Captain Lindsey Jefferies Jones ’18 has no qualms about taking the skies, but she also knows how to stay grounded.
The Army Reservist has combined all her experiences with a master of science in counseling earned at UNC Greensboro, so that she can serve through her private practice.
A Trailblazer Takes Flight
“My time in the Army National Guard greatly influenced my counseling work, especially connecting with clients who are currently serving or are veterans,” says Jones.
This summer, she’s also part of the permanent “Trailblazing Women” exhibit at the new Sullenberger Aviation Museum in Charlotte, which will showcase her uniform, flight gloves, and other items. Jones earned the moniker of “trailblazer” in the North Carolina National Guard, becoming its first African American female pilot in 2013. She flew the UH-60 Black Hawk and later the UH-72 Lakota.
“As a pilot, the best part is being a role model for little girls and motivating them to chase after their dreams,” she says.
That dream to serve her country began for Jones at 17 with the JROTC in high school. She rose to platoon leader for an air assault company before taking command of the MEDEVAC Detachment and then the Lakota Detachment.
During that time, she looked at ways she could serve others in other venues. Having already gotten a bachelor’s in psychology and sociology and a minor in military science, she came to UNCG so that she could enter the field of counseling and become a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate.
Broadening Her Outreach
The Lakota can reach speeds of 167 mph, but the popularity of telehealth allows Jones – now living in Germany where her husband is stationed – to reach clients in an instant, thanks to her private counseling and consulting practice called Level Your Wings Counseling and Consulting PLLC.
“Jumping into counseling, the depth of human connection and the impact of empathy stands out to me the most,” says Jones, who does all that while working in a logistics position for the Army. “The beauty of being a part-time soldier is that I can both serve and counsel simultaneously.”
Jones connects with people around the world on social media, using her TikTok and Instagram accounts (both @levelyourwings) to share relationship and fitness tips, as well as advice for those who want to work in aviation.
Later this year, she will publish a book “Level Your Wings: A Pilot’s Guide to Healthy Relationships,” correlating the positive dynamics between two pilots in the helicopter with the positive dynamics of two people in relationships. She uses her experience as a therapist and as a pilot to guide readers on the journey to healthy relationships.
“Whether flying helicopters or helping clients navigate their emotions, one thing remains constant,” says Jones. “Dedication to serving others, staying flexible in any situation, and always being there to support people on their journey to personal growth and happiness.”
Story by Janet Imrick, University Communications
Photography courtesy of Capt. Lindsey Jefferies Jones
