Candace

Therapist, Speaker & Cultural Voice for Healing

Helping individuals, creatives, and organizations build emotional resilience, wellness, and restoration through therapy, media, and meaningful conversation.

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NEW RELEASE

Woman of God: A 60‑Day Journey Toward Healing & Restoration

This devotional invites readers into sixty days of reflection, prayer, and emotional restoration—created to support women navigating faith, healing, and wholeness.

Rooted in compassion and spiritual care, Woman of God offers daily grounding for those seeking renewal.

Shop the Devotional

NEW RELEASE

Woman of God: A 60‑Day Journey Toward Healing & Restoration

This devotional invites readers into sixty days of reflection, prayer, and emotional restoration—created to support women navigating faith, healing, and wholeness.

Rooted in compassion and spiritual care, Woman of God offers daily grounding for those seeking renewal.

Shop the Devotional

Featured Media

Featured on

Good Morning America

A national conversation on mental health, healing, and emotional resilience.

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SAG‑AFTRA Foundation

Candace partners with production teams and creative professionals to provide emotional care and mental health support in high-demand environments.

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Over the weekend, my oldest son, my Bryson Bear, for many of us, our Bryson Bear turned eighteen as those a part of our village and those from afar watched him grow up! He's eighteen. Inhales and exhales. He's eighteen. I'm crying again while typing this, but man, I have an 18-year-old.

Bryson, I am so proud of the caring, compassionate, thoughtful, and loving young man you have become! You have made my heart proud, and I will be by your side forever and always! Mommy loves you immensely.

At nineteen, I didn't know all our future would hold, the ebbs and the flows, the trials and tribulations, but God knew that He would keep us through it all, and He has! Baby, you are a ray of sunshine and joy, and it’s easy to fall in love with you because your love is infectious and pure!

Keep dancing, Bryson Bear, and I will be right beside you every step of the way! I will constantly cover you in prayer and will continually nurture and guide you in this world because you’re my baby! Happy eighteenth birthday! I thank God He chose you for me, and me for you.🤎

Last June, I appeared on @goodmorningamerica to discuss the Loneliness Epidemic with @robinrobertsgma during Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. It was a powerful moment and a significant conversation that stayed with me long after. I didn’t realize this interview would lead to something bigger and unforeseen. When I walked on set that day, I didn’t expect my words to end up in a film.

This moment was not orchestrated, pitched, or scripted, but unbeknownst to me, I was being intertwined into a story unfolding within the walls of San Quentin State Prison. Jason Jenkins, an inmate and filmmaker at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s Media Lab, gravitated towards the conversation and included it in his film. Later, I received an outreach from him, during which he shared his belief in filmmaking's power to heal, educate, and drive social change.

He spoke about his mission to reshape conversations about incarceration by sharing stories about its psychological toll, personal transformation, and the importance of reunification. Jason and Ryan Pagan directed and produced 'Deprived: Alone, Afraid & Ashamed,' exploring incarceration and inmates' isolation as they develop a self-help program in prison to heal themselves and others.

With support from @polleninitiative, a nonprofit dedicated to establishing media centers in prisons nationwide, the film was honored with the POV Award presented by PBS at the @sanquentinff, the groundbreaking first-ever film festival held inside a prison. To learn more about SQFF and to watch the film, please click on the link in my bio.

#VoicesFromPrison #Incarceration #Reunification #Film #Storytelling

I remember a difficult night lying on the bedroom floor, grappling with despair and holding a half-empty bottle of alcohol. My oldest son, Bryson, took my hand and said, “Mommy, please don’t drink that. It makes you sick.” He didn’t grasp my struggles, only that the substance hurt me. I was avoiding the emotional pain by enduring the physical consequences of my drinking. Yet, despite those dark times, I am immensely grateful to God for leading me here because I decided to give tomorrow another chance.

Today marks six years of sobriety for me, a milestone filled with gratitude and resilience since my last bout of suicidal ideation. I’m still in awe, thankful for my faith and community. I will never forget one of my substance abuse counselors telling me, “Candace, you don’t belong in here. Decide differently and live. I don’t want to see you again.” She never saw me again.

I’m also immensely grateful that my journey inspired an upcoming animated short film, @theoneswecarry, written by @halimalucas. This project is incredibly personal and close to my heart, as it tackles the themes of mental illness, substance abuse, and suicidal ideation while interlacing love, family, and faith.

My story is not just mine; it’s a testament to the strength we all have to overcome and thrive. In a world where mental health depictions in film are often filled with misinformation and a skewed lens, we are shifting that narrative. Thank you to @lorettaewilson, @erikaalexanderthegreat, @winkwoodall, @nicolebaskinpr, and @benarnon, who are the executive producers behind The Ones We Carry. Thank you for championing mental health awareness at the intersection of the arts!

Lastly, if you or someone you love is struggling with their mental health or substance abuse, you are not alone, and resources are available. There are resources in my bio because you deserve to be here! You deserve to live and experience freedom, too!

