Unmasking, Identity, and the Power of Living Fully as a Black Autistic Woman

Welcome to the Autism in Black® Podcast, hosted by Maria Davis-Pierre, LMHC. In this episode, we’re joined by Erin Nkele, LCPC—a licensed clinical professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and co-founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC. As a Black Autistic therapist, mental health advocate, and parent, Erin brings a deeply personal and professional perspective on the intersections of neurodiversity, gender, and sexual identity.

She explores how decolonizing mental health and therapy can open the door to true healing and liberation. Erin also shares her lived experience as a Black Autistic parent, emphasizing the power of embracing all parts of ourselves to foster resilient families and communities.

 

In This Episode:

Erin Nkele joins us for an honest and insightful conversation about the complex intersections of autism, gender, and sexual identity. Drawing on her experience as a Black Autistic therapist and parent, Erin unpacks the importance of decolonizing mental health care and creating spaces where neurodivergent individuals can heal and thrive. She also shares the realities and joys of parenting as a Black Autistic mom. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand identity, intersectionality, and culturally responsive healing.

 

Listeners will explore:

• The intersection of autism, gender, and sexual identity in therapeutic care
• What it means to decolonize ourselves and the mental health system
• The lived experience and strengths of being a Black Autistic parent

 

Connect with Erin Nkele:

Website: www.melanatedwellness.net

IG: @melanatedwellnesstherapy

Go Fund Me for The Melanated Wellness Foundation: https://www.gofundme.com/f/empower-underserved-teens-in-montgomery-county-with-therapy

 

About Erin Nkele:

Erin Nkele (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland and Washington, D.C., and co-founder of Melanated Wellness, LLC, a practice dedicated to serving Black, Neurodiverse, and LGBTQIA+ communities. She is also co-founder of The Melanated Wellness Foundation, which provides free culturally competent mental health services to underserved youth and families. Erin’s work centers trauma, neurodiversity, and identity, aiming to create compassionate and equitable mental health care. She is a proud mother, Xavier University alum, and lover of puzzles, yoga, and gaming.

 

Get 2 Weeks FREE in the Autism in Black® Community!

Looking for support, connection, and resources created specifically for Black parents and caregivers of neurodivergent children? Now’s your chance to experience the Autism in Black® Community—FREE for 2 weeks!

This safe, affirming space offers real conversations, expert guidance, and culturally responsive tools to help you navigate parenting, advocacy, and healing.

Join us today: https://funnel.autisminblack.org/aibcommunitytrial?el=couplessummit

 

Support and Connect with Autism in Black:

Website: www.autisminblack.org

Social Media: Follow us on TikTok, Instagram, or Twitter: @autisminblack

Facebook: @autisminblk

Join our community for networking, resources, and advocacy: www.autisminblack.org/membership

 

Thank you for tuning into the Autism in Black Podcast! Share your thoughts using #aibpod on social media. Together, let's continue to build a more inclusive and supportive community.