July is Minority Mental Health Awareness Month July is a time for beach trips, barbecues, and vacations. But amidst the summer festivities, an important observance calls for our attention: Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. This initiative, established in 2008 by the U.S. House of Representatives, highlights the unique mental health challenges faced by minority communities. […]
“The counseling process is a collaborative partnership between us, where you have the freedom to express your thoughts and feelings openly. This is your space and your time—a chance to focus on yourself and explore whatever feels most important to you. My role is to create a safe, supportive environment so you can make the most of our sessions in a way that feels right for you.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION:
San Francisco State University, BA in Humanities
GRADUATE EDUCATION:
Wayne State University, MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
LICENSE:
Limited Licensed Counselor
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2024
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Drawing from my bi-cultural background and lived experiences, I tailor my approach to each client’s unique needs, always with a focus on cultural sensitivity and empowerment. Whether you’re exploring issues related to identity, navigating life’s transitions, or working through trauma, I work alongside you to uncover insights, foster healing, and encourage personal growth. My goal is to help you feel more connected to yourself and the world around you.
“My goal is to see clients grow and practice using their new tools out of the office. Knowing there may be times life may feel defeating, but being able to develop coping skills can be the key to successful outcomes.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION:
Eastern Michigan University – Bachelor of Science- Social Work
GRADUATE EDUCATION:
Eastern Michigan University – Master of Social Work
LICENSE:
Licensed Master Social Work- Clinical
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2024
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Shannon grew up in the Ann Arbor Michigan area. She has worked with youth as well as adults in various settings. She enjoys fishing, walking her dog, watching sporting events, and spending her time with her family and friends.
“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.” -Maya Angelou
I truly enjoy helping others reach their highest potential, despite limitations, disabilities, and/or disorders. I believe there is beauty in finding a solution to life’s roadblocks, detours and stops. Let’s journey together.
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION:
Michigan State University, BS Social Science- Interdisciplinary Health Studies
GRADUATE EDUCATION:
Wayne State University, MA in Employment and Labor Relations. Spring Arbor University: Master of Social Work
LICENSE:
Licensed Master Social Worker-Clinical
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2024
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Nakedae was raised in southeast Michigan. She enjoys being hospitable to family and close friends. In her spare time, Nakedae enjoys cultivating her home, being creative and reading. She is married and is the mother of two teenagers. Nakedae strives to lead with kindness in all her personal and professional endeavors. She has over 20 years of human service and enjoys the rewarding effects of being in service to others.
Undergraduate Education:
BA in Communication Studies with a minor in Religion from Western Michigan University
Year joined WBC: 2019
Personal Profile:
Serving as the Social Media & Marketing Manager at WBC Counseling, Alyssa brings over 4 years of experience and a Communication Studies degree to the table. Through close collaboration with various small businesses, Alyssa has honed her skills in enhancing their online presence. Her expertise lies in crafting engaging content and developing strategies that deeply connect with audiences.
Beyond her professional pursuits, Alyssa finds joy in homemaking, crafting, and indulging in a good book. She is particularly passionate about curating her at-home coffee/tea bar while creating new drinks. Outside of home, Alyssa and her husband cherish moments spent together at coffee shops, parks, enjoying picnics, and exploring new destinations in their city and around the country.
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION:
William Tyndale College Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
GRADUATE EDUCATION:
Michigan Theological Seminary Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology
LICENSE:
Limited License Psychologist (LLP)
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2024
PERSONAL PROFILE:
I am a caring person who serves my clients. Therapy is a partnership to bring about hope, help and healing. I enjoy providing tools for my clients, helping, and guiding them to engage, explore and discover their true self in a safe space. Life is a journey where transformation is possible as we navigate toward their goals which can result in a powerful and productive outcome.
As a therapist, I believe that strong families build strong communities. In order to better improve the communities we live in, it is important to foster a collaborative approach to help strengthen the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of all individuals.
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University
Graduate Education: Master of Social Work from Eastern Michigan University
License: Master of Social Work Limited License
Year joined WBC: 2025
Personal Profile: I’m a proud Michigander from Troy, MI. I come from an extensive background both academically and professionally, assisting families and children. I am also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, where I work with youth in Washtenaw Co. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, especially my twin sister and beautiful niece. I also enjoy doing arts and crafts, traveling, and trying new restaurants.
