MEEt THE FOUNDER

Jennifer is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker-Certified (LCSW-C) in Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. She holds multiple specialized credentials, including Certified Grief Professional (CGP), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), Certified Dialectical Behavior Therapist (C-DBT), and Certified Specialist in Anger Management (CSAM). She is committed to delivering high-quality, client-centered care to individuals across the lifespan.

Jennifer earned her Master of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC), a bachelor’s degree in criminology and criminal justice from Virginia Union University (VUU), and an associate’s degree in paralegal studies from Prince George’s Community College.

As the founder of Unlock U Counseling, L.L.C., Jennifer’s mission is rooted in compassion and empowerment—helping individuals unlock the path to a life worth living. Her work is guided by the belief that healing begins when individuals feel seen, heard, and supported in achieving their personal goals and overall well-being.

Jennifer has worked with children, adolescents, and adults in a variety of clinical and community settings. She brings a strong systems perspective to her work, recognizing the impact that family dynamics, community, and institutional systems have on an individual’s mental health.

She is especially passionate about working with Black and Brown boys and men, particularly those who are currently or have been involved in the criminal justice system. Her work in this area is rooted in both advocacy and clinical care, with a focus on addressing systemic barriers, fostering resilience, and creating meaningful pathways for change.

Jennifer also recognizes the critical importance of supporting the families of system-involved individuals. She works closely with caregivers, children, and siblings, understanding that healing extends beyond the individual and into the family unit. Her approach emphasizes connection, stability, and long-term wellness for the entire system.

A strong advocate for wraparound services, Jennifer believes in a holistic, collaborative model of care that integrates community resources, family support, and clinical intervention. She is deeply committed to improving outcomes for underserved and system-impacted populations through both direct service and broader advocacy efforts.

Jennifer’s passion for mental health and supporting individuals and families impacted by complex systems is both personal and professional, shaping the compassionate and intentional care she provides every day.

Licenses:

• Maryland, LCSW-C — License #26965 
• Virginia, LCSW — License #0904018596
• District of Columbia, LICSW- License #LC200004507