Hamdiya Moore earned a Bachelors from Elizabeth City State University in Industrial Technology and after 10 years of being a Network Engineer at IBM, he wanted to change careers and focus on his passion of transforming the lives of youth and adults with mental challenges in hopes of creating better communities across the world. He is a cutting-edge visionary with 15 years of experience in the mental health industry, leading a full spectrum of business operations in diverse communities in North Carolina and Virginia. He successfully launched a startup minority owned mental health agency to a national accredited multi-million dollar company that penetrated the Northeastern part of North Carolina. His vision is to bring innovative solution based services to the world so individuals can not only live up to their full potential, but to live a life full of limitless possibilities. He strongly believes that you are not a victim of your circumstances, you are a creator of the life that you desire.

Dr. Phillip Dukes

Partner

Dr. Phillip Dukes earned a Bachelor from Central State University in Psychology, Masters in Social Administration from Case Western Reserve University and a Masters and Doctorate in Psychology from the University of Michigan, he worked in research for several years before returning to the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, to teach. After teaching for several years he took a position in Detroit Michigan as the CEO of a Community Mental Health Agency. Thus, he began his thirty seven year experience in the field of community mental health. He has had the pleasure of providing direct services, managing several mental health agencies and developing mental health programs and services. Over the past thirty seven years he worked in the field of mental health, he came to realize that the most important thing we could do for the people we serve is to help empower them by helping them transition their hope into wellness, rather than concentrating on their illness. He strongly believes there is a direct correlation between empowerment and wellness for all people.   

Faye LeSane, LCSW

Clinical Director

Faye LeSane earned a Bachelors from Virginia State University in Social Work and her Masters in Clinical Social Work from Howard University. Ms. LeSane is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than twenty-five years of experience treating children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. She is the President and CEO of Agape Mental Health and Consulting Services. In her private practice, Ms. LeSane has assisted clients in coping with depression, anxiety, relationship issues and sexual trauma. She is passionate about serving and giving back to those in need. Ms. LeSane is a seasoned mental health professional and educator who is keenly dedicated to the welfare of her clients. She continues to expand her range of knowledge and practice through integration of new concepts and professional liaisons. Ms. LeSane has provided training and workshops for various local and national organizations. She is extremely passionate about providing training on issues related to domestic minor sex trafficking. Ms. LeSane serves as field instructor for several colleges and universities in the Washington Metro area. She has also been approved by the state of Virginia and NASW to provide supervision and training for individuals seeking to become licensed (LCSW/LPC limited hours) in the state of Virginia.

Mezeline Lindor, LPC

Clinical Supervisor

Mezeline hold a Masters of Education in Human Development and Psychoeducational Studies/Counseling from Howard University and a Bachelors of Art in Criminology from Suffolk University. Major course-work includes human growth and development, family counseling and advanced therapeutic strategies. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor, licensed by the Commonwealth of Virginia. I abide by the Code of Ethics. The earlier part of my career began in Boston, Massachusetts where I worked at community agencies and schools as a Prevention/Intervention Specialist working with children, adolescents, and families struggling with various issues including behavioral challenges, academic refusal, neglect and many other areas of concern. I presently maintain a private practice providing individual, family and couples counseling to include, but not limited to anxiety and situational stress, depression, and communication problems. I encourage clients to use their own strengths and experience to explore who they are, the way they make choices, and how they interact with others.  During my personal time I enjoy nurturing my spiritual development, spending time with my family, travelling, learning about cultures different from my own, and enjoying my time in my tranquil space – my home. I pride myself on being compassionate, insightful and supportive. Clients can expect me to challenge them when needed and be a strong supporter as they grow and progress. 

Carmen Ortiz has earned a Bachelor from Springfield College in Human Services, Masters of Education in Counseling Psychology from Cambridge College and is a Licensed Professional Counselor in DC and Virginia. Her focus lies in social work, family stabilization,mental health services, particularly for ethnic minority populations, in urban communities. She is also interested in the intersection of evidence-based and culturally sensitive interventions and the role of mentors and other protective factors in the lives of at-risk urban youth. She enjoys serving the underserved populations mainly looking at family interventions and addressing substance abuse. She is a Bilingual Mental Health Professional that works with Hispanics with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders, engage in public sector initiatives that address disparities in access to mental health care among this population, and develop community-inclusive, peer-based interventions for them. 

