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Jessica Smith is a mental health advocate and community builder based in Baltimore, MD. She is the Founder of The Mental Health Emergency Fund, Inc., which helps provide financial assistance to marginalized community members experiencing a mental health crisis. She is an MSW student at Howard University and her therapeutic areas of focus are anxiety, depression, life transitions, relationships and faith topics. No matter what she's doing, she will always have a network around her because she believes that healing happens in community. In this special solo episode, Jessica shares her journey of picking a graduate school to attend and her experience as a student at Howard University's School of Social Work so far. To learn more about her nonprofit work, visit: www.mentalhealthemergencyfund.org Or follow her on instagram at www.instagram.com/mentalhealthemergencyfund  

Marquis Carrington is a multi-disciplinary artist and mindfulness practitioner. He is based in Baltimore, Maryland and uses music, creative writing, photography, yoga, and podcasting to bring a variety of offerings to professional and communal spaces. He is the author of three poetry books and the host of the podcast "A Guy From A Place." In this episode, Marquis discusses issues around Black men's mental health, how he moves through the world as a Black male poet and how growing up in Baltimore has shaped the man he is today. His fourth book, "Sometimes We Only Get a Piece of Something Beautiful and It's Not for Us to Keep" is coming out soon. Follow him on YouTube and Instagram at CharmCityBipper

Ivory Haze is a singer-songwriter and mental health advocate from Washington, DC, whose music blends emotional honesty with powerful storytelling. Through raw lyrics and soulful melodies, she's been building to create songs that speak to healing, resilience, and self-discovery. Offstage, Ivory has become a huge advocate for mental health issues and overall well being and in return hopes to use any platform given, either through singing or mentorship, to bring light and raise awareness about mental health and inspire open conversations. With a voice that uplifts and song messages that empower, Ivory is building a community where music and mental wellness go hand in hand. In this episode, she shares where her mental health journey began, how she navigates anxiety as a musical artist, and how she uses her platform to heal others. Follow her on Instagram, YouTube and TikTok at IvoryHazeMusic 

Dr. Kimberly R. Mayes, LCSW is the Founder & Clinical Director at Essence Therapy & Wellness Center, where she supports clients with individual therapy, corporate training, and culturally responsive interventions. With over 20 years of professional experience, Dr. Mayes has held leadership roles and worked in hospital, educational, and non-profit settings.   Her most rewarding accomplishment is founding a successful group private practice for BIPOC clients, where the mission is to, "Recreate the definition of therapy & self-care for the BIPOC community through effective, relatable & holistic therapeutic services." In this episode, she shares what it means to provide holistic services, what pre-work to do before finding a therapist and some of the things she's working on improving in her life. Reach her at: https://www.essencetwc.com/ LinkedIn:  www.instagram.com/kimberlyrenay    

Maya Elizabeth, the co-creator of From M.E. to You: A Mental Health Concert, is a singer-songwriter, artist, mentor + a member at the Recording Academy (DC Chapter). Maya studied marketing at Howard University and graduated in 2016 as the School of Business Valedictorian. Then, she launched Maya Elizabeth Music LLC and has been spreading healing, truth, +love as an independent artist ever since. She shares openly about her journey with self-image, anxiety + owning her unique sound.  In this episode, she shares about her upcoming mental health concert, some of the ways she's navigated anxiety as an independent artist and the connection between mental health and music.  Follow her at these links: www.instagram.com/mayaelizabethmusic www.mayaelizabethmusic.com

Brittany J. Crawford, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist and the founder of Mind Bend Foundation. With years of experience in mental health, she witnessed firsthand how financial barriers prevent individuals from accessing the care they need. Recognizing the gap between affordability and quality therapy, she created Mind Bend Foundation to provide direct funding for those without adequate coverage. Her mission is simple—ensure that cost is never a barrier to healing. In this episode, Dr. Crawford shares about her day to day as a Clinical Psychologist in the hospital system, how she works with kids to explore curiosity and imaginative play in her sessions and what inspired her to create the Mind Bend Foundation in the Bay Area. Stay connected with her by visiting www.themindbendfoundation.com