As a therapist I strive to meet the needs of my clients and ensure they are comfortable being their authentic selves. I believe in the importance of creating a safe space that allows my clients to navigate through the healing process.
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor’s of Social Work from Western Michigan University
Graduate Education: Master’s of Social Work from University of Michigan
Licensed held: LLMSW
Joined WBC: 2023
Brittnee is a Michigan resident. She enjoys spending time with her dog, trying new recipes, and volunteering in the community. She has served as a therapist for the state prison system and person’s with cognitive and behavioral needs.
We all face struggles at some point. Having a strong toolbox to navigate difficult times can make all the difference. As a therapist I strive to help my clients through difficult times and provide them with the skills they need to achieve an overall sense of well-being.
Helen Keller once said, “Although the world is full of suffering, it is full also of the overcoming of it.”
Undergraduate education: Bachelors of Education, University of Toledo
Graduate education: Masters of Arts in Clinical Counseling, Spring Arbor University
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal Profile: Frankie was born and raised in Youngstown, Ohio and moved to the Michigan area in 2004. Later she attended The University of Toledo and studied early childhood education. After engaging in the education field, she realized she wanted to work more closely with the social/emotional side of the field. She later embarked on her journey at Spring Arbor University where she studied clinical counseling.
Frankie enjoys spending time with her family, backyard birding and traveling when she has time.
Year joined WBC: 2017
Personal Profile: Matthew is downright the feet, legs, arms and hands of WBC Counseling. Matthew’s support for WBC encompasses many factors of the company – client service, office locations upkeep, staff assistance and all things maintenance. His dependable, even-tempered attitude makes him a joy to be around, and his professional demeanor speaks of his pleasant character. One of Matthew’s treasures is his personal library where he gains his vast knowledge and extensive sentience of history.
“My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe space, for anyone who needs it. I aim to walk alongside clients and their families and collaborate with them. My hope is to explore strengths that we can use to grow.”
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Hispanic Studies from University of Michigan-Dearborn
Graduate Education: Master of Social Work from University of Michigan
Licenses Held: LMSW
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal profile: Hannah was raised in North Carolina and moved to Michigan as a teenager. She began her career as a therapist in community mental health, working with children and youth. Hannah enjoys being creative, reading, sports, and being involved in her church community.
“As a therapist, I believe that counseling is an interactive process that should be tailored to your particular needs. I provide a safe space for you to talk about your life and receive support and validation with the hope of continued growth and wellness.”
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Northern Arizona University
Graduate Education: Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from South University- West Palm Beach
Licenses Held: LPC in Michigan; LMHC in Florida
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal profile: Darnella is a Michigan resident. She enjoys spending time trying new plant based dishes at restaurants, exercising and spending time with her family and friends. She has served as a therapist for substance abuse and persons who have experienced disturbing events.
“It is a privilege to be a part of someone’s journey of healing and growth. As a therapist, I work alongside clients to develop strategies for positive change. I strive to provide a safe and compassionate environment for every client. My hope is that through working together, clients will feel empowered to reach their goals.”
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor’s of Social Work from Wayne State University
Graduate Education: Master’s of Social Work from Wayne State University
Licenses held: LLMSW
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal Profile: Hailee is a Michigan resident. She enjoys spending time hiking, camping, and traveling to explore the National Parks. Hailee also enjoys creative pursuits through music, dance, and ceramics.
“I believe that every client presents their own unique set of strengths and barriers which guide their treatment process. My approach to treatment is client–centered and focused on achieving goals identified by the client and empowering the client using a strengths–based approach. My hope is that my clients will feel comfortable, heard, and in charge of their own treatment.”
Undergraduate Education: University of Michigan – B.A. in Sociology
Graduate Education: University of Michigan – Master of Social Work (expected graduation July 2022)
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal Profile: Marie was born and raised in Michigan and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at The University of Michigan. Marie has worked with both children and adults on the interpersonal level and has worked in a wide range of settings from community mental health centers to after–school programs. In her free time, Marie enjoys cooking, exploring the outdoors, and spending time with her pets.