 

 

 

Carmen Ortiz, LPC

Clinical Supervisor

Teressa Bowman, LMHP-R

Clinical Supervisor

Teressa has her BS in Psychology, MA in Professional Counseling and is working on her Doctorate of Psychology (2017).Her desire to work in community based services stems from an interest in improving the accessibility of quality care to the mentally ill and disadvantaged populations in the Northern Virginia metropolitan area.  Her skills set ranges from infancy to geriatric populations and she believe that her experience in health care throughout the life span may serve as a springboard into sustaining, and perhaps enhancing the clients served. Moreover, her insatiable desire to provide quality interventions based on the treatment plan and  ability to understand the array of issues facing families from a variety of ethnic and economic communities would be an additional asset in this role.

 

 

 

Obana Onunaku

QMHP - Quality Assurance

Obana Onunaku earned her Bachelors of Science in Human Services/Counseling from Old Dominion University. She has over 9 years of experience working with children and families in a variety of settings. She began her journey in the mental health field by mentoring at risk youth in Norfolk, Virginia. Following her passion for helping people, she gained experience working with adolescents in a group home and psychiatric facility. With her strong desire to focus her attention on working with families and individuals receiving community based services, she accepted a position working as a Qualified Mental Health Professional in the Northern Virginia Area. Obana began her adventure working with Circle of Hope Therapeutic Services, INC. in March 2014. She is committed to her clients and is dedicated to transforming hope into wellness. Obana is skilled in providing one-on-one training to help each individual achieve his or her goals, dreams, and desires. Obana strongly believes that every individual deserves a strong, consistent support system that will encourage success, achievement, and over all psychological wellness.

Johanna Sanchez, MSW

QMHP

Johanna Sanchez is a graduate of University of California with a Master of Social Work. Mrs. Sanchez has extensive experience in the human services field with more than four years of providing services to a socio cultural diverse adult populations with emotional, behavioral and mental illness. Mrs. Sanchez is a compassionate, service-focused professional with case management experience and a strong commitment to serving the needs of disadvantaged youth and adults, including immigrants and special-needs populations. She is devoted to her work and has an outstanding reputation.  She is a self-directed team player who has pays close attention to detail and has experience in program planning and volunteer coordination. Mrs. Sanchez is bi-lingual with proficiency in conversational and written English and Spanish. Mrs. Sanchez has experience designing and implementing creative group programs that benefit individuals with mental illness by enhancing their social skills and self-esteem. She is energetic, has a positive demeanor, with a verifiable record of motivating others to meet their goals and objectives.

 

 

 

Kelly Hines

QPP-MH 

(Community Outreach)

Kelly Hines earned a Bachelors from Elizabeth City State University in Criminal Justice. In October 1990, he was recruited by the District of Columbia Department of Corrections located in Lorton, Virginia and started his career as a Correctional Officer/ Case Manager and Substance Abuse Counselor. Mr. Hines was also responsible for inmate skills development and reentry initiatives. Mr. Hines is an experienced case-manager, working with various populations, including inmates that needed intensive treatment and therapy. He has extensive experience working with individuals that had substance abuse/addiction issues. He is known for his excellent rapport building skills, his warmth and caring nature with clients, and his accurate empathy skills. Mr. Hines has a passion for his profession and for recovery. Mr. Hines has worked at numerous agencies in the area and was blessed to be offered a position with The Court Services and Offenders Supervision Agency as a Community Supervision Officer in November 1999. Upon completion of the Academy he was assigned to Interstate Compact were he supervised 150 to 200 offenders. Over the last 10 years, Mr. Hines has been working with individuals with mental health diagnosis and are in need of life skills to become more stabilized in the community. Mr. Hines believes there is nothing you can achieve without a good conscious, a good heart, and faith in your abilities. 

