The Black Brain Campaign is a non profit 501c3 organization created to eradicate the stigma against mental health in the Black community by providing a holistic approach to therapy treatment. Our services include free individual and family counseling, training courses for therapists, supervision, and community resources.

OUR TEAM

Farida E. Boyer, MS, LMFT, AS
Farida E. Boyer, MS, LMFT, ASExecutive Director and Cofounder
Farida E. Boyer is the Executive Director and Cofounder of the Black Brain Campaign Association. As a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, and an Approved Supervisor, Mrs. Boyer is responsible for improving mental health, strengthening community and client relationships as well as business development.
Dr. Kevana Nixon, DCFT , LMFT, AAMFT- AS
Dr. Kevana Nixon, DCFT , LMFT, AAMFT- ASClinical Director
Dr. Kevana Nixon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who services the Philadelphia and Delaware area. Kevana currently serves in several roles that include her being an AAMFT approved clinical supervisor at Drexel University, Clinical coordinator at The Black Brain Campaign-LEAP program, and Adjunct professor. Dr. Kevana obtained her Doctorate in Couple and Family Therapy from Drexel University to become a leader in the field of CMFT and provide innovative assessment and treatment with individuals, couples, and families. In addition, Kevana supports her community by lending her time and talent to local organizations that promote and support mental health initiatives. Kevana’s love and purpose is to transform the lives of people by providing healing in a safe and supportive environment.
Jeannine Hinnant
Jeannine Hinnant Clinical Coordinator
Jeannine Hinnant is a native of Philadelphia, PA. Jeannine holds an undergraduate degree in Speech and Hearing Science from Temple University, a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix, and a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Springfield College. Jeannine is a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania with over 20 years of experience in the mental health field.
Katrina Edmonds
Katrina EdmondsLMFT Supervisor
Katrina N Edmonds, LMFT-AS is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor who has been practicing for 21 years and has historically serviced the Philadelphia & South Jersey areas. Katrina is known for her family of origin/genogram work and for addressing issues such as the impacts of chronic illness on families, religion/spirituality, self-esteem/self-worth, trauma, grief/loss, parenting, forgiveness/reconciliation and addiction. Katrina is devoted to helping people acknowledge and accept their past so they can inform their present and improve their future.
 Cynthina Byron Williford
Cynthina Byron WillifordLPC Supervisor
Cynthia Byron-Williford is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a National Certified Counselor, and a School Counselor certified in Pennsylvania. She has over 25 years of experience in the mental health field, working with children and adults in community and school settings. Currently, she operates a private practice in Cheltenham, PA. Ms. Byron-Williford has provided supervision to aspiring counseling professionals for over five years.
Ryan McMillian
Ryan McMillianLMFT Supervisor
Ryan McMillian is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private telehealth practice in King of Prussia, PA. He has trained and educated budding therapist as a lecturer and supervisor. In addition, Ryan serves underrepresented populations and Princeton Theological Seminary and Villanova University. Ryan speaks nationally on an array of topics from emotional intelligence to mental health in the workplace/spiritual setting to the importance of self-care. He has presented for Division 1 sports teams, Fortune 500 businesses and churches and synagogues. His work and research in these areas have helped leaders and executives connect more with their employees and families per self-reports. Formerly a Division-1 student-athlete at Michigan State University, Ryan works and trains youth on a volunteer basis. 
Wesley Harris
Wesley Harris LPC Supervisor
Wesley G. Harris III, LPC NCC is the Clinical Coordinator at M.A.P.P.E.D. LLC. He is a board certified and licensed professional counselor in Pennsylvania specializing in assisting others navigate their traumatic experiences. He is a holistic practitioner focused on using one’s strengths to guide them to wellness. He is also employed by the School District of Philadelphia as a Clinical Supervisor. He oversees behavioral health services in some of the most at-risk schools in the district. Wesley is a Certified Prolonged Exposure Therapist and Supervisor. He has been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy. He has been addressing gaps in the mental health system for over twenty years. Currently he trains other mental health professionals as the Clinical Coordinator for Black Men Heal ensuring that they use evidenced-based treatment modalities that are culturally responsive as a means to facilitate healing. 
Nichelle Wiggins
Nichelle WigginsLPC Clinical Supervisor
Nichelle Wiggins, LPC, has over 20 years of experience in Social Work and Mental Health, providing evidence-based treatment for children, adolescents, and adults managing Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Trauma, ADHD, and more. She fosters an accepting, collaborative therapeutic environment and advocates for families seeking support for their child’s emotional and social needs.