#SoberLife #TheOnesWeCarry #SuicidePrevention #SuicideAwareness #MentalHealthMatters

A film I am connected to is seeking interns for its digital marketing team!

Must have organizational skills, social media experience, and graphic design skills, and be tech-savvy.

Additional administrative and production tasks will be discussed with producers. If interested, send materials to nicolebaskinpr@gmail.com! Internship is remote and is not paid. 🎬

I spent the last few days of last year and the beginning of this year with intentional rest and time away with my boys. It was the best last-minute trip ever, and what the three of us needed.🍃

Last year, I witnessed numerous moments that brought tears to my eyes as I walked in the fulfillment of answered prayers. I also experienced stretching and pruning, and I’m immensely grateful for the growth that they produced.✨

However, what I’m most grateful for is the fun I had with my boys during our Christmas trip to @disneyland. To see their excitement and appreciation is something I can't put into words! We also had slow mornings, mid-day naps, tried new places, worshipped at @one.online, had a lunch date with my sister @imvanessawilliams, and I’ve never played Roblox as much as I have in my life! 😫🤎

These are the moments, the core memories I am deposited within that matter the most! Times like these make the late nights and early mornings worth it; It’s always a gentle reminder not to wait to enjoy the fruit of your labor. ✨

God, thank You! I’ll never become common with Your goodness! Entering this new year rested and grounded. 🍃 Happy New Year! May you experience great joy, good health, and unwavering focus and discipline.✨

I’ve rewritten this caption several times, trying to articulate my gratitude adequately. The lessons and growth of last year, and how the year ended with answered prayers, deepened faith, and so much joy! My gratitude has truly overtaken me, and these words may be the perfect sentiment!

Maybe that’s the message! To live unapologetically, to give cheerfully, to rest wholeheartedly, and to be deeply rooted in your purpose! I think that's it! That’s what will follow me into the new year! Here are the last few days of 2025, worshipping at @one.online, and the first few days of 2026, which included taking my boys to @disneyland for Christmas! 🥹✨

These are the moments that matter the most! Times like these make the late nights and early mornings worth it; seeing their smiles is always a reminder that we don't have to wait to enjoy the fruit of our labor.

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year! May you experience great joy, good health, and unwavering focus and discipline.✨

God, thank You!✨

Today, with the help of Bishop Curtis Whitehead, I baptized my oldest son, Bryson! 🙌🏾🥹 As his mother, I couldn't be more proud of the young man he’s become, and as a family, we are so proud of him and the decision that he’s made!

Baptism is a public identification with Jesus Christ through water immersion, symbolizing His death, burial, and resurrection. Baptism is a symbol. It’s meant to show the world that you love, trust, and have put your hope in Jesus Christ.

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old man has passed away; behold, the new has come!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 🤎

@robinrobertsgma, @robinnyc, @drtaranarula, and I yesterday on @goodmorningamerica! The Dream Team. 🥰🤎

Thank you again for having me! What an impactful, insightful, and informative discussion on the winter blues, holiday grief, and ways to navigate them!

With decreased sunlight, colder temperatures, and the grief many are experiencing during this season, please continue to take care of yourselves and prioritize your well-being.

Check in with yourself, acknowledge what you're feeling, stay active, increase your time in the sunlight, engage with others, rest, and stay connected.🤎

MUA: @alyssashackil

I’m grateful and looking forward to returning to @goodmorningamerica tomorrow at 8:15 am ET!

I’m sharing ways to overcome the winter blues and holiday grief, sharing guidance on how you can lift your mood and improve your well-being during the winter season.

Catch me in the morning!

Some inspiring and amazing black men are speaking out about health and wellness, shifting the narrative and dismantling systems, while actively engaging in their communities through advocacy, outreach, education, policy reform, and direct services!

Here are a few individuals I would like to acknowledge:

👏🏾Paul Bashea (Bah-Shay) Williams (@basheawilliams), LCSW-C, LICSW, is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Psychotherapist, Keynote Speaker, Relationship Advisor, Business Owner, Entrepreneur, Corporate Consultant, and Author.

👏🏾Dr. Brandon Frame (@drbrandonframe) is a visionary leader. Currently, he serves as a professor of Social-Emotional Learning at Sacred Heart University, as well as the Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of TheBlackManCan, Inc.

👏🏾Dr. Anthony Estreet (@dr_streetz06) is currently the CEO of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and is a highly esteemed leader in the field of social work.

👏🏾Arron Muller (@theblack_therapist), LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker, doctoral student, mental health consultant, and speaker dedicated to breaking the stigma around therapy in communities of color.

And to every black man showing up in our community on a micro, mezzo, or macro level! Thank you! 🙌🏾👏🏾

#MentalHealth #BlackTherapist #BlackMen #SocialWorkers #Educators #YouAreAppreciated

Meeting @sanaalathan after NAMI’s benefit play of “This Is Crazy” was truly a highlight of my evening outside of the cast's stellar performances!

