Ayana White, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C

Ayana White, MSW, LCSW, LCSW-C is a licensed clinical social worker, therapist, and founder of Emerald Essence Counseling and Wellness, a practice rooted in culturally responsive, trauma-informed care. With deep ties to the African American community and a commitment to equity, Ayana is passionate about creating compassionate, accessible mental health support for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ individuals navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions.

Ayana’s professional journey is shaped by more than 25 years of clinical experience across community mental health, school-based counseling, crisis intervention, child protective services, and private practice leadership. She is dedicated to helping individuals reconnect with their inner strength, heal from generational stressors, and embrace emotional wellness through holistic, culturally grounded approaches.

Her commitment to mental health advocacy is also deeply personal. In January 2025, Ayana’s beloved niece died by suicide—a profound loss that strengthened her resolve to expand mental health awareness, support families in crisis, and fight the stigma that often prevents individuals from seeking help. This experience continues to fuel her purpose and her dedication to building communities where conversations about mental health are open, safe, and accessible.

Ayana’s community service includes active membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where she has volunteered with youth through Delta Academy, supported World AIDS Day initiatives, and facilitated mental health awareness workshops within the Physical and Mental Health Committee. She also engages with local schools and community organizations, offering mentorship, education, and healing-centered conversations aimed at reducing stigma and strengthening resilience.

What excites Ayana most about NAMI’s work is its unwavering commitment to advocacy, representation, and empowerment. She believes mental health nonprofits play a critical role in supporting vulnerable and historically overlooked communities, and she is inspired by NAMI’s vision to ensure every individual and family has access to support, understanding, and hope. This shared mission fuels her desire to serve on the Board of Directors and contribute her voice, clinical expertise, and passion for transformative community engagement.