NaShey Ingram, LCSW-C, RPT-S

NaShey is a pioneer in mental health, founding African-Centered Play Therapy to address the cultural gaps in therapeutic practices for children of African descent. With over 15 years in child welfare, Ms. Ingram is dedicated to fostering healing throughout children's lives.

Baltimore native, Ms. Ingram began her commitment to child welfare as a teenager by advocating for children impacted by abuse and neglect in the Park Heights community. This early experience ignited her lifelong passion for helping children of color heal from trauma. She emphasizes the importance of creating therapeutic spaces that are free from judgment, language barriers, and stigma, ensuring that healing is accessible to all children.

Kashya Brooks, MSW

Kashya holds a Master’s in Social Work from Barry University and a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Coppin State University. During her time at Coppin, she actively served as the Secretary of the Social Work Association, a mentor for Our House, a Maxie Collier Scholar, and a Dean Ambassador.

Kashya has 13 years of experience as a liturgical dancer and has taught for 6 years, using dance as a form of healing and self-expression. Her long-term vision is to open a holistic empowerment center that integrates therapeutic arts and self-care strategies to support community healing. She remains deeply committed to community service, working with a local religious organizations to meet the needs of Baltimore.

As the Program Support Specialist at Playful Minds Therapy, Kashya provides clinical support, facilitates social support groups, and contributes to program coordination.

Shanika Walters

Shanika Walters began her social work journey in 2018 with Baltimore Corps, where she laid the foundation for her passion in community service and advocacy. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Coppin State University in May 2025 and is now pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Maryland, expected to graduate in May 2026. Shanika’s training includes African-Centered Play Therapy™, trauma-informed care, and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) for children impacted by trauma. She chose social work to help children and families heal through culturally responsive and creative approaches to care.

When she’s not working, Shanika enjoys journaling as a form of self-care, discovering new places and foods, and spending time with her two daughters, who inspire her daily.

Jerai Key, LMSW

Jerai is a therapist with a Master of Social Work from Barry University and a Bachelor of Social Work from Coppin State University. She is trained in African-Centered Play Therapy™ (ACPT) and is actively working toward her Registered Play Therapist (RPT) credential. With experience in case management, housing navigation, and providing vital community resources, Jerai has supported youth and families through roles at Homes for America and Springboard Community Services.

Her passion for mental health and advocacy was evident early on, as she served as a leader in Coppin State’s Social Work Association and was a Maxie Collier Scholar. Jerai is committed to ensuring that Black children have access to culturally affirming therapeutic spaces where they feel seen, valued, and empowered. She brings a strengths-based approach to therapy, creating safe and engaging environments where children can process emotions, expand communication skills, and develop essential life skills.

Tia Brooks, LCSW-C

Tia, is an intuitive, eclectic, affirming, and strengths-based therapist and clinical supervisor who believes in honoring the whole self. Rooted in a commitment to equity and inclusion, their work centers the healing experiences of Black, Indigenous, Brown, Multiracial, and LGBTQ+ individuals.

They emphasize the importance of honoring the intersections of identity and promoting radical self-acceptance through community support, individual guidance, and comprehensive teaching and training.

Tia holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Towson University. With decades of experience in the field, their journey spans from college activism for Black and Brown LGBTQ+ communities to grassroots community outreach in Baltimore City to providing free books to children and their families.

Monkoum Afrika

Monkoum Tchie Afrika is the Operations Coordinator for Playful Minds Therapy. She is a Pan-Afrikan mother, wife, and advocate committed to Black children and families. Monkoum Tchie is passionate about ensuring that Black children and families receive culturally grounded therapy and learn about our cultural heritage and traditions in Africa and throughout the Diaspora. 

She is an author of books, co-founder, and owner of Kujichagulia Press LLC, and has two decades of experience in clinical research. 

Monkoum has studied and traveled to the African countries of Senegal, Ghana, Gambia, Cameroon, and the Caribbean Islands to learn more about our cultural heritage and traditions. 

As Operations Coordinator at Playful Minds Therapy, she ensures that daily operations run smoothly by managing scheduling, logistics, and administrative support for the team.

Barbara Cannon

Barbara brings over 15 years of experience in subcontracts and financial management, supporting federal prime contractors and overseeing large-scale government contracts. With a strong analytical background, she has worked extensively with federal acquisition regulations, procurement compliance, and financial oversight, making her an invaluable asset to Playful Minds Therapy.

