nalo44

Proudly hailing from the vibrant streets of Bronx, New York. I have a BA in criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice in Manhattan, which set the stage for my immersion into the realms of law enforcement and corrections. A poignant realization struck me while serving as both a field training officer and corrections officer at the York County Sheriff’s Office. I uncovered a glaring gap in mental health care, inextricably linked to the alarming rates of recidivism. This revelation prompted a radical career shift for me.

Working in law enforcement helped me realize that my purpose was to aid in solution-based thinking
and remove myself from sustaining the symptoms of societal problems. Determined to effect change, I pivoted towards a new trajectory, pursuing a Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.

Since venturing into the behavioral and mental health field, my professional journey has been marked by growth—from the grassroots of residential counseling to the intensity of in-home therapy. I specialize in CBT practices and person-centered treatment planning geared toward both adolescents and adults.

My overarching goal remains steadfast: to contribute to the healing and raise awareness about mental health within our community.

Azariyah is a bright and intelligent young mind, coming from San Diego, CA. She grew up with a love of helping people, especially adolescents. With 5 other siblings, she developed a caring and nurturing sense for others. She enjoys being able to assist people in getting the help they are seeking. Azariyah caterers part time and manages the front office at Self Talk Counseling. She’s patient, understanding, and always willing to lend a hand!

Marcela Vargas is a native of Peru that transplanted to Charlotte, North Carolina. She obtained her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at UNC- Charlotte. Marcela began working in education where her students became the driving force for her to return to UNCC to pursue her Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Marcela saw her personal struggles in many other first-generation students and has used this to connect with others. She has a passion for breaking the negative stigma of mental health in black and brown communities. “Everyone can benefit from therapy”. Marcela uses a person-centered theoretical approach to connect with clients and combines cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused, and mindfulness techniques to help clients reach their goals. In her free time, Marcela enjoys exercising and spending time with her family and new puppy.

Rasheeda is a native of North Carolina. She is an associate therapist who works primarily with individuals and their families to help them overcome various mental health challenges. Rasheeda has a bachelor’s degree from the UNC at Greensboro in Human Resources and Communication Studies. She obtained her master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University and is licensed in the state of North Carolina. She has experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. Rasheeda uses a client-centered and holistic approach that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and positive psychology. She strives to create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and learn new skills to cope and thrive. Rasheeda is passionate about helping people achieve their personal and professional goals and improve their quality of life. In her free time, Rasheeda enjoys traveling, reading, learning about the African diaspora, trying new restaurants, hiking, yoga, and working out.

John is a native of Danville Virginia, who spent his childhood venturing through Charlotte and Greensboro, NC. John received his bachelor’s degree in Health Science Pre-occupational Therapy from James Madison University. Following graduation, he worked as a mental health professional/community worker where he applied cognitive- behavioral therapy (CBT) resources, facilitated parenting classes and groups on substance abuse & mental health skill building. After working in that capacity for over 2 years, John obtained his master’s degree in Social Work from Johnson C. Smith University. Each day he is perfecting his craft, which is rooted in Solution-based and Person-center approaches that provide a holistic view of the individual. John utilizes visual arts and scenarios to better understand challenging situations. Mr. Moss spends his leisure time traveling, occasionally exercising, playing basketball and football, tasting various foods at restaurants, hiking, and binge watching tv shows. He looks forward to working with you!

Shanise is a native of Columbia, SC. She received her Masters degree and license in Marriage and Family Therapy.  She is passionate about helping couples, students, and the black community. One of her primary goals is to bring mental health awareness into the Christian community.  Shanise feels that therapy is her purpose, and it has become her passion. In her free time, she enjoys dancing, modeling, brunch.

A native of NYC, Nefertiti brings over 10yrs of billing experience to the practice. She is very knowledgeable, outgoing and professional. While reviewing billing and insurance verifications, Nefertiti is pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology at Maryville University of St. Louis.

An entrepreneur and creator at heart, Nalo oversees all operations of Self Talk Counseling & Consulting. As a visionary, she’s always thinking of ways to make best better and how to improve humankind. Detailed-oriented with extensive managerial experience, Nalo supports and guides the business. A working mom of 4, she balances work-life with chocolate chip cookies, binge-watching documentaries and analyzing real estate deals.

Brian is a Charlotte native who pursued his Bachelor’s degree in journalism at the University of Georgia. After a decade-long career in retail management, he realized that the most valuable parts of his experiences have always been meaningful interactions with others. Brian completed his Master’s in Counseling at UNCC. He creates an environment where his clients understand that their stories matter and that they can work toward writing new stories for tomorrow. His therapy is rooted in the person-centered approach and honoring the power of the mind to create better realities through cognitive treatment models. His leisure time is spent exercising, reading, and going to car meets.