Aretha Steele, PsyD
Founder and Licensed Clinical Psychologist
“All people at any given moment are doing the best they can” —Marcia Linehan
Who Am I?
Hi, I’m Dr. Aretha Steele (she/her), and I’m so glad you’re here.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the Founder of Mindful Healing Counseling, but more importantly, I’m someone who truly believes in the power of healing, connection, and growth.
Beyond titles, I’m also a mama, a wife, a high-achiever learning to let go — and a human doing her best. Like many of the people I support, I know what it’s like to carry a lot and still feel like it’s not enough. That lived experience shapes how I show up in the therapy space: with warmth, honesty, and zero judgment.
I became a therapist because I’ve always been drawn to the real stories — the ones we keep quiet. The experiences we carry, both past and present, shape how we see ourselves, how we love, how we set boundaries, and how we move through the world.
My mission is to create a space where you don’t have to explain or shrink yourself. A space where you can be fully seen, supported, and empowered to heal in your own time and your own way.
A Note for Those Raised to Be “Strong”
In many Black families (and other communities of color), we’re taught to hold it all together, not ask for help, and definitely to never air our dirty laundry. But what happens when holding it all in starts to break you apart?
Here’s the truth: silence doesn’t equal strength.
Suppressing your pain doesn’t make it disappear.
And you don’t have to keep carrying it alone.
Healing takes courage, yes — but it’s also a radical act of self-love. And I’m here to help you through it.
Why I Started Mindful Healing Counseling
I founded Mindful Healing Counseling to be a space where culture, identity, and lived experience matter.
A space where therapy isn’t about being “fixed,” because you were never broken to begin with.
It’s about finding clarity, support, and tools that help you live in alignment with who you truly are — not who the world told you to be.
I Love Working With:
Adults facing anxiety, trauma, life transitions, struggles to create better boundaries, and perfectionism
Black and Brown people and LGBTQ+ individuals seeking affirming support
New parents and those struggling with postpartum mental health
Professionals juggling high expectations, burnout, and the pressure to “do it all”
People healing from relationship wounds, attachment trauma, or generational cycles
How I Help
Therapy with me is a partnership — collaborative, honest, and rooted in real connection. My approach is warm and direct, with a healthy dose of humor and humanity when it’s needed most.
I blend evidence-based approaches with heart-centered care, including:
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helping you shift unhelpful thought patterns
Mindfulness-Based Strategies – Grounding techniques to bring calm and focus
Strengths-Based Therapy – Recognizing your resilience and capabilities
Relational Therapy – Understanding how past relationships impact your present
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Helping you manage intense emotions, set healthy boundaries, and improve relationships by building coping skills
Therapy isn’t just about reflecting—it’s about real, meaningful change. Everyone’s journey is different, so I’ll work with you to find what feels right for you.
I believe therapy can help anyone who’s open to it. Most importantly, I believe healing and growth are possible for everyone. Sometimes, we just need a bit of extra support, guidance, or tools to help us get there—and I’m here to walk that path with you.
What It’s Like In Session With Me
Therapy isn’t all tears and trauma dumps. Yes, we go deep — but there’s room for laughter too. (And yes, you can drop an f-bomb if you need to.)
Sessions often feel like catching up with someone who gets it — someone who’s walking alongside you. We may explore past patterns, practice new tools, or simply hold space for whatever’s weighing on your heart that week.
This is your time. And it’s sacred.
“Therapy isn’t about being “fixed” because you were never broken to begin with. It’s about finding the support, clarity, and tools you need to move forward in a way that feels authentic and fulfilling to you.”
My Qualifications & Training
Licensed Clinical Psychologist with over 15 years of experience
Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
Certification in Perinatal Mental Health from Postpartum Support International
Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Therapy
Adjunct Professor for nearly 15 years, mentoring future mental health professionals
Healing happens in many ways, not just in therapy. That’s why we’ve gathered helpful resources—books, podcasts, self-care tools, and more—to support you along the way. Check them out here: RESOURCES
More About Me
When I’m not supporting clients, I’m soaking up time with my three kids, my husband, and our two lively dogs.
I love reading, traveling, and quiet mornings with a hot chai tea. Originally from Detroit, I carry a deep appreciation for the strength and resilience of the communities that shaped me.
I’m always up for a beach vacation with warm, tropical vibes—bonus points if there’s a breathtaking sunset! And when I’m home, you can bet I’m curled up on the couch, fully invested in a Law and Order: SVU marathon—because really, who doesn’t love Olivia Benson?
If You’re Still Reading…
That probably means something here resonated. So take that as your sign — you don’t have to keep carrying everything alone. Whether you’re burned out, anxious, postpartum, or just tired of pretending everything is fine… therapy can help.
And if you’re ready to feel more grounded, connected, and like yourself again — I’d be honored to walk that journey with you.
With care,
—Dr. Aretha Steele, Licensed Clinical Psychologist