Our Team

Shinelle Oglesby is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who provides individual and group mental health counseling for adults and adolescents.  Ms. Oglesby is dedicated to helping women and teens heal from traumatic events, including:  childhood abuse and neglect, rape, domestic violence, grief – and improve their feelings of self-worth and self-esteem.

Ms. Oglesby specializes in treating clients who suffer with symptoms of depression, bi-polar, anxiety, and PTSD.   She uses an integrative psychotherapeutic approach, of evidenced based interventions, which are tailored to each client’s unique needs and include techniques from IFS, EMDR, CBT, DBT, and solution-focused techniques. Ms. Oglesby also provides support for those who are in recovery from substance and alcohol abuse.

She is a graduate of Loyola University of Maryland Pastoral Counseling program, where she earned an MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and specializes in integrating a person's own idea of spirituality into their counseling session.  She is also a National Certified Counselor, and was recognized as a 2015 Minority Scholar by the National Board of Certified Counselors.

She believes that the counseling environment is one that allows the client to actively and intentionally participate in self-discovery.  This self-discovery happens in phases and pertains to the individual's current needs and desires, meaning that the process of therapeutic self-discovery is something that happens both over time and in time.   

License #LC9322

Not currently accepting new clients.

MELISSA L. LEE, CTP

Partner, Chief Financial Officer

Melissa Lee is responsible for Urban Trauma Counseling Center’s financial strategy, including identification and alignment of resources that will increase access to current behavioral health services and expand into residential recovery and transitional housing.

Melissa has over two decades of finance experience with expertise in treasury management and operations. Melissa also serves as the Founder and Managing Principal of Lee Squared Consulting Group, LLC, an affiliate of Urban Trauma Counseling Center, where she develops and implements financial strategies for community-based organizations, including management and compliance activities for affordable housing portfolios and Federal and Local grants.

Melissa holds an MBA from George Washington University, a BBA in Finance from the University of the District of Columbia, and the Certified Treasury Professional (CTP) designation from the Association for Financial Professionals. Melissa also serves as the Vice Chair of the District of Columbia Housing Authority’s Stabilization and Reform Board of Commissioners.

Melissa believes that mental health is part of our overall health; therefore, everyone deserves responsive and quality access to services that enhance one’s well-being.

Jameira Cottman provides administrative support to the Urban Trauma Counseling team. Prior to this position, Jameira has worked with multiple organizations providing clerical support on multiple levels. She has a 'do what it takes' attitude and is always willing to help others. She is currently studying to acquire her BA in Psychology and Organizational Administration. Jameira is very passionate about helping others and provides comforting support to our clients.

Kalyx Solomon is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in Maryland with special interest in working with members of oppressed populations such as racial minorities and the LGBTQ+ community. Kalyx has experience working with both Adults and Adolescents.  Kalyx specializes in treating emotional and behavioral disorders, including:  Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD.

She previously worked with emotional and behavioral diagnoses in a special education setting and in a trauma-informed private practice setting treating adults and adolescents. In addition to individual work, Kalyx has worked facilitating groups of teenage girls navigating challenges that present during adolescence, teen boys preparing for life post-high school, and mixed gender groups focused on transitional skills.

Kalyx is not restricted to any particular approach to therapy, however she aims to operate in a trauma-informed manner using an integrated approach pulling from various evidence-based treatment modalities including EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and some psychodynamic aspects. Kalyx believes that therapy is a joint process clinician and client go through together, at the client’s pace. 

Kalyx recognizes that a number of variables can contribute to a person’s psychological distress, which she hopes to help alleviate with therapy. Knowing more about your mental health and ways to promote mentally healthy activity is extremely important to a person’s overall wellbeing. Also, with regards to treatment: Kalyx believes each person to be an individual and that methods have to adapt to best suit client needs. 

Often people avoid therapy with the belief that it will not help them, but she believes the amount and type of help one needs varies. Matching you, the client, with a therapist that fits your needs, and that you feel connected with is very important to Kalyx.