Specializing in OCD and anxiety-related disorders, Nichelle employs Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and Habit Reversal Training. She has worked in diverse settings, including Family-Based Services, hospital Crisis Management, Elementary School Counseling, and Partial Hospitalization/Intensive Outpatient programs.

Currently in private practice, Nichelle serves clients in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, continuing her dedication to helping individuals and families thrive.

Schante' Frazier
Schante' Frazier LPC Training Coordinator
Schante’ Y. Frazier is a devoted Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a fervent dedication to guiding women through their transformative journey towards healing and self-discovery. Specializing in trauma-informed therapy, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, and the cultivation of self-esteem and confidence, Schante’ seamlessly merges her professional expertise with her Christian faith to offer comprehensive and empowering counseling services.
Marlon Garrett
Marlon Garrett Full-Time Therapist
Marlon Garrett is a dedicated Masters Level Therapist with over 20 years of experience. Specializing in Solutions Based Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Marlon is passionate about reducing systemic trauma in the community by rebuilding the village. One of Marlon’s mantras is “It takes a village.” Marlon effortlessly incorporates compassion and empathy into every counseling session. Marlon’s focus is on empowering those who struggle to tap into their full potential and cultivate self confidence. Marlon says it is his honor to serve his community in the best way possible. 
Nikindi Mighty
Nikindi MightyFull-Time Therapist
My name is Nikindi, and I aim to ensure that clients feel understood and supported. I aim to help clients reframe their worried thinking, deal with trauma from the past, navigate familial relationships that influence their thoughts and behavior, and discover their own identities. My objective is to assist and nurture clients through collaborative processes through reframing negative self-talk, establishing healthy boundaries to bring about change, improving coping abilities, and exploring a systemic approach for promoting growth and see progress. My areas of interest are interpersonal connections, grieving, and anxiety. I am especially aware of how anxiety impacts a person’s experiences across all systems, how loss impacts coping mechanisms, and how it impacts relationships with friends and family. I’ve worked with couples, children, depression, reunification, and overall anxiety.
Tryik Bailey
Tryik BaileyCase Manager
My name is Tyrik Bailey. I was born on raised in South Philadelphia. I graduated from Cheyney University in 2002 with an Bachelors Degree in Social Relations. I have 21 years of experience working in the mental health field. That experience has allowed me to work with children as well as adults in home, community and school settings. I am very devoted to encouraging and uplifting those who live with mental health issues, to gain and remain confident in their abilities to live positive and productive lives.
Nicole Wilson
Nicole WilsonCase Manager
I’m Nicole Wilson, a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in human services, specializing in health services management and psychology. I hold a Master’s in Health Services Management and a Bachelor’s in Psychology, providing a strong foundation for my work.

A career highlight includes doubling the waiver census for Long Term Support Services and leading a successful overhaul of the Office of Developmental Programming, improving service quality and increasing revenue hours. My work centers on creating systems that empower both individuals and staff, driven by a commitment to compassionate care and efficient management.

Looking ahead, I am passionate about advancing health services and collaborating with like-minded professionals and organizations to build a healthier, more equitable future.

Edward Cotton
Edward CottonCounseling Intern
Ed is a dedicated mental health professional that holds an MPH in Global Mental Health and is currently completing a MSEd in Mental Health Counseling at The University of Pennsylvania.

By fostering an authentic, supportive, and affirming relationship Ed will help you guide your journey to better mental wellness. He is passionate about therapy and helping people navigate life stressors. He has experience working with people from diverse backgrounds and is committed to treating the psychological effects of oppression, anxiety, depression, and trauma. Ed’s therapeutic approach uses Cognitive-Behavioral, Acceptance and Commitment, and Adlerian principles.

