Aya Behavioral Health LLC

Aya Behavioral Health LLC Aya Behavioral Health LLC is a group mental health practice with locations in Largo, Maryland, Washington, DC, and telehealth options in Oklahoma.

Aya provides counseling to children, adolescents, and adults with a wide array of mental health needs.

At the heart of my work is a simple truth: the relationship you have with yourself shapes every other relationship in yo...
02/27/2026

At the heart of my work is a simple truth: the relationship you have with yourself shapes every other relationship in your life. Evolving doesn’t begin with perfection—it begins with awareness, compassion, and the courage to be honest about what hurts.

I believe we are not broken—we are human beings living a human experience. Many of us learned how to survive long before we learned how to feel safe, connected, or chosen. Therapy is a space where we slow down, tell the truth, and gently rebuild a foundation that allows life to feel more grounded and sustainable—not just manageable.

My approach centers on helping clients explore self-relationship patterns, emotional wounds, attachment dynamics, and the impact of past experiences on present choices. Together, we look at how old survival strategies may no longer serve you—and how to create healthier ways of relating to yourself and others.

I work collaboratively, with warmth and curiosity, honoring each client’s lived experience. Therapy with me is not about fixing who you are—it’s about remembering who you’ve always been beneath the coping, the expectations, and the pain.

If you’re feeling stuck, disconnected, emotionally exhausted, or longing for a deeper sense of stability and self-trust, you don’t have to navigate that alone. Real happiness is possible—and it starts within. - Kareem Spain, Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor in Maryland (Mrs. Spain is under the supervision of Dr. Samantha A.B. Knox)

Volante Waters is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, a Nationally Certified Counselor,...
02/27/2026

Volante Waters is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, a Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Registered Play Therapist with a background working with clients 5 years of age and up. She received her Masters of Arts degree from Trinity Washington University in Washington, D.C. Volante specializes in trauma and crisis care using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, play therapy, mindfulness, insight-oriented and solution- focused interventions. She has an extensive history of working with immigrant populations, providing psychoeducation and assisting them with assimilation and acculturation concerns. She also works with individuals who have experienced domestic violence, r**e, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideations, and grief. Volante believes that a positive and person-centered approach to therapy is important in building the client-counselor relationship because it means that you are in charge of your change and it meets the client where they are.

Avon Hart-Johnson, Ph.D., is a Human Services Board Certified Practitioner with a specialization in counseling. She curr...
02/20/2026

Avon Hart-Johnson, Ph.D., is a Human Services Board Certified Practitioner with a specialization in counseling. She currently serves as a Counselor Educator in Training and counseling practicum doctoral student/intern at Aya Behavioral Health. She holds professional certifications in trauma and grief recovery and specializes in individual coaching and group work. Her counseling philosophy centers on creating an affirming, trusting, and welcoming ther**eutic environment, where clients are supported in cultivating hope, engaging in self-reflection, and recognizing their inherent strengths. She approaches counseling from person-centered, strength-based, and solution-focused modalities, emphasizing respect for clients’ lived experiences and supporting them as they move toward their self-identified ther**eutic goals. She brings over 15 years of counseling-centered and human services experience, including facilitating family-based bibliotherapy, reentry support groups, and trauma-informed storytelling groups within Residential Reentry Centers and community-based organizations. In these settings, she has supported individuals navigating grief, reentry, resilience, and healing. She is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox, Ed.D., LPC, LCPC-ACS.

Since 2014, Toni has been employed in the Mental Health industry. She hold a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling...
02/20/2026

Since 2014, Toni has been employed in the Mental Health industry. She hold a master's degree in Mental Health Counseling from Trinity Washington University, and a bachelor’s degree in human relations from Trinity University. Toni practices integrative therapy. She possesses an authentic, relaxed, and agreeable demeanor regarding counseling. Toni provides therapy services to a wide range of individuals, including adults, children, and individuals who have committed sexual offenses. Establishing a ther**eutic connection aims to aid individuals in improving their lives. Toni is a Forensics Mental Health Coordinator in the Department of Behavioral Health Forensics Outpatient Services. She works as a mental health therapist at Cenassi LLC. With her experience as a Mental Health Provider, she has gained a distinct and comprehensive understanding of the client and their surroundings, which serves as the central focus of treatment. Toni is in her second year of her Doctoral program at Bowie State University. Her field of study is counseling education and supervision, focusing on social justice. Toni is licensed to provide services in DC.

