trinidad and Tobago still has a long way to go. The stigma surrounding mental illness remains strong, fuelled by deeply rooted cultural beliefs that discourage open conversations about mental well-being. Too often, people suffer in silence, afraid of being judged or misunderstood. Donika wanted to create a space where individuals could say, “I’m not okay,” and be met with support rather than stigma. A significant part of her mission is education—helping people understand mental health in a way that breaks down misinformation and encourages informed, compassionate conversations. At its core, Serenitas exists to foster wellness and provide people with the tools they need to reclaim their peace.
While Donika doesn’t necessarily think in terms of major milestones, she does take pride in both her personal and professional accomplishments. She graduated at the top of her MSW programme and was awarded the prestigious Ariel S. Bailiff Award, achievements that reflect her dedication to excellence in her field. She is an EMDR-trained practitioner with extensive training in various psychotherapeutic modalities, but for her, the true markers of success aren’t found in titles or accolades. Instead, they are in the breakthroughs—when a client who once felt lost finds clarity, when someone who doubted their worth chooses to fight for their life. Those moments of transformation are what she considers the greatest milestones of all.
Being an entrepreneur has taught Donika that business is far from easy, but if it’s something you love, you have to keep going. When she started Serenitas, she had an idea that things would fall into place quickly—that clients would come easily, and success would follow naturally. The reality, however, was quite different. Building the practice has been a slow and steady process, requiring patience, adaptability, and resilience. But Donika has embraced the journey, recognising that every challenge has been an opportunity to learn and grow.
For anyone considering entrepreneurship, Donika’s advice is simple: just start. It’s easy to get caught up in the belief that everything needs to be perfect before taking that first step—whether it’s the right office space, the best tools, or the perfect setup. But what truly makes a business thrive isn’t the aesthetics; it’s the person behind it. Passion, expertise, and the willingness to show up every day are what matter most. Looking back, Donika wishes she had started even earlier, with the confidence that she was enough.
To Donika, a brand is more than a logo or a name—it’s the impression you leave, the story you tell, and the experience you create. While anyone can start a business, not everyone builds a brand. A business sells products or services, but a brand cultivates trust, recognition, and loyalty. With Serenitas, Donika is not just offering therapy sessions; she is creating a space that people can turn to when they need guidance, healing, and hope. She wants Serenitas to be a name that people associate with quality mental health care, a safe haven where they know they will be supported.
Reflecting on the local brand landscape in Trinidad and Tobago, Donika believes that while there are a few strong, recognisable brands, they do not hold the same presence as international ones. Consumer habits have changed—people often prioritise convenience and affordability over brand loyalty, making it more challenging for local businesses to stand out. However, she remains optimistic that local brands can make an impact by focusing on quality, consistency, and genuine connection with the community.
Although Serenitas does not participate in markets, Donika has been involved in several health fairs over the years, using these opportunities to engage with the public and provide mental health resources. Her goal remains the same: to make mental health care more accessible, to create a culture where seeking help is normalised, and to offer individuals the support they need to navigate life’s challenges. Through Serenitas, Donika continues to champion the belief that healing is possible and that everyone deserves to experience peace, balance, and well-being.