Everyone is different and brings unique experiences to the table, so Ed’s goal is to work with you collaboratively on achieving your treatment goals. Fun fact: I visited 30 countries before turning 30.

Luvonda Fuller
Luvonda FullerCounseling Intern
Luvonda Fuller is from North Philadelphia. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from Rosemont College in 2023. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Villanova University. She is currently interning at The Black Brain Campaign. Luvonda is passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health care in the Black community and hopes to achieve this goal through her work.
Kyle Gordon
Kyle GordonMFT Intern
My name is Kyle Gordon, I am currently in my last year o graduate school for Marriage and Family Therapy at La Salle University, I’m Passionate about working with marginalized individuals to create a space that is free of stigma and judgement. I graduated from Lincoln University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in visual arts, and my love for creativity plays a role in how I approach therapy. I come from a systemic background, which means I focus on how relationships and family history influence who we are today. I use contextual family therapy and transgenerational family therapy to help my clients understand and navigate these influences. I believe that our clients are the captain of their ships and we’re simply navigators. Wherever you are in your journey. I am looking forward to being a part of it. 
Dawanya Shuler
Dawanya Shuler Counseling Intern
My name is Dawanya Shuler . I graduated from West Chester University with my bachelor’s in 2022; I am currently in my second year of graduate school for Professional Clinical Counseling at LaSalle University. My goal is to give mental health services to marginalized people who are overlooked and carry the burden of stigma for suffering from mental distress. I believe I can help clients get through universal systemic issues through the lenses of feminist theory and solution-focused therapy.
Amandeep Singh
Amandeep SinghMFT Intern
“Be the change you wish to see in the world” inspires Aman’s journey as a Marriage and Family Therapist. Born in Punjab, India, Aman moved to Astoria, Queens, and later to the Philadelphia area during his adolescence. He earned a Bachelor’s in Human Development and Family Studies from Penn State in 2013 and a Master’s in Family Therapy from Drexel University in 2017. Currently pursuing a Doctorate in Couples and Family Therapy at Drexel, his focus is on marginalized communities.

Aman’s trauma-informed therapeutic approach celebrates diversity and takes a systemic perspective. He specializes in working with adults, teens, trauma, substance use, dual diagnoses, life transitions, and LGBTQ+ affirming therapy. His expertise spans Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Family and Couples Therapy, and Forensic Services, reflecting his commitment to fostering healing and growth for all clients.

Keshav Goel
Keshav Goel Counseling Intern
I graduated from University of Massachusetts Amherst in 2022 with a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, with a specialization in neuroscience. After working with adult populations with various mental health disorders in the Boston area, I decided to enhance my education by joining University of Pennsylvania’s professional counseling graduate program. I aim to work to help people who deal with mental health conditions and hope to help improve societal mental health through personal clinical work and community outreach. My goal is to expand my exposure to diverse methods and populations and work to combine counseling experiences and analytical processes to make meaningful and useful contributions to mental health care in the United States, with a specific focus on trying to reduce stigma around and improve mental health outcomes in marginalized population.
Jamie Serrano
Jamie SerranoMFT Intern
Jamie Serrano is a graduate student at Drexel University, pursuing a Master of Science in Family Therapy. Originally from California, Jamie earned her undergraduate degree in Human Biology from the University of California, Davis, in June 2024. She currently interns with the Black
Brain Campaign, where she supports efforts to promote mental health awareness and destigmatize mental health struggles within Black communities. Driven by a commitment to fostering empathy and understanding across diverse communities, she relocated to Philadelphia
to deepen her expertise in family therapy. Jamie is passionate about helping individuals from all backgrounds build healthier relationships and aims to expand her knowledge and empathy to better serve individuals and families in her future clinical practice.
Yolanda Clarke
Yolanda ClarkeMFT Intern
As an intern from La Salle University, I am passionate about amplifying Black voices and addressing the stigma surrounding therapy within the Black community. Growing up in South Philadelphia, I witnessed the profound impact of mental health challenges, inspiring my commitment to promoting healing and well-being in my community.