In her role as Financial Analyst & Program Manager, Barbara ensures the financial health and operational efficiency of our programs, using her expertise in budgeting, compliance, and strategic planning to support our mission. Her experience allows Playful Minds Therapy to sustain and expand its impact in providing accessible, culturally affirming mental health care.

Barbara’s extensive knowledge ensures that our programs are structured, well-funded, and aligned with best practices. She is passionate about creating financially sustainable programming that uplifts children, families, and clinicians.

Chukwuemeka ‘Meka’ Iyke-Azubogu

Meka is a visual artist, educator, and ceramicist dedicated to exploring identity, culture, and storytelling through clay. Born in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and raised in Baltimore, he holds a BFA in Fine Arts from Morgan State University and has been working with ceramics since 2015. His work has been exhibited in various galleries, including the James E. Lewis Museum of Fine Art, Brentwood Art Exchange, and Noir: DC Pop-Up Gallery.

As Expressive Arts Instructor at Playful Minds Therapy, Meka integrates sculpture, ceramics, and creative expression into therapeutic spaces, helping children and teens process emotions, build confidence, and explore identity through art. With experience teaching in Baltimore County Public Schools, Jubilee Arts, and Arts for Learning, he brings a deep understanding of arts education and its role in emotional and cultural expression.

Meka’s work is deeply personal, reflecting his journey of bridging African heritage with lived experiences in America. Through his teaching and artistic practice, he fosters joy, creativity, and self-discovery in young people, making art a powerful tool for healing and self-expression.

Jermarco Bennett, Jr.

Jermarco is a passionate dance enthusiast, educator, and program leader dedicated to using movement as a form of self-expression, connection, and healing. With a Master’s in Higher Education and extensive experience in program development, event coordination, and community engagement, he brings a unique blend of leadership and artistry to his role as Movement Arts Facilitator at Playful Minds Therapy™.

Jermarco believes in the transformative power of movement, creating spaces where children and teens can explore emotions, build confidence, and connect with their bodies through dance. His ability to lead, mentor, and develop engaging movement-based programs makes him an invaluable part of the team, helping to integrate creative expression, rhythm, and physical movement into therapeutic experiences.

With a strong background in mentorship, training, and community outreach, Jermarco’s approach fosters joy, self-discovery, and empowerment in every session. His dedication to movement as both an art and a tool for emotional well-being reflects his lifelong commitment to helping others express themselves through dance.

Mesha Collins

Mesha, a proud Baltimore native, is a motivated intern who believes in the power of play to help children, youth, and families grow and heal. She leads with compassion, focusing on creating safe spaces where clients feel truly seen and understood.

Mesha earned her Bachelor’s in Psychology from Bowie State University and is now pursuing her Master’s in Social Work at Morgan State University. With a passion for advocacy and well-being, she’s excited to grow as a mental health professional and continue uplifting her community.

When she’s not working with families, you can find her singing, writing, or laughing with loved ones.

Danielle Williams

Danielle Williams, a proud Baltimore native, is currently pursuing her MSW at Morgan State University after earning her BSW from Coppin State University. With 20 years of experience as a Paraeducator in Baltimore City schools, Danielle has dedicated her career to supporting youth both academically and emotionally. Her training emphasizes child development and trauma-informed care, and she chose social work and play therapy out of a passion for creating safe spaces where children can express themselves, heal, and build skills to thrive.

Outside of her work, Danielle loves cruising the seas, collecting quirky mugs, and spending time outdoors with her daughter. Fall is her favorite season (hello, fuzzy sweaters!), purple is her power color, and she never misses a chance to cheer for the Baltimore Ravens.

Most recently, she’s discovered a new hobby — exploring restaurants and writing reviews. Danielle is excited to graduate in May 2026 and explore the many paths open to her in the field of social work.

Sharel Snow

Sharel Snow, a proud Baltimore native (and Ravens fan!), recently graduated from Regent University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. For over four years, she has served as an addiction counselor, helping individuals identify careers, talents, family reconciliation opportunities, and purpose-filled goals. She has worked closely with families, friends, and organizations to strengthen her community and is now pursuing a master’s degree in clinical social work to better serve adolescents. Sharel believes children are the strength of the future and is deeply passionate about making that truth known.

Outside of her professional life, Sharel has a big heart for family, culture, and joy. Christmas is her favorite holiday because it means quality time with loved ones (and all the sweet potato pie she can handle). She also delights in collecting colorful stuffed animals, which always bring a smile to her face.