Hello! My name is Markell Ward and as a Black, gay man, I deeply empathize with the feeling of being “othered” or feeling that no one can understand your niche experience. At times, this experience can be frustrating and daunting at any point in our lives. This was especially true for me growing up.

This led me to pursue a career in mental health early on as I obtained my bachelors of science (BS) in psychology from Clark Atlanta University and my master of arts of education (MAEd) in clinical mental health counseling from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. Throughout my educational journey, I have conducted research on how best to enhance the study experience of K-12 students during COVID-19 and how to offer culturally competent tele counseling services as a mental health clinician.

Now, as a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate (LCMHCA) based in Fayetteville, North Carolina, I am committed to helping queer people work through their concerns and move towards becoming the best version of themselves. I also currently work with the Sexual Affectional Intersex Gender Expansive organizational chapter here in North Carolina (SAIGE-NC). While a part of this organization, I have conducted research and presented research on how to maintain best practices when working with queer clients given our changing political and social climate.

Presently, I work at a private group practice based in Fayetteville, NC where I offer tele counseling and in-person counseling services to residents of North Carolina. I accept most types of insurance, medicare/medicaid, and private pay. Please use the website link or call (910)-853-0009 to start services with me.