I am an Associate Professor and the Undergraduate Coordinator for the BSW Program at the Dalhousie University School of Social Work. I have clinical practice experience with individuals, families, and groups in community mental health and private practice settings.

As a researcher, I have focused on the relationships between churches and marginalized populations, especially 2SLGBTQIA and African American communities. My dissertation research was on the Phenomenon of LGBT-Affirming Black Churches and Their Responses to the HIV/AIDS Crisis. My most recent research project was a narrative interview study with African American pastors who have offered an affirmative ministry. The study was funded by the 2018 Louisville Institute Project Grant for Researchers.

Currently I am the Co-Director of community-based participatory action research project with Dr. Nancy Ross (Director) and Afolake Awoyiga. The newly funded project is titled: Moving forward together: Unsettling racism, silence and violence in health and social services. The study has been funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).

As an educator, I have focused on developing curriculum that prepares students for culturally responsive critical social work practice. In Nova Scotia, I have committed to serving the 2SLGBTQIA, African Nova Scotian, and African Canadian communities through clinical practice, research, and education.

I have earned an Interdisciplinary Ph.D. in Sociology & Social Work from the Boston University School of Social Work.

Research and Teaching Areas:

  • Multi-culturally responsive practice and research
  • Mental Health and Sexual Health in LGBTQ2S+ communities of color
  • Roles of religion and spirituality in the holistic health of LGBTQ2S+ persons of color, their families, and their communities

Practice Areas:

  • Clinical social work with individuals, families, and groups: focus on trauma recovery, grief/bereavement, and mood disorders
  • Consultation with community groups and organization about fostering a culturally responsive work environments
  • Consultation with social services organization and training staff in culturally responsive social work practices