“The one who plants trees knowing he will never sit in their shade has at least started to understand the meaning of life.” ~Rabindranath Tagore
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Social Work from Oakland University
Graduate Education: Master of Social Work from Wayne State University
License: LLMSP
Year joined WBC: 2022
Personal Profile:
Natalie believes that each person has their own story that has shaped what they are currently experiencing. Through her work, she strives to foster a safe space where clients can tell their story, gain insight into how that has impacted them, and create a new reality that is more fulfilling by learning new skills to live the life they envision for themselves. Natalie utilizes strengths-based and person-centered approaches that incorporate influences from attachment and solution-focused perspectives, cognitive behavioral techniques as well as real life experiences.
“You don’t know how strong you are until being strong is the ONLY choice you have”
“Life is so short. grudges are a waste of time. Laugh when you can, apologize when you should and trust God with what you cannot change.”
Year Joined WBC: 2021
Personal Profile:
Crenesha serves as an Office Assistant for White Behavioral Consultants. She has a talent for quickly mastering new task and fostering an attitude that incorporates teamwork and high ethics. She always puts her best foot forward and strives to do the best she can. Laughing and smiling is one of her favorite things to do. As well as doing nails and loving on her fur babies.
“I chose this profession because I want to be the person for others that I needed growing up.”
Undergraduate Education: BA in Sociology with a minor in Medical Sociology from Ferris State University
Graduate Education: Master of Social Work (Distinction) from Ferris State University
License: Limited License Master Social Worker
Year Joined WBC: 2021
Personal Profile: Born & raised in Flint Michigan, Ashanti has widespread experience working with youth who have been abused and/or neglected, as well as youth who are in the juvenile justice system. She considers herself a “Jill of All Trades” as she is a Clinical Therapist, Chef, Video Game Designer, etc
Hi! My name is Lanaya Jones and I am a Clinical Therapist here at WBC Counseling. My ultimate goal is to promote self-awareness and emotional intelligence in individuals so that they can reach their full potential.
I studied Social Work with a concentration in children and families and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and a Master’s degree in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University.
I am a proud parent of a fur baby that I absolutely adore and I like to ride motorcycles and travel in my free time!
EDUCATION:
Bachelor’s degree / Social Work
Master’s degree / Social Work
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2021
“I believe that dreams can become reality. Even though achieving success is hard work, having faith and being dedicated make it possible. As long as you believe, anything is possible.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BA in Business Administration w/ concentration in management from Central State University
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2013
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Christine serves as the Medical Billing Specialist at WBC Counseling. Christine has been with WBC since October 2013, when she hired in as the Special Projects Assistant. Christine is a master hair braider and serves her clientele under the name Creative Hair Braiding by Christine McKinney.
She is dedicated to hard work and becoming the best she can be. She is also unique, loving, and often told that she is “one of a kind”.
“I believe that dreams can become reality. Even though achieving success is hard work, having faith and being dedicated make it possible. As long as you believe, anything is possible.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BA in Business Administration w/ concentration in management from Central State University
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2013
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Christine serves as the Medical Billing Specialist at WBC Counseling. Christine has been with WBC since October 2013, when she hired in as the Special Projects Assistant. Christine is a master hair braider and serves her clientele under the name Creative Hair Braiding by Christine McKinney.
She is dedicated to hard work and becoming the best she can be. She is also unique, loving, and often told that she is “one of a kind”.
Dr. Michele T. White is the owner of WBC Counseling, P.C. She is a Limited Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Professional Counselor with a Ph.D. in Counseling from Wayne State University, and a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy.
Dr. White has been in the traumatic brain injury field for over 30 years. During her TBI career, she has served in a wide range of roles; Case Manager, Claims Adjuster, Therapist, Clinical Director, Director of Operations. Having served in these various roles, Dr. White has the ability to see a behavioral file from many angles and implement successful strategies.
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: Bachelors in Psychology from Michigan State University
GRADUATE EDUCATION: Masters in School Counseling and Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Wayne State University
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2021
PERSONAL PROFILE: Amanda was born in Metro Detroit and is very energetic and filled with excitement to be able to work with various clients to meet their unique needs and make a difference in their lives. She enjoys spending her weekends outdoors in Northern Michigan waterskiing, snow skiing, and boating.
“I teach to pay it forward. Throughout my life my parents, educators and community members have shared their gifts with me of loving others and keeping an open mind fostering my passionate willingness to learn.”
