Rakia Hicks

Rakia Hicks has gained extensive experience as a mental health therapist working with both acute and non-acute populations, including mentally ill adolescents and adults. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Tuskegee University, Rakia focused on suicide assessment, crisis intervention, and intensive individual and family therapy. She also provided therapeutic support in various areas, including grief and loss, trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, anger management, anxiety-related difficulties, and substance abuse.

Her pursuit of a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from Loyola University of Maryland included coursework in clinical supervision and counselor education, which allowed her to integrate academic knowledge with practical workplace experience. She furthered her education at Winthrop University in Rock Hill, SC, where she obtained a certificate in school counseling and worked with schools throughout Charlotte Mecklenburg and Gaston Counties. Additionally, Rakia completed certification in Play Therapy at UNC Charlotte.

Rakia has prioritized ongoing professional development, particularly in trauma-informed care for marginalized communities, as a doctoral student at UNC Charlotte.