Meet Dr. Aja Burks

MY STORY

Owner & Lead Therapist: Dr. Aja Burks, LMSW

Hi, I’m Dr. Aja C. Burks, and I’m a licensed therapist, educator, and speaker passionate about breaking the stigma around mental health, especially in communities that are often overlooked or underserved. I believe healing should be accessible, culturally responsive, and rooted in compassion.

Over the years, I’ve worked across school systems, community agencies, inpatient settings, and in clinical supervision. I bring this diverse experience into every space I’m in, whether I’m supporting clients one-on-one, mentoring future counselors, or speaking to larger audiences about mental health, racial trauma, and the power of healing.

My heart is especially connected to supporting high-achieving Black women who are navigating anxiety, burnout, perfectionism, and the weight of expectations. I hold space for people to show up fully with their brilliance and their pain and guide them toward clarity, joy, and self-trust.

Through therapy, education, research, and community engagement, I aim to normalize mental wellness and empower others to prioritize themselves without guilt. If you’re ready to do the work, I’m here to walk alongside you.

As Featured On

Trainings to enhance your skillset and understanding

Trainings available include:

Race Identity Development and your clinical practice

Calling In Vs. Calling Out
Implicit Bias Training
Beyond Implicit Bias
Race-Based Trauma and the Black Community
Navigating Race Power & Privilege in Supervision
Diversity & Inclusion: What is it and what is it not
Creating a Transformative Environment

Speaker Sheet

Consultation Services to enhance your clinical supervision services and mental health agency

Consultation Services for:

Private Practices

Mental Health Agencies
Community Mental Health Agencies
Universities
Special Topics
Navigating Race Power & Privilege in Supervision
Diversity & Inclusion: What is it and what is it not
Creating a Transformative Environment

State License

Michigan License Master Social Worker - Clinical (6801097182)

Education

Ph.D. Counseling Education and Supervision, Wayne State University, May 2021

Masters of Social Work, Michigan State University, May 2010

Bachelors of Arts in Psychology, Michigan State University, May 2008

Sessions tailor-made to help you

My approach to therapy is relational, affirming, and rooted in the belief that you deserve a space where you can show up fully without judgment, pretense, or pressure to have it all together.

I strive to create a space where you feel deeply seen, heard, and valued, a space where your stories, your culture, your truth, and your lived experiences matter. Whether you’re navigating anxiety, burnout, life transitions, relationship challenges, or the weight of generational expectations, I walk alongside you to help identify what’s getting in the way of your peace, clarity, and self-trust.

I integrate evidence-based practices with a culturally responsive lens, pulling from approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, and relational-cultural theory. But more than that, therapy with me is about connection, empowerment, and helping you tap into your own wisdom. What we explore in our sessions is meant to extend beyond the therapy room, giving you tools, insight, and strategies you can carry into your everyday life.

Healing isn’t always easy, but it is possible, and you don’t have to do it alone.

What can Clients expect?

Clients can expect a warm, honest, and empowering space where we focus on growth through both reflection and action. I believe in being transparent and collaborative. Therapy with me is not about me having all the answers, but about us working together to uncover what’s getting in the way of your peace, confidence, and fulfillment.

You can expect to be challenged when needed, affirmed often, and supported every step of the way. Our sessions will include space for deep reflection, practical tools, and real conversations that help you move toward your goals and your most aligned, authentic self.

Ultimately, my hope is that you leave each session feeling seen, grounded, and more connected to your own voice with insights and skills you can take with you beyond the therapy room.