Charlene is a licensed Psychotherapist in private practice at Matters of the Heart Counseling
Services, LLC. Charlene integrates theoretical principles of Psychology with Theological
concepts. Within this faith-based framework, Charlene specializes in the treatment of
Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder and Trauma. Charlene’s professional career spans 25
years. In addition to clinical practice, Charlene has served in administrative roles at one of the
country’s largest healthcare systems. Charlene has also taught at the college level.

Charlene is also the President of the Board of Directors of the Faith-based Mental Health
Initiative, Inc. (FBMHI). The FBMHI was funded in 2023 by the GA Dept of Behavioral Health to
facilitate churches to develop Mental Health Ministries, with Charlene serving as the Project
Director. The FBMHI partnered with the Center of Excellence, Morehouse School of Medicine
to continue the work. Together the FBMHI and the Morehouse School of Medicine are funded
by the Templeton Foundation for 2024.

The FBMHI is also awarded funding to provide free Faith-Based Mental Health treatment to the
uninsured and underinsured by the Rockdale County, GA Health Trust Fund. The FBMHI has
previously been funded by the Spirit, Mind, Body Institute of Columbia University to increase
awareness of the effectiveness of integrating spirituality to improve mental health outcomes.
Charlene received her Master of Social Work degree from The University of Georgia and a
Master of Arts in Sociology from The University of Michigan. Charlene is completing a Master
of Religion in Public Life within the Candler School of Theology of Emory University. Charlene
will graduate in May.