Therapy and Counseling

Although Dr. Ayo (Ayo is a Yoruba word that means "Joy"), as she prefers to be called, primarily practices using cognitive behavioral therapy, she uses a culturally specific approach to therapy. Based on many years of experience, she knows that one approach will not fit all people. It is with special care and consideration that Dr. Ayo examines the specific needs of each service request from the unique ethnic, cultural, and personal perspective of the person requesting services.

Dr. Ayo specializes in working with Melanics — a term coined by Dr. Ayo Maria Gooden to more accurately refer to People of Color — and people of African Ancestry in particular. She uses African-Centered Psychological or Black Psychological Principles to guide individuals people of African ancestry to re-establish a balance among the materialistic, spiritual, and interpersonal aspects of life. Dr. Ayo believes that thoughts shape behaviors, and, therefore, believes that addressing the unique needs of each individual is accomplished by gaining insights into each person's ethnic, cultural, and personal experiences. How you see yourself and your potential is the sum result of your very personal experiences in your family, community and society.