Mindy T. Ngu, LPC Intern 

LMHP-R

Mindy earned her Bachelors of Arts in Psychology from Ashford University and completed her Masters of Science in Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Over the past 18 years, she has had the privilege of practicing as a life coach life to a diverse clientele she’s encounter through her business endeavors. Mindy’s philosophy is based on the understanding that all individuals should be able to open their heart to with love and passion, allowing them to feel content in their everyday lives. With a unique and diverse background, Mindy has used her own life experiences with her education and experience as a volunteer to help others heal their suffering. She is fluent in English/ Vietnamese and is motivated to help individuals who need assistance coping with chronic illness. She provides guidance and structure to clients in order to assist them in their ability to lead a healthy quality of life. This includes, but is not limited to their career, marriage, parenting, communication and education. Mindy addresses these concerns directly and helps develop sound solutions to life challenges, being experienced by clients, in a way that revitalizes the mind and body. Mindy’s focuses on Mindfulness based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy which centers on helping the client deepen their spirituality which hopefully will  assist clients in identifying thought processes that will  help lessen their sorrow. 

Sheronda Still

QPP-MH

Sheronda Still is a graduate of Norfolk State University with a Bachelor’s of Arts in Mass Communications. After graduation, Sheronda switched gears, instead of starting a career in mass communication; she decided to work in a setting more aligned with her passions and interests. As one who is deeply devoted to individuals with mental challenges, Sheronda became a special education teacher for District Columbia Public Schools. She focused on educating individuals in the community with a focus on high-risk populations including youth. She was also responsible for providing rehabilitative skills training, guidance, encouragement and support for clients. Sheronda joy and passion is helping individuals and their families to succeed, achieve, and overcome difficulties in their lives. She has a desire to see everyone reach their full potential.  She hopes to serve as a role model and coach for clients regarding developing and using effective problem solving, decision-making, conflict resolutions, independent living skills and responsibilities. Sheronda’s motto is “There are times in our lives that we all need some help to see where change is needed and the encouragement to make change happen. “I love what I do!” When you go to work and it doesn't feel like you are going to work, I think you are in the right profession. Helping individuals with mental challenges is both a privilege and a passion for me. 

Shenitta Rochelle 

QMHP

Paul Griffin earned his Masters Degree from Lincoln University in Human Services. Paul is a highly-qualified and passionate Board Certified Substance Counselor with over 30 years of experience working with patients in substance abuse treatment facilities and outpatient treatment centers. Excels at managing a complex and challenging caseloads with a variety of substance abuse issues. Adept at communicating clearly and professionally with members of the clinical treatment team and performing effective family outreach and support.  Extensive experience in substance abuse assessments for adults and adolescents and providing a diagnosis and referrals or recommendations for these clients and their families. He has worked in environments with multi-cultural and socio-economic issues; talented and compassionate communicator. He has provided individual counseling services, mentoring, home-based services, grant writing and other supportive services to private and government agencies. He has facilitated twelve-week anger management groups and relapse prevention program for youth recently released from correctional centers in the state. His passion is working in the community providing substance abust seminars geared toward educating youth and their parents about substance abuse and addition.

Paul Griffin

QMHP

(Substance Abuse Couselor)

 

Sehrish Pirzada earned her Bachelors of Science Degree from the University of the District of Columbia in Social Work. Sehrish holds extensive experience working with adolescents and elderly indivudials with mental health and substance use issues and their families. She is skilled at working within the assisted living facilities and out in the community. Sehrish has a particularly broad experience in treating elderly adults with both mental health and substance use issues as well. She enjoys working with adolescents and families.  Sehrish's areas of specialty are anxiety and depression, women's emotional health, adolescent behavior issues, and adults in need of IDL training. Sehrish became a Mental Health Professional and Certified Nurse Assistant to help people navigate their complex worlds in order to live a healthier, happier life. She believes in a holistic approach to health; that all components of ones' life are interrelated. 