You will be a good fit for Kalyx if:

You have experienced Depression or Anxiety, or
You have experienced Trauma, or
You are looking for a Competent and Compassionate Therapist

License #25937

Dr. Paulette Tillery is a licensed Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working with and impacting change for underserved populations. When one person is affected by trauma, it creates a domino effect on families and communities. She is dedicated to working with and empowering women, men and children with the goal of restoration and healing that will break the chains of depression, anxieties and other mental health strongholds. 

It is very easy for human beings suffering from trauma to accept it as a way of life and it is not uncommon for them to succumb to the daily stressors they experience daily. Unfortunately, these stressors can become crippling and can impact the trajectory of an individual’s entire life. Dr. Tillery specializes in treating individuals who have been impacted by various forms of loss and trauma including PTSD, Intergenerational, and Vicarious Trauma through individual and group sessions. My mission is to provide an empathetic ear through counseling to those who are struggling with depression and anxiety. Treatment will focus on a holistic approach that includes physical, social, spiritual and cognitive modalities. I have experience and specialized training working with and educating people suffering from traumatic experiences related to loss. 

Dealing with any kind of loss can be depressing, but I take an approach that will bring about hope to those suffering in silence. I believe in meeting people where they are and guiding them through the therapeutic process by incorporating treatment methods that have been proven to be reliable, credible and culturally sensitive. I understand that there is no quick fix or single approach that will work for every individual; I focus on a healing process that incorporates an eclectic approach to treatment.

My educational background includes a BSW from Coppin State University, MSW from the University of Maryland and a PhD with a focus on Counseling and Human Service from Walden University. In addition to degrees, I have additional training with a focus on grief counseling & Mental Health.

License # 21413

You will be a good fit for Dr. Tillery if:
⦁ You are an Adult who has experienced Traumatic loss or are grieving
⦁ You have experienced Domestic Violence 
⦁ You have experienced Depression or Anxiety
⦁ You have experienced or witnessed a Traumatic event 
⦁ You are looking for a Competent and Compassionate Therapist

Janel West is a Licensed Social Worker in the state of Maryland who specializes in working with individuals experiencing grief/loss, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, low-confidence and life transitions.  She is trained in EMDR.

She is a Baltimore native graduate of the illustrious Bowie State University, and University of Connecticut. She has created, and facilitated psycho educational, social skills and support groups for children, and adults.  She has experience in providing counseling services for children, and families in the Maryland, District of Columbia, and Connecticut area

Janel is a passionate versed professional with the desire to serve those in the DMV area. Her goal is to instill in clients a better sense of self, and support them on their journey of growth. In her free time she loves traveling the world, indulging in good food, and spending time with family/friends.

License #21081

Angel Randall is a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) who specializes in trauma, anxiety, and depression. She attended McDaniel College and obtained a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.She has experience in counseling children/teens, adults, and families, in which she treats a range of mental health disorders, including: emotional/ behavioral disorders, bipolar, ADD, ADHD, OCD, and substance use disorders and more. Angel has conducted sessions in the community, schools, clinic and crisis/residential settings. Additionally, she has facilitated group counseling sessions.Angel has a client-centered and eclectic approach, in which she utilizes various evidence-based techniques, including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing, to best suit clients’ needs. She strives to encourage her clients to discover their true self and guide them to healing in order to have a healthy and satisfying lifestyle. Her passion for mental health has led her to connect with clients from various ethnic backgrounds.License #: LCP12078

Christy Lewis is a Licensed Masters Social Worker who provides individual and group counseling for adults and children. She is dedicated to helping persons heal from trauma experiences such as domestic violence, human trafficking, childhood abuse or neglect, and sexual violence or assault. 

