Philicia Ross, LCSW-C
Soul-cial Worker, Professional Space Holder and Trauma Healing Specialist
Hello! I’m Philicia Ross, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Certified (LCSW-C) with over a decade of experience in mental health and over six years as a licensed therapist. I am deeply passionate about fostering healing, empowerment, and authenticity—especially among Black and POC women.
My journey to becoming a therapist was anything but conventional. In the face of adversity, I found healing in unexpected spaces—deep conversations at a beauty shop, the wisdom shared in vulnerable moments with others navigating their own challenges, and quiet reflections during unplanned pauses in life. These experiences taught me that healing isn’t confined to therapy rooms; it’s found in the spaces where we feel seen, heard, and held without judgment.
I founded Village of Sound Mind to create a space where mental health support is accessible, inclusive, and affirming. As someone who understands the challenges of affording care amid life’s uncertainties, I am committed to offering culturally sensitive, compassionate, and flexible support for BIPOC and Queer individuals. We all deserve a space to exhale, feel seen, and reclaim our authentic selves.
Specialty
I specialize in:
Trauma-Informed Care: Providing support for those dealing with trauma, particularly childhood and sexual abuse.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Aiding in processing and overcoming trauma.
Narrative Therapy: Helping clients rewrite their personal stories to reclaim their power.
Mindfulness: Encouraging present-moment awareness and self-compassion.
My therapeutic approach is grounded in a decolonized framework. I move beyond Eurocentric healing models to honor diverse cultural perspectives. I provide a space for clients to dismantle narratives shaped by trauma and systemic barriers, empowering them to step into their truth.
I specialize in working with high-achievers—those who excel professionally but struggle with personal authenticity and vulnerability. These individuals often use their success as a protective shield, making it challenging to confront their past and build meaningful, genuine relationships.
Innovative Therapy Techniques
I uniquely integrate my passion for anime and gaming into therapy, using these storytelling mediums to explore themes of trauma, grief, empowerment, and communication. This approach resonates with clients who appreciate these cultural narratives, making therapy sessions more relatable and engaging.
Beyond therapy…
Outside of my clinical practice, I am a staunch advocate for mental health, liberation, Social Workers, and equity across the board. I co-founded SWEAR (Social Workers for Equity and Anti-Racism) to advance inclusivity and equality within the profession. My advocacy extends to participating in legislative initiatives to dismantle systemic barriers in mental health care.
When I'm not working, you'll find me immersed in anime, gaming, and the art of storytelling. These interests not only enrich my approach to mental wellness but also inspire others on their journeys. As someone who balances high ambition with managing two chronic illnesses, I draw on my personal experiences to deepen my empathy and effectiveness in supporting others.
Quote I Live By….
“Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives.” Unknown
This quote captures my philosophy: empowering clients to regain control of their lives and move beyond to their true alignment.
Ready to take the next step?
Start your journey towards healing.