Sanaa’s filmography speaks for itself with legendary movies like “Love & Basketball,” “The Best Man,” “Out of Time,” and “Brown Sugar,” but what stood out most to me was witnessing her kindness and dedication to mental health advocacy and activism firsthand.

Sanaa, I appreciate your grace and your presence in the community, where you actively support organizations such as @namicommunicate, bringing mental health awareness and education to the forefront through the arts.🥰🎬✨

Sidenote: Do ya’ll remember this song from one of the scenes of 🥰 and 🏀?

#NAMI #Ambassador #SanaaLathan #Advocacy #MentalHealthAwareness

Watching the sunset in Santa Monica recently, gently reminded me of a comforting truth: the same loving Creator who brought this beautiful world into existence also cares for us personally.

It’s a tender reminder that our steps are guided with love, and we can trust that what lies ahead is part of a greater plan designed for our good, even when we can't always see the staircase of our destiny.

I choose to bask in peace, trusting the journey ahead, and resting in gratitude. I can't articulate it the way that I feel it, but it’s an indescribable feeling knowing that you're safe, sustained, and always in the hands of God! Wherever I go, I know I'm covered, and so are you.

Quotes: Author Unknown

🤎

“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” — Anne Lamott.

During the @blhensonfoundation’s “Can We Talk Summit?”, a mother in the audience asked with tears in her eyes, “How can I prioritize myself and demonstrate to my daughters the importance of finding their lightness as young women when I only know how to work myself to exhaustion because we’re taught to be so strong?” I shared how I set aside intentional time for myself as a non-negotiable, and this is one of the many ways I prioritize myself, because we are more than the roles we hold. To add, collectively, we’re living in an exhausting world, both economically and politically, due to the climate, so my goodness, collectively we need to woo-sah. ✨

This connects to the earlier quote, “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” Exhaustion and burnout are not badges of honor; you need to take care of yourself, too. Your family, community, and those you serve rely on you. But if you’re exhausted, unwell, and resentful because you haven’t prioritized your own needs, then how does your indisposition benefit them?

Prioritizing your own well-being isn’t selfish; it’s a form of stewardship and love. Strength is not about showcasing your ability to carry the load, but your vulnerability in releasing it. True strength lies in choosing yourself. Allowing yourself this softness is a tender form of surrender that can coexist peacefully with resilience, if you create space for it.✨

Pour well, and nurture yourself with rest, love, and kindness, as these actions will shine through and positively impact everyone around you. Take some time to reflect honestly. Be gentle with yourself as you delegate tasks, plan, let go of what no longer serves you, and most importantly, make space for your well-being and your needs. Remember, your wellness makes a difference, not just for you but for everyone you care about.

“The greatest gift you can give your family and the world is a healthy you.” — Unknown

📹: @blhensonfoundation @theeiyonablake

Hey, you! Yes, you! Don’t give up! Okay? Okay! Stay in the race and keep planting seeds in the ground, and don’t stop dreaming! 👏🏾

It’s in you! Remember, you shall reap if you faint not! Soon, you’ll look up and say, “And it all came to pass,” and God will say, “And there’s more!” God, thank You. 🤌🏾

“For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 NLT ✨

@sagaftrafound x @essence! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🤎

Yesterday was a moment I will never forget. During altar call, my oldest son, Bryson, approached me, believing it was for prayer. But then, I felt God softly nudging my heart to ask him if he wanted to be baptized. His face lit up with sincerity as he said, “Yes.” I never tried to force him to get baptized, as I wanted him to have an understanding of the sacredness and purpose of baptism. Bryson will be baptized next month. 🥹🙏🏾

For those who know his journey, you know it has been one filled with challenges but also incredible perseverance. For those who do not, as a toddler, Bryson was diagnosed with global developmental delay, and later, in grade school, was diagnosed with an intellectual disability. This disability affected his information processing and social functioning. However, Bryson continues to overcome challenges and has demonstrated significant growth and resilience. Many doctors and teachers doubted what he could achieve because of his neurodivergence. Yet, I always believed that he’s destined for greatness.

I often remind Bryson that our focus on the ‘disability’ lies within ‘ability,’ and he is more than able, worthy, and capable; with the proper supports, our children can excel in their own way, not ours. Seeing him develop his own relationship with God fills my heart with immense joy. Seeing him be the light that he is places a smile on my face, and the nineteen-year-old girl within me is beaming with joy, too. He’s now excelling at his job sites, has many friends, and is preparing to attend community college. He dreams of joining the inclusive post-secondary education program at the University of Maryland, College Park, and living independently. I am beyond proud of him! 🥹✨

May this be a source of encouragement for my parents, especially those caring for children with special needs. May you find the strength to continue supporting your children, attending occupational and speech therapies, IEP meetings, and advocating tirelessly for them, trusting in the goodness of God to work wonders. Sending you all so much love, we got this!