Christy is a graduate of the University of Maryland where she earned a Master’s Degree in Social Work specializing in Children and Families. She has worked over 20 years with children and families experiencing abuse and neglect. She has worked on various Task Forces to advocate for survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking in Howard and Prince George's County and for the State of Maryland. She is a Credentialed Advocate specializing in survivors of sexual assault and violence.

Christy operates from a strengths-based perspective because everyone has strengths. She believes that we all have a purpose in life. Life is meaningful and amazing when one knows and understand their purpose. Christy is passionate about working through those small steps to reach great goals. 

License
#26608

Amber Banks is a Licensed Masters Social Worker in the state of Maryland who provides individual therapy. She received her Bachelors and Masters of Social Work degrees from the illustrious Morgan State University in
Baltimore City, Maryland.

Amber specializes in working with individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, PTSD, bipolar, anxiety, and more. Amber has experience in providing individual therapy to children/teens and adults. She also has experience working with primary and secondary victims of sexual abuse and domestic violence. Amber is passionate about assisting individuals with processing their traumatic experiences through using interventions such as Cognitive behavior therapy, solution-focused therapy, music therapy, motivational interviewing, and strength-based perspective.

Her goal is to meet you where you are to
begin your healing process. She looks forward to building a positive therapeutic relationship that makes you feel comfortable.

License #:  26996

Fatoumata is an MSN, PMHNP-BC is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, experience in treating mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, ADHD, schizophrenia, bipolar, PTSD, substance use disorder, and so on. She completed a bachelor's degree with distinction (Summa Cum Laude) and a master's degree in psychiatric nursing, with years of experience working with the State of Maryland as a psychiatric nurse. She has experience with child, adolescent, and adult psychiatry. She is a people person who enjoys helping others. She has worked with minority populations and underserved communities, including but not limited to LGBTQ, homeless, Substance use disorder populations. She is fluent in two foreign languages ( French and Bambara). She loves to spend time with family and loves traveling.

Toria Hawkins is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) in the state of Maryland who has experience providing individual and group therapy to Adults, adolescents and children. She received her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Socia Work after earning her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland, College Park. She has also earned her Master of Public Health degree from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, and integrates a holistic wellness perspective into her therapeutic interventions. Toria specializes in working with minority populations that have experienced both interpersonal and systemic trauma. 

Issues that Toria can help with include: complex trauma, anxiety, emotional regulation, navigating relationships,body image, perinatal transitions, adjusting to chronic illness, substance use, and co-occurring disorders. Toria utilizes healing-centered interventions including narrative exposure therapy, DBT, and solution-focused therapy, as well as alternative therapeutic approaches including mindfulness-based stress reduction, music and art therapy, and meditation therapy. Toria aims to address barriers to mental health treatment and make adaptive coping methods easier to incorporate into the everyday lives of underserved and minority communities. Whether you’ve never worked with a therapist before or have already received a diagnosis; if you are ready to heal, working with Toria may be a great option for you!

License #: 28270 

Felisha Pierce is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC).  She works in collaboration with her clients’ efforts to help assist individuals who may be navigating through challenging times and are in need of support. In life there are moments of uncertainty and unpredictability that may yield the need for specific guidance that is unique to the individual or family. Felisha has the unique ability to offer warm concern that is focused on achieving personal change and growth goals. Her ultimate purpose is to connect, understand, and grow therapeutic relationships that are tailored to the needs and desires of the client as a tool to encourage, motivate, and empower the building of self-growth and effective development.
With a Master’s Degree in Couples & Family Counseling, Felisha offers supportive services to individual adults, couples, and family units. She welcomes the opportunity to assist clients who may be experiencing anxiety, depression, transitional concerns, adjustment challenges, marital discord, infidelity, divorce, coparenting uncertainties, blended family factors, low self-esteem, career aspects, trauma affects, addiction, chronic health complications, or other mental health challenges. 
Felisha has a special interest in working with helping or service professionals and their families such as military, first responders, medical personnel, clergy/pastoral staff or ministry leadership, politicians, legal professionals, educators, professional counselors, and caretakers. This special interest extends to anyone that provides service to others, that may be exposed to secondary/vicarious trauma, or that may experience transient moves.  Felisha’s degree specialization in Military Family & Culture affords her the benefit of being able to assist in the unique structure of families in military service, coupled with my personal experience as a military spouse and wife of a first responder.