Dr. Richardson is a mama, healer, and licensed psychologist with over 12 years of experience providing therapy in clinical, academic, and community-based settings. She brings a relational and culturally grounded lens to her work, centering the lived experiences of Black and Brown women and mothers.  Taking a holistic approach, Dr. Richardson believes healing happens not just in the mind, but in the body, spirit, and community. She views motherhood as a communal practice—one that deserves care, compassion, and space to be both messy and beautiful. Her work is dedicated to breaking down stigmas surrounding women's emotional lives, especially those tied to mothering and the generational pressures so many women carry. In this episode, Dr. Richardson brings awareness to maternal mental health with her practice Melanated Women's Therapy, LLC, talks about motherhood as a communal practice and shares about the anthology she's published. https://melanatedwomenllc.com/ www.instagram.com/melanatedwomenllc https://www.lyneiarichardson.com/  

Brandon Logan is a Licensed Behavior Analyst, transformation coach, and founder of 4 The Collective and The Thrive Nation Podcast. He serves on the board of AMINGA, a nonprofit dedicated to providing youth in the Global South with access to holistic education and sports training, fostering athleticism, interpersonal skills, and self-awareness. Through his work—ranging from wellness events to one-on-one coaching—Brandon blends science and spirit to help individuals build lives aligned with their purpose. Drawing from his background in Applied Behavior Analysis, he employs practical, evidence-based strategies to support personal growth, productivity, and lasting change for both individuals and communities. In this episode, Brandon talks about how he helps his entrepreneur clients through the science of behavioral analysis, why Black men aren't exposed as much to mental health and wellness, and ways he's created a platform at the intersection of the wellness and personal development spaces. Learn more about his work at the following links: www.aminga.org www.instagram.com/4thecollective www.4thecollective.com [email protected]

Based in Baltimore, MD, Rachel Darden is a social media director currently pursuing a divinity degree and building Chosen by Grace, an emerging nonprofit dedicated to helping women discover and walk boldly in their God-given purpose.  She believes in the power of healing and the practice of rest as a form of liberation, offering Reset Day soul-tending journaling and meditation classes that create space for women to reconnect with God and themselves.  Her mission is rooted in the truth that when one woman heals, she empowers others to do the same. With a heart for spiritual growth and sisterhood, Rachel Darden invites women to walk with her in freedom. In this episode, she shares how she needed to take a year to rest and recover from an illness. She also talks about scriptures to meditate on about rest and ways to plug into her community of Christian women. Find her platform online at:  www.instagram.com/cbg115 or visit www.cbg115.com

Tiffany Snead-Rose is a dynamic creative and youth advocate from Baltimore, Maryland. With over 12 years of experience supporting youth and young adults, she is the founder of multiple platforms including Finding the Beauty in Your Struggle, TMI Consulting and Seasons of Singleness the Podcast Uncensored. In her free time, she enjoys content creation, hiking, and spending time with her kitten, Sox. In this episode, Tiffany shares her journey getting to know her Dad later in life, his death by suicide and how that's impacted her. She also shares how she's learning herself again at this stage of life and walking by faith. Find her on instagram at: www.instagram.com/tiffanysneadrose, www.instagram.com/findingthebeautyinyourstruggle www.instagram.com/sosthepoduncensored  

Marjhoree Washington is the founder of Girl Get Up, a movement dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health and empowering women to rise. As a wife and mother of three, Marjhoree is passionate about creating safe spaces for healing and growth while pursuing her bachelor's degree in psychology to further her advocacy. Her mission is to equip women with the tools, support, and community they need to thrive unapologetically and break unhealthy cycles. In this episode, she shares how she is leading a women's empowerment movement focused on self-love and mental health awareness.   Contact: www.instagram.com/girlgetuporg

Sadija A. Smiley, MBA, is the Founder and CEO of Stillborn And Infant Loss Support (SAILS), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families navigating pregnancy and infant loss. With over 20 years of nonprofit leadership experience, Sadija blends her personal journey of loss with professional expertise to advocate for equity and healing in her community.   In this episode Sadija shares her infant loss journey, talks about the services she offers with SAILS and gives advice to grieving parents. To keep up with her visit www.bornintosilence.org, follow SAILS on instagram or Facebook at @_bornintosilence or call or text 410-941-9061.

