ABOUT US
At Self-Talk Counseling & Consulting, PLLC (STCC), we offer integrative therapy using clinical tools and techniques from a variety of orientations, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Reality Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing. Our approach ensures that both individual and group counseling sessions are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Our philosophy is rooted in the belief that one size does not fit all. We meet and support clients where they are, rather than confining them to a predefined therapeutic approach. Our primary focus during therapy is to create a safe, non-judgmental, and honest atmosphere that fosters a strong therapeutic relationship and promotes client growth. Together, we address your concerns to build better self-awareness and self-acceptance, helping you enhance your current best.
Our client-centered relationships emphasize collaboration to formulate measurable and attainable goals, which are regularly assessed throughout the therapeutic process. While STCC does not prescribe medication, we coordinate appropriate psychiatric or medical referrals if needed. It’s important to understand that a diagnosis describes a pattern of behaviors and becomes part of your permanent record.
We believe in the inherent strengths and capabilities of our clients. Our goal is to help you recognize and utilize these tools to overcome adversities. We honor the sanctity and dignity of human life, acknowledging that every individual has meaning and purpose. We respect all individuals, regardless of age, sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, socioeconomic status, past mistakes, or religion.
At STCC, we champion equality, fairness, and respect for all individuals. As guides rather than judges, we empower our clients to make their own life decisions. While we provide the tools and show the way, it is ultimately the client who must choose to apply these tools and move towards their future.
Meet the Team
Dr. KAREEM PURANDA, LCMHCS, LCAS, TF-CBT
Dr. Kareem Puranda is from the "Boogie Down" Bronx, NY. He is the Clinical Director of STCC. He is a natural at helping people work through the delicate and uncomfortable conditions of their life’s journey. Dr. Puranda realized his greatest joy came from inspiring underserved youth to be great despite their circumstances. He has vast experience working with law enforcement officers, first responders, first-time offenders, adolescents, outpatient & residential treatment programs, and multicultural populations. Dr. Kareem uses integrative approaches to meet clients where they are. His philosophy and approach invite clients to think outside the box. He is an empathic counselor who views every client with unconditional positive regard. His commitment and sincerity in helping clients solve life challenges, make him trustworthy in the therapeutic relationship. ***Accepting First Responders/Law Enforcement professionals***
RASHEEDA CONNER, LCMHCRasheeda is a native of North Carolina. She works primarily with individuals and their families to help them overcome various mental health challenges. Rasheeda has a bachelor’s degree from the UNC at Greensboro in Human Resources and Communication Studies. She obtained her master’s degree in clinical Mental Health Counseling from Capella University. Rasheeda has experience in treating depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and stress management. She uses a client-centered and holistic approach that incorporates cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and positive psychology. She creates a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, and learn new skills to cope and thrive. Rasheeda is passionate about helping people achieve their personal and professional goals and improve their quality of life. In her free time, Rasheeda enjoys traveling, reading, learning about the African diaspora, trying new restaurants, hiking, yoga, and working out.
VESTILLA DUGGINS, LCSW-A
My name is Vestillia Shaunta, I was born and raised in St. George, SC, and moved to Charlotte in 1999. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker Associate (LCSWA) with over 20 years of experience specializing in mental health and substance abuse for adolescents and adults. I am driven by a strong desire to help individuals manage and overcome mental health and substance abuse challenges. I am passionate about exploring innovative solutions and continually seeking new challenges and opportunities to learn and grow. As a dedicated single parent, I enjoy spending quality time with my daughter, who inspires and motivates me daily.
JOHN MOSS, LCSW-A
John is a native of Danville Virginia, who spent his childhood venturing through Charlotte and Greensboro, NC. John received his bachelor’s degree in Health Science Pre-occupational Therapy from James Madison University. Following graduation, he worked as a mental health professional/community worker where he applied cognitive- behavioral therapy (CBT) resources, facilitated parenting classes and groups on substance abuse & mental health skill building. After working in that capacity for over 2 years, John obtained his master’s degree in Social Work from Johnson C. Smith University. Each day he is perfecting his craft, which is rooted in Solution-based and Person-center approaches that provide a holistic view of the individual. John utilizes visual arts and scenarios to better understand challenging situations. Mr. Moss spends his leisure time traveling, occasionally exercising, playing basketball and football, tasting various foods at restaurants, hiking, and binge watching tv shows. He looks forward to working with you!
ZAMIR ANDREWS, LCMHC-A
Zamir Andrews is a dedicated Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with a focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused Therapy. He helps clients navigate challenges and build resilience. His approach is warm, empathetic, and client centered. He guides individuals toward clarity and empowerment as they work through personal and professional challenges. Passionate about supporting clients from all walks of life, Zamir is committed to creating a safe space where they can grow, heal, and reach their fullest potential.
JIHAD WRIGHT, LCMHC-A
Jihad is a native of Manhattan, New York. He moved to Gastonia, NC when he was 15 years old. Jihad received his Bachelors in Psychology and his Masters in School Counseling from The University of North Carolina at Pembroke. He is a Licensed School Counselor and a
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate. CBT and Solution-Based theories is what Jihad uses the most to help clients strengthen their mental health. During his spare time, he enjoys
learning Spanish, exercising and having family gatherings.
ILYASAH THOMAS, Graduate Level LCMHC- Intern
Ilyasah is pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in Play Therapy at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She uses a strengths-based, integrative, and holistic approach to counseling that emphasizes multiculturalism, recognizing the importance of culture in our understanding of ourselves, our relationships, and the world around us. She believes that the client is the expert in their own lives and that counseling is a collaborative process. She views each client with unconditional positive regard, creating a brave space for clients to explore their experiences, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors without judgment. She firmly believes that everyone has the capacity to reach their full potential and uses various techniques that empower clients to recognize this capacity within themselves. In her free time, she enjoys learning about other cultures, spending time with family, listening to music, writing, and drawing.
AYANNA WILLOUGHBY, Graduate Level LCSW- Intern
Ayanna is a master's student in social work with a passion for helping others and has a strong commitment to bettering her community. She aspires to work with veterans or foster care children, providing meaningful support and advocacy. In her free time, she enjoys reading, designing, and spending time with family and friends.
JESSICA WILHOIT, Front Desk Receptionist
I'm a native to Georgia but have lived in North Carolina most of my life. I have worked in customer service for over 15 years and I really enjoy it. For me, helping people is a huge passion of mine so customer service is another avenue in which I can help solve problems, make people feel seen and heard, and provide a positive experience. I love arts and crafts, attending music/art festivals, trying new restaurants, and most of all spending time with my loved ones.
