My name is Ashley Oakes, and I am an African American woman dedicated to the field of professional social work. I bring extensive experience in serving diverse clients, particularly those from underserved communities. Over the past five years, I have worked as a case manager supporting individuals living with HIV. My role has involved helping clients navigate the challenges of an HIV-positive diagnosis, including acceptance, access to medical care, treatment adherence, and medication management. I have a deep understanding of the barriers faced by underserved populations and am committed to empowering my clients as they move toward improved health and well-being. In addition, I have worked with clients managing serious chronic health conditions in primary care settings. My focus has been on helping individuals find the motivation to make healthier lifestyle choices, addressing behaviors that negatively impact their health, and encouraging practices that ultimately reduce the risk of severe outcomes. Currently, I provide clinical social work services to individuals involved in the criminal legal system. For the past three years, I have supported clients in addressing both childhood and current traumas, including those arising from interactions with the justice system. My work aims to foster healing, resilience, and positive change in their lives. I am deeply committed to advocating for marginalized communities, addressing systemic barriers, and supporting clients in achieving their goals and improving their overall quality of life.

Hello! I'm Courtney a psychotherapist. It has been a dream of mine to work with others since a very young age. Interesting story, growing up my mother and grandmother watched soap operas. One of the actresses was a psychotherapist and helped people. From that point on, I said I wanted to be a psychotherapist when I got older. Before I was old enough to work, I volunteered. My experience over many years in the field has provided me with so many opportunities that I believe have shaped the person I am today. I have been fortunate to work in communities, hospital, group homes, jails, and a head start program. These experiences helped me to see individuals in different environments with various challenges and complexities these individuals faced. I bring all of this experience to my role as a psychotherapist. My experience allows me to understand how certain environments and experiences directly affect people. It also gives me insight into the overall picture which is extremely important when treating clients who have had traumatic experiences and mental illness.

**I AM CURRENTLY UNABLE TO ACCEPT NEW CHILD/ADOLESCENTS CLIENTS** I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker based in Maryland. I received my Masters from Salisbury University and have been specializing in mental health therapeutic care for the last five years. As a therapist dedicated to supporting African American women, children, and families, I provide compassionate care to those navigating the effects of trauma. I aim to empower individuals to heal, build self-esteem, and develop effective communication skills, fostering resilience and healthier emotional responses.