Elssa Kenfack is many things to many people and rooms but one thing that she hopes she is remembered as she walks out of rooms or fades into memories of others is that she loves the Lord. Elssa has served in many capacities as a therapist, community development advocate, creative, friend, daughter, sister and in all of those roles, she has tried to embody three main principles:      • 1. That we are all uniquely created and purposed for something significant here on this earth by God      • 2. That being your boldest, brightest, dullest, purest version of yourself is always the best choice      • And 3. That there is intersectionality in all of the parts of us.  In this episode, Elssa talks about the unconventional journey to wellness and how she shares that with her platform, The Wellthy Living Project. She also gives tips on how to stay mentally healthy during the holiday season. Follow her on instagram @wellthylivingp and @cest_belssa  

Quintina Sonnie is a Lived Experience Expert in human trafficking and somatic practitioner who has been providing survivors with tools for healing for the past eight years. She is currently the Chief Operations Officer and Holistic Care Director at Survivor Ventures, a nonprofit based out of Hampton Roads, Virginia, lowering barriers and providing direct services to survivors of trafficking.  In this episode, we talk about Survivor Ventures's programs that help survivors move into a life of freedom and economic empowerment.  Visit their website at www.survivorventures.org and follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @SurvivorVentures. If you need to call the national hotline, dial 1888-373-7888 or text "be free" to 233733.  

Janelle Carrington, LCSW-C, is the owner and a licensed clinical social worker at Alchemy Therapy and Holistic Wellness Space, LLC. She began her social work career in 2017, working with teens and young adults with autism and behavioral issues. In 2021, Janelle transitioned to private practice, expanding her focus to include adults and offering multiple therapeutic services. Driven by her mission to empower individuals to embrace self-love and overcome trauma, Janelle is dedicated to inspiring clients to connect with their authentic selves and take control of their lives. In this episode, Janelle talks about tips on healing from trauma and the importance of self-love's role in the process. Stay connected to her by visiting her website at www.alchemy-therapy.com and on instagram at @alchemytherapyllc 

  Autumn Walker is a Mental Health Therapist licensed in Maryland. After obtaining her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Johns Hopkins in 2020, she founded The Soul Reasons LLC as a call to action to center mental wellness in response to the sociopolitical climate. Today, she equips mission-driven organizations to foster well-being in their companies to maintain morale and engagement and she empowers Black women to overcome impostor syndrome to build self-confidence and fulfill their purpose driven goals.  In this episode, Autumn shares how 82 percent of people experience impostor syndrome, with women and people of color experiencing it the most. She gives practical tips to overcome impostor syndrome by knowing your purpose and staying in your lane.

Shountee Turner is the founder of The Write Narrative, LLC. Balancing responsibilities with the need for flexibility and supplemental income led Shountee to start her writing services business as a side hustle. What began as a necessity quickly grew into a passion for helping women and minority business owners through communication and fundraising, ensuring they have equal access to resources. In this episode she shares the mental health battles she faced caregiving to her mom with dementia and raising 3 children as a single mother, all while operating her business, Instagram The Write Narrative

Shardae Carter, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and the founder and clinical director of Dae to Dae Counseling Services. She considers herself a Grief Relief Strategist and in this episode, we talk about the many forms of grief, debunk some myths and talk about ways to cope with loss. Follow Shardae on instagram at @dae2daecounsel, on Facebook at Dae to Dae Counseling Services and find her on Psychology Today by searching Shardae Carter. https://dae2daecounseling.com/

Christen is the CEO, Founder of SCB Luxury Styling where she helps sophisticated women harmonize their inner beauty with their outer appearance. She believes that understanding your body shape and lifestyle is the key to curating a capsule wardrobe that works. She also focuses on shifting her clients' relationship with style so that they can confidently show up as the person they were created to be.  In this episode Christen shares with us how she got into the field of personal styling 10 years ago, how she works with her clients to overcome limiting beliefs and how to invest in one's personal wardrobe.  LinkedIn: Christen Johnson Instagram: scbluxurystyling Youtube: @sochicchris Website: www.sophisticatedchicbrand.com

Fatima M. Smith identifies as a Black woman who is a relentless advocate for anti-violence in our communities & community. She is also the Co-Founder of Collective 365, a grant-making, membership-based organization that serves Black and Brown changemakers in DC, MD and VA. She is a firm believer that, "a person who can describe a problem can also describe a solution; they just need time, space and resources." The latter has shaped how she does her work with individuals, communities, and organizations. In this episode, we talk about The Rest and Joy Fund, a partnership between Collective 365 and The Mental Health Emergency Fund, Inc. The purpose is to provide Black and Brown adults in the DMV ages 18+ funding to prioritize their mental health, rest and joy. Applications open on August 28, 2024. Click here to keep up to date with the application: https://www.collective365.org/restjoyfund Donate and get involved at www.collective365.org

