Aiysha Whittaker, LCPC

Aiysha Whittaker is the owner of Cultivating Hope Counseling, LLC, where she is deeply committed to helping individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout their mental health journey. Her clinical approach is grounded in the belief that healing happens when clients feel genuinely heard, understood, and supported within a therapeutic relationship rooted in trust, connection, and compassion. Aiysha brings extensive professional training and experience working with diverse populations, including military veterans, LGBTQ+ clients, bariatric patients, and young adults navigating life transitions. She is known for building strong therapeutic alliances and creating a safe, affirming environment that supports meaningful growth and lasting change. In addition to her clinical practice, Aiysha provides consulting services for several nonprofit organizations, including the National Women’s Law Center, Community Catalyst, and the Democratic National Committee. Her consulting work reflects her broader commitment to advocacy, equity, and systems-level change that supports mental health and well-being. Prior to entering private practice, Aiysha spent ten years at SOME (So Others Might Eat), where she held various leadership roles. During her tenure, she supported families who were formerly unhoused and individuals with significant mental health challenges in need of crisis care, further shaping her trauma-informed, client-centered approach. Aiysha is also the host of Tend To It, a podcast that reminds listeners that healing takes time and growth requires tending. Through her clinical work, consulting, and creative platforms, Aiysha remains dedicated to cultivating hope, resilience, and sustainable healing in individuals and communities alike. She received her Master's in Community Counseling in 2012 and is currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in Maryland.