Sehrish Pirzada

QMHP

Juan Sanchez earned his Bachelors of Science Degree in Human Services from the University of Baltimore. Juan is mainly interested in factors that influence mental health care utilization and treatment outcomes in ethnic minority populations, particularly in Hispanic and African Americans. Juan has 3 years of experience working with adults and adolescents mental health and substance use issues and their families. His areas of interest are mental health well-being, multiculturalism and diversity issues, at-risk youth as well as anxiety and depression.   He is also interested in minority stress, health outcomes, diversity training, cultural adaptations of evidence-based treatments, efficacy of evidence-based treatments with ethnic minorities and cultural competence. 

Juan Sanchez

QMHP

Juana Jenkins joined COH in 2015 to provide administrative support to our management team, working alongside the clinical director to coordinate strategy development and implementation. Juana has over 5 years of experience dealing with business and operational procedures and guidance, she is most adept at maneuvering and executing toward mission accomplishment within numerous COH internal business systems.  Juana has extensive experience in calendar maintenance, preparation of correspondence and technical presentations, coordination of travel arrangements (and resulting expense statements), facilitation of meeting arrangements, processing of visit requests, and monitoring of all action and signature items.  Juana prides herself with being a forward thinking with a passion for people and agile with superior organizational skills while proactively facilitating the smooth flow of business activities. 

Juana Jenkins

Administrative Assistant

 

Raymond Herring earned a Bachelors from Long Island University in Criminal Justice and his Masters in Counseling Psychology from Long Island University. Mr. Herring has over 11 years of counseling/law enforcement experience and has extensive experience working with adolescents and adults with mental health issues. He is skilled at working within the juvenile and adult justice systems, drug courts, the state health and human services system, and local school systems. Mr. Herring is a firm believer in empowering families to effectively intervene with members of the family who may be struggling with mental issues, as well as managing the myriad of other dynamics often associated with helping any family member overcome oppositional or disruptive behaviors. Mr. Herring has a passion for helping people navigate their complex worlds in order to live a healthier, happier life. He believes in a holistic approach to health; that all components of ones' life are interrelated.

Raymond Herring

QMHP

Stacie Thomas is a graduate from The College of New Rochelle located in New Rochelle NY; class of 2000 where she majored in Social Science and minored in Special Education.  Stacie became a Special Education Teacher for New York City Board of Education where she taught 5th and 6th grade in the South Bronx.  Stacie relocated to the Washington DC Metropolitan area where she accepted a Special Education position with the District of Columbia Public Schools.  Stacie spent 6 years in the school system.  During those years, she realized she was doing more than educating the students, but providing assistance and resources to the parents and guardians of her students.   After deciding to leave DC Public Schools, Stacie went into the field of Social Services. While working in this field, Stacie was able to diversify her work experience by working with at risk youth, adults on probation and parole, people at risk of becoming homeless, the homeless population and people living with mental health issues.  Stacie is a firm believer that with the proper guidance and the will, one is always able to find a way to a happier and healthier life. 

Alicia Evans is a graduate from Norfolk State University with Bachelors in Sociology. She has 3 years of experience providing independent living skills to adults and adolscents with mental issues. Alicia works easily with both adults and adolescents, and is highly-skilled in working with individuals, couples, and families. She enjoying working with individuals in the community, home and within the juvenile and adult justice system, drug courts, the state health and human services system, and local school systems. She also specialize in working with adults with intellectual disabilities and behaviors in a residential setting. She posses knowledge of principles, practices and techniques of instruction for persons with intellectual disabilities and/or mental illness.

 

Alicia Evans

QMHP

Kenneth Hankins

QMHP

Kenneth Hankins is a graduate from Ferris State University with a Bachelors of Arts in Social Work located in Big Rapids, MI. He has experience empowering youth and adults as a mental health professional in the community and or a school settings. Dwight has over 20 years of experience in community-based programs working with adults and adolscents and their families in the community and juvenile justice systems. He has extensive experience identifying and coordinating the needs of children and families through the use of standardized assessment tools and worked to increase communication, as well as defused crises and stabilized the home environment. He also has extensive experience managing disruptive behaviors and responds to  crisis situations based on predetermined Behavioral Management Program guidelines.