Mommy is proud of you, Bryson Bear! 🤎🙏🏾

#Neurodiversity #Faith #SpecialNeeds #Autism #ID #Awareness

It was an honor to moderate an empowering conversation centered on ‘Black Women and the Healing Power of Storytelling.’ Thank you so much to @sagaftrafound for opening your doors. My deepest gratitude goes to these four incredible women, @taylorpolidore, @jaylenbarron, @yvettenicolebrown, and @toksolagundoye, who graciously agreed to share their personal journeys and wisdom with us as actors.

To each of these beautiful, talented women: thank you. Your vulnerability and artistry truly encouraged and inspired everyone present. You reminded your peers of the importance of authenticity, of unmasking and trusting themselves more deeply, and not neglecting their mental health while living out their dreams as storytellers.

Most importantly, you reminded everyone of the sisterhood and community that needs to be nurtured and cherished in this industry. It was a truly healing and therapeutic experience. To every actor, thank you for sharing your gifts, for making us laugh, and for helping us see the world in a different light through your character portrayals.

Please consider learning more about @sagaftrafound and the valuable resources they offer to SAG members by clicking the link in their bio. 🤎✨

MUA: @trinitykenney @thetrifectabeauty
Photography: @gettyentertainment @araya_photo

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 14: Candace Washington attends the SAG-AFTRA Foundation Conversations Presents Black Women and The Healing Power of Storytelling Panel at The Meryl Streep Center for Performing Artists on October 14, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Araya Doheny/Getty Images for SAG-AFTRA Foundation)

—
Thank you so much to the @sagaftrafound and all who were involved in making this incredible night happen. I’ll have more words tomorrow.

MUA: @trinitykenney @thetrifectabeauty
Photography: @gettyentertainment @araya_photo

On Friday, for World Mental Health Day, I had the honor of speaking at the Can We Talk Summit hosted by @blhensonfoundation founder, @tarajiphenson!✨

In the sacred conversation I was a part of, powerful and inspiring women surrounded me, and we graciously shared our journeys and practices of “Finding the Lightness of Being a Strong Woman.” Together, we redefined what strength truly means and began to unlearn the patterns of self-abandonment that sometimes hold us back, reclaiming our joy and rest.

Healing, transformation, and vulnerability filled the room, a sacred space where generations of women gave and received support, compassion, and understanding from one another.

Here are some heartfelt insights to consider from our conversation:

✨Prioritizing yourself isn’t selfish, it’s self-FULL.
✨It’s okay to be still. Take your rest.
✨Who are you, and how do you define joy, and what do you need to release to bask in that joy?
✨Allow the power of your yes to be just as powerful and sacred as your no, without apology, and without shame.
✨Your strength, servitude, and femininity can co-exist in the both/and, not the either/or.

Once again, I want to sincerely thank @tarajiphenson and @traciejade for the incredible work you and your team are doing through the Boris L. Henson Foundation. Your dedication is truly making a difference by providing much-needed resources within the BIPOC community. Thank you for having me.✨

MUA: @thegoldnnug @thegoldennugpro
Photographer: @jeffsuggsphotography
PR: @alegramymediabuzztv @nicolebaskinpr

I feel truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to be in the presence of such an incredibly talented and beautiful panel of actors, @jaylenbarron (‘American Sports Story’), @yvettenicolebrown (‘Community’), @toksolagundoye (‘Arcane’), and @taylorpolidore (‘Beauty in Black’), to moderate a conversation in how acting can serve as more than performance for Black female actors.

The discussion will show the profound impact it can have as a means of empowerment, self-discovery, and healing.

If you're a SAG member, please click the link in @sagaftrafound's bio to RSVP!

Thank you so much, @sagaftrafound!

#ProductionTherapist #Actors #TV #Film #Storytelling #MentalHealth #Healing #SAGAftra #SAGAftraFoundation

Still in awe of the beautiful performance of ‘This is Crazy’ and my amazing evening with @namicommunicate, starting with @fred4face and ending with dinner with the cast, NAMI, and other special guests, and pictured at the end of my recap is the CEO of NAMI, Mr. Dan Gillison, his lovely wife, and some of NAMI’s board members.

Thank you for having me! 🤎

#MentalHealthAwareness #NAMI #ThisIsCrazy

OCTOBER 06: Candace Washington attends the “This Is Crazy” NAMI Benefit Performance at Symphony Space on October 06, 2025 in New York City. (Photo by John Nacion/WireImage)

We need art and storytelling to impact lives. Mental health affects everyone. While one in five U.S. adults experiences a mental health condition annually, the impact extends to the friends, family, coworkers, and others who support them. Mental health is something we all experience, manage, and need support with. No one should have to face these challenges alone.

