Dr. Carla J. Cooke is affectionately known as a “quiet storm.” This NJ resident is a trusted voice in the field of Psychology and has been known to empower audiences across the globe. Focusing on the importance of mental wellness, she has spent her career ensuring that communities have proper tools and resources that aid them in healthy psychological experiences. Obtaining several degrees, with the most recent being her Ed.D. in Counseling Psychology, this Licensed Psychologist is also certified in EMDR (evidence-based trauma informed therapy method) and Faith Formation (via Fordham University). Additionally, she is an author, a mentor, and a CEO. Her ability to honor relationships and lead with transparency sets her up as a woman of strength, freedom, and compassion with the ability to shift environments. She is also a Toastmasters member, a mentee of Dr. Delatorro McNeal, and a student in the classroom of the world. Dr. Carla believes that “Service is the rent we pay for living on this earth.”When one is destined for greatness and another level of freedom, attempting to stop or block them will never end up well. And that is the undeniable truth for the life and ongoing legacy of Dr. Carla J. Cooke.
As the youngest of 3 children, Dr. Carla was born in Staten Island, NY, and raised in Teaneck, NJ. Undoubtedly, this Jersey girl had determination, compassion, and a sincere desire for change. This was made evident from the age of 13 years old when she penned a poem that proclaimed, “I’m growing up and growing up free. No one in this world will ever stop me.” Even as a child, she had a way with words and was sure about who she was to become – without apology. However, her journey would not be a crystal staircase but one where she would need to overcome challenges and beat the odds.
Believing in the power of education and pursuing her higher call to heal, Dr. Carla is an ordained minister and well degreed in the realm of Psychology. She began with an Associate Degree in Psychology from Bergen Community College. From there, she obtained her BA in Psychology and her M.Ed. and Ed.D in Counseling Psychology from Rutgers University. As a Licensed Psychologist, Dr. Carla is certified in EMDR (evidence-based trauma-informed therapy method) and Faith Formation (via Fordham University). With these credentials, she has served in an array of backgrounds and environments; each of which has allowed her to experience the beauty and complexities of human behavior, culture, and the systems that work for and against people from various backgrounds. But no matter where she goes and who she encounters, she stands on the foundation of presenting and representing emotional freedom.
Dr. Carla’s professional expertise has been sought after by many, including the State of NJ, where she served as Assistant Commissioner. This was followed by her becoming the founder of a prominent counseling center called Sanctuary of Hope and Healing. She served as the Director of the agency for 15 years. From there, Dr. Carla has been entrusted to set a firm and consistent foundation in the field of psychology. This includes presenting at international and national trauma-informed psychological assessments and operating as the CEO of the Sound Psychological Assessment Center. The author and former radio show host is known as a quiet storm who provides effective tools and strategies for women, while dually tackling the negative stigmas around mental health.