License #:  LGP11379

Tierra is a License Master Social Worker in the state of Maryland with several years of experience working in mental health with diverse populations. She received her undergraduate degree in psychology from Loyola University Maryland and her Master of Social Work degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore School of Social Work.

Before joining the Urban Trauma Counseling Center team, Tierra successfully worked with individuals struggling to meet their daily needs who felt stuck and as though their quality of life was poor. In addition, Tierra has supported and coordinated services for those coping with major depressive disorder, dissociative identity disorder, and PTSD.

One of Tierra’s professional goals is to support clients by honoring their personal experiences, culture, and individual pace of healing. She believes in a collaborative therapeutic approach, advocating for the creation of balance through critical self-reflection, and is dedicated to cultivating the necessary space for clients to explore themselves.

Tierra specializes in providing services to new mothers and parents in need of postpartum support. Using a strengths-based perspective, DBT, IFS, and Narrative therapy, Tierra aims to assist individuals as they navigate their birthing journey and related traumas. Tierra also offers services to women of color experiencing the adverse psychological effects of gendered racism.

License #:  29174

Lisa Sutton, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker.  She is a trauma focused mental health counselor committed to helping individuals travel their path of self-discovery and healing.

She works collaboratively with her clients to identify, examine, and target roadblocks of ineffective beliefs, behaviors, and habits that impact daily living.

License #: 19907

LGPC

Rachel Baldwin is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland.  She graduated of McDaniel College with an M.S. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.  She is currently pursuing  Doctorate of Psychology at Stevenson University. Her areas of interest are LGBTQIA+, special needs, first responders/veterans, personality disorders, and psychosis. Trauma is intertwined with different aspects of life and a key to recognize when growing in life. Rachel’s goal as a counselor is to compassionately help you with processing, healing, and understanding your emotional, spiritual, psychological, and cultural self as a whole mind and body approach. She utilizes humanistic/person-center therapy, positive-solution focus, mindfulness, and creative expression within a cognitive behavioral therapy approach. Creative expression incorporates developing artistic outlets, coping techniques, and life skills mindfulness. 

Before joining the counseling field, Rachel worked in the music industry and education system for over ten years. She received a B.M. in Music Education and French Horn Performance, with a minor in Psychology. After 2019 Rachel returned to performing for soundtrack recordings, worked at psychiatric special needs schools teaching music, and led clubs for LGBTQIA+ Support Group and high violent student Coping Skills Group ages 9 to 25 years old. Rachel also volunteers at a Fire and EMS department as a first responder and crisis counselor. 

License # LGP13845

Sibao Dunham is a Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC). She is originally from New Orleans, LA and has resided in Baltimore since 2004. Sibao is a U.S. Army veteran and has previously worked in the areas of mental health and substance abuse throughout her healthcare career as a nurse and case manager for more than 15 years. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She is a member of the American Counseling Association. 
Sibao is compassionate and dedicated in providing therapy and support to clients seeking personal growth and emotional well-being. She has experience working with individuals, couples, premarital couples, and groups with ages ranging from adolescents to senior adults. She is committed to fostering a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their concerns and work towards positive change.
Sibao supports clients dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem, life transitions, and grief. She believes in creating a counseling experience to fit each unique client's needs using cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused brief therapy, and mindfulness techniques. Sibao believes in empowering her clients to develop their strengths, enhance self-awareness, and create healthy coping strategies. She looks forward to being a supportive ally during the counseling journey, while working collaboratively with clients to overcome challenges, gain insight, and achieve therapy goals.
 
 
License #LGP13167