In a world where mental health struggles are increasingly recognized, the voices and efforts of Black Mental Health professionals and advocates shine brightly during Mental Health Awareness Month. These individuals embody resilience, empathy, and courage as they work tirelessly to break down barriers, provide support, and foster healing within the Black community. Through their dedication and passion, they are not only paving the way for deeper conversations and understanding around mental health but also inspiring others to prioritize self-care and embrace their mental well-being. Join us as we celebrate and honor these impactful individuals who are shaping a more inclusive and supportive future for mental health awareness.
Justin Little is a mental health expert, advocate, podcast host & National speaker- certified in Psychological First Aid from John Hopkins University. His podcast, “The Mental Wealth Podcast” has been heard in 50 + countries and focuses on modern mental health conversations. Justin has spoken across the country sharing stages with speakers such as Shaun King, Dr. Jay Barnett, Michelle Williams, Carson Daly, and many others. In September 2022, Justin was recognized for his work and received an invite to meet President Biden & Sir Elton John at the White House. In October 2023, Justin was a featured panelist for Charlagmagne The God’s Mental Wealth Expo sponsored by IHEARTRADIO. Justin also recently presented his first TEDX talk centered on Black Men and mental health in November 2023. He currently serves on the board of directors for non profit “Lee Thompson Young Foundation” which focuses on suicide prevention and mental health education in schools. Justin works full time with non profit Black Men Heal as their Manager of Social Media & Content. Finally, Justin is proud to be sponsored by BetterHelp, an online platform to provide mental health services directly to those who need it.
Justin Little | Website: mentalwealthpodcast.org
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Dr. Chi Quita Mack, MSW is a distinguished social worker, accomplished author, and revered empowerment/healing coach. Driven by an unyielding commitment to excellence, she stands as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment to all who cross her path.
With a profound dedication to knowledge and service, Dr. Chi Quita Mack holds the highest academic accolades, including a Doctor of Philosophy in Entrepreneurship & Business Administration, a Master of Social Work, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a minor in Military Science. Her academic prowess is matched only by her unwavering determination to effect positive change in the lives of others.
As the visionary owner and founder of The Chi Quita Mack, LLC, Dr. Mack has crafted a sanctuary for women a haven where healing thrives, inspiration ignites, and the resounding echo of resilience reverberates. Her mission is clear: to remind every woman of her inherent strength, to guide her towards rediscovery, and to empower her to reclaim her essence.
Connect on Instagram with Dr. Chi Quita Mack
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Catherine Ladson, is a licensed therapist, coach and public speaker, who empowers individuals in their journey of healing and personal growth. As the Founder and CEO of FullScope Counseling Services, Catherine demonstrates visionary leadership in creating a space where individuals can find healing and growth. Her dedication to building a team of licensed therapists showcases her commitment to expanding access to quality mental health care.
Beyond therapy, Catherine is a dedicated empowerment coach who serves as a guiding light to those on their transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Through the empowering philosophy of embracing imperfect action, Catherine equips her clients with the tools they need to find their voice, unlock their potential, and turn their dreams into reality.
Catherine’s multifaceted approach, leadership, and dedication to empowering individuals and the community make her a true trailblazer in the realm of mental health, coaching, and personal development. Her ability to blend therapeutic expertise, coaching strategies, and public speaking skills creates a unique and impactful offering for those seeking growth and transformation.
Connect with Catherine Ladson on Instagram.
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Rikki Clark McCoy is a Licensed Therapist and Founder of Flourishing Minds, bringing hope and healing to the Atlanta Georgia area. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University and Fayetteville State University, Rikki is a skilled Holistic Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker.
At Flourishing Minds, Rikki embraces a holistic approach to therapy, combining evidence-based practices with modalities like yoga, meditation, and sound healing.
Specializing in areas such as Mindfulness, Stress Management, and Anxiety, Rikki provides comprehensive support across various life stages.
Connect with Rikki Clark McCoy on Instagram.
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Brittany Latrice is a beacon of empowerment and resilience, dedicated to guiding individuals towards their highest potential. As a Maternal Developmental Coach, Teen Mom Advocate, and Psychology Student, she combines empathy, advocacy, and academic insight to foster personal growth and success. Brittany is the founder of Black Blossom Society, a coaching & mentoring program where she empowers women, especially teen mothers, with tools for resilience and success. Her unwavering commitment to continuous self-improvement and making a positive impact on lives defines her journey.
Connect with Brittany Latrice on Instagram.
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Elena “Elle” Brown is a dedicated mental health expert and holistic health speaker, renowned for her passion for promoting wellness in mind, body, and spirit. Known affectionately as “Elle” by her social media followers, she advocates for holistic living practices, emphasizing the transformative power of natural remedies and holistic approaches to well-being.
Elle’s journey into holistic wellness began when her maternal instincts prompted her to seek alternative solutions for her daughter’s health issues. Witnessing the profound impact of dietary changes and herbal supplements on her daughter’s well-being, Elle embarked on a path of education in holistic health, eventually becoming a certified health coach and master herbalist.
With a deep belief in the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, Elle is also an experienced yoga instructor and meditation enthusiast. She recognizes that true wellness encompasses more than just the physical body and is committed to empowering others to prioritize their holistic health through yoga and meditation practices.
Elena”Elle” Brown: Website
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Erayna Sargent is a dynamic speaker, author, and founder of Hooky Wellness. As a seasoned marketing and innovation leader across diverse industries, including workspace design, consumer goods, and tech, Erayna brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her work.
Her commitment lies in empowering high-achieving professionals to proactively identify and address burnout through her program, Navigating Burnout™. This pioneering approach fuses design thinking with mental wellness, establishing a relatable space for self-reflection and connection. Participants emerge equipped to craft personalized burnout relief strategies
Erayna’s expertise has supported thousands of lives across renowned companies including Microsoft, LinkedIn, Google, Netflix, Deloitte, and more. She holds an MBA from Indiana University and is a contributor for Well+Good and has been featured in NPR LifeKit, Thrive Global, Change Catalyst, Architectural Digest, and Balanced Black Girl Podcast.
Erayna Sargent | Website
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Cordney “MAC Woods” McClain, an Army Veteran, actor, spoken word artist, and educator, channels his diverse talents into advocating for mental health and serving as an ambassador for Dad Gang. With over two decades of corporate and youth professional development experience, coupled with his financial literacy coaching background, Cordney brings a wealth of knowledge to his role as an inclusion practitioner. His accolades, including State of Oklahoma Community Mentorship and Cherokee Nation Public Service honors, attest to his dedication to community service.
As a member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, Cordney embodies leadership and empowerment. His passion for words, showcased through his spoken word performances and recorded music, resonates nationally, earning him nominations and chart placements. With a Heartland Emmy Award for his acting, Cordney seamlessly blends art and advocacy to promote self-love, self-actualization, and goal execution, particularly among marginalized youth. As a proud member of Dad Gang, Cordney exemplifies the values of fatherhood and mental wellness, using his platform to inspire positive change and support for individuals and families alike.
Website: https://www.macwoodsink.com/