Licensed Professional Counselor, Author, Advocate
Guiding, writing, and living the path to sustainable wellness

Carlita L. Coley, LPC

Founder of Carlita L. Coley & Associates

Moving through a world where inclusion isn’t always guaranteed can make you feel unseen, uncertain, and unsure of where you belong. My intention is to help you turn pain into purpose as you learn to move through life unapologetically whole.

As a neurodivergent Black woman living with a disability and a proud mother of three, including two children in the LGBTQ+ community, I understand what it means to feel marginalized. I’ve chosen to let these experiences refine me rather than define me. They’ve deepened my empathy, my curiosity, and my belief that healing begins when we learn to embrace every part of who we are.

I share more of these reflections in Carlita's Corner, a space for exploring self-awareness, belonging, and the journey of being human.

Book a Session with Carlita

Education and Experience

Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Bowie State University

Masters Degree in Community Counseling from Old Dominion University

I am a Virginia Board of Counseling–Approved Supervisor, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in the field. I specialize in supporting women and children, navigating anxiety, depression, and life transitions, offering a deeply empathetic and culturally attuned space for healing.

Mission

To walk alongside my clients as they reclaim their peace, deepen their self-awareness, and move toward personal growth with confidence and clarity.

Style

My therapeutic style is both grounded and empowering, integrating a range of evidence-based approaches, including:

Specialties

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – to foster psychological flexibility and values-based living
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – to identify and shift unhelpful thought patterns
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – to support emotional regulation and distress tolerance
Solution-Focused Therapy (SFT) – to build on strengths and create practical paths forward
Mindfulness – to cultivate present-moment awareness and self-compassion

Beyond the Therapy Room

I love writing. I am a published author several books and journals including, Eve's Exodus, a psychoeducational memoir, as well as two psychoeducational therapy journals - Renew and Rise, designed to support women on their trauma healing journey, and Bye Anxiety a guide to managing anxiety.