Alexis Brown is a dedicated mental health professional in training committed to supporting individuals and families thro...
02/20/2026

Alexis Brown is a dedicated mental health professional in training committed to supporting individuals and families through life’s transitions and emotional challenges. She earned her undergraduate degree in Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family from Hampton University and is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at The Chicago School in Washington, DC.

Alexis began her clinical journey working in Ther**eutic Day Treatment with adolescents, where she developed a strong foundation in
supporting youth with emotional and behavioral needs. She later served as an Intensive In-Home Clinician, providing community-based services
to children and families navigating complex stressors. After relocating to the DMV area, she expanded her experience into Applied
Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy before transitioning into Virginia’s public school system as a Social and Emotional Support Provider. In
this role, she works closely with students to strengthen emotional regulation, coping skills, and overall well-being within the academic
environment.

Alexis has a passion for supporting individuals through transitions, stress management, anxiety, and a wide range of life challenges. She
believes in meeting clients exactly where they are, honoring their lived experiences, and collaboratively developing a plan that fosters
both empowerment and sustainable growth. Her approach is rooted in empathy, authenticity, and the belief that healing happens within a
safe and supportive ther**eutic relationship.

Alexis is currently practicing under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox, Ed.D.,LPC, LCPC-ACS.

Nala Lovett is a current Masters Mental Health Counseling Candidate at Bowie State University. Here, she focuses on stud...
02/20/2026

Nala Lovett is a current Masters Mental Health Counseling Candidate at Bowie State University. Here, she focuses on studying and creating culturally-relevant ther**eutic interventions for African American children, women, and families that center healing, wellness, and liberation. In addition, she conducts research and hosts psychoeducation workshops/events which focus on social justice and liberation for marginalized communities. Nala utilizes an eclectic and holistic approach to therapy, intentionally crafting unique treatments for each client. With an emphasis on compassion and empathy, she focuses on helping children/adolescents, young adults, couples/partners, and families navigate and work through trauma, depression, anxiety, friendship and relationship management/building, and family growth and wellness. With a deep love for the arts and its cathartic nature, Nala organizes and hosts spoken word and open mic nights to offer people a safe space to express themselves in an authentic and honest way which encourages vulnerability and community building. As a Memphis native, her love for people along with her Southern charm help to create a warm and welcoming counseling environment, allowing for clients to feel safe to be their full authentic selves and work towards being their best selves. Nala is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox, Ed.D., LPC, LCPC-ACS.

Aerec Orange is a Counseling Intern at AYA Behavioral Health, LLC, pursuing his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology ...
02/20/2026

Aerec Orange is a Counseling Intern at AYA Behavioral Health, LLC, pursuing his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Bowie State University. Aerec is certified in CPR and First Aid. Aerec has a bachelor’s degree in Administration of Justice from the University of the District of Columbia and is a current Federal Employee with the Department of the Navy. Aerec has a passion for helping people and he is committed to providing counseling services to diverse populations in need. His professional background includes case management, crisis intervention, public speaking, and conflict resolution. Aerec has a strong desire to service underserved populations including but not limited to the unhoused population, LGBTQIA+ community, and the elderly. He is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox, Ed.D., LPC, LCPS-ACS.

We’re celebrating 7 years of mental health and wellness!!!
07/27/2025

We’re celebrating 7 years of mental health and wellness!!!

Please join us in welcoming Kristina Little to our team!Kristina Little is a Counseling Intern at AYA Behavioral Health,...
06/16/2025

Please join us in welcoming Kristina Little to our team!

