DSW CANDIDATES

Chelece-Atavia Brown

Embodying Freedom: Addressing Mental Health in the Black Church Utilizing Trauma Informed Care

Chelece-Atavia Brown, CEO/Founder of “Just Be, LLC” is a native of Teaneck NJ. She is a licensed Social Worker/Therapist and has 6+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults diagnosed with anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and developmental/intellectual disabilities. Chelece-Atavia is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Trauma-Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Chelece-Atavia is a certified facilitator in Teen Mental Health First Aid by the National Council of Well-Being. She graduated with her bachelor’s degree in social work from Ramapo College of New Jersey in 2017. Shortly after, continued her education at Ramapo College of New Jersey and received her master’s degree in social work in 2018. She’s a Doctoral Candidate in the University of Kentucky College of Social Work DSW program with a concentration in Administrative Leadership. Chelece-Atavia is passionate about implementing trauma informed programs in African American congregations and dispelling stigma about mental health. She empowers others by reminding them they are made in the image of Christ. Her slogan “Jesus Cares About Your Trauma” from 1Peter 5:7 “Cast your cares on him because he cares for you,” is used to assist others as they heal from the pain of their past and journey forward to their future. Chelece-Atavia’s goal is to provide a safe space for others to “be, feel, and become.”