After years of working in the counseling field, I became very troubled by the disconnect between mental health services and social change. I observed many organizations addressing the mental wellness needs of individuals, however, they lacked the ability to make the connection between the impact of social injustices on one’s mental wellbeing as well as how to address those concerns in the therapeutic relationship. I began thinking about how this could be changed, and the solution came to me, i.e., to create the change I and many others seek.
This organization would be a group of therapists who understand the relationship between societal ills such as racism, economic injustice, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, etc. Hence, A New Day Mental Wellness Center was born. Throughout the years, I provided both psychotherapy and spiritual care and counseling to people from an array of backgrounds.
My clients include people experiencing the challenges of homelessness, incarceration, chronic illnesses, and poverty, as well as people navigating college and the professional work world. I utilize a trauma-informed approach to working with clients and being attentive to their needs. I strongly believe in holistic care and incorporate all aspects of the person into treatment. Drawing from the Family System Theory, I help clients to identify themes and patterns in their lives that lead to healing.
Whether clients are struggling with identity issues, spiritual trauma or emptiness, grief, anxiety, loneliness, family discord, or decision-making, I accompany them along the journey to wholeness. I provide a safe environment for clients to explore their pain. I help my clients in creating new awareness and garnering the confidence to adequately address their stressors. Always an attentive listener, I deeply value my client’s perspective and work collaboratively with them to achieve the desired change.
I am interested in working with individuals, couples, and families. I am drawn to working with troubled youth, healers, activists, and people struggling with issues of identity, including gender, sexuality, race, and religion. As a certified “Prepare and Enrich” premarital and marriage enrichment program facilitator, I enjoy providing premarital counseling. Whether a client is struggling with family discord or internal conflict, my aim is to provide a soothing atmosphere to help my clients find resolve.
In addition to my work as a therapist, I am also an experienced public speaker. I have provided keynote addresses, workshops, trainings, sermons, and served as panelists for corporations, community organizations, churches, and schools. I currently offer community education on a number of topics. Please view our website or contact our office for more information.
Click here to access Chaka’s Speaker Bio
Click here to learn more about EMDR
Click here to learn more about Brainspotting