Sharda Smith is a certified life coach, public speaker, and workshop facilitator, who is passionate about helping others reach their ultimate potential. She is committed to sharing the knowledge and personal experience she gained through her self-development journey to empower women, build their confidence, and unlock their purpose. In this episode, Sharda shares wisdom from the book The Four Agreements by Miguel Ruiz and breaks each section down. She talks about how this book was pivotal in her own healing journey. Sharda also talks about the work she does at PIVOT Baltimore. Get in touch with Sharda on instagram at www.instagram.com/shardasmith_ Learn more about PIVOT Baltimore by visiting www.pivotprogram.org

Doreen Boateng, LCPC, brings extensive experience in trauma-informed care, ensuring that all services are delivered with empathy, evidence-based practices, and a deep understanding of cultural sensitivity.  Her mission at Hope Restored Counseling Services is to create a nurturing environment where clients can safely explore their experiences, address underlying trauma, and integrate their faith into their healing process. In this episode, Doreen talks about a Biblical case for taking care of our mental health and what it means for our souls to be healthy. She also dispels some myths related to mental illness and Christianity. Contact: https://www.hrcounselingservices.com/ [email protected] 571-402-5122

Kiara (Anese) Barnett, M.Ed is a third-year doctoral student in the Clinical Psychology Ph.D. program at George Washington University.  Throughout Anese's academic and professional career, her work has focused on supporting both mothers and children. Anese is also a volunteer with Postpartum Support Virginia. Anese is a wife and a boy mom of two. In this episode, Anese shares her traumatic journey of her first high-risk pregnancy and how that led her to do advocacy work and perinatal therapeutic care for pregnant women and new moms. She talks about the importance of having a plan to bring to your doctor(s) so you can advocate for your needs.   Contact: https://www.instagram.com/its.me_anese.b/

D'Shawn Harris, LCPC, is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of MD and Founder of Safe Haven Therapy. Drawing on systemic and family-centered approaches, D'Shawn creates a professional and safe environment where clients can embark on their journey toward transformation. With a focus on fostering healing, empowerment, and growth, D'Shawn is dedicated to helping individuals navigate their emotional concerns and build a brighter future. In this episode, he talks about why he decided to switch from being a counselor in the criminal justice system to a private practice setting. He also discusses his new mental health conversational card game, "Hey Friend, How Are You?" and how this will be an important tool to help friends better check in on each other. Keep up with him as he soon announces which state he's expanding his services to next! Contact: www.safehaventherapyservices.com www.instagram.com/safehaven_therapy  

  Jayden Aubryn (they/them), LICSW, is a Black, queer, non-binary, and ethically non-monogamous psychotherapist, personal trainer, and consultant. They specialize in the holistic healing of trauma by integrating mental, physical, spiritual, and sexual health. They aim to make healing both accessible and fun! In this episode, we talk about ways to incorporate art, music, movement and nutrition into one's treatment plan to make mental healthcare more holistic in nature. This also helps us live life more authentically and understand that healing can be more affordable than we realize. [email protected] Instagram: www.instagram.com/TISEConsultingandTherapy

Cynthia Issac is a personal growth and transformation mentor, EFT practitioner and personal development trainer. She is a widow whose purpose in life is to encourage, equip and empower widows worldwide to grow beyond their grief and loss so they can heal hurt and heartache, rediscover their real selves and recreate a more prosperous, fulfilling future they love with grace and ease.   In this episode, Cynthia talks about the support systems she was able to lean into when her husband passed away and how that became a catalyst for the grief coaching work she does with widows today. She also shares information on her upcoming collaborative book and solo book that will be releasing soon.   Contact Cynthia at: [email protected]

Kiara Hartwell Opara, LCPC, is a licensed clinical professional counselor based in Virginia Beach, VA and is also licensed in Maryland. In 2017, she opened her private practice where she helps millennial and gen-z aged women heal from anxiety, depression, life adjustments, and trauma by incorporating experiential and evidenced-based approaches, mostly internal family systems therapy (parts work). In this episode, Kiara shares the concept around Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy and how it's a treatment modality for people who may want to process trauma and engage their body in the healing process. The idea around IFS is that we have sub-personalities or "parts," that can experienced through beliefs, emotions, bodily sensations, images, impulses, psychological responses and sounds. Follow Kiara's work on Instagram @kjhartwell or visit her website at www.kjhartwell.com.    

