Bernadette Correa Turns Her Nursing Experience Into a Wellness Business
Bernadette Correa spent more than 30 years working as a registered nurse. After earning her bachelor’s degree in nursing with a minor in psychology from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, she continued her education, earning a Master of Science in Nursing with a concentration in nursing administration.
“I made a promise to myself that I would go to grad school and earn a master’s before a milestone age and realized I needed to keep that promise.”
Like many healthcare professionals, the pandemic allowed Correa to reflect on what she wanted the next chapter of her career to look like.
She had a vision for a business that would help people prioritize their well-being, particularly nurses and other healthcare providers who spend their careers caring for others.
Building a Business With Support From CFCC
That’s when she connected with Cape Fear Community College’s Small Business Center.
Working with Small Business Center Director Jerry Coleman, Correa received one-on-one support as she navigated the process of turning her vision into a business.
“I knew in my head what I wanted, but to actually create it, having someone walk alongside me made all the difference,” she said. “Jerry was very instrumental in helping me with operations, telling me the next steps, and being there whenever I needed him.”
With that support, Correa opened The Tranquility Parlor, LLC in 2023.
Educating Healthcare Providers
Today, education and teaching are at the heart of Correa’s work.
The Tranquility Parlor provides continuing professional development for nurses and other healthcare providers, including chaplains who are part of the healthcare disciplinary team. Through educational programs and workshops, Correa teaches mindfulness, wholeness, and holistic approaches to well-being.
“How can healthcare providers pour into others if they have not first poured into themselves? As nurses, we’re used to creating plans of care for our patients, but not for ourselves,” Correa said. “I work with them to create a customized plan that focuses on the whole person.”
As The Tranquility Parlor continues to grow, Correa hopes to connect with more nurses, chaplains, and other healthcare providers through her professional development work.
“Healthcare providers need that downtime. Sometimes they just need someone to listen and have a safe place. Taking time to pause, invest in yourself, and relax is beneficial to you and those around you.”
For healthcare professionals interested in learning more about her business, Correa invites them to connect with her on LinkedIn.
Small Business Center
The Small Business Center at CFCC provides free and confidential counseling to people who are exploring the opportunity to open their own business. We also provide counseling and advice to existing small businesses at their request.
In addition, we offer annually 80+ free seminars on many varied business topics targeted towards potential or existing entrepreneurs.
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