Taraji P. Henson Opens Up About Embracing Self-Worth

The award-winning actress shares her therapeutic path to self-acceptance in candid podcast interview

By Sakshi Sakshi linkedin_icon

In a refreshingly candid new interview, Academy Award-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson has opened up about her journey to self-acceptance, revealing the personal breakthrough that has transformed her mindset.

“Finally, I can say that I’m good enough. I know that might be surprising to hear, but it’s true. It’s just taken me some time — and some therapy — to believe it,” Henson shared in a heartfelt conversation on the IMO Podcast, now available on YouTube and all podcast platforms.

A Therapeutic Journey To Self-Acceptance

The Instagram post features a clip from the interview where Henson appears to be discussing her personal growth journey with sincerity and vulnerability. The conversation marks a significant moment in the acclaimed actress’s ongoing advocacy for mental health awareness, particularly within the Black community.

Henson’s admission about needing therapy to recognize her own worth resonates deeply in a culture where celebrities are often expected to project unwavering confidence. Her willingness to discuss the therapeutic process highlights her commitment to destigmatizing mental health conversations.

Championing Mental Health Awareness

This isn’t the first time Henson has been vocal about the importance of mental wellness. The “Empire” and “Hidden Figures” star has long been an advocate for mental health, particularly in underserved communities.

Henson founded the Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation in 2018, named after her father who struggled with mental health issues following his service in the Vietnam War. The organization aims to eradicate the stigma around mental health in the African American community and provide support for those seeking help.

A Multifaceted Career And Growing Influence

Henson was born on September 11, 1970, in Washington, D.C. Her breakthrough in Hollywood came with her role in the 2001 film “Baby Boy.” She received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Queenie in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (2008) and earned critical acclaim for her portrayal of NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson in “Hidden Figures” (2016).

Most recognizably, Henson starred as Cookie Lyon in the Fox drama series “Empire” (2015–2020), a role that earned her a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations.

Upcoming Keynote Address

Adding to her growing list of accomplishments, Henson is set to deliver the keynote address at Spelman College’s 138th Commencement Ceremony on Sunday, May 18, at the Georgia International Convention Center. She will address Spelman’s largest graduating class ever—an inspiring group of 694 graduates—and receive a Doctor of Fine Arts honorary degree for her outstanding contributions to the arts and community.

The actress’s willingness to share her personal struggles with therapy and self-acceptance provides a powerful reminder that the journey to self-worth is ongoing—even for those who appear to have it all together in the public eye.

As Henson continues to balance her thriving career across film, television, beauty, and advocacy, her message remains clear: authenticity and mental well-being should always take priority.

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Taraji P. Henson is known for her versatile roles in both drama and comedy, showcasing her range as an actress.
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Sakshi holds a bachelor’s degree in Science and a master’s in Bioinformatics from Panjab University, India. Her passion for writing engaging articles has led her to pursue a career in content writing since 2020. Sakshi has written in various niches, including health and wellness, fintech, blockchain, and lifestyle.

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