Kristina Little is a Counseling Intern at AYA Behavioral Health, LLC, pursuing her Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Bowie State University. She is a certified Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid USA Instructor and a CPR, First Aid, and AED Instructor. Kristina has over five years of experience in student support services and behavioral health promotion across higher education and community settings.
She holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Mount Saint Mary’s University. She is committed to fostering inclusive, culturally responsive care. Her professional background includes case management, academic crisis intervention, public speaking, and workshop facilitation for traditionally underserved student populations.
Kristina’s clinical interests include trauma, anxiety, identity development, and community mental health. She has worked with children, adolescents, and adults. She is passionate about integrative approaches emphasizing wellness, resilience, and empowerment through positive psychology interventions. Kristina is currently accepting new clients and is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox.

Anissa Cheikh is in her second year of graduate school in Mental Health Counseling at Marymount University. She was born...
03/01/2025

Anissa Cheikh is in her second year of graduate school in Mental Health Counseling at Marymount University. She was born in Washington, DC, and raised in Annandale, Virginia. Being from a highly diverse community, she brings a unique perspective to the counseling field. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Virginia Military Institute while playing four years of Division 1 soccer.
Anissa has a background in competitive sports that has shaped her ability to foster resilience, teamwork, and a goal-oriented mindset, which she incorporates into her ther**eutic work. She has a strong interest in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Solution-Focused approaches to help clients identify actionable strategies to improve their mental health. Her approach is both holistic and client-centered, aiming to create a safe and collaborative space for individuals to explore their internal challenges and external stressors.
She has a particular passion for working with individuals managing the demands of high-pressure environments, whether in sports, the workplace, or other areas of life. Anissa also values inclusivity and enjoys working with clients of all backgrounds, identities, and life experiences. Together, we will focus on building strengths and creating practical solutions to meet your goals. Anissa is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox.

Matthew Pinkney is in his last year of graduate school for Counseling Psychology at Bowie State University. He specializ...
03/01/2025

Matthew Pinkney is in his last year of graduate school for Counseling Psychology at Bowie State University. He specializes in addictions, the LGBTQ community, and working with clients in hazardous workplaces. He utilizes an eclectic humanistic approach to assist people with problematic inner workings and external stressors. Through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and a holistic view, Matthew’s clients feel seen. He creates a safe space to explore internal and external grief with respect for the client’s boundaries. Matthew was born and raised in Baltimore City and is a US Army veteran with many life experiences. The values he learned from school and his life experiences give him a unique perspective on therapy. Matthew is under the supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox.

Alana Ofori is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, D.C., which allows her to provide effective, evidence-base...
03/01/2025

Alana Ofori is a licensed psychology associate in Washington, D.C., which allows her to provide effective, evidence-based ther**eutic interventions under supervision. She earned a Master of Education in School Psychology and Counseling Services at Howard University and is seeking her Licensed Professional Counseling (LPC) credential. With a background in school psychology and her most recent role as a yoga instructor, she brings extensive experience and a deep-rooted commitment to fostering healing and empowerment across various communities with a strong foundation in Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and mindful practices.
Alana’s approach is collaborative, empathetic, and client-centered, focusing on empowering individuals to gain insight, develop coping skills, and create lasting positive change. She believes in the power of the mind-body connection and tailors sessions to meet the unique needs of each client, integrating both CBT techniques and mindfulness strategies to foster resilience, self-awareness, and emotional regulation. She works with clients of various backgrounds and life stages, including those experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, and life transitions.
When Alana is out of the office, she enjoys catching a yoga class, curating music playlists, spending time with her husband, and traveling. Alana is under the clinical supervision of Dr. Samantha Knox.

Address

1401 Mercantile Lane, Suite 500 A
Largo, MD
20774

Opening Hours

Monday 8am - 8pm
Tuesday 8am - 8pm
Wednesday 8am - 8am
Thursday 8am - 8pm
Friday 8am - 5pm
Saturday 8am - 3pm
Sunday 8am - 3pm

Telephone

+12027465838

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Aya Behavioral Health LLC posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Practice

Send a message to Aya Behavioral Health LLC:

Shortcuts

Share

Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Share on LinkedIn
Share on Pinterest Share on Reddit Share via Email
Share on WhatsApp Share on Instagram Share on Telegram

Category