Mental Illness Awareness Week is here! This year’s theme is Community: Supporting Mental Well-Being Together. We’re stronger when we lift each other up.

Join @namicommunicate and communities across the country in raising awareness, fighting stigma, and building support. Learn more + take action: nami.org/MIAW

I attended the ‘This Is Crazy!’ play last night, and it was phenomenal, captivating, and authentic! It was a bold, funny, and moving play by Tony & Obie Award–winning playwright V (formerly Eve Ensler)!

The cast was extraordinary: Jane Fonda, Mark Ruffalo, Edie Falco, Sanaa Lathan, Rachel Hilson, Rosanna Arquette, and more.

The proceeds from the performance benefited @namicommunicate’s mission to provide education, advocacy, support programs, and suicide prevention resources nationwide.

Make-up by @fred4face! Thank you, brother! 🤎

#NAMI #Broadway #V #EveEnsler #MentalHealthAwareness

I was able to attend the @bmorefilmfest today to support @thelaundrymovie and its phenomenal director @okematmoore! Laundry is a powerful story based on the life of an incredible writer and producer, @alterikmiller. The cast and crew brought this story to life, and leading the way were @tobiastruvillion and @daniellemonetruitt!

It was an honor to serve the cast and crew as the production therapist for this film. If you were able to catch a screening during its many festival stops, that’s a blessing! May this story continue to impact the lives of many!

Once again, to the executive producer and producer, @winkwoodall, thank you for bringing me on board to be part of this fantastic team!

#LaundryMovie #ProductionTherapist

September is Alopecia Areata Awareness Month. As someone who is bald by choice and has embraced alopecia, an autoimmune disease that results in patches of hair loss and can cause complete hair loss, I want to acknowledge those with alopecia by sharing the significance of awareness and community.

Hair loss runs in my family on my paternal side, and for me, stress triggered it, affecting my hair follicles and leading to thinning and patchy areas. While protective styles helped my hair grow back at times, I ultimately chose to cut my hair. I then no longer wanted to hold onto any hair and made the liberating decision to go bald, which brought me immense healing and joy. I’ve never felt more beautiful!

Additionally, in celebration of this month, I want to highlight @baldiecon and @baldandfree. Attending my first BaldieCon was an incredible experience filled with healing, tears, hugs, and love for Felicia. Thank you for your steadfast leadership and dedication to supporting all of us—whether bald by choice, due to alopecia, lupus, or other health conditions that cause hair loss.

Thank you for having me grace your stage to explore the intersectionality of psychological and emotional distress and its impact on our immune system and hair follicles!
BaldieCon was more than just a conference; it was like a family reunion, a space of strength, celebration, and sisterhood.

See you next year! Thank you, Felicia and @nicolebaskinpr! 🤎

#BaldieCon #Alopecia #AlopeciaAwareness #BeautifulMoments #EmbraceYourJourney

Repost from @namicommunicate:

💬 Stories spark change. Candace Washington (@candacewrites) joins Hope Starts With Us to share how faith, conversation, and community create hope. 💚

🎙️ Listen to her full conversation at the #HopeStartsWithUs section of the #linkinbio

#SuicidePrevention #SuicideAwareness #MentalHealthAwareness

Wade in the water, a powerful song of hope and freedom that resonates with the themes of spiritual rebirth and triumph over adversity, filled the air as we joined together, locking arms and hands, stepping into the water during the Polar Bear experience. 🙌🏾

Yes, the water was cold, but holding hands with women I didn’t know warmed my heart as we encouraged each other to keep moving because again, the water was freezing! Everyone I encountered told me that if you're on Martha’s Vineyard, you must go to the Polar Bear Experience, and they were right!

@essence shared that since 1948, Black swimmers and beach goers have gathered at 7:30 a.m. to plunge into the Atlantic on Inkwell Beach (the first desegregated beach on Martha’s Vineyard) to engage in a series of exercises, each of which offered an invitation to reflect and return to ourselves.

The origin of this gathering, according to NBC, is that the Inkwell Polar Bears of Martha’s Vineyard are called that because the tradition started when a group of young Black teenagers, who worked on the island and stayed at Mrs. O’Brien’s property, would swim in the morning at Inkwell Beach. Mrs. O’Brien, observing their morning ritual, started calling them “Polar Bears”. This name stuck and has become the name of the swim and social club that continues this tradition.

We were encouraged to leave and release whatever weighed us down in the water. I prayed, laughed, and cried here and am grateful for this experience and its history. One day, my children will have this experience with me!

Oh, the goodness of God and the sacredness of my time on Martha’s Vineyard. Such a spiritual, rejuvenating, and now, my new happy place, too, as many have echoed.

I’ve realized that the richness of our history and our bonds within our community are deeply rooted here at the beautiful intersection of solitude and community.

Martha’s Vineyard, particularly Oak Bluffs, was a safe haven for us during segregation. It was one of the few places where we were welcomed and could find a place to stay. History, and a place where I paused and reflected.