Undergraduate Education: BS in Biology from Marygrove College
Graduate Education: MEd in Education from Marygrove College Certification:
Licenses: Michigan Provisional Certification [Elementary K-5, all subjects; K-8 self-contained; Science (DX) 5-8]
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2017
PERSONAL PROFILE: Cherita is a proud product of the Detroit Public School System where she graduated with honors. She continued her education at Marygrove College, earning both a Bachelor of Science in biology and a Master’s in Education. She has joyfully taught children of all ages for more than 18 years
“I have been blessed to serve in a helping/counseling role for my entire 25+ year career. I have learned from every person I’ve had the pleasure of serving over the years, and understand fully the importance of empowering others to know they’re an integral part of this world we live in together. I never take life for granted and am so grateful for the opportunity to continue serving those in need.”
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a Minor in Sociology from Grand Valley State University
Graduate Education: Master of Arts in Counseling from Oakland University
Licenses: Licensed Professional Counselor
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
National Certified Counselor
Year Joined WBC: 2019
Personal Profile: Don is a Michigander, having been born and raised in Oakland County where he resided until venturing off to the Grand Rapids area to attend GVSU. Don has been a resident of Wayne County since graduating from OU in 1998, and presently resides with his wife Leanna in Livonia, MI. Their blended family encompasses 2 handsome sons, 2 beautiful daughters, and 3 furry lovable felines. Don has been in the field of Human Services since 1989; having served as a professional counselor since 1998. He enjoys spending time with his family, traveling, reading, participating in fellowship opportunities at his church, and is an avid sports fan.
“As a therapist, I am mindful that those that I am serving are the experts in their own lives. I work to craft a therapeutic relationship with my clients as a companionship—where I am here to walk alongside this journey of healing with them.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: Bachelor of Social Work from University of Michigan-Flint
GRADUATE EDUCATION: Master of Social Work, with a School of Social Work certification from University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
LICENSE: Limited License Master Social Worker (LLMSW)
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2020
PERSONAL PROFILE: Fanta is a proud Detroiter who has resided in Flint since 2014. She is a wife to a supportive husband and mother to two amazing girls. Fanta knew Social Work was her calling at a very young age because she is passionate about the intersection of faith and mental health. In her free time, she loves to drink coffee and watch YouTube videos.
She holds a certification in School Social Work, a specialization in Integrated Health and African-Centered Social Work. She has experience in the school, community mental health (cmh), and hospice settings.
“My greatest reward in my profession and in life is when I have been able to encourage and empower individuals to be resilient and to reach their goals.”
Undergraduate Education: BA in Liberal Arts with a minor in psychology from Nazareth College, Kalamazoo, MI
Graduate Education: M.A. in Mental Health Counseling from Sienna Heights University
License: Limited License Professional Counselor
Year Joined WBC: 2018
Personal Profile: Denise is an only child raised by a single mother. Denise is the mother of two children living in Eastpointe MI. She has an extensive background in the mental health field and criminal justice. Denise enjoys spending time with family, traveling, shopping and giving back to those in need.
The therapy process is about growth, not just for the client, but also for the therapist. As a therapist, I try to be prepared for the unexpected and think on my toes. For me, creativity helps me adapt to the client’s needs in the moment. I enjoy being a support throughout the journey while empowering clients to reach their goals and improve their level of functioning”
SPECIALTY AREAS: Art Therapy
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BFA-Double concentration in Photography and Art Therapy from Arcadia University
GRADUATE EDUCATION: Master of Arts in Art Therapy from Drexel University
LICENSES: Registered Board Certified Art Therapist; Licensed Professional Counselor
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2016
PERSONAL PROFILE: Nicole was raised in Pennsylvania. She has experience assisting children and families in areas of appropriate expression, communication, behavior modification and parenting skills. Nicole also has experience working with adults in both inpatient and outpatient settings. She values the creative process and often utilizes art therapy techniques in sessions. In her personal life Nicole enjoys creating art, including drawing, painting and photography.
“I am dedicated to the overall health and well-being of every client. Everyone’s needs are different and I tailor my approach to meet each client where they are in life. Together we work to find the path and tools they need.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BA in Psychology and BA in Studio Art from Kenyon College
GRADUATE EDUCATION: MA in Professional Counseling from Central Michigan University
LICENSE: Licensed Professional Counselor
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2014
PERSONAL PROFILE: Angela was born and raised in Michigan but has spent time living out of state at times for work and school. She enjoys spending time with her family, being outdoors, experimenting with recipes in the kitchen, doing creative arts and photography.