Charles Robinson-Snead was born and raised in Delaware but recently relocated to the DMV to pursue a PhD in Clinical Psychology at Howard University. Charles is a licensed therapist and a wellness coach, a role in which he enjoys working with individuals and groups from Black and Brown communities through trauma-informed treatment approaches. Ultimately, Charles believes in the social justice work of liberating Black and Brown people from the impact of oppressive systems and structures.   In this episode we discussed the importance of definitions and distinctions in the field of therapy. Charles taught us about the differences between therapy and wellness coaching; he spoke on the distinctions between mental illness and mental health; and he educated us on how therapists don't give advice but actually give treatment plans.   For more information please follow and keep up with Charles' brands' IG pages: @colourmymindco and @brownbrothers.cmm and his main account @madeprodigy_. You can also find him on LinkedIn by searching Charles Robinson-Snead  

This special solo episode features our very own Jessica Smith, Founder and Executive Director of The Mental Health Emergency Fund, Inc. and Host of The Mental Health Emergency Fund Podcast. She shares her personal journey of becoming a nonprofit founder, resulting from what felt like a professional failure. She first told this story during Women's History Month, as part of The Stoop Storytelling Series in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University's Women in Business Initiative at the Carey Business School.

"Anti-Oppressive, Inclusive and Accessible Therapy"  Badia Khalid-Manning, LCPC, is the Owner of Larada Counseling Services. She holds certifications as a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (C-DBT), and Level 1 Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFiT). Recently, she completed her Certification as a Clinical Supervisor and Maryland Board Approved Supervisor. In this episode, we talk about the importance of liberation work and holistic wellness in the mental health field, to include anti-oppressive nutrition counseling. We also discuss the barriers to care, including high deductibles from insurance companies and ways that her practice works with her clients to be more financially accessible.  She can be reached at www.laradacounseling.com and on instagram and Facebook at LaradaCounseling. 

Mavlyn is a native of Saint Croix, United States Virgin Islands (U.S.V.I.). In 2007, she earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Hampton University and a Master's of Social Work in May 2021 from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, specializing in community action and social policy. Mavlyn sat for and obtained my licensed master's social worker (LMSW) in June 2021. Stepping into her career as a social worker, she brings experiences from military service. Her most relevant career experiences as a healthcare and patient administration include providing career and academic management and case management for sick, injured, and wounded active duty service members, ensuring they received the tools necessary for transitioning from the military. The events of life, notably the recent pandemic, have re-informed the importance of self-love.  Mavlyn is dedicated to assisting young ladies ages 9-55 to equip themselves with the tools necessary to Take YOUR Seat At The Table! Her approach includes clinical (trauma services related to domestic and sexual violence, anxiety, depression, chronic health, and women concerns), practical (self-esteem, basic financial literacy, promoting physical health, and addressing academic concerns limited to bullying, procrastination, and time management issues, and building platform and community service toward selfless service), and managing life course and relationship challenges. Mavlyn also works with married couples. Contact: https://buisefoundation.org/referral-form/  psychologytoday.com (and enter my name Mavlyn Bazil) Ark of Hope Community Center, Inc.  P.O. Box 505, Lanham, MD 20703, US https://arkofhopecc.org (240) 475-0797 Instagram and Facebook: Mavlyn Bazil

New York native, Trina Murray, LCSW, has been a Licensed Clinical Social worker since 1994. She received her undergraduate degree at the University of Old Westbury and obtained a Master's Degree from Fordham University. With more than 20 years of professional experience, she has serviced a diverse range of clients, including the psychiatric impaired, dual-diagnosed, and victims of Hurricane Katrina, to name a few. Trina has provided family counseling to military families on both Andrew Air Force Base and Fort Meade in Maryland for approximately ten years. Most recently, she completed 70 hours of couples-therapy training to sharpen her skills for her clients. Trina's motto is simple: "Change happens when you are provided the guidance you need to draw strength and realize that you have the potential to live a happy life." She ensures that each client will be met with compassion and support to overcome their obstacles and thrive! Trina's areas of expertise include childhood trauma, anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, couples (with an emphasis on same-sex relationships), family therapy, phase of life changes, life stressors, divorce, and loss and separation. Fun Fact: When Trina is not giving her clients 100%, she's usually singing or dancing—two things she's not very good at!   Contact Call: (240) 232-5607 https://vitalityhealthandwellnessgroup.com/team/trina-murray/   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.