@feleciahatcher asked me, “Who were you before all the titles?” I said, “A girl who dreamed.” Now, I am a woman who no longer has to escape her reality, yet still, I can dream and live to see them come to fruition.

I’ve never known love like this before. A love I’ve had to go within to discover first before I release it. I love better. I breathe easier, rest intentionally, and reflect fervently. I love, love. I love people. I love this life that God has rewritten.

What a surprise.

🤎

Soul Food: Film Panel Discussion with @msvfox and @michaelbeach at @xlfilmfestival!

Soul Food: TV Panel Discussion at @xlfilmfestival w/ @imvanessawilliams and @malinsworld!

I am deeply grateful for the warm invitation to engage in meaningful conversation with the brilliant @feleciahatcher of @blackambitionprize on the So Ambitious Podcast, set in the beautiful and joyous Martha’s Vineyard.

From the moment we first met, we both felt an immediate connection, and it was a true honor to sit down with a remarkably brilliant and compassionate woman. Felecia is the CEO of Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Opportunity Fund, which invests in underrepresented entrepreneurs with capital, mentorship, and uninterrupted access to resources and opportunities.

Thank you, Felicia, for highlighting the importance of prioritizing wellness as an entrepreneur and fostering a space of care, vulnerability, and transparency that inspires others to thrive and elevate their businesses while being emotionally and mentally well in their pursuits! A gentle reminder that true ambition doesn't require losing yourself.

A heartfelt thank you to @jessicahurley__, @everybodylovesdaylon, @samiyahamalik, and the entire team for your support and for creating life-changing opportunities for entrepreneurs, myself included!

Thank you, as always, @nicolebaskinpr, for passionately amplifying the importance of emotional and mental wellness across all sectors and spaces!

Make-up by @themakeupmavenmv!

🤎

Life is precious, and we should embrace every moment with intention! From Atlanta to Brooklyn, my birthday was truly amazing and intentional! I am deeply grateful for the gift of life, the activity of my limbs, and a sound mind! 🙌🏾

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who called, texted, posted, and shared so much love. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for the love and joy surrounding me, and I strive to return it tenfold!

I rested without interruption, ate extremely well, and took plenty of naps because they are essential! 🙌🏾 Here’s my birthday recap, and a special thank you to my best friend for ensuring my day was truly special. I love you endlessly.🤎

Prince George’s County, MD — July 21, 2025 — The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Prince George’s County is proud to announce that Candace Washington, a local mental health advocate and community leader, has been appointed as a National Ambassador for NAMI.

As a newly appointed ambassador, Candace joins the ranks of more than 70 influential national voices—including actor Sterling K. Brown, actress Taraji P. Henson, and Corinne Foxx, daughter of actor Jamie Foxx—working together to advance mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and promote equity in care across the country.

“As Executive Director of NAMI Prince George’s County, I am thrilled to see our very own hometown mental health champion receive this well-deserved national recognition,” said Pamela R. Browne. “Candace’s passion, voice, and vision will be a powerful force in our shared mission to reimagine mental health systems that truly serve all people.”

NAMI Ambassadors use their public platforms to amplify stories of resilience and help shape a future where mental health is prioritized, respected, and accessible to all.

#MentalHealthMatters #Advocate #NAMI #Maryland #princegeorgescounty

I am filled with gratitude and excitement to share that I have been chosen as an Ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). I will join an inspiring group of over 70 influential leaders in fashion, arts, music, entertainment, sports, and more.

NAMI is the largest grassroots mental health organization in the United States, serving as a beacon of hope for millions of Americans affected by mental health conditions.

Comprising over 700 NAMI State Organizations and Affiliates, NAMI is dedicated to advocacy, education, support, and raising awareness, which is a mission that resonates deeply with me, and I am proud to join their cause.

Having navigated the intricacies of mental health as both a licensed mental health professional and someone who has survived suicide attempts, my experiences and clinical expertise have instilled in me a powerful sense of responsibility to share my story, to advocate for understanding, and to work continuously for meaningful change.

Each of us must recognize that we are not alone, understanding there is strength in vulnerability, healing in connection, and power in community.

Thank you, @namicommunicate!

💚

#MentalHealth #NAMIAdvocacy #Ambassador #TakeCareOfYou #MentalHealthForAll

I’m late posting about my incredible experience at the Culture Creators Brunch in LA, hosted by the beautiful @giapeppers. I always love seeing you! The event honored individuals from various industries, from entertainment to journalism, and the atmosphere was inspiring, filled with passion, social impact, faith, and love. I am thankful for the gifts in the room, each conversation, the openness shared, and the time spent.

Leaving the event, I felt rejuvenated, inspired, and deeply grounded in my purpose in embracing my gift, uplifting others, and transforming the world around me with intention. I'm just in awe of how God moves, and it’s only the beginning!