“Positive change is a concept that I strongly subscribe to both personally, and professionally. We all have the ability to change. Pursuing a career path in counseling affords me the opportunity to empower those in need, and to help foster positive change their lives.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BA in Psychology from Michigan State University
GRADUATE EDUCATION: MA in Community Counseling with specialization in Art Therapy from Wayne State University
LICENSES:
MA
LPC
CCTP
Clinical Therapist
Art Therapist
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2013, Clinical Internship; 2015, Behavioral Therapist
PERSONAL PROFILE: Michelle resides in Michigan with her husband, daughter, dog, and cat. She enjoys weightlifting, camping, and hiking. Michelle is also a professional visual artist and musician, performing with her husband for special events throughout the year. Michelle also provides art commissions and sells her art online, at art festivals, and in galleries.
“As someone with a heart for service and a need to help, I have been given many opportunities to utilize these gifts for a great group of professionals at WBC. At the same time, I have been challenged to develop leadership skills, which have enabled me to see how our organization works at many different levels to deliver the services clients and their families most need. It has been a true blessing, not only for myself, but more importantly, for those within my sphere of influence.”
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2008
PERSONAL PROFILE:
Cheryl serves as the Payroll Administrator at WBC Counseling. Cheryl has been a certified court stenographer in the State of Michigan since 1994 and worked as a freelance court reporter in the Detroit metro area until 2001, when she left the courtroom and began a transcription company, where she continues to edit court and deposition transcripts for court reporters throughout the United States.
Cheryl began working at WBC in 2008 because she could see where God was leading this company and wanted to help Dr. White bring her vision for the company to fruition. Cheryl is an active member of Middlebelt Baptist Church in Inkster, Michigan. She also serves as the site coordinator for the Moody Bible Institute at her church and earned her Christian Worker Certificate from MBI in 2017.
When not at work, Cheryl’s passion is needlework, both knitting and crocheting, specializing in creating prayer shawls through her ministry, Labor of Love.
Undergraduate Education: BA in Music with a minor in Christian Ministry Leadership from Calvin College
Year Joined WBC: 2015
Personal Profile: “Alexia is passionate about serving people to the best of her ability. Being at WBC Counseling gives her an opportunity to be a part of a team that’s mission is to see their clients succeed, and that brings her so much joy. When she isn’t working at WBC Counseling, you can find her spending time with her family and making music.”
“Since I often work with clients in their home, I am very aware of individual boundaries and approach each person with sensitivity and respect. I view my role as one of partnership, working together with clients to help them recognize their strengths and discover their true self as they learn to navigate life after a traumatic brain injury.”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: BA in Education from Western Oregon University
GRADUATE EDUCATION: MS in Counseling from Oregon State University
LICENSES HELD: Licensed Professional Counselor
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2012
PERSONAL PROFILE: Raised in Portland, Oregon, Kristin is now a Michigan resident. Her educational and employment history includes elementary education and counseling. She enjoys time with family, traveling and being outdoors.
“There is no limit to what you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.”
Undergraduate Education: BA in Communications from Wayne State University
Year Joined WBC: 2020
Personal Profile: In his tenure, Tyrone has successfully been in operations management for five various fortune 500 companies, established a flourishing production company and audaciously founded a start-up internet-based company in 2000. It is quite apparent that Tyrone has business management coursing through his veins. His go getter attitude and animated personality is both endearing and contagious. He loves to laugh and smile, and not only encourages, but makes those around him do the same.
“As a therapist, I pride myself on creating a warm, inviting environment for the individuals I serve. Each day I get a chance to make a difference in their lives and ultimately they end up changing mine. It’s an amazing feeling to do what I love every day!”
UNDERGRADUATE EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Biology with a Minor in Chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana
GRADUATE EDUCATION: Master of Arts in Rehabilitation Counseling from Wayne State University
LICENSES: Licensed Professional Counselor Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
YEAR JOINED WBC: 2010
PERSONAL PROFILE: Maia is a single mom of two children living in Belleville, MI. She has been in the field of counseling since 1998 and has served in a number of different roles: rehabilitation specialist, sheltered workshop and enclave program supervisor, return to work specialist, behavioral therapist and most recently, clinical director.