In the small town where I grew up, being both Black and gay felt like navigating a maze with no clear path.

From a young age, I felt the weight of societal expectations pressing down on me, suffocating my true self. The whispers and stares, the isolation…it all chipped away at my sense of worth until I felt like I was drowning in darkness.

But amidst the struggle, there were moments of clarity. I found solace in books, in art, and in the few allies who dared to stand by me. Slowly, I began to understand that my identity was not something to be ashamed of, but something to be celebrated. Yet, the scars of years spent hiding and denying myself ran deep, leaving me with wounds that refused to heal.

It was during my own journey towards healing that I realized the dire need for mental health support tailored specifically for Black and LGBTQIA+ individuals. I saw firsthand how the intersections of race, sexuality, and mental health were often overlooked and misunderstood, leading to even greater suffering for those who needed help the most.

Determined to make a difference, I resolved to become a mental health counselor specializing in Black and LGBTQIA+ issues. I wanted to be the person I wish I had when I was struggling, someone who could offer understanding, empathy, and guidance to those who felt lost in the darkness, just as I once did. Through my own pain, I found my purpose, and now, I am committed to shining a light for others on their own journeys towards healing and self-acceptance.

- Anthony Hayden, Registered Behavior Technician