I focus on community engagement, advocacy, and mental health in Philadelphia, with a therapeutic approach rooted in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Intergenerational Therapy to address trauma and uncover family patterns. Beyond therapy, I explore holistic healing methods like meditation, yoga, and sound therapy, and I stay informed about diverse cultures, religions, and the Philadelphian community.

Committed to mental health awareness, I actively support initiatives like the Brain Campaign, working to destigmatize mental health struggles within Black communities. My goal is to help individuals build healthier relationships and create lasting change in my future clinical practice.

Philip Jones
Philip Jones Counseling Intern
Philip Jones is a compassionate mental health professional pursuing a Master’s in Counseling at Rosemont College, specializing in client-centered care. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Maryland, where he gained a strong foundation in human behavior and psychological theory.

Philip is passionate about helping individuals navigate life’s challenges and fostering emotional well-being. He integrates evidence-based techniques with empathetic care, emphasizing the importance of mental health as a cornerstone of overall wellness.

With interests in psychological assessment and therapeutic intervention, Philip is committed to lifelong learning and professional growth. He looks forward to making a meaningful impact in counseling by supporting clients on their journey toward personal growth and resilience.

Isabella Reginato
Isabella ReginatoMFT Intern
My name is Isabella Reginato, and I’m originally from Philadelphia, PA. I am currently in my first year at Thomas Jefferson University in the Couple & Family Therapy Masters program. I completed my undergraduate degree at Drexel University in 2019, majoring in Environmental Studies. I was an outdoor educator for many years, traveling across the western U.S., teaching students about the great outdoors and taking them on adventurous excursions. I eventually found myself drawn to the field of psychology, and I got my start in this field as a wilderness therapist
working with adolescents in Utah. I have been working in the mental health field for 2.5 years; my most recent position was working as a youth mentor for a girl’s adolescent treatment center. I am incredibly passionate about working with marginalized communities in hopes of dismantling
the stigmas that exist in these spaces. As a Chilean woman, I bring a multicultural perspective to the therapeutic services I am providing. I approach therapy through a family systems lens, focusing on how relationships and interactions influence individuals’ well-being.
James Ellerbe
James EllerbeMFT Intern
Assistance in life is often needed and desired but seldom sought.
There is a place of hope for the heart and a person who wants to find
their way. When we get out of our way, we find freedom from suffering
and begin to embrace the change, transition, and transformation to a
new reality of life.

My background has afforded me more than 15 years of experience
providing excellence in service, guidance, support, and coaching of life from a working with adolescents in Utah. I have been working in the mental health field for 2.5 years; my most recent position was working as a youth mentor for a girl’s adolescent treatment center. I am incredibly passionate about working with marginalized communities in hopes of dismantling the stigmas that exist in these spaces. As a Chilean woman, I bring a multicultural perspective to the therapeutic services I am providing. I approach therapy through a family systems lens, focusing on how relationships and interactions influence individuals’ well-being.

Tanya Folk
Tanya FolkCounseling Intern
Hi, I’m Tanya! My goal is to empower and collaborate with you to bring balance to your life. I emphasize building strong rapport and a solid therapeutic alliance to achieve meaningful change. I utilize Rational-Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) for its versatility and focus on compassion, self-acceptance, and personal growth while addressing cognitive distortions and emotional challenges.

I hold a BA in Psychology from Temple University, an MA in Education from Arcadia University, and am completing my MS in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Walden University. My experience includes family planning counseling, teaching, and case management for individuals facing homelessness and mental health challenges.

I believe everyone has the power to achieve mental well-being, and I am committed to helping you reach your goals.