I had many great moments, but a special moment was my conversation with @joyannreid. Two days after this event, I was set to make my first national television appearance on "Good Morning America." I sought advice from the deeply esteemed Joy Ann Reid, who looked at me and said, “Just talk to Robin and ignore the cameras!”

So, if you watched my interview with @robinrobertsgma and felt as though you were simply listening to two women conversing in a living room, then that’s precisely what you experienced because of the power of prayer, this advice, and the support that I have! I just showed up and talked to Robin!

Thank you so much, @iamjoibrown, @theculturecreators, @syretajoglesby22, @winkwoodall, @nicolebaskinpr, and Ghana!

Make-up by @trinitykenney @thetrifectabeauty! 🤎

Portrait captured by @kaptured.by.kaleo

The line up for Baldie Con 2025 is insane!🤩 and this is only half! More announcements to be made, and tickets are selling fast. You don’t want to miss out ✨

Join us for an incredible 3-day weekend of community, empowerment, education, and so much more 🤩

Be Seen. Be Heard. Be Transformed. Register for Baldie Con 2025!

📅 Sept 26th-28th, 2025
📍 JW Marriott Atlanta Buckhead
🎟️ Register at www.BaldieCon.com or link in bio

#baldiecon #baldiecon2025 #baldandfree #alopecia #alopeciaawareness #lupus #lupuswarrior #lupusawareness #cancerawareness #hairloss #baldbychoice #empower #Atlanta

Repost from @erikaalexanderthegreat
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Hey friends, with all the craziness going on I don’t want to be the one asking for something else, but I need your help, because some stories are too important to stay silent on, and this is one of them.

The Ones We Carry is a new animated short in the works—rooted in the real-life experiences of Candace Washington, a therapist, mother, and three time suicide survivor who turned her pain into purpose and action.

We’re in the final stretch of raising $15K for the first phase of production. Good news, over $10K is in, but we need your help to cross the finish line by July 2.

Please follow @theoneswecarry and tap the link in bio to give. Thank you in advance. I appreciate the support you’ve given me, @colorfarm, over the years on long shot projects like this one. But if not us, who? So, let’s continue making space for stories that heal. I’ll promise to keep doing my part. Thanks. e.

Writer:@halimalucas

Executive Producers: @erikaalexanderthegreat, @benarnon, @colorfarm, @candacewrites, @lorettaewilson @winkwoodall @nicolebaskinpr

@TheOnesWeCarry @SeedAndSpark @candaceWrites #MentalHealthMatters @ColorFarm #ErikaAlexander @BenArnon #StorytellingForChange #HealingThroughArt

The Suicide Prevention and Awareness Coalition (SPAC) is hosting its annual Stronger Together Summit tomorrow, June 27th. This summit will unite the residents of Prince George’s County, Maryland, in a powerful effort to promote education, awareness, and vital resources on suicide prevention!

Join us at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt for this free event that aims to inspire and uplift!

I’ll be there to share more about @theoneswecarry. Come and be a part of the change happening for residents of PG County!

#Mentalhealthawareness #SuicidePrevention #GiveHope #PGCounty #Youth #MentalHealth #Activism #Advocacy

I’m grateful for the opportunity to join the Prince George’s County Suicide Prevention & Awareness Coalition (SPAC), which is dedicated to championing evidence-based behavioral health care and wellness, inspiring hope and action in suicide prevention.

I was raised in PG County, Maryland. I am inspired to work with SPAC to give back to the county that shaped me and assist in integrating and coordinating suicide prevention activities across multiple community partners.

In our county, the rise in youth suicide plans and attempts among middle and high school students is a call to action! One life lost is one too many, and as the statistics emerge, I am honored to join forces with SPAC to lend my voice and experience to their strategic planning initiatives, dedicated to uplifting the residents of Prince George’s County!

#Mentalhealthawareness #SuicidePrevention #GiveHope #PGCounty #Youth #MentalHealth #Activism #Advocacy

I made it to the WNBA! 🏀 🙌🏾

Well, not as a player, but as a wellness expert at the @washmystics wellness game on Sunday! It was an incredible experience connecting with the fans and providing strategies on their mental health, discussing work-life balance, athlete mental health, and stress management.

I am humbled and grateful for this partnership and look forward to more opportunities with the Mystics in the future! A special thank you to @erinalovelyy__, my fellow Bison, HUUUUU, ❤️💙 for making it happen! Thank you for caring for me and my family and giving my birthday boy a Mystics birthday bag! He loved it! Thank you so much!

The highlight of my night was watching the Mystics win against the Dallas Wings in overtime! Whew! 🤌🏾👏🏾

Such a blessing! 🙏🏾🙌🏾

Make-up by @thegoldnnug @thegoldennugpro ✨

#MentalHealthAwareness #WNBA #WashingtonMystics #Wellness #Sport #AthleteMentalHealth #HowardUniversity #Sports #WashingtonDC

My little love, my Brax. You'll always be mommy’s little baby, though you make it crystal clear to all of us that you are not a baby!

