Carlita L. Coley, LPC
Own Your Story, Own Your Power: Meet Carlita
Your Advocate for Self-Acceptance and Empowerment
Carlita knows what it means to navigate a world where inclusion isn’t guaranteed. As a woman of color, living with a disability, and a proud mother of three—two of whom are part of the LGBTQ+ community—she’s lived the realities of being overlooked, misunderstood, and searching for belonging.
But those experiences didn’t define her—they empowered her. Now, Carlita transforms her lived journey and professional expertise into a mission: helping YOU embrace every part of who you are. Through her guidance, you’ll discover how to turn challenges into confidence, and walk through life unapologetically whole.
Ready to reclaim your sense of belonging and step into your power? Connect with Carlita today and start your journey toward self-acceptance and empowerment.
Explore reflections that inspire greater self-awareness and empower you to embrace every facet of your story on her blog - Lita's Lens
Education and Experience
Bachelors Degree in Psychology from Bowie State University
Masters Degree in Community Counseling from Old Dominion University
Carlita is the proud founder of Melanin Mental Health and Wellness, PLLC, a Virginia Board of Counseling Approved Supervisor and Licensed Professional Counselor. With over 15 years of experience, she specializes in providing mental health services to women and children navigating anxiety and depression. Her therapeutic approach blends Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive and Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Mindfulness to support healing and personal growth.
In addition to her clinical work, Carlita is a published author. She has written 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 managing anxiety.