Dr. Orlando Wright is a behavioral scientist with a Master of Social Work and a Ph.D. in Behavioral Science.He is a seasoned public speaker, practitioner, and professor. He has 20 + years of experience. He is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), and Strategic Family Therapy, ASAM Criteria. Dr. Wright is also the Founder of Halcyon Clinical Services. He started this organization to address what he thought was a growing gap between the delivery of services within the behavioral health space and primary care. Further, the marriage between quality behavioral health services and technology has lagged behind our medical counterparts. As a result, he developed the Care Measured process, a simple, yet effective tool, which aims to streamline screening, communication, and clients' progress across multiple domains.    Contact Phone: (410) 855-4631 x101 Email: admin @ halcyonclinical.com https://halcyonclinical.com/wright/   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.

"1 in every 8 people, or 970 million people around the world are living with a mental disorder, with anxiety and depressive disorders." (World Health Organization 2019). Over 27 million adults in the United States with a mental illness are untreated, according to Mental Health America. This podcast, a division of The Mental Health Emergency Fund, is designed to empower these individuals and give them access to immediate help and resources.

Tunisia Buise, LCSW-C was born and raised in Baltimore, Maryland. She attended Baltimore City Public Schools before entering undergraduate studies at Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia. At Clark Atlanta, Tunisia studied Political Science and received a Bachelor of Arts Degree. Tunisia's initial dream was to become a family attorney to "rehabilitate juvenile delinquents." Tunisia returned to Baltimore, Maryland after graduation and began working for the local judiciary court system. It was during this employment that Tunisia discovered that her passion best aligned with the social work profession.Tunisia enrolled in University of Maryland School of Social Work, with her primary focus as Children and Families-Clinical. Subsequently after graduating, Tunisia became a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (now referred to as Licensed Master Social Worker). While in graduate school, she completed her field placements at the Baltimore City Office of the Public Defender, Juvenile Division and an Elementary School in Baltimore County. Her first experience as a licensed social worker was with an Outpatient Mental Health Clinic, as a mental health therapist, providing services to children and adults with an array of diagnoses. She remained at this employment, while also working at a treatment foster care agency. Tunisia has been a Field Instructor for a MSW student at the University of Maryland School of Social Work. Tunisia's drive and passion for the mental health field, with the focus on women issues, arose as she encountered many challenges in her life and noticed her own responses, or lack thereof. The many hats that women wear and the responsibilities that come with it, sometimes bury the true emotions experienced. Tunisia is dedicated to breaking the stigma of mental health, especially as it relates to women's issues. She stands firm on the stance of, "You are not alone!." Providing empathy and normalizing responses to various encounters that trigger a range of emotions experienced. In addition to her work as a clinical mental health therapist, Tunisia is also a Certified Presenter. She has presented at State and National conferences. She is also an Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Trained Therapist. Tunisia is eligible to provide Clinical Supervision to Masters Level Social Workers in the state of Maryland (LMSW). Tunisia is an elated BOY MOM! Her heart is full as she prioritizes time with her son. When Tunisia is not working, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and eating crabs (Marylanders understand!). Tunisia is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. One of Tunisia's favorite quote is, "She turned her cants into cans and her dreams into plans!" – Kobi Yamada Tunisia's most peaceful moment is sitting by the water and listening to the sounds of the waves crashing into each other. Tunisia's favorite color is orange because of its brightness and belief that "everything orange tastes good!" She enjoys watching football and rooting for her hometown team, the Baltimore Ravens!   Contact https://buisefoundation.org/meet-tunisia/   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.    

