Background

Education

Franklin High School
Bachelor of Arts in Clinical and Counseling Psychology at Saint Augustine's University
Master of Arts in Marriage & Family Therapy at Liberty University
PhD in Forensic Psychology at Walden University - Currently Writing Dissertation (all coursework completed)

Past Work Experience

I have worked in the mental health field for 15 years. Prior to starting my own practice, I have worked as a direct care assistant for individuals enrolled in the Community Alternative Program (CAP) for persons of all ages, commonly diagnosed with Mental Retardation/Developmental Disabilities (CAP-MR/DD); learned and utilized techniques such as, Verbal Behavioral (VB), Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS), Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA), and Nonviolent Crisis Interventions (NCI). I provided face-to-face direct counseling services to adolescents enrolled at a mental health residential treatment facility for various negative behaviors, including aggressiveness, suicidal and/or self-injurious behaviors, promiscuity, sexual abuse and addictions; these residents were all classified as at-risk youth, who were often court mandated to participate in various individual and group activities, and other programs through positive interaction, instruction, supervision, feedback and encouragement. I also have experience working directly in a public school setting as a behavioral counselor for multiple public school districts in Virginia. I conducted individual/group therapy sessions and on-call crisis management to youth, attended school faculty meetings that directly involve the client in service, and performed after school home consults with the families or school personnel. Lastly, I have served as a Clinical Director for different Therapeutic Day Treatment Programs, overseeing and reviewing qualified mental health professionals' documentation, providing face to face consultation to clients, reviewing and revising policies or procedures based on state requirements, remained available for consultation regarding emergency crises, and conducted weekly supervisor meetings and monthly staff meetings to promote awareness, boost morale, and increase competence.

Therapeutic Approaches & Interventions

Applied Behavioral Analysis - Level One

Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Family/Marital Therapy

Art Therapy

Chairwork

Coaching

Trauma Focused

Structural Family Therapy

Sandplay

Positive Psychology

Forensic Psychology

Court Evaluations

Sex Therapy

I am a Black daughter, Black sister, and a Black mother of a Black Son....

I am a Black Woman!

I believe it is important to include my background as a black daughter, sister, and mother; I am a black woman. A black woman entrepreneur embracing her authentic self and blending her professional and personal life to provide insights and guidance is significant for several reasons, particularly for women, and especially for women of color. Here are some key aspects of significance:

Representation Matters
- - Seeing a black woman entrepreneur who is unapologetically authentic serves as powerful representation. It challenges traditional norms and stereotypes, showing other women, especially women of color, that they can be successful while being true to themselves.
Breaking Stereotypes
- - In many professional settings, there can be stereotypical expectations about how women, and particularly women of color, should present themselves. An entrepreneur embracing authenticity helps break these stereotypes and challenges the notion that success requires conformity to narrow standards.
Inspiration and Empowerment
- - The journey of embracing authenticity can be inspiring and empowering for others. It shows that success is not limited to a specific image or identity but is achievable by embracing one's true self. This can encourage other women to pursue their goals with confidence.
Cultural Connection
- - A black woman entrepreneur who integrates her cultural identity into her professional life fosters a sense of cultural connection. This can resonate strongly with an audience that values authenticity and representation, creating a deeper and more meaningful connection with her community.
Diversity of Perspectives
- - Embracing authenticity brings a diversity of perspectives into the business landscape. This diversity is not just about ethnicity but also about the diversity of experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives that enrich the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Building Inclusive Communities
- - By being authentic and sharing personal insights, a black woman entrepreneur contributes to the creation of inclusive communities. She may attract a diverse audience and create spaces where women from various backgrounds feel welcomed and understood.
Navigating Intersectionality
- - Women of color often navigate intersectional identities that include race, gender, and sometimes other factors. An entrepreneur who openly embraces her authentic self helps others navigate these intersections by providing a roadmap for integrating multiple aspects of identity into their professional lives.
Cultural Heritage as a Strength
- - Instead of seeing cultural heritage as a potential barrier, an entrepreneur who integrates her cultural identity into her business can demonstrate that cultural richness is a strength. It adds depth and authenticity to her brand, making it more relatable to a broad audience.
Paving the way for future generations
- - By being authentic and successful, a black woman entrepreneur becomes a trailblazer, paving the way for future generations of women to navigate the entrepreneurial landscape with a greater sense of possibility, confidence, and authenticity.

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