‘Unmasking Superwoman’: A vulnerable conversation about black women and mental health

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- As part of Mental Health Awareness Month this May, 8News Anchor Autumn Childress sat down with three wellness experts in Richmond to discuss mental health in black women.

Panelists

Denisha Smith, LPC, SEP is a somatic therapist, trauma and attachment specialist, and founder of Healing Well Therapy and Embodied Culture. With over 15 years of experience, she supports Black women in healing from developmental trauma by addressing nervous system dysregulation, attachment wounds, and the impacts of chronic stress. Her work integrates Somatic Experiencing®, body-based interventions, and relational repair to help clients move from survival into a more connected and regulated life.

Ashley Janae Williams is a mindfulness-based educator, facilitator, and the CEO/Founder of The Well Collective. Guided by a commitment to healing, justice, and holistic well-being, Ashley creates spaces for people to connect to themselves, each other, and their collective power. Through mindfulness, embodiment, and restorative practices, she supports individuals and organizations in building cultures of care, resilience, and connection. Ashley believes that when we center humanity in our work and relationships, we transform not only ourselves but the systems around us.

Angela Lightfoot's certifications include Wellness Coaching: Work and Life Balance, Family and Relationship Coaching, Determine Life Direction, and Confidence Building. Spiritual Coaching: Utilizes faith-based principles to obtain spiritual fulfillment and a personal, deeper connection with God and Spirit. Mental Health Wellness Coaching: Cognitive and behavioral strengths-based support for adults living with high-functioning and mild mental health illnesses and disorders.