Welcome to the Autism in Black® Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC. In this episode, we're joined by Erin Nkele, LCPC—a licensed clinical professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and co-founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC. As a Black Autistic therapist, mental health advocate, and parent, Erin brings a deeply personal and professional perspective on the intersections of neurodiversity, gender, and sexual identity.

She explores how decolonizing mental health and therapy can open the door to true healing and liberation. Erin also shares her lived experience as a Black Autistic parent, emphasizing the power of embracing all parts of ourselves to foster resilient families and communities.

In This Episode:

Erin Nkele joins us for an honest and insightful conversation about the complex intersections of autism, gender, and sexual identity. Drawing on her experience as a Black Autistic therapist and parent, Erin unpacks the importance of decolonizing mental health care and creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals can heal and thrive. She also shares the realities and joys of parenting as a Black Autistic mom. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand identity, intersectionality, and culturally responsive healing.

Listeners will explore:

• The intersection of autism, gender, and sexual identity in therapeutic care
• What it means to decolonize ourselves and the mental health system
• The lived experience and strengths of being a Black Autistic parent

Connect with Erin Nkele:

Website: www.melanatedwellness.net

IG: @melanatedwellnesstherapy

Go Fund Me for The Melanated Wellness Foundation: https://www.gofundme.com/f/empower-underserved-teens-in-montgomery-county-with-therapy

About Erin Nkele:

Erin Nkele (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland and Washington, D.C., and co-founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC, a practice dedicated to serving Black, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA+ communities. She is also co-founder of The Melanated Wellness Foundation, which provides free culturally competent mental health services to underserved youth and families. Erin's work centers trauma, neurodiversity, and identity, aiming to create compassionate and equitable mental health care. She is a proud mother, Xavier University alum, and lover of puzzles, yoga, and gaming.

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