The Shadows of My Youth

My life was never defined by ease or abundance. I grew up in a single-parent household where resources were scarce and my father was a silent absence. However, the true turning point of my life arrived when I was only six and a half years old. On September 11, 2001, my family became victims of the destruction of the Twin Towers. That day changed everything.

In the wake of that national and personal tragedy, my world fractured. My mother, unable to cope with the weight of the trauma, turned to alcohol and became mentally and emotionally unavailable. This was the beginning of a long period of instability. I navigated complex family dynamics, various forms of abuse, and a period in the foster care system. Within my own family, I was often labeled the "black sheep." Yet, even in those darkest moments, a fire was lit inside me. I became determined to break the generational curses that had plagued my lineage. I knew that the only way out was through—by seeking knowledge and getting involved in my own healing.

The Pursuit of Purpose

I decided early on that my past would not be my conclusion. I poured my pain into my education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Communications and Entrepreneurship, followed by a Master of Education in Marriage and Family Therapy. Most recently, I achieved my Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Marriage and Family Therapy, specializing in general family therapy.

For over a decade, I have practiced in this field, using my lived experience to fuel my professional expertise. My current research focuses on the intersection of attachment styles and substance abuse—a topic deeply personal to my own history. Today, I dedicate my work to the dual-diagnosis underprivileged population, helping individuals return to a state of homeostasis. My heart remains with minority and low-income communities, specifically serving the African American community that I call home.

Beyond clinical practice, I am the Founder and CEO of ShopTalk Therapeutic Services, LLC. Through this venture, I promote healthy lifestyle satisfaction by providing mental health resources and merchandise that serve as daily reminders of awareness and support.

Walking in My Truth

Today, I stand before the world as an unapologetic Black woman walking in her truth. The journey has required years of intentional work—mentally, emotionally, and physically—and it is a journey I continue every single day.

I have made a conscious choice: I will never allow Historical Trauma to dictate my life. There were years as an adult when I struggled with self-love and self-care, but those days are behind me. I have learned that it doesn't matter where I came from; what matters is where I am going. I am the sole architect of my destiny.

I am now at a place where I am 100% comfortable removing any person, place, or thing that attempts to intrude upon my peace or my purpose. Though I have reached great professional heights, I still find my greatest joy in quiet gatherings with loved ones, occasionally stepping out of my professional role to simply be.

My message to you is simple: I have overcome significant barriers to get here. I have faced the fire and come out refined. If I can do it, you can too. I encourage you to join me on this journey toward healthy lifestyle satisfaction. Your past is a chapter, but you are the author.