I am amazed by you. Such a witty sense of humor, one who asks existential questions, and loves to create worlds through your imagination and love for drawing! I love you, baby boy!

God is extra fond of me to give me you as a son, and I will continue to love you, nurture you, and care for you with all of my might! I look at you in awe, sometimes you leave me speechless, and other times I see so much of myself in you that I thank God because you have the best parts of me!

My little love! Happy Seventh Birthday! I love you more than you know, Braxton Levi!

🤎

I’m the mental health spokesperson for my first WNBA game today at home! 🙌🏾 I appreciate the opportunity to serve as the mental health expert for the @washmystics wellness game. Thank you for having me!

If you are attending the game, meet me in section 107 for tips on caring for your mental health!

Looking forward to seeing everyone on the court! 👏🏾🤌🏾🏀

Repost from @washmystics
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Our Wellness Game is just what the doctor ordered 🧑‍⚕️

Check out what’s in store ➡️

Candace Washington talks ‘loneliness epidemic’!

The licensed psychotherapist shares what people can do to cope amid nearly a third of U.S. adults reporting that they feel lonely.

Credit: @goodmorningamerica @robinrobertsgma

Thank you so much, @goodmorningamerica and @robinrobertsgma, for having me! Speaking about the loneliness epidemic and men's mental health was an honor.

Receiving all of your kind messages reminded me of the importance of this conversation. I am truly grateful!

I hope today’s segment brought more education, awareness, and hope. Thank you, everyone, for your love. Stay well, and remember you need you, too. Take the cape off, rest, and engage with your community or foster new connections!

See you again soon, GMA!

Make-up by @fairweatherfacestbk!

“Write the vision and make it plain!”

🤎

I’m grateful and deeply honored to share that I’ll be a guest on @goodmorningamerica tomorrow!

I’ll be addressing the loneliness epidemic while shining a light on mental wellness as a part of Men’s Health Month.

Join me during the 8 o’clock hour EST for a segment of inspiration and awareness!

Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey! Your love and support have been an anchor! Also, thank you @nicolebaskinpr and Good Morning America.

Wow! See you in the morning! 🙌🏾 May my life always prove that God is good!

Blavity Fest 25’! My first one in the books! It was an amazing time, from the enriching conversations to the wellness programming to the music!

Thank you, @morgandebaun, for creating such a wonderful experience at @blavity! I hope you rest well!

Thank you so much, @clorissawrightthomas and @nicolebaskinpr, and thank you to @rollingout for the interview!

I’ll be back! 🙃

✌️🏾

Speaking at the @eventtherapynetwork curated by @iamcharessa to address mental health within the creative community was a blessing! The room's atmosphere was kindred, warm, welcoming, and encouraging for creatives and entrepreneurs!

Charissa, don't let up off the pedal; rest, but keep going! God gave you the vision. Steward it well. It was also amazing seeing the beautiful @iamalexiskerr, and I am so proud of all you are doing and the doors you are kicking down!

It was awesome to share the stage with amazing men and women, including @clorissawrightthomas! I'm so grateful our paths crossed and to honor the brilliant mind @trellworld, who often sees and honors our excellence. But the table turned. We see and honor you, Trell!

Thank you for having me, and thank you to someone so dear to me, @nicolebaskinpr, for all you do and beyond!

Make-up by @thedolltherapi! ✨

All roads are leading to Miami Beach for the premiere of Laundry at the @americanblackfilmfestival! 👏🏾

Congratulations again to the PHENOMENAL cast and crew, and for being the WINNER of the 2025 @americanblackfilmfestival Fatherhood Project Director’s competition presented by @nicecrowdevents and @walmart! ✨

#Laundry #ProductionTherapist #ABFF

Tomorrow is @hercauseinc’s annual mental health conference! I’m speaking alongside the incredible @iamkelliware, the inspiring @revmorg814, and the phenomenal @poweruplifeboss! Their insights will ignite powerful conversations, and I eagerly anticipate absorbing their wisdom!

Here are some of the things you can expect at The Wellness In Me Conference:

Self-care and Mindfulness Practices: Learn practical techniques to manage stress, improve your emotional well-being, and cultivate inner peace.

Supportive Community: Build connections with other inspiring women and create a network of support.

Healing Circles: Share your stories in a safe and understanding space, fostering a sense of belonging and collective healing.

This conference is designed to celebrate your strength and resilience and foster a space for growth. A special thank you to the extraordinary @theeiyonablake for your incredible vision and the invitation! Don’t miss out—click the link in my bio to register now! Let’s be well!

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Candace

Therapist, Speaker & Cultural Voice for Healing

Therapist, Speaker & Cultural Voice for Healing

Woman of God: A 60‑Day Journey Toward Healing & Restoration

Woman of God: A 60‑Day Journey Toward Healing & Restoration

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