Rachael Lindo, LMSW is from Baltimore, MD. She graduated with a B.S. in Psychology from Coppin State University in 2018 and in 2022 from Morgan State University School of Social Work, receiving a MSW. Rachael describes herself as always being a helpful person who would listen to others' needs and be a support system for them. During her time in graduate school, she worked as a counselor for a nonprofit. In that position, she met therapists and saw how their work impacted those around them on a much deeper level. That encouraged her to want to do more by being a change agent for the clients that she works with. Rachael has worked in the mental health field for the past 7 years, in a variety of roles, such as a substance abuse counselor, a psychiatric counselor on an inpatient unit at a hospital, a school community coordinator intern for Southeast CDC at Trench Tilghman  Elementary Middle School, and a mental health therapist intern for Kennedy Krieger Center for Child and Family Traumatic Stress. Most of her current work is focused on anxiety and depression due to encountering many challenges in her own life and working towards addressing each challenge.   During her time off, Rachael enjoys being around family and friends who can help her stay grounded and looks for ways to keep growing as a person. When possible, she also enjoys traveling and learning about different cities in the US and other countries. Reading and watching television are also hobbies that she enjoys during her leisure.  One of her favorite quotes is by Former First Lady, Mrs. Michelle Obama, "Instead of letting your hardships and failures discourage or exhaust you, let them inspire you. Let them make you even hungrier to succeed."   Contact https://buisefoundation.org/meet-rachael/ Nottingham, MD 21236 (410) 324-7494   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.

Overcoming Society's Stigmas and Barriers -Johnzelle Anderson, LPC In therapy, the vehicle for change is found in the therapeutic relationship between the therapist and the client. It's important for you to feel comfortable and to develop trust in me. Establishing that rapport will be my goal from our first session. I use an eclectic approach to therapy; more specifically, I combine insights from cognitive-behavioral theory, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy), strengths-based and person-centered approaches, and elements of motivational interviewing. I continue to explore the latest research and techniques in the field of mental health. I received my BA in Psychology from Roanoke College with a minor in elementary education. I then continued on to graduate school where I obtained my MA in Professional Counseling from Liberty University. Since completing my education, I have gained a variety of experience in the mental health field; more specifically, I've worked as a therapeutic day treatment counselor in a middle school, as a therapist in group practices, as a clinician at community-based counseling agencies, and as a clinician in a hospital inpatient behavioral health setting. When I'm not counseling, I enjoy spending time with my wife, my daughter, and my energetic Sheprador, Zyon. I love to read, write articles, podcast, and learn about new things.   Links: https://linktr.ee/counselor4rva https://perfectlyimperfect.alitu.com/ https://panoramiccounseling.com/blog   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.

Awareness Through Life's Journey - JaAlah-Ai Heughan JaAlah-Ai Heughan, MS, LCPC, LPC | Board Approved Supervisor Baltimore City native, creating opportunities that provide equitable mental health treatment. Psychotherapist offering a therapeutic approach grounded in Culturally Affirming Cognitive Behavioral Therapies and Mindfulness-Based practices. Specializing in Depressive Disorders, Bipolar Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Trauma-Informed Care. Former Hip-Hop artist, writer and griot, valuing the reflective work of storytelling. Assisting you with being able to identify, challenge, accept, and, or shape your narrative. Research & Community-based Interests: Health Equity. Over 10 years' experience working in Baltimore community-based programs and on numerous Johns Hopkins University (School of Public Health) community-based participatory research (CBPR) studies. Provided senior-level oversight managing scientific implementation of qualitative research protocol and extensive experience in qualitative interviewing, coding and data analysis. JaAlah-Ai received her MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from The Johns Hopkins University and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in the state of Maryland and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the District of Columbia. *Certified Minority & Women-Owned Business Enterprise   Contact: https://thewellbeingllc.com/about   Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.

Learning to Set Boundaries Latoya Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Private Practice Owner in the State of Maryland. Latoya is a wife, mother, daughter and is heavily connected through kinship within family and community dynamics. This Goes Out to You, LLC is a Holistic Private Practice that grounds its services in  Mindfulness based, strength based and trauma informed care to support fostering of Mental and Emotional Health. Services are rendered to adults 17 plus who may need therapeutic support with mood related, life changes, grief/loss, women's issues, anxiety and interpersonal deficits. Our services promote somatic health. Additionally, we specialize in supporting families with children with disabilities. Our Niche, is supporting women of color work toward being their highest selves. Latoya is also known as the Mindfulness Guru. This Goes Out to You LLC connects with clients in a hybrid model and is currently accepting new clients. Clients are currently seen for Individual, couples, family and monthly mindfulness groups. The following insurances are accepted: United Health Care, Medicaid, Cigna, Aetna, JH EHP.   Contact THIS GOES OUT TO YOU LLC, 9613 Harford Road, Parkville, MD, 21234 443-290-5552 [email protected]     Sponsors Thanks for visiting our podcast. Consider becoming a sponsor and helping our mission to help individuals struggling with mental challenges. Click here.