Dr. Latinia M. Shell is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in teaching and counseling across school, college, and community/mental health settings. With a strong academic background, Dr. Shell holds a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology, a Master of Education in Counselor Education, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Her research interests focus on racial identity development, multicultural counseling, cultural competence, social and racial justice, diversity in school inclusion, supervision and training, and the intersection of physical and psychological wellness. Dr. Shell is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania, a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Certified Clinical Mental Health Counselor (CCMHC), and an Approved Counselor Supervisor (ACS). She currently serves as an Assistant Professor of Counseling at Grand Canyon University and is the proud owner of Diversity Works – Counseling, Supervision, Counseling, Training, LLC. In her private practice, Dr. Shell provides counseling services to individuals, groups, couples, and families, with a specialty in working with diverse ethnic minority clients and women in transition, addressing emotional, mental, and behavioral issues. Additionally, Dr. Shell offers supervision for counselors pursuing national certification and licensure, consultation on mental health and diversity matters, and training on topics related to diversity, multiculturalism, mental health, and wellness. She and her colleagues recently published The Education Pursuit of Black Female Scholars: How I Got Over, where Dr. Shell contributed a chapter titled “From the Projects to the Professoriate.” Dr. Shell was also featured as an expert on domestic violence in the Fatal Attraction episode "Jarring Jealousy" in relation to a case in Lancaster, PA. Her private practice, Diversity Works, LLC, has been recognized as the Best Counseling Service in Lancaster for the past five consecutive years. Dr. Latinia M. Shell is a dedicated counselor educator, licensed professional counselor, and private practice owner, making a lasting impact on her students, clients, and the broader community.

Session Notes: This presentation will provide a focused discussion on the unique mental health challenges within the Black community, including stigma, cultural influences, and barriers to care. This session will highlight strategies for increasing awareness, support, and access to culturally competent mental health resources.