Deja Basley
Deja BasleyMFT Intern
I am very passionate about my career and highly believe a change will happen. I know that I will be more than an asset in my career and I look forward to working with others all around the world. Not only do I want to make a difference in Philadelphia, I want to make a difference all around the world. Everyone deserves to be treated with health equity and quality care. All in all, I look forward to helping individuals remain healthy and mentally strong.
Kina Nichols
Kina NicholsMFT Intern
Kina Nichols is pursuing a Master of Family Therapy at Thomas Jefferson University, expecting to graduate in May 2026. As part of the Health Mentors Program, she collaborates with an interdisciplinary team to create interventions and is earning an Asano Humanities and Health Certificate focused on Anti-Racism in Health. Kina holds a B.A. in Psychology and Educational Studies from Swarthmore College, where she was a Philip Evans Scholar and served as President of Swarthmore Womxn’s Rugby.

Professionally, Kina is the Program Coordinator for Community Promise Academy at Hopeloft, overseeing after-school programs and youth initiatives. Her behavioral health experience includes roles as a Summer Treatment Program Counselor and Behavioral Health Technician. She has also conducted educational research and mentored first-generation college students. Passionate about equity, Kina leverages her skills to support youth and families, especially in underserved communities.

The Black Brain Campaign was founded in 2016 by Farida E. Boyer and Jaynay C. Johnson. Farida is currently the Executive Director of BBC LEAP. Farida’s vision is to increase the number of Black Licensed therapists by providing an opportunity for training, supervision and clinical experience. Farida continues to advocate for mental health and encourages other to seek mental health treatment.

The Black Brain Campaign helps the community learn more about mental health and advocates to ensure therapy treatment includes cultural humility. Since its inception, BBC has hosted and have been partners of over 50 events. Currently, BBC is providing free therapy treatment and assisting Black clinicians in completing Pennsylvania’s licensure requirements for Marriage & Family Therapy, and Professional Counseling as well as assisting Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in becoming Approved Supervisors with the American Association of Marriage & Family Therapist.

“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.”

“Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us.”

TESTIMONIALS

“The Black Brain Campaign is an incredible collaboration that breaks the stigma of mental health. Many times it is easy to discuss illnesses like cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure. However, it is still challenging for people of color to talk about depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder.

The mission of the Black Brain Campaign is to break down the walls and demystify emotional wellness. Through their leadership, m constituents participated in an intimate yet impactful conversation last year. I look forward to staying connected and working with them in the future.”


Joanna McClinton, State Representative 191st Legislative District of Pennsylvania

“According to the US Census, in 2010, African Americans are incarcerated five times more than other ethnic groups. In Pennsylvania 8.9 % of African Americans we incarcerated due to mental illness.

I applaud the Black Brain Campaign and their commitment to helping the black community learn more about the overlooked and often stigmatized issue of mental health. The impact they are making will have a ripple effect far beyond treatment, but helps individuals build a better future for themselves by receiving proper, culturally competent treatment.”


Morgan Cephas, State Representative 192nd Legislative District of Pennsylvania
“I knew Ms Boyer, whom I called Fareedah as a friend before getting into the program.  When first being approached about it, I did not know what to expect.  Looking at the program, it appeared challenging and I must admit I was apprehensive at first.  My first week was hectic, as I was getting adjusted to the schedule.  The 2nd and subsequent weeks after, I enjoyed every minute.  The best part was the supervision and having direct access to the supervisors with questions and concerns and being able to just ” talk” when needed.  I highly recommend this program to anyone that is looking to get their license and be prepared to not only learn but experience growth that will make you a better clinician.”
Sahir Muhammad
“LEAP gave me the opportunity to grow professionally. Because of this program, I was able to pursue my goal of being an Approved Supervisor. LEAP not only provided me with the clinical skills I needed to be an AAMFT Approved Supervisor, it provided mentoring, peer support, and the opportunity to serve the people in my community. I was proud of the work I did in LEAP and the clinical support I provided my trainees.”
Isabelle Gauthier
Working with Leap has been a game changer. I was challenged, I grew and developed . It was a pleasure to be among some wonderful women of color that were experienced therapist. Everyday wasn’t roses but my experience I will forever be grateful!! 
Schante Frazier

Eradicate the stigma of mental health in the black community!

“Removing the stigma of mental health through community education and advocacy.”